During my first read if this trilogy, Catching Fire became my favorite. And while most people find the first part to be very slow, I find it to be structured perfectly and completely necessary for what is to come in parts 2 & 3. I found part 1 to be filled with interesting facts about District 12, the Games, and Panem in general. For someone doing a reread, these make for a much more interesting read.

As soon as the Quarter Quell rules are announced, the story ramps up. I love seeing Katniss finally start to weigh the options between running away versus staying to join the rising rebellion. For a 17 year old girl, it’s an insane decision but she handles it without being rash. Twill and Bonnie definitely shake her and she starts to realize the scope of the rebellion and the part she might play in it. Their meeting was one of my favorite differences from the movie. I also loved the time we spent getting to know the victors, especially Finnick.

Having the third part start with Cinna’s death really sets the stakes for part 3. Collins created such an interesting arena and it is one of the reasons this book is my favorite. The obstacles in each section of the “clock” are terrifying. Collins is excellent at describing a horrific event. Along with Katniss, you are constantly asking yourself you can be trusted and why these other victors have aligned with her and Peeta. All seems under control until the climax at the end of part 3 which just leads to more questions.

I am excited to reread Mockingjay because it is the book I remember the least. I am not, however, excited to go through Peeta’s whole arc in this book…rather just skip that…