The Ninja Reader

I hate sequels.Not because of the 'second book curse', although that's also among the things I really don't stand. The reason why I hate them, though, is because I always feel like something like this goes down: someone writes a book that ends up selling better than expected, so they (or maybe the publishers) decide to squeeze out every last drop of inspiration, everything that wasn't put in the first book, and make a second, which sets the stage for some 'save-the-world' struggle our heroes will have in book three. This, of course, is set in hardcover with as much color and detail crammed into the cover so that you'll squeeze and extra few pounds from the readers. If you've seen the rating, then you know what I'll say next - that "Catching Fire" changed my mind in a big way. It did. No buts. I truly and honestly loved it. Suzanne Collins has my undying admiration for having written a heroine that is as believable as Katniss, and creating a world so perfectly shocking as Panem. Of course, there are some imperfections, such as having Peeta being so squeaky clean and pure of heart and innocent and stuff. Luckily, he develops as a character (as Katniss, as everyone in this series, really), and we're spared having some holier-than-thou Gary-Stu for a romantic lead. Some reviewers have commented on the rather convenient Quarter Quell, where Katniss is forced to participate in the games again, alongside with other former tributes. Hell, even our heroine thinks that it's suspicious she's being sent to the arena again. However, in my humble opinion, President Snow has had trouble on his hands long before Katniss and Peeta became victors. Think about it - everybody knows that Katniss has become a favorite of the people of Panem, a living example that you can beat the system. Her death, or the death of any tribute, would not be acceptable in any way unless it comes naturally. Nobody, even Katniss, believes that having her participate a second time isn't suspicious, and it ignites a rebellion that grows out of proportion in hours. Yet our dear president didn't see that coming? He himself acknowledges that the balance in Panem is rickety - it would be suicidal to invite the revolution.If this was in any way convenient, it was convenient for the rebels, me thinks. But yeah, this book really was that amazing. And God if Finnick isn't awesome!!!