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The Hunger Games
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In a future North America, where the rulers of Panem maintain control through an annual televised survival competition pitting young people from each of the twelve districts against one another, sixteen-year-old Katniss's skills are put to the test when she voluntarily takes her younger sister's place.
A science fiction story
Library Journal
In a far-future United States, a cruel Capitol keeps order by demanding an annual tribute for its Hunger Games, in which two contestants, a boy and a girl, are chosen by lottery from each of 12 districts to fight to the death in an event televised from an arena. Katniss Everdeen lives in what used to be Appalachia and is now called the Seam-a dirt-poor district without much hope of success in the games. Katniss volunteers in her sister's place and may just have the smarts to win. Then Peeta, the soft baker's son chosen from her same district, does something surprising. He declares his undying affection for Katniss just before they enter the arena. Is there room for friendship, loyalty, or even love when survival is on the line? Why It Is a Best: Collins's prose is merely serviceable, but she writes compelling characters and spins one terrific yarn. The premise is good to begin with, and the surprises keep coming. Why It Is for Us: In this fight to the death, the book's violence is cringe-worthy by even the most jaded standards. The exploitation of the desperate and impoverished for the entertainment of the wealthy and powerful is a theme reminiscent of Stephen King's The Long Walk or The Running Man. King himself makes the comparison in his Entertainment Weekly review of the book, saying "I couldn't stop reading."-Angelina Benedetti, King Cty. Lib. Syst., WA Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.
Publishers Weekly
If there really are only seven original plots in the world, it's odd that "boy meets girl" is always mentioned, and "society goes bad and attacks the good guy" never is. Yet we have Fahrenheit 451, The Giver, The House of the Scorpion-and now, following a long tradition of Brave New Worlds, The Hunger Games. Collins hasn't tied her future to a specific date, or weighted it down with too much finger wagging. Rather less 1984 and rather more Death Race 2000, hers is a gripping story set in a postapocalyptic world where a replacement for the United States demands a tribute from each of its territories: two children to be used as gladiators in a televised fight to the death. Katniss, from what was once Appalachia, offers to take the place of her sister in the Hunger Games, but after this ultimate sacrifice, she is entirely focused on survival at any cost. It is her teammate, Peeta, who recognizes the importance of holding on to one's humanity in such inhuman circumstances. It's a credit to Collins's skill at characterization that Katniss, like a new Theseus, is cold, calculating and still likable. She has the attributes to be a winner, where Peeta has the grace to be a good loser. It's no accident that these games are presented as pop culture. Every generation projects its fear: runaway science, communism, overpopulation, nuclear wars and, now, reality TV. The State of Panem-which needs to keep its tributaries subdued and its citizens complacent-may have created the Games, but mindless television is the real danger, the means by which society pacifies its citizens and punishes those who fail to conform. Will its connection to reality TV, ubiquitous today, date the book? It might, but for now, it makes this the right book at the right time. What happens if we choose entertainment over humanity? In Collins's world, we'll be obsessed with grooming, we'll talk funny, and all our sentences will end with the same rise as questions. When Katniss is sent to stylists to be made more telegenic before she competes, she stands naked in front of them, strangely unembarrassed. "They're so unlike people that I'm no more self-conscious than if a trio of oddly colored birds were pecking around my feet," she thinks. In order not to hate these creatures who are sending her to her death, she imagines them as pets. It isn't just the contestants who risk the loss of their humanity. It is all who watch. Katniss struggles to win not only the Games but the inherent contest for audience approval. Because this is the first book in a series, not everything is resolved, and what is left unanswered is the central question. Has she sacrificed too much? We know what she has given up to survive, but not whether the price was too high. Readers will wait eagerly to learn more. Megan Whalen Turner is the author of the Newbery Honor book The Thief and its sequels, The Queen of Attolia and The King of Attolia. The next book in the series will be published by Greenwillow in 2010. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.
School Library Journal
Gr 7 Up--In a not-too-distant future, the United States of America has collapsed, weakened by drought, fire, famine, and war, to be replaced by Panem, a country divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the televised games are broadcasted throughout Panem as the 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors, literally, with all citizens required to watch. When 16-year-old Katniss's young sister, Prim, is selected as the mining district's female representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart, Peeta, the son of the town baker who seems to have all the fighting skills of a lump of bread dough, will be pitted against bigger, stronger representatives who have trained for this their whole lives. Collins's characters are completely realistic and sympathetic as they form alliances and friendships in the face of overwhelming odds; the plot is tense, dramatic, and engrossing. This book will definitely resonate with the generation raised on reality shows like "Survivor" and "American Gladiator." Book one of a planned trilogy.--Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.
