Monday, March 26, 2012

Hunger Games- Suzanne Collins

 
Collins , S. (2008). Hunger games . New York : Scholastic Press  

The Hunger Games is a gripping story set in a post apocalyptic world where a replacement for the United States demands a tribute from each of its territories: two children to be used as gladiators in a televised fight to the death.Katniss, from what was once Appalachia, offers to take the place of her sister in the Hunger Games, but after this ultimate sacrifice, she is entirely focused on survival at any cost. It is her teammate, Peeta, who recognizes the importance of holding on to one's humanity in such inhuman circumstances. It's a credit to Collins's skill at characterization that Katniss, like a new Theseus, is cold, calculating and still likable. She has the attributes to be a winner, where Peeta has the grace to be a good loser.It's no accident that these games are presented as pop culture. Every generation projects its fear: runaway science, communism, overpopulation, nuclear wars and, now, reality TV. The State of Panem which created the games needs to keep tributaries subdued and its citizens complacent, but mindless television is the real danger, the means by which society pacifies its citizens and punishes those who fail to conform. What happens? Read on and see!

Many different activities can be done with this book in the classroom. Lessons on inferring could be good after each chapter have the students infer on what they think will happen next. Have them infer on who will win and what happens to the person once they do win. 

Another activity that can be done is found at this site. http://teachershare.scholastic.com/resources/11485

This book is considered fantasy because it is set in a world which does not exist. It is also considered fantasy because it consists of make believe and magical aspects. 

Questions to ponder? 

- What would be the first thing you would do if you found out that you were chosen as a contestant?
 - Do you think you could devise a plan to win? How? 
- Would you be able to continue on in the aftermath of the games if you were the winner?

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