If you took the Olympics, reality television, and Roman gladiator fights and mixed them all up, the results might look something like The Hunger Games. This is the story of Panem, which used to be the United States but now is 12 districts surrounding one powerful capitol. Years ago, the hungry, oppressed people of the districts attempted to overthrow the capitol but were unsuccessful. As a yearly reminder of their failed revolution, each district must now send two of its young people to the capitol to participate in the Hunger Games; all residents of Panem are required to view round the clock coverage of the games, and only one of the 24 competitors may live.
Collins tells the story primarily through the experience of Katniss Everdeen, at 16, a contender in the Games. Katniss has one advantage in the games because her deceased father taught her years earlier how to use a bow and arrow, but those in charge of the games are able to play on each competitor’s weaknesses and darkest fears so Katniss’s strengths may not be enough to help her survive. Her life at home is a difficult one; since her father’s death in a coal mine accident, Katniss’s mother has suffered debilitating depression and can barely provide for Katniss and her charming younger sister, Prim. Life in the districts is not easy for anyone, but Katniss soon learns that even that existence is much easier than participating in the cruel games.
Though the story is wrapped up, the ending of The Hunger Games also leaves readers wanting more. Fortunately, Collins rounds out the story with two additional tomes, Catching Fire and Mockingjay. Readers of the first title will not be satisfied until they have devoured the whole trilogy.
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