Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
After so much hype and positive reviews I admit I was expecting something more out of this book.
I liked the characterization of Katniss, and the first person narrator is definitely one of the strengths of the book: the actual Games manage to convey the sense of thrill and danger, even though the plot is often too linear and predictable, because we’re seeing them through the lens of Katniss’ mind. The chapters with Rue, in particular, are the high point of the story.
Unfortunately, the book is limited by writing that is sometimes sub-par and a worldbuilding that shows its limits whenever it strays from the concept of the Games. Peeta is still a cypher to me, which I think is meant to reflect Katniss’ feeling about him, but, as a reader, I would have preferred a few more hints and insights.
The ending in particular has a very odd pacing, with a promise of danger that never materializes and, I guess, will be acted upon in Catching Fire.
All in all a decent YA book but nothing that special.