The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Book #2)

Review

CRITIC REVIEW:

Sequel just as gripping -- and brutal -- as the first.

"Collins does not disappoint in this enthralling, entirely satisfying sequel. The pace is a little slower and the emphasis more on character than plot -- Katniss grows considerable as a character -- but readers will find CATCHING FIRE as much of a gripping page-turner as The Hunger Games. More of the story takes place outside the arena than within, but there is plenty of action-packed combat.

Collins offers readers intriguing insights into the nation of Panem: its power structure, rumors of a secret district, and the spreading rebellion. The story is equally rich in provocative political and social commentary, and exploring epic themes of morality, obedience, oppression, rebellion, redemption, sacrifice and, of course, survival. The author also creates a tantalizing and unresolved love triangle between Katniss, Peeta, and Gale that will leave questioning readers desperate for the next installment. This novel can stand alone but readers will have a much a richer experience if they begin with The Hunger Games."

- Edward T. Sullivan
Common Sense Media

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This is most possibly the WORST (or best depending what you go on) cliffhanger I have encountered in all my reading days. It leaves you more than just hanging, you are grasping for your life on a thread that is fraying and there is nothing to do but hold on (well metaphorically of course).

One word that can sum up this book is intense . Everything is just felt more. The compassion, threats, action, betrayal, gestures, words all of it. This has to be the reason why it is so addictive. As expected from this series we are in for a ride. Some things are hinted out, but the full affect of what is going on isn't totally revealed till the very end. Though I felt frustrated at times this is a grand slam of a sequel.

You know it's hard to hate Katniss for being the object of the whole love triangle. I usually get annoyed to no end and can't help wonder what people see in the person, but Katniss is different. Though you don't think that Katniss is particularly more special than others, but that is part of what you admire about her. Plus she is critical of herself so you don't necessarily get a good feel of what people think about her other than what is said with dialogue. I totally love this because frankly that is what it's like in real life. It's others that can show you who you really are when you aren't able to do it yourself. Peeta and Gale are both incredible guys and what makes them so great is that they both are good friends , something that is lacking in other books at times. Don't get me wrong there is a lot more to the series than the love triangle. Suzanne Collins gives us a lot to mull over till her much anticipated final climatic book Mockingjay.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire gives you an exhilarating look into the mind of Suzanne Collins. The second book on the highly anticipated series, Catching Fire does not disappoint. On the outer layers of this book it describes the events of a second hunger games between all the winners but as you sink deeper into the importance of friendship and anger against the capital, it would make you want to join the revolution. Collins writing style goes in depth in expressing Katniss' feelings throughout the stroy to really give a first person experience. Next time you want to look for a dystopian fantasy that reels you in wanting for more, pick up a copy of this novel. BEWARE you may not want to put it down - read at your risk, may the odds be ever in your favour.