saxz_library 's review for:

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

4.5

challenging dark emotional reflective tense fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

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Rereading The Hunger Games as an adult was an entirely different experience—one that left me unsettled by how eerily close Panem feels to our own world. Suzanne Collins masterfully crafted a dystopian society that remains terrifyingly relevant, exposing themes of oppression, media manipulation, and the commodification of human suffering. 
The brutality of the Games never loses its impact, and Katniss' journey as a reluctant hero is just as gripping now as it was the first time I read it.

Collins' worldbuilding is unmatched, and the social commentary woven into the story makes it clear why this series still resonates today. However, I wish the book had been longer to flesh out certain aspects, and the love triangle—while thematically significant—felt unnecessary at times. That being said, it serves as a powerful tool to highlight Katniss’ internal conflict and how even personal relationships are twisted into tools of control under a dystopian regime.

I cried during Rue’s death—not just for her, but for the way Katniss recognizes that the real enemy isn’t the tribute who killed her, but the Capitol for forcing children to become pawns in their brutal spectacle. And Cato’s death? Equally heartbreaking. Beneath the ruthless Career tribute was just a child, fighting to survive a game, he was conditioned to believe in. Katniss’ final arrow was an act of mercy, a quiet rebellion against the Capitol’s thirst for suffering.

 

It’s horrifying to realize that the very people meant to protect their citizens are the ones orchestrating their suffering. Collins makes one thing clear: those in power manipulate, deceive, and use others for their own survival—and they do it under the guise of control, entertainment, and order.

The Hunger Games isn’t just a dystopian novel; it’s a chilling reflection of the world we live in. And that’s why it will never lose its relevance.