My Summer Book Swap

I wrote about this briefly on Facebook but thought I would share more detail here.

This summer Elijah and I decided to trade books. He has been asking me for months to read his favorite book The Hunger Games written by Suzanne Collins. I had been putting him off making the excuse that I was reading other books at the time and couldn't but this summer, I couldn't put it off anymore. The reason I put off the reading of this book was because it didn't seem like the kind of books I usually read. I like books that are funny and light with a little comical romance to them. If a book can make me laugh out loud, chances are it will become a quick favorite of mine.

Elijah will read just about anything but seems to like more serious books that have a lot of meat to the storyline and twists and turns to the plot. He likes intricate stories that weave spells to keep his mind wondering and working on how the end will turn out. Me, well... books are my escape. I like to be entertained, I want to laugh, and I want a happy ending.

So, with a bit of reluctance, I accept the challenge to read The Hunger Games. From the first chapter I am amazed and transfixed as I read the story of Katniss who comes from the less than poor District 12 and illegally hunts and gathers food for her family who is on the brink of starvation. Each year, every child ages 12 to 18 must put their name in to be chosen for the annual Hunger Games. This is a government "game" where two children are chosen from each of the twelve districts and put into an arena of sorts and are forced to kill each other until only one victor remains. The Victor is awarded with money, a house, and food for their lifetime. When her sister's name is drawn for the games, Katniss volunteers instead and is in the fight of her life to just stay alive.

The book is one I couldn't put down. It met every expectation and everything Elijah said about it was absolutely true. I finished the book in four days. Elijah also had the sequel called Catching Fire. It was amazing too.

The third book in the series is due out the end of August. It is called The Mockingjay.

I definitely would say that if you're looking for a great book to read that will transport you from your everyday life for a few moments, this is one you should look into. It is wonderful!

For those of you that are avid readers, who can't pass up a good book, who spend their only free moments with noses buried in books, who would rather curl up on the couch with mug of tea and a great read.... well... this is it.

Thank you, Elijah. Once again, you have proved to give me insight and it has been a blast to share something like this with you.

Happy Reading!!!