Those are just a few of the adjectives floating through my mind while reading The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins' acclaimed novel, the first of the sci-fi/fantasy trilogy of the same name.
The Hunger Games takes place in the fictional nation of Panem, which was supposedly North America hundreds of years ago. The country, now facing extreme poverty and starvation, is divided into twelve "districts", not unlike states, and is ruled by the "Capitol". A failed uprising of the districts against the cruel Capitol resulted in the creation of "The Hunger Games"- a brutal, bloody punishment disguised as a televised competition where twenty four children- one girl and one boy between the ages of 12 and 18, from each district- must fight to the death. The victor is granted a lifetime of riches, and his or her district is given an abundance of food for a year.
When her little sister's name is chosen for the 74th Annual Hunger Games, sixteen year old Katniss Everdeen bravely volunteers in her place. Joining Katniss from District 12 is baker's son Peeta Mellark. Katniss is a born hunter, so when she is thrown into the arena - a dense forest- she feels right at home. But with everyone out to kill her, obstacles around every corner, and romantic feelings for her opponent, Peeta, can Katniss survive the Games?
First things first, this book is amazing.
The standout for me was the character of Katniss. Katniss doesn't have superpowers, nor is she gorgeous. In fact, she's just too normal. So normal she's extraordinary. She wasn't born with incredible archery skills- she learned how to handle a bow and arrow because she needed to survive as a starving child. She practiced. Katniss' ultimate act of bravery- volunteering to take her sister's place in the Games- is heart rending. In Katniss, readers have a new heroine to look up to. Katniss isn't perfect, and is brilliantly flawed, making her instantly relatable. Personally, I haven't come across a stronger heroine in a YA novel since Harry Potter's Hermione Granger.
Another really impressive feature of the book is the premise and concept. The very idea of children fighting to the death in a poverty-stricken nation while the wealthy enjoy it as entertainment is terrifying, mostly because it's so realistic. Sci-fi elements abound, but are never "in your face", and are treated ordinarily. For instance, a gigantic projection screen in the sky, hovercrafts and genetically altered animals are just a few of the things in Collins' vividly imagined world.
The Hunger Games contains a plethora of themes for those who love to dissect literary works. The effects of war on children and their families, having to grow up too soon in a war-torn world, the political aspects (a cruel Capitol oppressing the many Districts), the struggle for independence, and so on. Collins cleverly satirizes reality television: every minute detail such as wardrobe decisions, interview questions, sponsors, and producer gimmicks- are given attention. Bet you never realized how much a contestants' impression on the minds of the audience really matters. Think of that the next time you're watching American Idol. This reality show aspect, combined with the sheer "kill or be killed" mechanic guarantees a nail-biter.
Readers are in for an adrenaline-pumping rush of a book. Collins leaves readers on pins and needles at the end of every chapter, prompting you to just go on reading, wanting more. The book is written in the voice of Katniss, lending a personal touch and giving us a glimpse at her motives and emotions. Katniss is torn between her growing feelings for Peeta; while at the same time feels guilty about betraying her hometown friend Gale Hawthorne. And no, this isn't just another Twilight-esque love triangle. Things in Collins' world are seldom what they seem; plot twists come out of nowhere, throwing you in a totally different direction at times.
Gory, dark and well plotted, The Hunger Games is possibly one of the greatest young adult books of all time. It's easily the best novel I've read in a while. If you're thinking of buying this, don't hesitate, it's a guaranteed page-turner. It had me gasping and clutching the edge of my seat for all of its 374 pages and 27 chapters (and yes, it's not an incredibly big book).
May the odds be ever in your favor.
RATING: ★★★★
Recommended for ages: 13 and up.
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