The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, is a book where the word utopia is defined like never before. Sixteen year old Katniss Everdeen lives in the world after its end. The twelve Districts are controlled by the Capitol, their government. When Katniss volunteers herself in the games instead of her sister, she has no idea what to expect. With the help of her partner, Peeta, Katniss will first-hand experience the hard truth. The Games are specifically designed to show the residences in the multiple Districts how the Capitol controls them. The golden country they live in has deep dark secrets that they don't want anyone to know...but Katniss can only do so much while mentally and physically preparing herself for the games. The girl from District twelve will prove to everyone {even herself} that she can do much more than expected. But what happens when a simple berries act can be called rebellious?
This story is an unforgettable journey to the end of the world. If you think that living in a perfect utopia is perfect, think again. Katniss proves that even in perfeciton, poverty and dictatorship are possible. To all those who enjoyed the book Pretties, by Scott Westerfield, this book is for you. Young readers everywhere are seeing that utopia is not always good. Or is it?
-Reviewed by T.A., grade 10.
Comments
Reviewed by Cody W., grade 12.
Montrose Library
Reviewed by Melody N, grade 9.
Central Library
This book was an excellent and an amazing book. It gave me a rush of excitement reading each page by page. The book reminded me of the book " Where The Red Fern Grows" for some strange reason. This books plot might not appeal to other because it is about teens going to battle against each other until there is one last survivor. It may make people get the feeling that it is a horror story when it really isn't, it is well written and not frighting. Give the book a try, once you start reading I guarantee you wont stop.
Reviewed by Armand, grade 9
Central Library
I liked this book because it was entertaining. There was a lot of action in this book which made me very addicted to it. This book made me think that family never leaves each other.
Reviewed by Eugene Shin, grade 9
Montrose Library
I loved the suspenseful, and never ending pursuit for survival and the akward love triangle between the characters. I do recommend this book to all readers and I hope you enjoy the book like I did. I thought the movie was good and I am thinking that the next movie will be just as good or even better than the first one. So I hope that you will take the time to read this book and see the movie like I did.
Reviewed by Kevin S., grade 9
Montrose Library
A lot of action and fast paced. Good book and you can also see the movie after you read the book. You can also read the whole series
Reviewed by Eric Y., grade 9
Montrose Library
My opinion for who should read this book is teens to young adults. I thought it was an amazing book and i highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about reading it.
Reviewed by Frederick S., grade 9
Montrose Library
I loved reading the Hunger Games. This book has suspense, mystery and twists that make you want to never stop reading it. It always keeps you guessing about what will happen next and what the outcome will be. This is my favorite book to reread in my free time. It also made me feel thankful for my life because the struggles the people in the book face are unimaginable. I could see people of all ages enjoying this book because it has extreme action alongside an unpredictable love story. This is a unique book that absolutely can't be compared to any other book out there.
Reviewed by Jennifer, grade 9
Montrose Branch Library
When you begin reading the Hunger Games you automatically get hooked and when you finish the book you can't not continue the series. It's thrilling and so creative, the plot and characters help make you want to keep reading because you have to know who lives, who wins the Hunger Games. I love the protagonist Katniss, her independence and bravery was completely inspiring. The love interests in the book just make it completely amazing. The book was way better than the movie. This book is a must read for all teens keeping you addicted with its amazing writing and slight disturbing-ness.
Reviewed by Nayri T., grade 10
Casa Verdugo Library
When you begin reading the Hunger Games you automatically get hooked and when you finish the book you can't not continue the series. It's thrilling and so creative, the plot and characters help make you want to keep reading because you have to know who lives, who wins the Hunger Games. I love the protagonist Katniss, her independence and bravery was completely inspiring. The love interests in the book just make it completely amazing. The book was way better than the movie. This book is a must read for all teens keeping you addicted with its amazing writing and slight disturbing-ness.
