Saturday, December 4, 2010

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

As usual, I was reluctant to begin this because sequels are so often disappointing. This one does not, except in the usual thing about second books of series - it is very distinctly not complete and requires the third book. "Frodo was alive, but in the hands of the enemy." Perils of Pauline stuff.

I do not recall ever reading a story of revolution written from the point of view of the symbol of that revolution. The use of the symbolic mark almost recalls stories of early Christians. No rallying cry of "Remember the Maine" or "Remember Pearl Harbor" but a living girl who is being managed and manipulated by others. Jean d'Arc, perhaps? But St. Joan had her visions and was a willing or at least aware participant in the great events surrounding her, even though she was not truly in control of them. Katniss Everdeen, in this book, becomes aware that she is being manipulated, but is totally unable to see through the web of intrigues which are forcing her down an unchosen path.

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