'Bright and bubbly as ever, Effie Trinket trots to the podium and gives her signature, "Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favour!"'
I first saw this book, back when I was 16, wow I'm making myself sound old. One of my friends picked it up from a local library. Reading the blurb, I found myself teased and intrigued to read more. Being the typical me I had forgotten to write down the author and name of the book, which then lead me to somehow forget all about it completely.
Three years later and I discover it's been made into a film, my dad has the books and my sister is all ready in anticipation to see the film. It's not until I see the trailer that recognition washes over me. I know I've come across a similar plot line somewhere before and that's when I realised.
Refusing to see the film at the cinema, I dove straight into the first book 'The Hunger Games'. I wouldn't say I was gripped from the very first line, but by the end of the first chapter I was enthralled.
When Primrose Everdeen's name is picked out at random, from the glass ball, on the day of the reaping. Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute for her district, District 12. Taking her sisters place, her journey to the Capital and the Hunger Games begin.
Even though the Games don't actually start till chapter 11, Collins manages to captivate you through every chapter, digging deep into Katniss's emotions, feelings and thoughts.
I love the fact that Collins adds suspense when things start to settle down or everything seems to be fine. You are really woken up, to find how much the characters have to go through in order to stay alive. Literally using all of their senses.
But even in the worst of events, there's always room for hope, security and love. And that of which Katniss finds in Peeta Mellark, the boy tribute of District 12.
Although gruesome at times, it was excitingly thrilling, filled with twists and turns, I was thoroughly absorbed. Overall this book is a must read, especially if you haven't seen the film!
And on that note enjoy!
*retrieves The Hunger Games DVD, slips the disc into the machine with a smile* Happy Hunger Games!
Review By Katie Johnson
Everyone told me to read the book first. I didn't listen to them. I find that by reading the book first you build up a somewhat expectation for the film, only to be disappointed when it doesn't live up to those expectations. That's why I watched the film first.
I found that it didn't matter in the end. Both the film and the book were as gripping and enticing as I had hoped they would be. It was just one of those story's that makes you appreciate what you have in life. I was intrigued to know what this bold new world was all about.
I was hooked from beginning to end. With me, there has to be a romance involved. I can't read a book without one. This was more than just a love story, it was a love traingle with a twist.
When I got to chapter 11, the beginning of the 74th Hunger Games, my nerves were on edge. Within minutes after the gong has sounded there are cannons going off for every person who is killed. Each death is shown on the big screen at night. This gives those who are remaining an idea of who is left. Groups form together, plots are laid out. Tensions rise.
The first few days are crucial. Surviving in such climates becomes unbearable to even think. You find yourself forming attachments. Anticipating every move. Impressed by those you wouldn't have thought twice about. As the numbers begin to gradually go down one by one, the mood changes. When only 3 remain, the game makers decide to make things a little more interesting.
I was so relieved when the games finally came to an end. I'd cried too much already that I was glad for it to be over.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and hope the next book is as gripping and thrilling as this was!
Review by Katie Ellis
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