Hungry for More

by Amanda M.

The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins, tells an action-packed tale from Katniss Everdeen's point of view. 74 years before the story took place, districts waged war against the Capitol and were unsuccessful. One of their terms of surrender was to hold an annual fight to the death, called the Hunger Games. Two teens were picked from each district to be on this televised blood bath. Katniss' sister was chosen to compete, but Katniss volunteered as tribute. Peeta was picked to be her male partner. Winning the Hunger Games would mean that they'd come out alive and their impoverished district would be rewarded gifts and, most importantly, food.

This book was well written, in a sense that it left me always wondering what was going to happen next. Collins presents Katniss in a way that is cold, but still likable. We see that she has a soft side for those that she has strong connections with, such as her sister and Rue. Collins' use of dissonance between what's humane and why'd in humane leaves the reader contemplating what they'd do in this situation. Would we throw aside our morals if our ability to survive depended on it?

Throughout this story, I wish that I could have been more emotionally connected to Peeta. It would've been interesting to see what he was thinking and feeling in this whole situation. We only get glimpses of this through his dialog and actions, but nothing straight from the source. We only know what he wants Katniss to know. Although I enjoyed this story's concept and plot, I feel like it was a little rushed.

I recommend this story, just as others have recommended to me. It's a fast read because it keeps you hooked. You can find The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, at local bookstores, libraries, and it can be purchased online.