Mockingjay

This is the third book in the trilogy of Hunger Games. You can read the reviews on the first two books here  and here. I must start off by saying that this book was a let down for me. I found it tough to get through, unlike the previous book which I flew through and could not wait to read what was next.
In Mockingjay we saw Katniss as a broken and disturbed girl. The relationships around her were stressed. We learn more about Gale and how much different he is then what was first shown in Catching Fire. Peeta is not in most of the book. When he does come back it is as another Mutt from the capital and totally different from the previous books.
We learn at the end that Katniss and Peeta do have a happily ever after. That is given to the reader in a rushed epilogue. I was disappointed there wasn't more growth of characters. Instead it is a book centered around anger and a war. I liked the book, but feel like the ending was rushed and very choppy.
Read October 2010

Catching Fire

I truly have enjoyed this book as much, if not more than the first one in the series. Catching Fire is the second book in the Hunger Games series by Suzzane Collins.

The first book I read back in July as a pick for Book Club. This time around, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. Collins picks right up where the last book ended. This time around we get to see more of Katniss and Peeta's relationship develop as most of their worlds crumble around them. With speculation of an uprising in the other districts and the Government becoming even more controlling, Katniss and Peeta are sent back into the Hunger Games.

I found the story well written and easy to read. It was interesting and still edgy. I think that this is a great read, even though it is meant as Young Adult literature.

Read January 2010

Hunger Games

I found this story to be a quick read and very disturbing at the same time.

This book is about the country of Panem, which is the former United States of America. In the 12 districts that make up Panem, every year 2 children between 12-18 years old are sent to fight for their lives in the arena known as Hunger Games. Who ever makes it to the end.. after all the other 23 kids have been killed is the winner.

This 'game' is to remind the districts that the Government is in control and can take away anything they want to. The Game, which includes children murdering each other as well as other disturbing events is shown across Panem for the districts to view.

Katniss is the main character in the story and is the District 12 female tribute for the games. She is clever and rough around the edges. The stories that are shared about her childhood through the games really give you insight into the world to which she lives in.

I liked the book. I know there is a second book after this one revolving around the same story and I plan on reading that one too. This was a selection for one of my book clubs and I would not have read it other wise. I am glad that I did.

Read July 2009