Reviewed by Nayri T., grade 10
Casa Verdugo Library
When you begin reading the Hunger Games you automatically get hooked and when you finish the book you can't not continue the series. It's thrilling and so creative, the plot and characters help make you want to keep reading because you have to know who lives, who wins the Hunger Games. I love the protagonist Katniss, her independence and bravery was completely inspiring. The love interests in the book just make it completely amazing. The book was way better than the movie. This book is a must read for all teens keeping you addicted with its amazing writing and slight disturbing-ness.
Reviewed by Nayri T., grade 10
Casa Verdugo Library
I really liked the Hunger Games and enjoyed reading it. It was very detailed and had a very interesting storyline. I would recommend it to any reader who likes action and science fiction.
John, grade 9
Montrose Crescenta Branch
I think this book holds a key to greatness. This book shows us that society has nothing to do with how someone feels. It can give many people a sense of hope to follow in what they believe in. It is an inspiration for other people who never thought they could do what they want to. I suggest for everyone to read this amazing book. It has romance, action, and ,anger.
Riya S., grade 9
Montrose Crescenta Branch
The Hunger Games had such a great plot and story line to it. I read this book when my friend recommended it to me and I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed the "dystopian" theme and how Katniss struggled with her feelings as well as trying not to get killed. I would recommend this book to people of all ages.
Reviewed by Elen S., grade 9
Glendale Central Library
My opinion about this book is that it is a very thrilling novel that covers adventure suspense, action, sadness, and creativity. What I like about this story is the technology and how the people can create those dangerous obstacles appear out of nowhere. Also, I liked the descriptive words that the author uses. I believe that anyone who has a sense of wanting adventure or likes to experience new things, who would love this book. This book really made me think that I am very lucky that I am not offered as tribute or playing a death game. But I think that it would be an interesting experience if that were to happen. This book really shows you the separation between low technology and high technology in the same period of time. It is amazing on how the author gives out intense feelings and very emotional words.
Reviewed by Matthew L., Grade 9
Montrose Library
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, is that book, and series of books, that you can't put down and absolutely have to finish. In my opinion, the hunger games, as well as the two other books in the series, are highly addicting. I think that they are an action-packed, dramatic, just overall amazing series that always has you questioning. I highly recommend this book if you are looking to read something thrilling and adventurous.
Reviewed by Adela, Grade 9
Montrose Library
"Hunger Games" is an amazing book. I would recommend this novel to a wide variety of people, including people who love action, people who enjoy reading about romance, and teenagers who like drama in general. This book is addicting and I couldn't put it down until I finished it. I suggest clearing your schedule before starting this book!
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Montrose Library
There were 12 districts in North America. All of the districts are controlled by the Capitol. In order to keep peace among the districts, each district has to send 1 teenage boy and 1 teenage girl and send them into an arena to fight for their lives. The winner of the Hunger Games is given great rewards, but they are also given guilt and sorrow for all the people they killed to win. District 12, has chosen Katniss Everdeen(a girl in poverty who must feed her family, by illegally hunting) and Peeta Mellark( the son of a baker). As the day of the Hunger Games comes closer, the two teens are trained for survival and make friends along the way. As the Hunger Games start, Katniss sees people getting killed left and right. Katniss fights hunger, nature, and death all around her. Katniss, Peeta , and the other competitors are forced into to the middle of the arena and finish the Hunger Games there.
Reviewed by Philip C., Grade 9
Montrose Library
The book was fabulous. The Hunger Games was the best series I have ever read. It is very different from other books. I have seen the movie, which I really liked. I would say the book was very different from the movie. The imagination was different. The book is better than the movie. The movie displayed the scene of violence, fight, competition, and death every year. It showed the down side of teen life, struggle, and survival. It is good to see and realize how life is for some people. Life is not just pleasure, it does have some struggles and challenges, to be able to survive and win. It is actually a lesson for some people, and teaches how to achieve what they want in life and not to give up. Anyway, I would rate the Hunger Games book with the highest star possible. The first book was the best, overall, yet the others were still pretty good. I would recommand this book, or even series, to anyone interested in violence, or even just entertainment. This book made me feel like I was actually living like one of the people from District 12, so poor and vulnerable. Yet even worse-a Hunger Games participant. I had to sit on the edge of my seat when I read it. As readers read deeper and deeper and deeper into the book, they learn lessons and find out surprises on their way to the end of each novel of the series.
