The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games, #1)

by Suzanne Collins

Effie Trinket crosses back to the podium, smoothes the slip of paper, and reads out the name in a clear voice. And it’s not me. It’s Primrose Everdeen.

“I volunteer!” I gasp. “I volunteer as tribute!”

Still, there’s something comforting about the little bird. It’s like having a piece of my father with me, protecting me. I fasten the pin onto my shirt,

we sail over the city and then to the wilderness beyond. This is what birds see. Only they’re free and safe. The very opposite of me.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let the Seventy-fourth Hunger Games begin!”

“That’s Rue’s song,” I say. “I think they remember it.” The music swells and I recognize the brilliance of it. As the notes overlap, they complement one another, forming a lovely, unearthly harmony. It was this sound then, thanks to Rue, that sent the orchard workers of District 11 home each night.

“Stop! Stop! Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to present the victors of the Seventy-fourth Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark! I give you — the tributes of District Twelve!”