The Hunger Games

Living in a post-apocalyptic world, Katniss and the other inhabitants of the various districts are forced to participate in constant reminders of the punishment appropriated to those who rebel against their government. As book one in a trilogy, it paves the way for conflict, romance, loss, uprising, revenge and more.

There are a lot of interesting aspects to The Hunger Games. Katniss is a tomboyish female lead character, who trapes around with a bow and arrow, hunting and trading on the black market to support her family. She has a serious attitude, but despite her somewhat awkward and rigid nature in the beginning of the trilogy, the reader still is invited in to get to know her. After you've invested the time in getting to know Katniss, you can't put the book down. Katniss is definitely a character that anyone can connect with and relate to, boy or girl.

Despite the novel's somewhat predictable nature, there are enough moments of suspense and surprise to leave the reader satisfied. There are also pretty heavy (and easily accessible) themes of living in an economic depression, isolation, starvation, oppression and corrupt governments. The novel also plays with traditional gender roles - this is especially evident in the portrayals of Katniss and Peeta - as well as others, like Cinna.

The Hunger Games is an "I can't put this down" cover to cover read, and the other two books in the trilogy are equally as addicting. The books take you on an emotional ride that leaves you with a new appreciation for those who have endured a rebellion against government oppression, and also a deeper appreciation for the value of individuals in society.