Title and Author: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Plot Summary: This book is about a world in which there are 12 districts all with distinct characteristics ruled by the Capitol, an aggressive, power hungry government. Years ago, the districts rebelled against the capitol, and lost terribly. As a reminder that the Capitol will always win, the Hunger Games, a competition in which the Capitol makes all of the districts send two teenagers (one boy and one girl) to fight to the death on national TV, are held annually. This year 16 year old, Katniss Everdeen, is sent off to the games after she heroically volunteered to take the place of her little sister, who’s name was drawn during the reaping of contestants. Being from district 12, the poorest district, all odds are against Katniss, and her chances of winning are slim to none. Will she defy all odds and expectations, or will she be the first one gone? Most importantly, will she prove to the Capitol that she isn’t just anther pawn in their sick, twisted games?

Critique: I loved the suspense of the novel and all the twists and turns. I’m usually not a fan of survival novels, but this book was so much more. The characters were developed greatly, which helped me relate to, cheer for, and cheer against them. Overall, this book was a great read and was filled with a bunch of strong moments that made me feel a variety of emotions.

Recommendation: I recommend this book to anyone who likes survival, dystopian, or suspenseful novels.

Rating: 5/5