Sometime in the future, the ruins of North America have become Panem, a nation divided into 12 districts who literally starve to serve the elite of the Capitol. If that wasn’t enough, every year the Capitol keeps the districts in line by randomly selecting one boy and one girl from each district to play in the Hunger Games, a type of gladiatorial, wilderness survival, reality show contest where “tributes” fight to the death. Interesting enough premise, but the execution of the story is truly brilliant. Collins is an ingenious storyteller to say the least.
That said, you may not want to start this book unless you can drop everything to finish it. This is the most addictive book I’ve ever read. If it weren’t for my son, I’d have read this in one sitting rather than a day. It has near perfect pace, plotting, non-stop action and adventure as well as a unique, compelling premise. Literally un-put-downable. And the title couldn’t be more fitting. This book is about hunger – in the games and in the reality of life in the districts. Hunger, thirst, hunting, cooking, eating, cravings, food daydreaming, food supplies, food rationing, as well as the hunger for life – they all play integral parts in the story. Can’t wait for the sequel.