Booklist
*Starred Review* This is a grand-opening salvo in a new series by the author of the Underland Chronicles. Sixteen-year-old Katniss poaches food for her widowed mother and little sister from the forest outside the legal perimeter of District 12, the poorest of the dozen districts constituting Panem, the North American dystopic state that has replaced the U.S. in the not-too-distant future. Her hunting and tracking skills serve her well when she is then cast into the nation's annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death where contestants must battle harsh terrain, artificially concocted weather conditions, and two teenaged contestants from each of Panem's districts. District 12's second tribute is Peeta, the baker's son, who has been in love with Katniss since he was five. Each new plot twist ratchets up the tension, moving the story forward and keeping the reader on edge. Although Katniss may be skilled with a bow and arrow and adept at analyzing her opponents' next moves, she has much to learn about personal sentiments, especially her own. Populated by three-dimensional characters, this is a superb tale of physical adventure, political suspense, and romance.--Goldsmith, Francisca Copyright 2008 Booklist
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Summaries
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Quotes
“"They do surgery in the Capitol, to make people appear younger and thinner. In District 12, looking old is something of an achievement since so many people die early. You see an elderly person you want congratulate then on their longevity... A plump person is envied because they aren't scraping by like the majority of us. But here it is different. Wrinkles aren't desirable. A round belly isn't a sign if success." - Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games”
Notices
Graphic Violence: Not a lot of violence, but some of it is described in detail.
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Awesome book! A must read for everyone : D
It is thrilling. You won't be able to put it down.
A thriling novel that keeps you on the edge of your seats, i just couldn't put it down.
This book was fantastic! I have yet to read Catching Fire... hope it'll be just as good!
I was initially hesitant to read this book thinking that the topic seemed a bit disturbing, but it was definitely an entertaining read that kept me asking whats going to happen next?
I'm a 26 year old married women and I love this book, dont let the YA scare you off. I've read it over and over and I suggest that you do as well. I love this book dearly.
This book really is as good as everyone says. The storyline is enthralling, the characters are interesting, and the descriptions put you right in the thick of things. I truly felt a lot of emotions like I was experiencing Katniss's struggles with her. Although it is a young adult book, it is easily read and enjoyed by adults as well.
Lord of the Flies meets Battle Royale in the Hunger Games. I could not put this book down. Certainly one I would recommend to others in the future!
Love it! Cant wait for mockingjay! Hands down, much better than twilight! :D
Although the plot of this story is basically Battle Royale meets The Running Man, it's an amazing read with a compelling protagonist. Highly recommended.
Wow. This book definitely lived up to all the good comments made about it! The female protagonist, Katniss, is a great character.
hands down the most amazing book ever i dont like many books but this is the best book i ever read!
best book ever
This is the BEST book ever! I definitely recommend it! My sister hardly reads books, but I got her into reading this one. I can't wait to read the next book "Catching Fire".
I was quite impressed with this book, considering it's a Teen Fiction. I look forward to reading book two entitled "Catching Fire".
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ!!!!!!!! I thought it might be weird, especially when my lang. arts teacher kept telling me to read it, but when I did start it, I could not put it down!!!!!!!!!! This is one of the best action novels ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU MUST READ IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
i loooved this book! just amazing cant wait for mockinjay 2 come out!!!
OMG! cant wait for the 3rd book, mocking jay, comin out august 24 2010. Its on order at the epl so better put ur holds on now!!! All the way with Peeta. Yeah you though 6 tyms in 6dayz waz bad, cheack out 14 tyms in 7 days. Lol. jk. but the book is really good but catching fire is better. You will CRY so have a box of Kleenex at hand, i wrecked my book with my tears. My OWN book not the liabrarys. hehehe. BEST BOOK EVAAAA!!!! =)
This was the BEST book I've ever read! Call me a nerd, but I read it 6 times in 6 days!! TEAM PEETA!
Love these books.
I found this book on an Amazon Top 100 list and figured since so many people liked it, it would be worth reading. My husband is a junior high teacher and it wasn't until he pointed out the award sticker on the spine that I realized what "young adult" meant. I was a little embarrassed at first, but that quickly faded when I was swept up into Katinss' bizarre world. Collins creates a grand and unusual story told by a strong, defiant, young girl. I found this book impossible to put down. Any book lover, young, old or in between, will love this gripping tale.
