I read it in about 5 different sittings. I usually cannot read a lot in one sitting, but this book was hard to stop in the middle. The story was easy to follow but there was enough action and drama that kept me interested. The fact that it was told in present tense (except for some parts where Katniss reflected on the past) made the reading go fast as well. Although there were times when I wished for more detail, this story was a good read as is probably because it captured how quickly the events were happening in the Hunger Games.
The setting is very interesting, and I found Katniss likable. An honest narrator and a confident character. She doesn't complain about participating in the game or her helpless situation. If I could, I would've sponsored her.
I purposefully waited until I finished the book to watch the movie. I'm glad I did. It is almost impossible for movies to capture all details presented in the book unless they are hours and hours long. "The Hunger Games (2012)" was not an exception. The movie couldn't develop the characters as much as the book did. For me, the movie was just a good visual after reading the book. (Also, on a different but related note, I did not find Peeta or Gale in the movie as attractive as people have told me. Maybe I was too focused on the story and amazed by how brave Katniss can be?)
There are 2 more books to read in the series. As soon as I was done with the first book, I got on the public library website to find the second book, Catching Fire. 87 people before me who are waiting for their turn to read the book. What a demand. I'll have to find a different way to read Catching Fire to avoid waiting months before getting to it. I'm looking forward to the next reading!
