Catching Fire, by Suzanne Collins, was a hotly anticipated book in our house. I read the first in this series, Hunger Games, after hearing so much about it online, and convinced my husband to give it a try after liking it so much. Hunger Games details the harsh lives of citizens living in a starvation-riddled post-apocalyptic nation that was previously North America. Panem, the new country, is divided into twelve districts, each of which must give two "tributes", a boy and a girl, for the annual Games. The Games are punishment by the Capitol for attempted uprisings in the past. Tributes are selected by lottery, and everyone under the age of 18 is in the pot. The Hunger Games are a fight to the death in a televised arena, with the winner receiving food and comfort for the rest of his or her life. This sequel takes up shortly after the first ends.
This was a good book, but clearly served as a bridge to set up future events. It didn't grab and hold my attention the way Hunger Games did. Granted, the danger is still real. Sudden death is still a very real possibility for the citizens of Panem. Even more striking than the Capitol's undiluted cruelty is the tributes' acceptance that the rest of their lives are most likely measured in hours. The last few pages, however, set the stage for an explosive third installment.
This is a young adult series, but don't be put off by that. It is gritty and realistic, brutal but starkly touching. Be warned, though: the fight scenes are bloody and quite graphic.
I recently read this book, and enjoyed it as much as the first one. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I especially like the way they are dressed to be shown off to the rest of their world. The author is very good at making you see the drama, and also feel something for the characters.
ReplyDeleteYes, I completely agree about the costumes. I would love to see these books made into a movie. I think they could do some really cool things with the outfits. I espcially loved the wedding dress...
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