Review: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This was the third time I’ve read this one, and it’s still just as amazing as the first time. I wanted everything fresh in my mind but I wanted to read it before rather than after simply because I don’t want the movie perspective to taint my imagination of the book. Although, after watching 2 trailers and a teaser it sorta already did. I found myself picturing Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson many times over.

It’s such an easy read that I finished it almost in one sitting – I would have if I hadn’t had things to do last night. But, I still managed to finish it hours before the movie.Which means, unfortunately, that I’ll probably be picking the movie apart the whole time. I’ve already started picking apart the trailers – Katniss does NOT give Prim the pin!!! – but I want to be able to distinguish every little difference and it had been so long since I’d read it that I had forgotten some of the little stuff.

So, for the book review…

I love the characters! They all seem so realistic, even the ones you can’t stand (like Cato). Katniss has her flaws but she’s a strong lead and easy for me to relate to. Sure, she has a bit of a temper problem (like shoving Peeta when he admits feelings for her…giggle), but the fact that she isn’t perfect makes her more convincing. Each of the characters has their own distinct personality. Even Buttercup, the raggedy cat!
The only downfall is, as soon as you get attached to a character they’re sure to die. But that’s just the premise of the book. Even after reading it 3 times, Rue’s death still brought tears to my eyes!

There is definite emotion to this book. I was able to feel as Katniss felt, particularly the loss and desperation. Everything seemed very realistic and it was easy for me to picture scene by scene.
I don’t have much else to say about the book…just that I adore it and I have no complaints except for the way Katniss kind of strings Peeta along. I know she was just trying to survive, but I felt a bit sorry for him in the end when he realized she was acting.

This is my favorite dystopian read. It’s horrifying to imagine living in the setting with kids killing each other for entertainment. The world building was beautifully done and made the Games – something that seems like it could never happen – terrifyingly realistic.

I am SO INCREDIBLY STOKED for this movie. It will be interesting to see how they pull off many things…such as the Capitol’s technology, and especially the muttations. Hopefully they won’t be too cheesy looking! After I’ve seen it, I’ll write a review for it too. :)

Favorite character:
Ok, I’m gonna cheat because this one was a 3-way tie for me. Cinna, Rue, and Buttercup. Cinna is absolutely awesome and if I could meet him I would hug him. And I’d hug Buttercup, the grumpy ratty ole guy! I think I just love him because he’s a cat. And Rue…I think that one just speaks for itself.

Exactly how am I supposed to work in a thank-you in there? Somehow it just won’t seem sincere if I’m trying to slit his throat.