Title: Hunger Games (Book 1)
Author: Suzanne Collins
Release: October 1, 2008
Purchase this book: Amazon | Kindle Version
Goodreads Entry: here
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Hunger Games drops you into a future where the United States has been destroyed and all that remains is Panem, a dystopian civilization made up of 12 districts and a Capital city. The Capital controls everything with an iron fist and a previous attempt at rebellion by the 12 districts resulted in the creation of a disturbing event known as the The Hunger Games. Every year each of the 12 districts has to choose one girl and one boy to compete in this televised game of survivor where you either win or you die, and there can only be one winner.

Katniss is a 16 year old girl with far too much responsibility on her shoulders. She protects and provides for her mother and sister with no regard for herself. She is independent, caring, and humble. When her sister’s name gets pulled from the glass bowl as this year’s female tribute to the Hunger Games, there is no question that Katniss will take her place. I loved Katniss from page 1 of this book. She is so strong, and yet still a vulnerable 16 year old when no one is looking. I had tears in my eyes and a sob in my throat before I had even gotten to page 25 because of the lengths she went to for her family. Katniss is a character you will root for and become emotionally attached to.

The beginning of the novel started a bit slow for me, it was all necessary to the story but I was anxious to get to the games and to find out whether Katniss even had a chance at staying alive. Once I got a third of the way through, I simply could not put this book down. The story was action packed, smart, and captivating. My pulse raced and I held my breath along with Katniss every step of the way. I felt her despair and desperation. I felt her joys and her I cheered her on.

If you are looking for a smart, fascinating, unique story with noble and likable characters then Hunger Games will not disappoint you. Don’t let the Young Adult genre designation dissuade you, book lovers of all ages with enjoy this one.

FTC Disclaimer: This book was purchased by me.

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