This is the best book I have read in the past five years. It was fast paced and exciting; my heart pounded throughout the entire novel. A must read for anyone who likes their books slightly dark and twisted and an enjoyable read for those who like a bit of passion. Make sure you have time to read it...you won't be able to put it down!
So good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now my favorite book. This book is just amazing!!!!!!!!! It's got romance and action the perfect mix!!!!!!!
With a nod to Theseus, the rulers in the Capital demand that every year each of the 12 districts send two teenagers as tribute. They compete in a fight to the death called the Hunger Games. Katniss volunteers in her sister's place and has to use all her skills and cunning as a hunter to survive.
I don't normally read science fiction, but something about this book made me want to see what it was about. I'm glad I took a chance! This was an amazing novel, filled with action, romance, and occasional humour. The second book is just as good, perhaps even better. I am looking forward to reading the last book!
Katniss is a heroine like no other. She protected and provided for her family in a harsh future world that is cruel and relentless. She perservered to be strong and loyal to those that matter to her. THis probaly is a series that i will never forget. We don't know what the future holds, but Suzanne Collins writings make you think, could it be. If so, what would we do, and could we do it. I don't know. But I often think about this world in the future she created. The story sticks with you. I finished the book and in 20 minutes was in the car to buy the second book.
A story set in a harsh future earth.
It begins in sombre tones, then quickly morphs into an exciting action thriller.
THIS BOOK IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! ITS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS IVE EVER READ!
Katniss is 16 and lives with her mother and sister. She barely ekes out a living for her family by hunting in the woods. Katniss volunteers to take her sister's place when she is chosen to participate in the annual Hunger Games.
Originally devised to punish the districts for rebelling against the Capitol, the Hunger Games are an annual event that pit one boy and girl between the ages of 12 to 18 from each district against each other in a fight to the death. The winner will be given a life of luxury and their district will get extra food rations for the year.
Katniss must use the skills she learned in hunting in order to survive. But can she find allies and learn how to play the game in order to return to her family? And what about the feelings she is developing for another contestant.
The hype around this book is well deserved. A gripping young adult dystopian novel, The Hunger Games is full of action. Suzanne Collins has given the story just enough grit so the older reader is engaged, but keeps it clean enough that schools can put it in their library.
I highly recommend this book! It was brilliant, and there's a cliffhanger at the end of almost every chapter. It actually almost made me cry. It made me smile, also, because some characters can be quite charming. The only thing I can't bear is that I've read the 1st and 2d and now I have to wait for the third! It comes out on August 24th, 2010 I believe.
I really enjoyed this book. It was such a quick read...I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next book!
What an amazing book! I literally couldn't put it down. I think this will be the next big series in Teen Fiction. Looking forward to reading the sequel!
Great fast paced sci-fi adventure.
This is an amazing book! Perfect for teen girls. If you have read this book I would highly recommend it.
I loved this series of 2 books, can't wait until the 3rd comes out.
I had someone ask me Today about it and asked if it was the kind of book an eigth grader sould read(not to adult) and yes it is i think it does not curse much nothing strong anyway and even though i would let a child read it it is a great book for adilts too....
I read the frist book and had to buy the second becuase it was on hold for a couple of people and i couldn't wait........
I love it can't wait for mockingjay :)
Really reminded me of Battle Royale once I started listening to it, except that the main character was a female and there was a fair bit of time spent establishing the setting.
The theme isn't new, the plot not overly complex, but this is an entertaining quick read, and one that adults and young adults alike can enjoy. It would be a great vacation read - you can pick it up and put it down easily, and breeze through it.
The Lottery, The Running Man, and loads of other books have shared tales, but it doesn't make any less fun to read!
Love it!!!!!!! I haven't read anything as good as this novel for a long time. This book got me hooked from the beginning till the very end. It's filled with action, romance, and suspense all in one book. I can not get enough of it. This book will not disappoint you.
Absolutely loved loved loved it!! I read it, and then my boyfriend read it (all in one day) and loved it too!! We both actually think it's better than Harry Potter, which isn't easy to beat!
I couldn't put it down just so that I could find out what happened next. The author completely got a hold my attention right from the start and held it the whole way through, which is pretty tough to do...
Would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy / teen books! Can't wait to read the sequel now!!
Absolutely AMAZING!!!!!!!! Definitely my favorite book!!! Its like the perfect novel, wonderful! Definitely reccomended
What a trip.
