I first read this in 8th grade for english class (I don't know why, it seems super random now) and I did not enjoy it - probably because I was being forced to read it. But listening to this now with adult ears has me appreciating it so much more! You could say I am fully obsessed.
I loved Katniss. She's a great narrator. She's very protective over people she cares about, which was a great quality for the Hunger Games. She has this dry wit about her and practicality that I really connected with.
Katniss's relationship with Peeta made me so emotional. There was angst and resentment and thoughts of betrayal but ultimately they cared about each other's wellbeing and wanted to win. The romance that bloomed made my heart happy, yet I can't help but feel an overarching sense of doom.
Don't even get me started on Rue. I'm still not over that.
The ending has me itching to start Catching Fire. I need to know Katniss and Peeta's fate. What happens now after that final interview?!
If you've been putting off this series like I have, it's time you pick it up! The audio is fantastic and really immersed me in the story. There were some parts of the book where I was losing interest - like Katniss hunting or going about her business in the arena with not much going on. But overall, this was an amazing story!