The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Collins, Suzanne. The Hunger Games. New York, NY: Scholastic. 2008. ISBN: 0-439-02348-3.

Summary

In a future society called Panem, the capital reminds the outlying districts of its power whenever it can. Every year, the capital demands that each of the 12 districts sends one boy and one girl to participate in the hunger games. The winner is the last one left alive and the winning district is showered with gifts and food all year long while the other districts go without. In the hunger games, some many die of hunger, but most die at the hands of the other competitors. So when Katniss volunteers to go in her sister's place, she assumes that she'll be going to a brutal death. But years of illegally hunting and gathering make Katniss at least modestly prepared. Her fellow tribute, Peeta, is less fit but he is cunning, winning the support of the television viewers who can influence the game by sending helpful items during the game. Of course, when the game isn't exciting enough, they can also send things like predators, forest fires and sudden downpours. Peeta convinces the viewers that he is in love with Katniss, but Katniss isn't sure what to believe. After all, there can only be one winner, what if it comes down to Katniss and Peeta. Would she kill a friend so that her mother and sister could live comfortably?

Evaluation

This sci-fi thiller is psychologically gripping while the physical feats are shocking. Collins questions the breakdown of humanity in the face of certain death. Are any ideals sacred or does everyone have a price? By setting the stakes so high, Collins is able to examine these questions. She also examines the role of crushes and love, especially the confusion of unrequited love. The description of the games is an exciting gladiator style competition, which is exciting in itself. This title has something for everyone.

Reader's Annotation

If Katniss can win the hunger games, she'll never be hungry again. She'll be given a nice house and plenty of food for both her and her family. But to win, she'll have to stay alive while the other competitors try to kill each other. And if it comes down to it, she might have to kill them herself.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness

Choices may change depending on the circumstances—some things can be forgiven.

Why I choose to read it

 

When is it worth it to kill someone? What is it like to be really hungry