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Hey! Recently I've taken up re-reading the Hunger Games trilogy while taking some time away from my phone, and overall it has been very interesting, and what I'd say is a good use of my free-time. It is a dystopian story in first person perspective, with a strong female lead who doesn't lack character development and nearly equally developed side characters. The author, Suzanne Collins, has recently gotten her book adapted with a brand new illustrated version this year, illustrated by Nico Delort.
The plot of the book is that in what had used to be North America, a new country arose, called Panem. Panem is made up of 12 districts, and the Capitol, with a system in place so that each of the 12 districts represent a different industry. Each of the districts are forced to hand over a boy and girl between the ages of 12 and 18 (known as tributes) to play in the deadly Hunger Games; An event that takes place on national TV in which 24 tributes must fight to the death.
In this story, we start with the main character, sixteen year old Katniss Everdeen. She is a strong, independent young woman who had stepped up to provide for her family, i.e. her 12 year old sister Prim, and her mother. She lives in district 12, the coal mining district, and one of the poorest districts there is. Katniss is a skilled hunter, sneaking past the fence to the woods to make ends meet.
Through Katniss' perspective, we are shown the day of the reaping, which is a mandatory event where the tributes for the district are drawn. Katniss' younger sister, Prim, is drawn, and Katniss bravely voulenteers in her place, showing her loyalty to her family. The boy tribute is a merchant boy named Peeta Mellark, who lives in the richer area of district 12 due to his father being a baker.
The two of them go through many things together, and for the first time in history, two victors are allowed. Both Katniss and Peeta succeed in winning the games, and make it out alive, but not without Katniss doing what would seem to be a defiant action towards the Capitol.
In general, I believe the book is well written. I am typically not fond of first person perspective, but putting that preference aside, it is immersive and strikingly written, with a lot of imagery. There is a good useage of words, although there are a few constantly repeating phrases. The book seems to be appropriate for those ages 12+, there is obviously violence, but nothing that, in my opinion, could be considered too much for that age range.
Ratings:
Characters- 8/10
Enjoyment- 9/10
Suspence- 7.5/10
Plot- 9/10
Writing- 7/10
Logic- 5/10
Atmosphere- 9/10
Overall- 8.2/10
It overall was a fantastic book with interesting characters, some romance, violence, and a satisfying touch of rebellion. Goodbye dear reader, and as Effie Trinket would say, may the odds be ever in your favor.
Have YOU read The Hunger Games?
Yes, I have.
No but I've watched the movies
No, I have neither read the books or watched the movies