It’s not often that I find myself engrossed in a book where young adults are being killed right and left in ways you couldn’t possibly imagine. But I have mentioned before what a compelling read Hunger Games was; a surprise not just because there’s enough violence in its pages to shock my socks off but because it’s a YA novel – written for Young Adults. I am an adult but I’m not young. And I am not the only Not Young Adult who read it and was moved by it. I’ve got boatloads of friends my age who also read it and came away wide-eyed with strange delight. The thing is, the story is not about violence, blood and the chase. It’s really about sacrificial love, the most beautiful thing there is. Here is the trailer for the movie, which debuts in the spring. I can’t wait to see it… Listen to how Katniss says “I volunteer. I volunteer as tribute.” That kind of love is what makes this story great. It is the bit of the divine that smolders in us and makes us stand back in awe. . .
I definitely join you in one of the many who have been moved by this book. I thought it was very well done, very compelling read. My daughter's teacher actually read this book to them in class (6th grade)and then my daughter made me read it. I'm very glad she did!It definitely speaks to sacrificial love, that's for sure. I think that's why I struggled big time with the 3rd book- was the sacrifice for nothing? I don't want to give anything away, but that was hard for me. I still loved the books though, very well done!
HI Susan — I just finished the third one, which I didn't like as much as the first two, but still, in the end,I found myself moved by the whole concept. At first I tried to write it off as a combination of Shirley jackson's “The Lottery” and the reality show Survivor with a little Twilight thrown in (the girl with two guys to choose from). But the trilogy developed the characters well and it found its own voice and story. I 'm really looking forward to the movie(s)! I actually read the books because you recommended them (and my daughters).
The concept of sacrifice that runs through it, even when the characters were worn out and sometimes confused about their motives, was is strong.
I see in the trailer what you mean, Susan, and the actors portrayed the incredible tension well. I think I'd have trouble with it because there seems no sufficient motive to stage a fight to the death, and without accepting the premise, the following developments would seem contrived. Of course, that opinion is based on hearing about the books and watching the trailer. Perhaps in reading, the premise makes more sense. Though I'm still not sure if I'll see it. I do not like seeing/hearing violence. (Yes, I'm one of those who even covered my eyes and ears during parts of The Passion. That is, until someone's wailing forced me to open my eyes to see what was happening in the theater, not on the screen. The person wailing was me.)
Usually I read novels you recommend. I'll let you know if I muster the courage for this one. Thanks, for the trailer. I do love courage and sacrificial love.
Blessings,
Mary Kay
Yep, I didn't enjoy #3 like I enjoyed the first two. But the ending of the trilogy was satisfying…
And Mary Kay, don't feel pressured to read it. I am not totally sure you would enjoy it if your tolerance level for violence is the way you describe it. That's okay! That's what makes you sweeter than me!
I have heard about this book…but it sounds a bit troubling in content.
That's funny, Sooz.
Mary Kay