The Hunger Games Book Review

Courtesy of Scholastic

Author: Suzanne Collins

In the country of Panem—formerly known as North America—12 districts reside. Each year, everyone between the ages of 12 and 18 must participate in a draw called the Reaping. The names of one boy and one girl from each district are drawn, and those children must participate in the Hunger Games.

An Act of Bravery

This year Katniss’s little sister Prim turned 12. By law, she has to enter her name in the Reaping. And by some horrible luck, her name is drawn. Katniss immediately volunteers to take her sister's place. But with a 1 in 24 chance of surviving, she has basically signed a death wish. Right after the Reaping, Katniss and her male equivalent from District 12, Peeta, are shipped off to the Capital. They are fed and fitted for elaborate costumes. They undergo interviews as though they were competing in a beauty pageant instead of a deadly battle. And finally, they are sent into the arena…and the Hunger Games begin.

Let the Games Begin

In the arena—a huge forest bordered on one side by a lake—it’s every man or woman for themselves. The gamemakers provide some weapons and food. But it’s up to each contestant to kill their opponents. The Games end when only one contestant is left standing. Katniss tries to stay out of harm’s way, using her excellent hunting skills to catch food and, when need be, to kill her opponents. It’s a brutal competition, but can Katniss survive until the Games are over?

The Bottom Line

The Hunger Games is amazing. Even Stephenie Meyer thinks so. It's definitely barbaric, but it really shows how survival instincts affect human nature. Your whole outlook on life changes when your days are numbered. Definitely pick up a copy of this book.

The Hunger Games Rating: