Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

This book is the second in The Hunger Games series, and I gave it a rating of four out of five. In the first book, Katniss and Peeta really upset the Capitol and their president with the way the Hunger Games turned out. They show a defiance to the government, and it fears the districts may revolt. Most of the public loves Katniss and Peeta, and signs of rebellion pop up while they are on their victory tour six months later. The government is ruthless in the way it deals with protestors. Katniss and her mockingjay pin are symbols of unity for the citizens. The president figures out an unprecedented way of getting rid of Katniss and Peeta. Quarter Quell games are held every twenty-five years, and the president decides that former winning tributes will participate in this year's games. Being the only living, female tribute in her district, this guarantees that Katniss will need to fight for her survival again. However, her opponents this time will be experienced former champions. The future of the country may depend on her survival.


I enjoyed the drama of Katniss' conflict with the Capitol, especially with President Snow. She is torn between ensuring the survival of her family and friends and her responsibility to the citizens of the country. District 13 was wiped out seventy-five years ago, but rumors start popping up that survivors actually live there and may provide a challenge to the capitol. It's treated like this mystical wonderland that may, or may not, exist. I found the middle of the book to be lacking much action, although I understand why the author did it. I just found my mind wandering at times. I thought the description of the games was creative, and the author dropped several surprise bombs throughout the book. Overall, there wasn't as much action as the first book, but I liked it.