The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins

I decided to read this novel after a few blogs listed it as a favourite for 2008 and Catching Fire (part two) for 2009. I was intrigued as to why.

What an interesting plot - something different, that's for sure. I thought it might be gruesome... It was not at all.

Basically, in a futuristic, fascist society, one boy and girl are taken each year from each village, based on draw results, to fight until death. The winner will have it all - money, fame and comfort for his/her family. Of course, like real life, emotions get in the way of pure ambition and survival.

The Hunger Games are very similar to our current reality T.V. shows - display it all and relish in others misfortune and misgivings in the spirit of entertainment and competition.

I like the idea of intellect, physical strength, emotions and morals battling it out. In the end, what matters most is still survival, though, and the one guaranteed to do this is not necessarily the one most prepped, pampered or endowed.

An easy and entertaining read.