My new post- Potter depression replacement is The Hunger Games trilogy. I didn’t really know what it was about when I first bought it, but the movie is to be coming out, so I decided to buy the box trilogy from Chapters. It was 30% off, so I got the whole set (hardcover + box) for approximately $45. For big movies, I always prefer reading the book before I see the movie. This series is targeted to a teenage audience, and even though I’m in my 20’s now, I picked it up anyway.
Quick Summary
This book is about a girl named Katniss Everdeen, who lives in a “post apocalyptic” era. The country of Panem, where she resides, is divided into 12 districts. Katniss lives in one of the poorest districts – District 12.The book revolves around the hunger games- an annual tradition set by the Capitol, the ruler of Panem. Each district sacrifice one teenage boy and girl, and they are sent to and arena and battle for their lives and only one can be standing. Katniss goes in place of her sister when she gets selected, and another boy, Peeta Mellark is the male “tribute” of District 12. Throughout the story, you become immersed into the obstacles Katniss faces.
Review of the Hunger Games ( Book 1)
I was hooked the moment I was on page two. I finished the first book in one day. It was filled with a bunch of emotional ups- and 
downs, thrilling scenes, and tensed situations- which didn’t let me put the book down. The book has a bit of everything for everyone- romance, suspense, fighting, and inspiration. Collins writes it in a way that you will feel for the characters. It’s written in first person and I felt like I was in the protagonist’ shoes. The book cuts to the chase and the content is very original. I want to see this era, but at the same time, I don’t want to live there. It puts our world into perspective.
When I read the descriptions of the things in Katniss’ world- beautiful new clothes, abundance of food, the structure and details of the battle arena- a picture forms into my head. They are well described so that I would pause and imagine what Katniss could be seeing in that moment.
The battling for their life and the killings were a bit graphic- so it would be interesting to see how they are showing this on the big screens. I’m excited to see the fights between the tributes of each district since it was very action-packed, clever, and original. Katniss’ motivation and decisions empowers her as a strong woman. She wants to be merciful, but she needs to survive for her family- her mother and her sister, Primrose. Along the way, Katniss and Peeta develop a relationship that kind of settles between friendship and romance, and their buildup was written beautifully. The characters are flawed in a way for people to relate to them.
If you’re looking for a new book that is entertaining and fast paced- put Hunger Games at the top of your list! If you’re suffering from the lack of Harry Potter- read Hunger Games! They’re two very different worlds, but both are written to amaze you and draw you right in.
Stay tuned for my review for Catching Fire and Mockingjay!
I must have watched the trailer at least 100 times. The movie comes out March 23!
May the odds be ever in your favour!