Reviewed by Connor, Grade 9
Montrose Library
I think The Hunger Games is worth reading. The Hunger Games offers enough to keep me reading and it keeps me curious as to what will happen next. Overall, I suggest reading this amazing book. It is a wonderful story that kids our age can read. The author demonstrated a very good work by writing The Hunger Games. And all chapters left me speechless and they were addictive to read.
Reviewed by Michelle T., Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
In my opinion, this book was excellent. It was exciting, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. There really is something in this book for everyone. There is a romantic element to it, there is excitement and adventure, and of course, lovers of dystopian world stories will love this book. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the Divergent series by Veronica Roth.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 10
Casa Verdugo Library
The moment I read this novel I fell in love! Katniss's charecter in the book is so strong and she plays such a leading role. Her character in this story is so strong and i love that because she portrays what a lot of woman are; fighters. Most woman I know will in any situation do what we have to do as women for our families, peers, ect. It was nice to see such a leading woman role in a movie and book series! looking at the characters she meets along the way is just icing on the cake! This book had me on my toes the entire time and to be honest, I never wanted to put it down! I highly recommend this novel to all people ages 14 and up! Its a perfect medley of thrill, action, romance, and mystery.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
My opinion of the book is it is okay but I read it as the same time as divergent and I liked that book way more. I just feel like in Hunger Games the characters don't really develop that much throughout the story. If I was to recommend this to someone it would be highly unlikely I would just tell them to watch the movie. I know most people say the book is better than the movie, but I just think the movie does better for making you care for Katniss and Peeta. The book is good and the next two are even better in my opinion, but it just feels a little slow to me. I enjoyed this book more than I disliked it, but I do think the book tells you pointless details that the next two books will explain even better.
Reviewed by J., Grade 12
Glendale Central Library
The Hunger Games was a book I had to push through to the end. There were too many gruesome deaths. If you can't handle gruesome deaths then do not read the Hunger Games.. This book took me a week to read because horrible deaths are not interesting to me. I finished the book wondering why I continued to read the book to the end. I do not recommend the Hunger Games and would say to read Divergent instead. Although you might enjoy the book if you like high action, high drama levels and don't mind deaths since the action and drama levels were way high.
Reviewed by Ridge, Grade 9
Although reviewing this story may seem cliche, I couldn't help excluding it. I believe it became so famous because of the fictional content and fascinating plot it had. Out of five stars, I would probably rate this story five stars, due to my personal preference of enjoying nonfiction conflict. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a combination of deadly quarrels and romantic trust. I find it interesting how the author chose such a surprising topic, other than a typical teen love story or a major internal problem an adolescent may have to face. Collins brought out violence and inconspicuous reasoning, she escaped the ordinary and found a topic she could make so that readers would want more of the content. Certain parts of the story made me feel as if I was there, supporting Katniss with her every move, and raising my weakened arms with victory and sick satisfaction when the event was finally over. It may not be as authentic as the cover makes it seem, but the overall plot had changed how I witnessed this subject in my own words. Try it out! (:
Reviewed by Crystal MG, Grade 9
Montrose Library
All 24 of the tributes are transported to the arena to fight it out. katniss is on her own at first, but then she discovers that Peeta has teamed up with the Career Tributes- the strong kids from the rich districts in Panem who actually want to go to the Hunger Games. They eventually corner her in a tree, but she drops a tracker jacker nest on them( that's like a genetically mutated killer wasp) and scores a bow and arrow in the process.
Katniss goes hunting for Peeta and eventually finds him. He is wounded and camouflaged in the muddy bank of a stream. she nurses him back to health and realizes that by playing up the romance angle, they can get gifts from sponsors.
I'd have to say, this is my favorite book of all time( perhaps second , next to the catching fire-- the sequel) This story has an excellent and original plot idea that Collins has paced so well. The characters are very well developed. And has a great message. One thing parents should watch out for is the violence. Before any kid under twelve years old reads this book, I would ask them hoe much they can tolerate. While the violence is not very graphic, there is a great amount of it and several teens die. But all in all, this book is fantastic In my opinion, it was well written and fairly enjoyable.
