This review posted on Guilty Pleasures 
 I read this book for several reasons; people I admire recommended it, my child asked me to, I enjoy Young Adult books every now and then, and I was determined to read the book before I saw the movie. I admit, reading about children/teenagers killing each other as the result of a sick game the government forces upon them for punishment, just gave me chills and not of the good variety. BUT, there is so much more to this story than that aspect. So, don't be like me and put off reading it because of this. 
 Yes, the premise of the book was unsettling, but its futuristic fiction so I went in strictly for entertainment purposes knowing it is NOT real, though it was very hard not to put yourself in the main character's place, or at my age, her mother's. As a parent, it was at times disturbing, but always intriguing, and a very emotional book that once I started reading I didn't want to put down. The characters were VERY well written and developed and the world Ms. Collins created was so believable it was at times difficult to believe I was reading fiction. 
 All the hype is exactly that, hype and I don't normally pay it much attention anyway. Take my word for it when I say do not believe everything you may have heard or read, especially in regards to it being likened to Twilight. I am not putting down Twilight, I am a Twilight fan, but you simply CANNOT compare the two. 
 I highly recommend The Hunger Games for anyone who enjoys reading YA, very well written stories filled with creative world building, edge of your seat excitement and survival. It reminded me a lot of David and Goliath and who doesn't love pulling for the underdog? It's undeniably one of those books that will stick with you long after you finish. I will definitely read the next two in the series and I can't wait to see the movie. 
 One warning: it is written in 1st person, not a problem for me, but I know some people don't care for it. Make an exception, you won't be sorry. 
 Kimber gives The Hunger Games 5 stars and a Recommend Read!