The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins has been flying off library shelves and bookstore walls since its publication on Sept. 14, 2008. This 3 book series is number 5 on Barnes and Nobles’ top selling books of 2011.

Katniss Everdeen, the main character in the novel, lives in the post-apocalyptic world of Panam. A world ruled by a sadistic city called the capitol, where every year 24 children are forced into an arena to battle until only one survives.

“The Games” were made as a punishment for the people of Panam after the 13 districts rose up in rebellion against their cruel and unjust government. Now, the games are a source of entertainment for those who reside in the capitol, betting on the victor. They are a source of despair and sorrow for those in the districts who knew the unfortunate children chosen to compete and die against their will for the amusement of the capitol.

“The Hunger Games was darker than most books…it was fast paced and full of action with lots of deaper meaning in the subtext,” said Eric Low.

These books can be found in the hands of many Carlmont students, who pan through the addicting pages every chance they get.

“It’s a page turner, you can’t stop reading it. You never know what’s going to happen next,” gushed Hannah Nourie.

The Hunger Games is filled with dark, unforgiving action scenes, intertwined with moments of pure love and passion between the main characters, Katniss, Peeta, and Gale.

Once Katniss and Peeta, a boy from her district, are forced into the arena they become more than opponents. Peeta falls in love with the unsuspecting Katniss.

“My favorite character is Peeta, he is so sweet and he says things from the heart,” said Nourie.

This suspenseful book has been made into a movie due to premiere March 23, 2012.

I highly recommend reading this book before seeing the movie, but wait until after finals are over because you will not be able to sleep knowing your bookmark is the only thing stopping you from knowing the fate of these teens and possibly all of Panam.

Entire websites have been dedicated to these books and thehungergamesmovie.com has a continuous clock counting down the minutes till the movie premieres.

The Hunger Games is quickly becoming a new obsession among teens. These books will soon become as well known as Twilight, except with a good plot.

I give this book an 8.5 on the 1-10 addictive scale, 10 being necessary book rehab. This book will not disappoint and is perfect for those parents who have no clue what to get their teenager for the holidays.