Reviewed by Jany H., Grade 9
Montrose Library
I love, love, love this book, it is probably one of the most spectacular books I have ever read. I seriously recommend to read this book. Believe me when I say that you are going to be hooked to this book. It really is that great of a book. There some parts that I don't like about this book but other then that I seriously love this book. Of course you have to read the book before watching the movie because the book is way better.
Reviewed by Emily, Grade 9
Montrose Library
In my opinion this book was extremely intense and I could not stop reading! It is a very emotional book that deals with many subject that are present today in the world. I enjoyed how the book created a sense of realization for readers on how this world that is dystopian can be compared to the world we live in now and how some things may never change unless you decide to do something about it. I think people in the age group 14+ will enjoy this poem mainly because understanding the book is very important and the purpose of the book itself should be noticed as well.
Reviewed Annabel G., Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
I liked this book, because it was so unique. It was unusual but magnificent at the same time. Also it had a lot intense moments and lots of action. I would recommend this book to teens who like action and who likes a lot of drama.This book made me realize how a lot of people are going through hard times and that life is not as easy as we think is. I also feel how that the world is not safe and how there is a lot of bad things are going on like wars and how that people are losing there lives every day.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 12
Pacific Park Library
The Hunger Games is personally one of my favorite books of all time. It contains all of the most intriguing and compelling elements that I look for in a book- suspense, mystery, action, adventure, and romance. When I was reading this book, I felt as if I were somehow a part of it. I was so compelled and captivated by the riveting story line that I had completely immersed myself into the wonders of this book, making it seem as though I was a fragment of its whole. It made me feel brave and passionate by demonstrating to always stand up for your beliefs and to never let anyone discourage you into believing that you are not capable of making a difference. I felt so many mixed emotions whilst reading this book due to the suspenseful and unpredictable story line. There were points where I felt satisfaction, others where I felt afraid and doubtful, or confusion and uncertainty. However, these mixed emotions were not necessarily a bad thing because they immensely contributed in my great intrigue in the book, which is one of the most important factors that a book must portray. There were points where I merely could not put the book down since I simply had to find out what happened next. I would recommend this book to anyone who just needs some adventure and mystery in their lives because they definitely wouldn't be disappointed by it.
Reviewed by Zhanna G., Grade 9
Montrose Library
I personally loved The Hunger Games. The author made the story very intense and really interesting. When I started to read it, I found that I couldn't put the book down, even if I tried. The author described the scenery in the story very well too. I loved this book but I would not recommend this to anyone under the age of 12 due to its violent moments and very romantic scenes. However, for older teens and young adults, this story is a must read for those who like intriguing storylines and fast paced novels.
Reviewed by Zack H., Grade 9
Montrose Library
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins was one of the best books I have ever read. I loved the plot of the story and it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time Katniss was in the arena for The Hunger Games. My love for this book lasted so long that up until now I still play on Minecraft Survival Games Servers. I feel that Suzanne Collins did a great job with all the character’s feelings. I think that she could have increased the story by adding more details to the life-or-death situations Katniss faced. Yes, all-in-all I would recommend this book to others.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Pacific Park Library
The Hunger Games is probably one of my favorite books. I would definitely recommend it to anyone in 5th grade or older. There are also 2 other books in the series, "Catching Fire" is the 2nd and "Mockingjay" is the 3rd. You should read this if you enjoy sci-fi/romance stories because it has both, and there are so many good plot points that make you want to read the whole trilogy. There are also a lot of good characters in the book, like Katniss's makeover team, and Effie Trinket, who is very entertaining to read about.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Montrose Library
Overall I really enjoyed the book, The Hunger Games. One thing that I really liked about this book is that it made me feel like I was actually there with Katniss Everdeen. In the Hunger Games, Katniss's adventures and feelings are very specifically described which gives that realistic and cool feeling to it. I think that mostly teenager girls would like this book because I believe that they especially would enjoy the pinch of romance and because they may relate to the way that Katniss feels at times when boys can't. After reading this book, it made me feel more confident in some ways. It made me feel like this because in the book, Katniss didn't know how to deal with her own problems at multiple times and it showed the ways that she solved those problems by getting over her fears by being brave.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Downtown Central Library
Suzanne Collins does an amazing job of telling the futuristic tale of Panem and its population. I really enjoyed this book. It's written in a fast-paced, descriptive way that takes on many relevant themes set during a different time like oppression and war. Katniss is a sharp and crafty heroine who cares about her family more than anything in the world. She is loyal and fierce and is an automatic role model for readers.
