The Hunger Games | First Book of the trilogy

Synopsis
In the nation of Panem, twelve districts are being oppressed by the civilized, modern, and futuristic city called "The Capitol".

To flaunt their power and keep any rebels in line, the Capitol requires each district to produce two tributes, one girl and one boy. The tributes are chosen through a fishbowl draw.

The two tributes are forced to participate in The Capitol's annual game: The Hunger Games. All of the tributes will then be taken in an arena wherein the sole objective is to remain the last person standing.

"Good and safe... We don't have to worry about her now."
- Katniss Everdeen

This trilogy is so famous. I watched and read a lot of spoilers before I was able to buy my copy. Nonetheless, the story was good, and I still enjoyed it.

One of the things that I liked about the first book is how well it was written. I deeply felt the grief of a child who lost their father and their beloved friend during the game. The story also clearly showed how poverty forced children to work at an early age despite the hazard they might face. Their starvation also made them commit illegal acts to feed their family. The choice of words was excellent, and I did not feel lost while reading.

However, some parts were slow pacing. The story caught up on later chapters, though. I also don't like the scenes discussing the style of their gowns and make-up.

“They’re gonna kill each other, anyway. Why do we have to discuss their nails and body hair?”

Another part of the story that pissed me off was during Katniss acting all lovey-dovey with another tribute just to stay alive. I would understand if she naturally fell in love with him during the game but the part wherein she was obligated by her mentor to "act" in love with him just doesn't sit well with me. Added to that, I also did not like the fact that they were cheered and applauded by “adult” audiences while they were being intimate and while they were killing each other. *facepalm*

“Because if he dies, I'll never go home, not really.
I'll spend the rest of my life in this arena trying to think of my way out.”
- Katniss Everdeen

This line resonated with me even after I put the book down. The "arena" that Katniss was referring to seems to me like a past trauma that hinders you to live your life normally after a traumatic event has happened. Then, you'll spend the rest of your life finding your way out to no avail.

All in all, it was a good read and it depicted the effects of lust for power, trauma, and war on people. It also showed how humans take desperate measures for survival.

If you like reading YA in dystopian genre, you would enjoy reading this book. Consider this as a trigger warning because some chapters contain graphic references to topics such as self-harm, suicide ideation, war, and violence.

Check out my other book reviews

Catching Fire                               Mockingjay