The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Summary:

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the other districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before - and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

(summary from back cover)

Review:

When The Hunger Games first came out I wasn't to sure if I was going to read it or not, because it didn't seem like my type of book. Also, I had never heard of Suzanne Collins before. Though, after reading a ton of reviews online about how it was an awesome book, I decided to give it a try. In the end, I was glad I did because I loved it!

The Hunger Games is told in a mix of vivid detail and dialogue that made the book come alive. The whole idea of the country of Panem and the thirteen districts was a very creative one that had me on the edge of my seat the whole time, because I was always wondering about what would happen next. The characters and their relationships were well developed, especially the unbreakable one between Katniss and Prim. I thought it was extremely thoughtful of Katniss to step up for her in her little sisters place even if it put her life in danger. Also, I enjoyed reading about the love triangle that began to unfold between Katniss, Peta who was the boy pick from District 12, and Katniss's best friend and semi love interest Gale. It was predicable, but still a fun addition to the story. The Hunger Games was a all around wow. It was brutal and heartbreaking, which made me come to love everything about it. Except for that the huge cliff hanger Suzanne Collins left us with. Though, I guess it will be continued on with, when the sequel comes out in September of '09.

I suggest The Hunger Games to all age groups, because it was truly an amazing story. Though, be aware that it could be a little violent at times.

Grade: A+