Technically, The Hunger Games is youth fiction. But it's quality (quick) adult reading too. And if you have a tween or teen who might be interested in the series, I suggest reading it to help your child navigate some of the larger social and spiritual issues the stories tap.
The trilogy follows main character, Katniss Everdeen, who lives in an outlying district of the country Panem (in the ruins of what was once known as North America). Panem is composed of an affluent Capitol, where people live in luxury lacking nothing, surrounded by 12 districts that provide all the country's resources while the district inhabitants live in poverty, hunger and oppression.
Each year, to remind the districts of the power structure and to entertain the residents of the Capitol, the Hunger Games are held, pitting a male and female tribute from each district in an arena designed to challenge them physically, psychologically and spiritually as they fight to the death to become the last boy or girl standing (tributes are always 12-18 years of age). Sixteen-year-old Katniss becomes the tribute for District 12 when she volunteers to replace her sister, Prim, who is only twelve. Peeta Mellark is her counterpart.
The first book of the trilogy details Katniss's journey to and through the Hunger Games and ends at the conclusion of that year's Hunger Games. The second and third books tell the story of the resistance and revolution that follow. That's all I'll say because details would be spoilers.
The premise of the story is dark, and the darkness deepens as the stories progress. By the end I was yearning for some kind of light and happiness. This is a good reason to read them before or with your kids. I see the books as a great read for tweens and teens, not only because they are suspenseful enough to entertain even reluctant readers but because they provide a vehicle for thought and discussion about power, resistance, human rights, and the importance of being true to oneself.
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Numbers 31-33 in my 52 Books in 52 Weeks challenge. What are you reading? Link up or share what you're reading in a comment right here.
Wow! Those sound so interesting. And I've never heard of them. Thank you for such a great review!! And for your precious words of encouragement at the Antbed. :) You are a blessing!!!
ReplyDeleteLOVED this trilogy. lately, i have read a couple of louise penny mysteries. and i don't usually even like mysteries. i read the first one for book club and then NEEDED the second one! trying to get my hands on the third in the series without buying it for $12....
ReplyDeleteAnne, you are ever the blessing to me!
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