The Hunger Games

In an unsettling futuristic parallel of the present lies a dystopian society set in the ruins of what was once known as North America. Although pre-teen status is acknowledged differently across societies in this gruesome tale tributes or children from various geographical areas are selected to fight till the death. These children are forced into brutality in order to survive. Meanwhile their barbarian acts are televised for the world to see. Caught in this battle between life and death is a young teenage girl named Katnis who eventually beats the odds. 

The many underlying themes in this story are ones that are very real in today's society. Power, identity and social class are just a few of the issues of which people are still subjected to daily. Respect for oneself and the game of life is evident in this piece and is one that is in line with St. Leo's university.

Suzanne Collins exquisitely employs literary elements to create the many graphic details in this violent and sexually charged story. Hence The Hunger Games has been a source of contemptment among parents since it's release and has been placed on the banned books list. In spite of this The Hunger Games became the first book in a trilogy and later a feature film. 


Inspired by a story she herself read as a child and the desensitization via television that she experienced while her father was in Vietnam, Suzanne Collins could not help herself. 

One can certainly understand the concern of parents in regards to the content of this book. However, it should not be completely banned from the curriculum. Instead teachers should exercise caution and gain prior consent before student exposure.

Reader Response Questions

1. Did this book make you laugh, cry, smile or cringe? Explain why.

2. How do you feel about the violence portrayed in the media?

3. What would you do differently if you were the main character?

Motivational Activities

1. The teacher can gather some WWI or WWII posters and have the children compare and contrast their elements with those of the story. 

2. Students can work in groups in exploring the text and determining what lead to the post-apocalyptic society. They can then create a visual to help in their explanation to the class.

Check out the movie trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4S9a5V9ODuY&feature=kp

Collins, S., & Falco, P. (2008). The Hunger Games. New York: Scholastic Press.