About:
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is the second novel in The Hunger Games Trilogy. The story continues with the events of the first novel, following Katniss Everdeen’s overly exciting life.
My rating for Catching Fire – 3
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Thoughts:
I really enjoyed The Hunger Games when I first read it, while it’s not my usually genre my wife read it and thought I would enjoy it as well. Much like the first novel, Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is also a fast read and introduces new characters as well.
However, much like other trilogies, the biggest problem with the second book is that … it’s the second. It’s not the beginning , it’s not the end, just a filler in between setting up the final installment.
The pacing of the book is off, while The Hunger Games was fast and furious, this one falls short. The author feels compelled to summarize the first book in long paragraphs. The synopsis of the first book takes a third of Catching Fire, which really slows down the reading experience.
I guess I was expecting a bit more, Kaniss returning to society after her horrific experience, having to put on airs and being a symbol of a revolution are all glossed over. Instead of writing about these topics, we get to witness the protagonist’s internal battles over … which boyfriend to pick.
A rather impractical tension when all other major events are going on in the background.
Once the action starts, the book picks up the pace but whatever seemed fresh and exciting in the first installment, just seems rehashed and expected in this novel. Not that the book is not exciting, it is as there is plenty of action until the very last chapter but I found myself wanting for the book to end, instead of wanting to know what is going to happen.
Synopsis:
After winning the 74th annual Hunger Games, sixteen year old Katniss returns to her home in District 12. Despite the celebrations, it seems that the Capital is intent on squelching any semblance of rebellion within their domain.
Katniss realizes that her defiance during the Hunger Games has ignited a spark in the people which is greater than her. The stakes are high and Kaniss realizes that she is trapped between being independent and a symbol of freedom.
Buy this book in paper or electronic format*
Or get The Hunger Games Trilogy in paper or electronic format*
Zohar – Man of la Book
Disclaimer: I got this book from the local library
*Amazon links point to affiliate account
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I'm not a fan of love triangles, and unfortunately, they seem to ruin a lot of YA novels these days. I would have loved this series a lot more of it wasn't for the Gale vs. Peeta distraction. The worst part was that they don't really seem that different in terms of personality or character.
I actually liked Catching Fire more than Hunger Games, but I know what you mean - second books are usually a dud with me.