Okay, so "Hunger Games" isn't exactly a new series, but it's new to me! And the 3rd book in the trilogy isn't scheduled for release until August 2010, so I guess technically it's sort of new. Anyway, I just finished reading book two: Catching Fire, and I now enter that deliciously frustrating phase of WAITING. FOR. THE. NEXT. BOOK!
Ugh! (Drumming fingers on laptop keyboard and watching the clock!)
Fortunately, I have a large stack of books at my bedside still awaiting my touch. I shall pass the time well enough.
In the meantime . . .
This exciting trilogy takes place in future North America--only the country as we know it no longer exists. Instead you find yourself thrust into the dark and devastating world of Panem--a brutal country where freedom is a thing of the past, the very distant past.
Years before, the citizens of Panem, living in 13 districts controlled by an all-powerful capital, launched a rebellion to gain their freedom. The rebellion failed, and the thirteenth district, the instigator, was completely destroyed. As punishment, the remaining 12 districts are now forced to send one boy and one girl, between the ages of 12 and 18, every year to The Hunger Games--a fight to the death. And there can be only one victor.
When her 12-year-old sister is chosen from her district, 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen immediately volunteers to take her place. What follows is a gripping story of love and sacrifice and of coming-of-age within the horrors of the worst imaginable human cruelty. You will ask yourself how this could possibly ever happen even as you realize how shockingly it resembles some of history's darkest moments.
Having said that--
From the description, I have to admit I wouldn't have picked up this book had it not been for the GLOWING recommendation of a dear and admired friend. It just didn't sound like me. So here is a case, as so often happens, when word-of-mouth made all the difference for me. Hopefully it will make all the difference for you too.
Jenny, let me borrow that book! I haven't forgotten when Jackie told us about it and I've wanted to read it ever since. I'm glad to hear you liked it too. I didn't know it was a series. Unless someone else in your family will be reading it soon, I'll be right over to get it.
ReplyDeleteWe'll have to have our own little chat session when you're done.
ReplyDeleteYes...I love these books!! I was reluctant at first also, but I thought they were amazing. On a more superficial note my bookclub friends are in a big debate...Peeta or Gale. I thought Peeta was the obvious choice.
ReplyDeleteJessica,
ReplyDeleteYou are so right. I think if the author really wants us to be Gale fans all the way, we need to see a little more of him in the books. I'm hoping that will happen in Book 3. But maybe she's a Peeta.