It's always hard to write a review for the second novel in a series. I can't stop thinking, if they read and liked the first then of course they'll continue to the second. But I guess reviews aren't only about helping people decide what to read.Catching Fire [US] [UK] is the second book of the young adult series, The Hunger Games (Book 1 review), and continues immediately where the first left off.
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.
After getting over my initial reservations in the first book, I think I was able to enjoy Catching Fire marinally more than The Hunger Games. This was surprising to me since I couldn't think of how the parts involving Katniss in the actual Hunger Games could be topped. Also, Catching Fire starts out a bit more slowly (at least for me) as Katniss and Peeta continue to try to keep up the charade that began in The Hunger Games, well...maybe it's just Katniss who has to keep anything up.
A central part of Catching Fire revolves around Katniss' feelings for Gale and what she's done to him while playing the part with Peeta, for whom she has mixed feelings. Plus, how does she continue the farce while spending time with Gale, especially in such a small district where everyone knows what everyone else is doing.
I have to say, I'm on team Gale on this one because yes, the line's being drawn. Peeta saved Katniss' life, blah blah blah, but Gale's always been there for her and has probably saved her life in his own way.
There were also some nice twists in this one that I'm really chomping at the bit not to give away. Suffice it to say, the Capitol always gets its way and the Hunger Games are just as good if not better this time around. Just sayin'.
When Should You Read Catching Fire?
Catching Fire improves upon the first while adding some information to the world of The Hunger Games. This was an entertaining story that will keep you reading from the first page to the last. Nothing mind-blowing or anything going on, so I might just recommend a stop at the library for Catching Fire.
3 out of 5 Stars
The Hunger Games (Hunger Games #1) [US] [UK]
Catching Fire (Hunger Games #2) [US] [UK]
Mockingjay (Hunger Games #3) [US for pre-order] (Release date: August 24, 2010)
