The Hunger Games

Big Brother meets Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery in a savage arena filled with fool proof means for torture and murder.

The basic storyline is a simple, though driven and dripping with action. Basically, the Capitol uses the Hunger Games as a yearly reminder that they are supreme rulers above all citizens in Panem. Annually, May 8th to be exact, two tributes are chosen from each of the twelve remaining districts to attend the Capitol and partake in the savage competition. Only one tribute is to be chosen victor after weeks of human hunting. The Hunger Games are televised across the nation. Katniss, our antagonist, recalls that this is the only time District 12 gets trustworthy electricity.

Collins’s use of symbolism actually sent me to Google in search of classic symbolic definitions. Katniss sees the dandelion as a vision of hope and possibility prior to her arrival at the Capitol. I was disappointed that Collins did not continue this vivid reference into the arena but instead draws in prominent yellow items such as a bright orange backpack that ultimately proves to be Katniss’s life line and a yellow dress at just the right time. In my opinion, either bright item can replace the vivid imagery of the dandelion.

Suzanne Collins beautifully creates a post apocalyptic world driven by starvation and fear. Though I will admit to throwing the book at the wall, it was more out of frustration at what Makenzie has informed me is the cliffhanger than the vivid storyline. The Hunger Games is action packed and a very quick read. I would, however, be weary allowing children younger than twelve access to young adult novel due to the true savagery embedded within the pages.

Let me clarify, though Makenzie is nine and read The Hunger Games before me, in fact, she reads much more mature content than many children her age. Makenzie wanted to write the review for this particular selection as one instead of hers and mine. Here is Makenzie’s opinion in her own words:

I liked the Hunger Games because it is filled with adventure and risk. The risk makes it exciting because if characters chose the wrong decision it could mean certain death. Also, adventure makes the story exciting because you never know what the next setting or adventure will be. In my opinion risk and adventure combined make a great story.