Catching Fire (Second Book of the Hunger Games Trilogy)

By: Aaron Cruz

Taking place months after the end of The Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta are finally “at peace” back home in District 12.  However, the unexpected arrival of President Snow brings this to an abrupt end; he reveals he is angry about her and Peeta’s victory, and threatens to kill her loved ones. That is, unless, they convince the Capitol that their love for each other is real.

          Soon, Katniss finds herself thrown into The Games again, along with Peeta and victors from previous games. Katniss’ feelings for her best friend, Gale, are also explored in this novel. This creates a love triangle, with Katniss torn between Gale and Peeta.

          Collins did an exceptional job with this novel; it is my favorite book out of the trilogy. While many people argue that sequels never live up to the original, I would say Catching Fire surpassed The Hunger Games. Collins thoroughly explores the love theme once again, and brings back all the blood and gore from the original.