I mentioned “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins in my Christmas gift suggestions list. It was so good that I can’t resist writing a longer review of it. First off, it’s a book that a 12 year old boy who hates to read, will actually read. If that’s not amazing enough….it will also appeal to most adults looking for a quick and intriguing story.

The basic premise – that there’s a reality TV show called “The Hunger Games” in which 24 teenagers must fight to the death to win food for themselves for life – immediately sounds disturbing. And make no mistake, this is a disturbing book. Unlike “The Twilight Saga“, “Games” takes a hard look at society, what we deem as entertainment and our underestimation of teens.

Parents should know that there is violence in this book, some of it is fairly gruesome (not on a level with Patricia Cornwell, but the kind that causes a shudder up the back). Teen characters die. The very real threat of starvation is discussed as an every day occurance.

All that violence keeps the book moving fast and nothing is dwelt on for very long. If I had to choose between “Twilight” and “The Hunger Games”, “The Hunger Games” would win every time. It’s definitely sure to be better received by most teenage boys (who find all the obsession with “Twilight” to be mildly disgusting).

And if you (or your child) enjoys “Games”, check out Suzanne Collins other books in the “Gregor The Overlander (Underland Chronicles)” series. Those are also good though more fantastical.