Reading logs

Reading log #4

Title: The Hunger Games

Text type: Novel

Author: Suzanne Collins

In a dystopian future, the totalitarian nation of Panem is divided into 12 districts and the Capitol. Each year two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, brutal retribution for a past rebellion, the televised games are broadcast throughout Panem. The 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors while the citizens of Panem are required to watch. When 16-year-old Katniss' young sister, Prim, is selected as District 12's female representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart, Peeta, are pitted against bigger, stronger representatives, some of whom have trained for this their whole lives.

An important idea I saw while reading the book was her love for her sister Prim. Just after Prim has been selected as a tribute, Katniss said “I volunteer”, “I volunteer as a tribute”. This event is I believe the most notable event that happened in the book. If she did not volunteer, Prim would most likely die in the games. Katniss volunteering for her sister made me feel relieved that her sister does not have to go through suffering or violence. Katniss has years of experience hunting which might not be like the training tributes from the other districts went through but it’s a lot better than letting her 12 year old sister be the tribute. If I was on her situation, I would’ve done the same. I guess it’s just natural for everyone to love their siblings this much that they’re willing to sacrifice themselves for them.

Another idea seen in the book is friendship. I believe that the most important friendship seen in the book is Katniss and Gale’s friendship. Gale is the one who can relate to Katniss the most. Like the difficult circumstances of providing food for their family. Gale has always been there for Katniss and supported her through the struggle to survive living in extreme poverty. I think it’s important to have a friend like Gale. A friend who can relate to you. A friend who goes through similar if not the same circumstances that you go through. A friend that will always be there to support you.