The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Goodreads Summary:
In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. 

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister Primrose, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before — and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.


My Review:

The Hunger Games is the 1st book in The Hunger Games trilogy. This book begins with what they call a reaping. Every year a boy and a girl are chosen from each district to participate in a fight to the death. Out of 24 people there will be one winner. In District 12 a young girl named Primrose is chosen. Her older sister Katniss immediately volunteers to take her place. Thus begins the 74th Hunger Games.

I put off reading this book for a long time. I didn't think that reading a book about children killing each other sounded like something I would enjoy. Oh how wrong I was. I was quickly drawn in to Katniss and Peeta's story. I had a hard time putting it down.

Katniss is a survivor. She had hunting skills that helped her tremendously in the arena. I always felt that she was a contender in the games. She struggled with having to kill others, especially Rue. Rue reminded her of her sister Prim. She was afraid to become too close to another tribute only to have to kill them later.

I really liked Peeta. He didn't consider himself a contender in the game. His biggest fear was that in the arena he would lose his identity. He was able to stay true to himself. He also helped Katniss to appear more human.

There are many supporting characters in this book and I love them all. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to read the next one. I am also really excited to see the movie.