I recommend this book to everybody. It's original, unique, and thrilling and is sure to appeal to all readers of all ages. Though the writing is choppy, it's still an excellent read.
Reviewed by Melody S., Grade 9
Montrose Library
I can see that this is a very good book. I know this is the first book in the Hunger Games series and of course first time's the charm in many cases. Who knew that an author can really put teens and adolescents as people to fight in scary and intense battles on a live stream in a story? Action-themed stories aren't generally my thing but from reading this book it really has became my hobby persay. The cover of the book was something I didn't understand right away but at least it looks pretty iconic and cool anyway. Although, the name Katniss was something I stayed neutral about. I kind of thought the name was a bit weird for the author to use as a protagonist because I think it sounded a bit "off". Everything else was great in my opinion. If my friend can recommend me this book, then I can recommend this book to anyone else as well. In addition, I would also recommend others to finish the whole series of the Hunger Games. So have fun continuing your journey to finish all the sequels here in this series.
Reviewed by Hannah R., Grade 10
Downtown Central Library
The book, The Hunger Games, was a very enjoyable book to read. This book teaches the reader very important life lessons. I learned that always trying your hardest and never giving up can give you unexpected rewards. I also learned about the hardships some children have to face to keep themselves and their families alive. Overall this book was a very interesting read, and I am looking forward to continuing the read the series. I would highly recommend this book and the rest of the series to teenage readers.
Reviewed by Alexander B., Grade 9
Downtown Central Library
I thought this book was great. I read this book a long time ago, but I just wanted to read it again due to a new Collins book coming out recently. It was just as good as I remembered. The characters were all very well written, and they all seemed extremely realistic. The author also did a great job at creating the world of the Districts and Panem, and portrayed the feelings and hardships of the characters very well. The action is top notch, but what is better is the story of Katniss' quiet rebellion against the injustices of the Capitol. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I would definitely recommend that you read it if you haven't (which is unlikely). Readers of action and dystopian novels would especially like this story.
Reviewed by NK, Grade 10
Montrose Library
"The Hunger Games" is one of my favorite books. It's engaging and exciting to read. It has plenty of action, but not to the point that it would be overwhelming. The characters are well written, and the world building is fantastic, although it might be scary for some readers. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone under ten or eleven years old. If you are a fan of dystopian novels, you should read this book. Like many dystopian authors, I think Suzanne Collins was making a statement about how our society works. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer until something eventually has to change. I would definitely recommend "The Hunger Games" for middle school readers and up.
Reviewed by Izzy Jackson, Grade 8
Glendale Central Library
To be honest, I enjoyed the book. I think the people who are interested in a sort of science fiction book should read this. I liked the presentation of the dystopia in the twelve districts and the utopia in the Capitol. It really shows how far wealth and power can get people and how it can destroy civilization. Although I’m not saying this could happen, it is possible though. As technology advances, we achieve things unimaginable just like in the book. It made me think of how important it is in a government to have everyone’s word, not just the wealthy and powerful people but every single citizen. I liked the fact that the book was realistic at some things and not realistic at some things. So YES, I recommend this book to everyone!
