I have to be honest, I really didn’t think I would like this book – I was wrong! Once I started the book, I didn’t want to quit reading.
In the future world of North America that the author, Suzanne Collins, has created there are no longer 50 states, but rather 12 districts. The main characters, Katniss and Peeta, are from District 12, Panem – the poorest one – we call this area the Appalachian Mountains. Katniss is not what one would describe as a typical girl. She has learned to illegally hunt to keep her mother and sister from starving since her father was killed in a mining accident. Peeta is a baker’s son who has loved Katniss silently since he was very young.
The Capital keeps control by limiting food and all other supplies. Each year they sponsor the Hunger Games, which are kind of a reality show gone completely wrong. There are makeovers, coaching, and great food for the 24 contestants, but in the end all but one will die. The survivor will be set for life. Katniss and Peeta are the contestants from District 12. They have to outsmart others who have been trained for this reality show that is broadcast all over the country. How will they fare? Will they survive? What will each do to keep from being killed?
This novel is fast paced and I think will appeal to both guys and gals.
The second book in this series, Catching Fire, is due out September 1, 2009.
