June 25, 2012
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
I had heard of the hunger Games before and it sounded interesting. My friends kept bugging me to read it and I finally did. It was worth it.Hunger Games is about a girl named Katniss who lives in a Post-American future. In what used to be the mid-west, the nation of Panem thrives. Or parts of it do. The capitol is a city where everyone’s needs are met and everything is frighteningly perfect.
However the 12 districts aren’t all the same. District 12 where Katniss lives is a coal mining town. She supports her mother, sister, senile cat, sister’s goat, and of course herself. She is barely getting by when her sister, Prim, is chosen to compete in the hunger games.
The hunger games are essentially a week long gladatorial competition for the capitol’s amusement. Only one person survives and since Prim is only a little girl Katniss, seeing no other alternative volunteers to go in Prim’s place.
The games are a day to day challenge to survive — the other tributes are trying to hunt her down, the environment and traps set by the game makers. Katniss also has to deal with loyalty to her friend and fellow tribute, Peeta. If only one person can survive, what does this mean for their friendship?
Some adults question how violent this book is. Yes, it is about gladatorial style combat and there are deaths but the gory details are not extreme.
The publisher says the book is for ages 12 and up. I think it would be okay for some 10 year olds but the parents should read the book first. Both boys and girls alike will enjoy this book, and so will anyone who likes to hunt.
–Reviewed by son of SueBE (13 years-old)
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