Blog #1--Character development

I have found the first 9 chapters of Hunger Games to be incredibly easy to read. I think much of this is attributed to Collins' straightforward and plot-driven writing style. Her quick character development of Katniss, the protagonist, and the other important characters such as Peeta also contribute to this novel being a quick read. There is little to know ambiguity surrounding Katniss, especially in the beginning of the novel. In the first chapter alone many of the the factors that motivate Katniss' character are exposed. Her social and economic situation, living in the Seam the poorest area of District 12; past tragedies, her father's death at a young age; her responsibility for her family, "they're not our kids, of course. But they might as well be. Gale's two little brothers and a sister. Prim. And you may as well throw in our mothers, too, because how would they live without us?" (9). Because of this, I found myself feeling attached to Katniss early on and particularly invested in her story. Collins does the same with Peeta, which is why the most recent twist of Peeta confessing that he has a crush on Katniss very interesting. I agree with Chris that determining and dealing with her relationship with Peeta will be an important part of the novel going forward and a possible struggle for Katniss.

#1: thoughts on the first 9 chapters.

At the very end of the 9th chapter, Peeta is interviewed by Caesar, so that the audience of the Hunger Games can get a better feel for who he is.  Caeser asks if Peeta has a girlfriend back in district 12, and he reveals that although he does not have a girlfriend, he does have a crush.  It's Katniss.  In some ways I could sort of sense it.  On page 91, Peeta remarks to Haymitch, "She has no idea.  The effect she can have."  At the time, Katniss takes it as an insult, but I believe that he meant it as a compliment; he believes that she can easily win the crowds over to her side.  Clearly, Katniss does not know that Peeta likes her until he reveals it to the entire nation on live telelvision, and so Collins introduces a new romantic conflict to the book.  I'm guessing that Katniss will have to deal with her feelings for Peeta while she tries to win the Hunger Games and ensure her own survival.


Chris McKinney

Style

The style of Suzanne Collin's The Hunger Games is a lot simpler than that of the books we have read previously. She writes her text very straight forward and easy to read. The way she writes intrigues you and pulls you in. It makes you wonder what happens next and you want to keep reading. Her writing style is very relatable. She introduces the main characters very early on in the book. She gives us a clear description of their motives and role in the book. This gives us an exact image of the character without having to wonder about them. I have also noticed that in her writing, Collins includes a lot of flashbacks. On page 43, she has a memory of her father and birds. As she is pulled away from her family and put into training, she has more flashbacks. These memories comfort her and give her motivation to win the games.