The Hunger Games

Collins, S. (2008). The hunger games. New York: Scholastic Press.

This is an excellent fantasy book! The fantasy tale is of a distopia, a society characterized by human misery, oppression, disease, squalor, and/or overcrowding. I was entrigued by the idea that what was once North America is now Panem, a very different and brutal place. The people are hungry and must go to great lengths to feed themselves and their families. Enter Katniss, the main character who is female and a fantastic hunter! She has hunted many times with her friend, Gale to feed her family and keep them alive. This skill set comes in very handy for Katniss as she enters the hunger games under unusual circustances. The games are held as a human competition for survival (in a reality- television manner for the populaton of Panem).  The contenders range in age from 12-18. The winner receives food and things needed for basic survival of the family. A fellow challenger from District 12 is Peeta. He is familiar to Katniss as she realizes he once stole bread from his family’s bakery to help feed her and her family.

The story unfolds as preparations for the games begin and then the games get underway. The games are televised (and I feel as though I am an observer throughout the book) and another fantasy element is apparent whereas the environment plays a part in the competition via climate control and added obstacles for interest. Another unexpected twist of fantasy is the form the former contenders take after their attempt at winning.

How will the games play out? How did you feel as Katniss volunteered? Would you have made the same decison? Would you pursue the strategy of creating an alliance with another? What are the pros and cons?