A review by anispaperbacks
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins

emotional reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 I had watched the movie before reading this, and although I intended to read the book prior to seeing the movie, I'm glad it was too long for me to fit in. I think I enjoyed the movie more not knowing anything about the plot. I was able to enjoy all the dramatic moments for the first time and I really liked the movie it was great!!! Then, reading the book was like gaining further insight on Coriolanus and his story. I was able to look further into his inner monologue and annotate the book with my thoughts and notes, which went better having already known the storyline. I was in a little bit of a rush to finish the book so I feel like I could have slowed down to drink it up a bit more but I enjoyed it well enough anyway. I think that the book itself is really interesting. Giving us this insight on a hated character, making us almost feel bad for him in his past but also showing us the twisted workings of his mind. Coriolanus Snow really gave me something to annotate good lord. It was also really great seeing the early years of the Hunger Games, what shaped them, how they've evolved and come to be how they are in the original trilogy. Overall a great novel on the nature of humanity, trust, power, and control and a great addition to a much loved story. Also the first book of 2024 :> started it Jan 1!!! 
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