Reviewed by Ashsmith K., Grade 9
Glendale Public Library
This is the best series I've ever read, as well as the best novel I've ever read. I've never been so engrossed in a book before, and The Hunger Games drew me in and gripped every fiber of my being. I liked how the book is presented from Katniss's point of view, and you get to know her thoughts and feelings on the events as they unfold. There was nothing in this book that I didn't appreciate except the fact that Finnick and Prim were killed off just as everything was about to return to normal. Some chapters are more difficult than others, but they are all fantastic. Many individuals mistakenly believe that The Hunger Games is solely about violence. Humanity, morality, moral ethics, oppression, leadership, fascisms, responsibility, inequality, what power can do to a person, love, loyalty, human nature, survival, revolt and revolution, and more were among the themes I identified.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
Overall, this book is a 5/5 for me. It made me wake up at 6:30 a.m. everyday to read it before school started. The plot is beautifully written and the characters really brought depth to the story. The story is fast-paced and every single word has meaning. The end of the story makes you want to go directly for the second and maybe even third. The vivid imagery the author’s writing creates is inspiring and keeps you immersed in this unique and chaotic world. If you think you are someone who enjoys fast-paced novels, action and characters that won’t leave your mind until you continue reading the series, I highly recommend this amazing book!
Reviewed by Anon, Grade 11
Montrose Library
Books have the ability to transport us away from reality and into the realms of our imagination. 'The Hunger Games,' by Suzanne Collins, is one such novel that has completely blown my mind. This is the first novel in the series 'The Hunger Games.' Narrated by Katniss Everdeen, it transports us to a future where the capital has complete control and power over the nation. The plot hook kept me turning the pages, from how an older sister protects her younger sister to how she follows the promise of working hard to win the game. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes to read a dystopian story of loyalty, passion, and a gruesome game.
Reviewed by Juniper Austen , Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
I picked this book up because I've seen the hunger games movies aired on TV here and there and thought it would be interesting to pick up and read about the movies. Personally I didn't like the book when compared to the movies as I felt like most of the action in the movies wasn't comparable to the book and it felt almost dead. It was interesting getting more background on the story and reading into the series with more detail but in the end it can not compare to the movies.
Reviewed by E.N., Grade 12
Casa Verdugo Library
The book was thrilling and I LOVED it. It was highly accurate, highlighting the differences between the rich and the poor, the corruptness that can ruin a government, and how watching others suffer brings us joy and entertainment. I think that teens would like this action-packed book. This book teaches us important life lessons like being proactive and helping others out. On top of that, this book is a survival guide. It teaches us to find water as soon as possible while stranded in the wilderness and not to start fires because the wildlife and people around the area'll target us. I felt courage and bravery when reading this book. 10/10! Would recommend!
Reviewed by E.Z., Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
"The Hunger Games" is a well-crafted dystopian novel series that has captivated millions of readers worldwide. The author's vivid portrayal of the oppressive society of Panem, the gripping plot, and the complex characters make it an engaging read. The themes of power, inequality, and survival resonate with readers of all ages, and the story raises thought-provoking questions about the role of government, media, and social class in society. The brutal nature of the Hunger Games is also thought-provoking, as it raises questions about the ethics of entertainment and the desensitization to violence in society. Overall, "The Hunger Games" is an excellent read for anyone interested in dystopian fiction, and I recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting and thought-provoking story. The series is suitable for both young adults and adults, and its themes and characters will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Reviewed by Abraham K., Grade 9
Montrose Library
I really liked this book a lot because of many reasons. First, I thought that the cover of the book was really interesting and a good one, and also another thing that I like about this book was also that it sometimes does use advanced words and it makes the book a lot more interesting for me to keep reading. While you read it, it will get so interesting that you will just want to keep reading and never stop it is just that interesting. The hunger games is a really fun and an interesting book, and it also has a lot of action. Overall I would really like to recommend this book to everyone because it was really an amazing experience reading it, I enjoyed a lot from it.
Reviewed by Suren, Grade 9
Brand Library & Art Center
I really liked this book a lot because of many reasons. First, I thought that the cover of the book was really interesting and a good one, and also another thing that I like about this book was also that it sometimes does use advanced words and it makes the book a lot more interesting for me to keep reading. While you read it, it will get so interesting that you will just want to keep reading and never stop it is just that interesting. The hunger games is a really fun and an interesting book, and it also has a lot of action. Overall I would really like to recommend this book to everyone because it was really an amazing experience reading it, I enjoyed a lot from it.
Reviewed by Suren, Grade 8
Brand Library