For what it is, this book is excellent. If you're looking for lasting classical literature, go somewhere else. But if you're looking for exciting post-apocalyptical fantasy-esque fun? Look no further.
Katniss is one of the few heroines I have rad who has not made me loathe her by the end of the book. She's selfish as much as she's selfless, heartless as much as she is compassionate, and generally a real human being all around.
My favourite character is Peeta, even though I'd choose Gale any day ^_^ Peeta's everything one could want in a guy, and that's scary.
I loved reading this book, I read it straight for hours. I like how the author sets it up so at the end of each chapter, you want to turn the page to the next to find out what happens to Katniss and Peeta.
This is by far my favorite book and series. I had to go out and buy both this and Catching Fire because I wanted to re-read them both so often.
Amazing story and one that's impossible to put down! Katniss is the best and most relateable characted I have ever read about.
You won't be able to put this one down! I was up till 5 in the morning reading it the first night.
This book was much different than others that I've read, but still has the classic, basic parts to an amazing story.
I couldn't put it down when the games actually begun, I needed to know what would happen!
Katniss is a very realistic character in the way that she will do anything to protect her family. The story of her and Peeta had so much more than just a facade to it. They are like two halves to something always whole.
Basically, I HIGHLY recommend this book for anyone who wants to read a masterpiece from an author who isn't afraid to pull out her bow and arrow (or pen) and dive into the fight!
It definitely kept me intrigued until the end. I can't wait to read the next one!
Great book with lots of twists and turns. I couldn't put it down.
Easily the best book I've ever read.
I randomly picked up this book because it was on several to-read lists--I hadn't heard of any of the hype surrounding it, and, truth be told, I was pleasantly surprised.
This book is fantastic. FANTASTIC. The plot line is interesting and engaging. The whole concept is very original and creative... there are just a couple of things I didn't love about it: the story focused around two main characters, so any character development for the other main competitors was missing (I understand why it was this way, but the characters will become completely forgettable--will I even remember/need to remember them when reading the next book), and also, as it is a teen novel, the killing/death scenes were written with kid gloves. I was ready to be terrified, disgusted, and awed by the gruesome details Collins could have included, but none of it was there. Again, I'm not complaining. I wish those things were there, but the book is fantastic as it is. Fantastic.
It's definitely a book I will recommend to people who enjoy reading fun books like this.
This book is amazing! Its like how far will reality TV go? Will we end up all killing eachother? Easily, my favorite book. I can't wait for book 3.
This is an amazing book, I stayed up well into the night finishing it. The plot was refreshingly thick and twisting, much better than I have been resigned to from some authors aiming at teens these days.
I found it to be somewhat reminicent of the style of Lois Lowry, for the type of mid-dysotopian futuristic setting.
There are enough ethical, and moral issues explored in it that would keep even adults entertained, but it keeps resolutely away from being preachy. All in all, an incredible achievement.
I loved it and I know you'll love it....there's a little something for everyone and its just one of those books that you can't help but keep reading.
This book is by far one of the best out there! This is one of those that will keep you up late at night on a few occasions. A must read!
This was one of those books that I never wanted to end. It was just too good to put down! It kept me up late at night, because I would keep saying to myself: "One more chapter," but then each chapter ended with a twist. This book will make your heart pound. It's gruesome and romantic all at the same time. A definite must-read!
Truly such an amazing book, one can tell there is a lot of depth to it. But only with lots of readings can you truly understand it. Not saying that it's not enjoyable the first time around; it is. It's amazing! A must read for sure.
This sounds like a really good book. My friend recommended it to me and I'm looking forwards to reading it.
This is one of those smartly written teen/ya books that really lends itself to endless discussions about topics that an English teacher would drool over and even get Social/History teachers giddy. With all those teachers bouncing you'd worry that the book wouldn't be engaging or thralling, that is not the case. I was hooked from the start and eagerly ate up book 2 and now am not so patiently awaiting book 3.
Collins doesn't skim over topics or assume that teens can't figure stuff out. While reading this you'll definitely stop and think. These people are controlled and manipulated into submission. The Government doesn't care if their citizens are starving to death, the rich are focused on their own wealth and glory and the poor are simply struggling to survive and obtain the most basics of needs. The balance is so off kilter that for Katniss and Peeta it seems obviously impossible for them to survive the Hunger games. That the chance of them getting sponsors to give gifts that will help them is slim, meaning that they are on their own.
