The hype over ‘The Hunger Games’

Katniss Everdeen lives in Panem, a nation located in the post-apocalyptic ruins of North America. Panem is divided into twelve districts that surround the Capitol, an oppressive and powerful government. In order for the Capitol to keep their subjects loyal, they host an annual Hunger Games, a competition where participants – called “tributes” – fight to the death in a vast and treacherous arena until only one is left standing. For each district, a young man and a young woman are chosen via lottery to compete. When Katniss’ younger sister, Prim, is selected, Katniss volunteers to take her place, and enters herself in the dangerous competition.

The release of 'The Hunger Games' is being widely anticipated by many Northside students.

Suzanne Collins, the author, keeps the reader hooked with an engrossing plot, thrilling action, and even a bit of a love story. Throughout the book, Katniss and her fellow tributes have to battle thirst, hunger, fire, water, wild animals, injuries, and even each other in order to survive. By the end of the book, I was left attached to Katniss and her fellow tribute from District 12. The end is somewhat of a cliff-hanger, however, as it provides a transition into the next book in the series, Catching Fire.

For those of you who prefer the silver screen to the book pages, you are in luck: The Hunger Games hits theaters this spring on March 23^rd. Northside students Ashley Moss and Alyssa Harris are thrilled about the upcoming film. “I’m definitely going to look into going to the midnight showing.” Ashley says. Alyssa, who has read all the books, agrees. “The best part is seeing all the characters and the scenes from the book that I love become so life-like. I’m really excited.”