Young adult authors these days seem unable to write a single volume novel and let the story stand on its own two feet. My skeptical side (and pragmatic) attributes this to marketing: if you can get a large audience behind a good first book, then they'll likely come back again and again (and again, and again, and again, and again in the case of Harry Potter). So, I approach these "series" with great skepticism.
Collins wrote an engrossing first novel in Hunger Games (see review earlier on blog), so I was looking forward to the sequel. Overall, it was a good read. I think the author spent too much time reacquainting the reader with what had transpired in the first book; she should give us more credit for remembering what happened. I didn't really get behind the story until over a 100 or so pages, but by the middle, I was flipping the pages once again. Katniss, the protagonist, is a compelling character; Collins does a great job at developing her character further in this novel. The third (and final? Who knows) installment, Mockingjay, comes out in just over a week. Of course, I'll have to get it, and my expectations are high---I hope she doesn't let us all down.
Recommended for those who read and enjoyed Hunger Games (but wait for the paperback edition or borrow it from one of the many people who have the hardcover already). I give this a respectable B.
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Ms. Guiney's Review: Catching Fire
Title: Catching Fire
Author: Suzanne Collins
Grade: B/B+
Ideal readers: Boys and girls age 12 and up
Summary: In this second installment of the Hunger Games series, main character Katniss finds herself back in the action and fighting for her life. She must once again cheat death at the hands of the Capital and its hideous power plays. There are new characters being introduced, but the same problems. This story is part adventure and part romance, and to be completely honest, I'm not entirely sure which part I love more. Both books in the Hunger Games series have been quick page turners and Collins creates characters that readers will care about long after we finish the final chapters. The final installment will be released just days before the start of our new school year and I can't wait to see how it will all end! This series is a must read for middle schoolers.
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Hi everyone! I read the first of this series, Hunger Games, and was very into the story. Overall I was really exited for Catching Fire. Dissipointingly, in my opinion, this was not as much of a "hook book" (it did not make me want to finish it). I have tryed to read into these books but just cant seem to finish them. Mr. Shaw or Mrs. Guiney, could you give me some book recomendations? If you could that would be great. Love the blog! Thanks.
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