Book Review: The Hunger Games

I have recently finished The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. I've seen these books on bestseller lists for quite some time, but whenever I read the synopsis for the first book I couldn't envision myself getting into it. In my younger days I loved horror and had no problem with watching or reading about gory situations or war. But I  have to confess -- I've grown to be a bit squeamish. One particular quote from School Library Journal made me hesitatant to read it:

"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."

I finally had a change of heart at Writer's Day in L.A. Several of the speakers spoke very highly of the book. Rachel Cohn, in fact read a passage from the first few pages of The Hunger Games, during the conference. I was intrigued! So I finally decided to sample it on my kindle -- what could it hurt?

I was hooked right away! Collin's captured her main character, Katniss Everdeen's, voice flawlessly.  I also loved that the whole story was told in the present tense. Her writing reminds me of a saying -- that a good author makes the reader forget that they are reading a book; instead they become fully immersed in the world of the story.  That is so true in The Hunger Games. You are not merely reading a book, you are living it -- right down to hearing each cannon being released, visualizing the stunning costumes, and feeling the emotions of the characters.  And my concern for it being too gory? Well it is certainly not a story for the faint of heart, however the violence that is seen is appropriate to the story -- you are seeing exactly what Katniss sees. The world of Panem is not a fluffy, happy-go--lucky one. It is a world in a state of turmoil, and rebellion. Even having finished the series, I still think about these books and likely will for quite some time.

The Hunger Games compels you to keep reading it -- I literally could not put the book down for hours. If you have not already read this book, I highly recommend it!

My rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Book Review Disclaimer: I review books from time to time because I love to read and share about my experiences. Some of the best books I read come at the recommendation of other voracious readers like me.  At this time all books being reviewed at my blog are from my personal library. Should that change, I will be certain to notify my readers.     
 - Christine