Monday, March 7, 2011

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins


Ah, the dreaded threequel. So many story arcs to tie up. So many questions to be answered. So much to live up to depending on the success of the previous installments. Rejoice Hunger Games fans because Mockingjay does not disappoint as the third and final novel in the Hunger Games trilogy. Mockingjay picks up not too far after Catching Fire with Katniss Everdeen, protagonist and unwilling, unknowing participant in the rebellion, finding refuge in District 9, headquarters of those fighting against the Capitol. The love triangle established throughout the series is maintained, and adds surprising twists and turns throughout. More detail really can’t be dispensed for fear of spoilers which would be criminal in such a surprising turn of events. Most enjoyable is Katniss herself. Her doubts, uncertainties, and mental instability never truly dissipate because this isn’t a conventional story of a hero conquering “the bad guys.” It’s a fascinating read that evokes chills, gasps, perhaps tears, and the occasional laugh. Also, it’s nearly impossible to put down once begun. Mockingjay manages to build off the tension the series has been accumulating over the past installments rather than having an anticlimactic feel that many sequels suffer from. Simply put, Mockingjay ended a wonderful series with finesse and competence, and is not to be overlooked. 4 ½ stars.

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