Before the new semester began at USU I did my best to finish one more book before most of my reading is consumed with text books, and lecture notes. There was only one obvious choice for me for this last quick read before school, "Catching Fire". I eagerly got this book for both my wife and I after we read "The Hunger Games". Monica read this book within the first day we had it. I lagged behind her super human powers of reading and finished the book within a week. We both loved it.

So what is Catching Fire? It is the next book in the series of The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins. The previous story was left at an exciting point and Catching Fire picks up right where it left off. I don't want to give any spoilers for anyone who hasn't read The Hunger Games, but Catching Fire continues the story at an exciting pace involving more of the Capitol, the relationships formed between Katniss, Peeta, and Gale, and of course loads of action. Even though it seems that Katniss may have avoided any immediate punishment after the hunger games, but she can't escape the searing gaze of the Capitol . In fact she discovers that her actions have greatly increased the danger to both herself and all those around her. Katniss has unknowingly started a chain of events that she can't control. However she still has to try, because if she doesn't there could possibly be another uprising against the Capitol. The last time that happened the uprising was crushed and the districts have been suffered greatly.

What I loved about this book was that I was surprised at how the story was kept fresh and new. Often times sequels are at a disadvantage because they can no longer wow the readers with the building of the characters, basic story, or world. Usually the first half of a book (especially Sci Fi Novels) is composed of these three things. So when a sequel is made, it has to make up for this missing half with new fresh ideas that still stay true to the original. If the author can't do this the story can feel too mundane, or the world that was previously created feels torn. Catching Fire added new twists that kept me guessing, excited, and entertained without losing the familiar feel of The Hunger Games. Catching Fire has the basic components that made The Hunger Games awesome, but smoothly moves the story down an exciting new path.
9/10

The Hunger Games

I have not read a book all summer that was for my own enjoyment. However, my beautiful wife kept telling me about a book that is quickly becoming popular in the blogging world. She wanted to read it so bad, but sadly the waiting list at the library was hundreds of days long. Eventually we got lucky and were able to find it in the library on campus. She finished it in a matter of days and had no problem convincing me to open the cover.

The Hunger Games is a young-adult science fiction novel written by Suzanne Collins. The Hunger Games is very intense, exciting, and jaw dropping. I found myself losing sleep because I was so immersed in the world Collins has created. The plot of The Hunger Games takes place in the distant future where the United States has been destroyed by war, and a new country called Panem has taken its place. Panem is divided into 12 districts and one great city only known as the Capitol. The Capitol is a tyrant keeping a tight grip on all aspects of life in the districts. Years before the districts revolted against the Capitol but were ultimately defeated. During this uprising the Capitol utterly destroyed district 13, which is now in ruin. The Capitol now reminds the remaining 12 districts how powerful they are by forcing each district to choose a tribute, one male, and one female between the ages of 12 and 18 to compete in a barbaric, gladiator style competition known as the hunger games. The games are broad casted to all of Panem, and everyone is forced to watch and cheer as these young tributes fight to the death. There are gruesome weapons, no rules, and only one tribute can be crowned the victor bringing them fame and glory.

The story follows a girl from district 12 by the name of Katniss. She is the hunter and provider for her mother and younger sister. She knows little else except how to survive through the harsh conditions of district 12. Katniss must use all her skills and knowledge when she must compete in the ultimate test of survival known as the hunger games.

What I liked about this book was that it had a perfect balance of character development, action, and excellent dialogue. The world of Panem feels rich and full of possibilities. Collins has a way with words that kept me glued to every page for hours. My heart was pounding, and I often cringed as I couldn't believe what was unfolding on each page. She made me truly care about the characters during their struggle for survival, and had me guessing until the very end. This book was intense and a bit disturbing at times but I could not help but eagerly turn the pages. I look forward to reading the next book in the series "Catching Fire" to continue the creative and original journey through the world of Panem.

9/10