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matt_and_cheez's Reviews (493)
This book is different in so many ways. The story is post-apocalyptic, but does not include nuclear bombs or zombies in any shape or form. It does however paint a scary picture of what collapse can do to society, even ones as "strong" as America. Although a little high-tech to be completely realistic for the present time, the events that take place in this book have some chance of happening in the future. After the fall of America, the new authority uses a fight-to-the-death game to keep the subordinate districts in line. Katniss, the tough tom-boy protagonist, is ushered in to the Hunger Games after she takes the place of her younger sister who was originally chosen. She trains with Peeta, the boy "tribute" from her district and is forced to kill other adolescents in order to survive. What Katniss isn't expecting is that these games don't just put her life on the line, but the lives of those she loves when whispers of rebellion shake "Panem" to its core. A great start to what is bound to be a great series.
A refreshing twist on classic medieval fantasy- its a dark world set centuries after our own ended in nuclear war. It was fun to figure out what technologies from our world were encountered or alluded to here. Violent and grisly with a teenage anti-hero. I didn't like how the pacing felt rushed at the very end and there was a revelation that felt jarring. I'm still willing to read more in the series.
This book has a beautiful fairy tale quality that is familiar and new at the same time. I loved the setting of 1920 Alaska with its brutal winters. Ivey really makes you feel the harsh conditions the characters are living in, as well as the pain they feel after losing a child. The side characters are varied and quite likeable, and there is just enough magic to make it enjoyable and whimsical but not remove you from the immersion in a setting that feels realistic.
I liked Carol because although being gay at the time the novel takes place was totally taboo, the story doesn't devolve into a tragic outcome due to this struggle. I enjoyed how elusive Carol is, and could sympathize with Therese navigating infatuation with someone decently older than her. It felt like not much happened in the plot, but Therese goes through a lot of development as she navigates her relationships, working life, and outlook for the future.
Disturbing and claustrophobic- the protagonist is almost totally paralyzed the whole novel and is tormented by his mother-in-law, whose motive is slowly (kind of) revealed as the story goes on. It has been compared to King's Misery which I think is fair, but it is set in a totally different cultural context.
