Wednesday, Sep 16, 2009

BBAW Week Asks: “What Blog Inspired You To Read This?”

The Better Question Is… Which Blog Didn’t?

Participating in BBAW panels led me to many posts which were book reviews on these two very popular books:

So… I purchased them both on Amazon.Com.

Then, I completed them both within a few days’ time.

Yes.   They are that good!

Yes.  The reviews that I read were right…

* Great books *

* Fast-paced *

* Riveting *

* Have-to Reads *

I simply loved them both.

Since there are at least 100 good reviews on these two books out there in the book blogging world, I’ll spare my readers the experience of having to suffer through, yet again, another review of these books.  However, I will give my family’s perspectives on them:

The Hunger Games

My Thoughts:  There were many details that were omitted in the beginning of the book as to how society actually grew into what it became.  Much of the future technology outlined in the story left much to the imagination in which you had to just “roll with it.”  But, once you bought into the story line and were able not to question the details, you were left with a story of survival, love and loss.  I wished that Katniss and Peeta would find a way to love one another after their experience together.  And, I believe that they did find a sort of love. 

Dee-Dee’s Thoughts:  “I thought that The Hunger Games was exciting and thought-provoking.  I was always wanting to read about what happens next and I could barely put it down.  This is probably one of the best books that I have read.  I liked all of the characters and didn’t have a favorite one.  My favorite part of the book was when Katniss and Peeta were in the cave because I liked how they seemed to trust one another so much.”

Colie’s Thoughts:  “The Hunger Games was full of excitement, action, romance, confusion and it leaves you wanting more.  At first, the book didn’t really catch my attention.  But, as I got farther inward, I was able to see how heart-felt it was.  My favorite part of the book was when Katniss went looking for Peeta and healed him back to health.  When they were in the cave, they trusted each other so much and couldn’t live without the other one.  In the end, I disliked how Katniss and Peeta separated.  He was really hurt by her.  I give this book a two thumbs up.”  

Catching Fire

My Thoughts:   I immediately started reading this book after I had closed the cover to The Hunger Games.  So, for me there was no “down time” in between the two.  This was both a plus and a minus.  I wanted it to be one continuous story and have the second book pick up right where the last had left off.  However, there is that “catch up” stuff at the beginning of  Catching Fire.   I understand the author’s (and publisher’s) reasoning for doing this… but… ugh… I wanted quick entry back into the story. 

  After I zoomed through the beginning, I was anxious to see what would happen for Katniss, Peeta and Gale.  This sequel did hold a good amount of action, was fast paced, and provided a feast for the imagination.  However, I did not like the way the story ended.  It left me hanging (over a cliff) and wanting to read onto the next in the trilogy.  Where, oh where, is the 3rd book?  I need it now… not next year… or whenever it’s being released.  There is still no answer to the great “Team Peeta” or “Team Gale” question.  We still don’t know who Katniss will end up with.  Personally, I’m pulling for Peeta.

Dee-Dee’s Thoughts:  “I think that it’s sad and that these kids would have to suffer through this ordeal.  I think that The Capital is being unfair in forcing them to marry and then saying that it’s not enough for them to prove their love by getting married.  I also feel bad for Gale.”  (Note:  She hasn’t finished the book yet.  Colie hasn’t started it as of today.)

 So… my readers… as you look for my ever-present ”Out of Ten Scale,” I will give you my rating.

These books are age-appropriate for “tweens” and above.  Although, keep in mind that these books are centered upon teens, in essence children, fighting for their lives.  There are some pretty big concepts to discuss with your child(ren) after they read it.

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