And I’m hoping to see the movie of the first book this weekend! I’m gonna brave the theaters 
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
How do you review the final book in a triology? Especially an extremely popular one? Does it even need a review?
I need to review it because I’m still trying to process the book and the series as a whole. How do I discuss the book and my thoughts on it without spoilers?
First off, I have to say that I thought Katniss – the protagonist – definitely developed into a more complex character in this book. She seemed very flat to me in the first book, but became more intriguing in the second. I still don’t know that I felt I was “her” as I read, but I could understand better what a life of living in and around war could do to a girl.
The actual battle scenes in this book, at times, seemed overly violent and not as well written as other parts of the book. I know, war is violent, but this just felt choppy. I felt the same way reading the final book in the Harry Potter series. Is there a way to be more subtle about those who are dying or being blown up without actually “showing” it happen? I’m not sure.
All in all I came away feeling this was an appropriate conclusion to the series especially that it seems the author wanted to show – as much as possible – what living through a life surrounded by war can do to a person, especially a young person.
I won’t even get into a discussion of the love triangle. It was there, and was probably necessary, but I don’t feel one way or the other about how it turned out. Its conclusion also makes sense to me.
These books aren’t easy reads as far as subject matter goes, but I’m glad I took the time to read them. They have me wishing there was something more I could do for those around me.