The relationship between Katniss and Peeta is endearing and beautiful. It's sweet and innocence despite the brutal and violent way these two were thrust into each other's lives. And when I say that I love these two it's not only in a romantic 'swoon' way but also I love the way that these two assisted each other, stood up for the other and in the end they saved each other and it wasn't due to a Romeo & Juliet epic love.
It sorta reminds me of "Lord of the Flies" and as I stated in the first paragraph, because this book is smartly written teachers would easily be able to use it for various studies and examples. I.E. dictatorship Makes me wish I was a teacher that could use this book for various essays and debates.
The plot was, if I haven't stated it enough, thoroughly engaging. The characters were lovable and will easily worm their way into your heart. This book/series was one of my favorites reads in 2009, so go pick it up! You won't regret it!
Love it.
This book was amazing. It's fast-paced and truly haunting. I couldn't put it down. The story is almost remeniscent of The Most Dangerous Game, but in novel form rather than a short story. Great read for anyone, not just teens.
This was a great book. I couldn't put it down. This book was suspenseful and really fun book. I loved it when the tributes had to fight to the death.
A great book, and interesting plot ideas. You'll never want to put it down! A believeable world, a dangerous game with high stakes, an intense read, that Isuggest to anyone!
I like this book but I really think Peta is annoying. Which kind of spoils the book. a.k.a I don't like Peta because his personality and because he reminds me of another character.
The other characters are cool, I guess.
The action of the book is great. I recommend this book to people who like books where people die and sacrifice themselves.
Over all, it's a grate book but the second book is better.
This was a great book...it was amazingly written and totally captivating!
After reading this book i was up many nights thinking abouut all the things that happened a definite read.
I absolutely LOVE this book! it was recommended to me by a friend and i couldn't put it down. The plot is very inventive and it makes you think about what you would be willing to sacrifice for someone that you love.
Outstanding book. Really great use of the author's imagination!
this is a really book. it keeps you reading and although the title seems scary, the book is not. i hghly recommend this book
Awesome book!
Very interesting book! I couldn't put it down!
wooow. so good!!! i loved it. the endin was sad, tho... i hope the next book is just as good, i really do!
This book had me hooked right from the start. I will admit that I am a big science fiction fan, but I am quite discerning in my tastes. This young adult novel has it all: dystopia, action, adventure, technology, warnings against technology, and even Reality Television.
An open ending left me slightly disappointed and wanting more RIGHT AWAY, but I think that is a good sign that the author has created a world that I would like to stay in for as long as I can.
Suzanne collins is a genius! The Hunger Games is a fantastic book!
A futuristic society in which children must fight to the death in the annual hunger games. Katniss voluntarily takes her beloved sister's place in the games, and she must use all her wits to survive. Katniss finds some unexpected allies and friendships during the bloodthirsty tournament. A great, suspenseful, thought-provoking read. I can't wait to read the sequel!
The first time I read this, I was Team Gage all the way. The second time, I was firmly on Team Peeta. This book is so much fun, and really gets into your head. I can't wait for the final book in the trilogy! If you're looking for more Suzanne Collins, check out the Underland Chronicles. Yes, it's a childrens' series, but I loved it and I am thisclose to 30.
One of my favourites, the hero kicked butt and was perfect. I just wiss I had waited untill September to read it so I didn't have to wait for the seque.l
Interesting read about a dark future. The idea borrows from the Japanese book/film Battleroyale but aimed at a teen audiance. Looking forward to reading hte second book in the series.
At the beginning of the book, I couldn't totally get into it - it felt too much like various movies about fighting to the death for entertainment. However, the superb writing, characterizations, and unexpected twists kept me going until the end. Before I realized it, I was hooked.
This book was incredible! It incorporated all aspects of a perfect book; romance, adventure, and realism. I loved it!
In a futuristic world, where the population is split into districts, two young people are chosen each year to play in a survivor game to the death--the last one alive wins. Katniss Everdeen takes her younger sisters place and the adventure begins...Such an exciting read--terrific young adult read and suitable for anyone who enjoys a thrilling, suspenseful read.
Spine tingling, actioned packed, blood and gore; is what you would expect in this genius tale- and lives up to it's expectations. But Collins has written a great story about Katniss, who struggles to hunt for her mother and sister. Being the young and quick-thinking heroine, is chosen out of the thousands in the Seam, to compete in the Hunger Games, and is joined by Peeta. Many others join them in the contest all about survival. Every young man, and woman for themselves. The many twists and surprises make this page turner a must read.
Excellent, well written, and definetly recommended.
good