Question of the Week
One thing The Hunger Games series does is generate tons of questions and as fans of the series, we want to know what your thinking. So, each week, we’ll be posing a new question to you. Some will be questions about aspects of the series, others will be hypothetical, what if type questions, but hopefully all will get you thinking and generate discussion.
Below you will find the link to this week’s current question, as well as links to archived discussions. We hope you will check them all out and add your own thoughts, as well as reply to some of the great comments from other readers.
Latest Question of the Week:
What are your Top 3 Favorite Moments from the Catching Fire Teaser?
Question of the Week Archive:
I would definitely ask Katniss this: Thinking about how much you’ve changed Panem, if you had a chance to have someone else’s name drawn in your first hunger games instead of Prim’s, would you do it? — Emily
QOTW #2 If you could ask Suzanne Collins ONE question, what would you ask and why?
Was Katniss’ father a rebel and the accident where he died was provoked by the government? — Noemi
QOTW #3 Which book in The Hunger Games Trilogy is your favorite and why?
The Hunger Games, definitely. Although both CF and M are battling for the first place, this one was my favorite. It always has been, always will be. We were introduced to the characters in a way differnent and more compelling than any other story, and you felt connected with them instantaneously. We first met Katniss, a girl who completley took over my life and gave me the girl-power that helped me through a lot of things. She made me believe in myself, made me wonder and have different perspectives on things, made me feel emotions so riveting they forced me in an obsession with the HG trilogy. I’ve never felt like that with any other book – ever. I was constantly rooting for her. And then when Peeta came in – I was in love. And not just that girly, oohhh he’s soooo cuuuttee — Ally
QOTW #4 What Hunger Games scene are you most excited to see on the big screen?
I’m really excited to see the arena, costumes, and first interviews. But i’m absolutely pumped for the cave scene!! — Maggie
QOTW #5 What are your 3 must have quotes for The Hunger Games film?
“You love me. Real or not Real?” – Peeta
“I am the mockingjay. the one that survived despite the Capitol’s plans; the symbol of the rebellion – Katniss
“It takes ten times as long to put yourself back together as it does to fall apart.” – Finnick
–Amanda
QOTW #6 Who is your favorite character in The Hunger Games Trilogy and why?
Haymitch. One hundred percent. If he wasn’t an absolute drunk he would be the perfect role model. He noticed the skill both Peeta and Katniss had and he knew how to get them to use it to their advantage. Without him, those two may as well have died. I truly, with all my heart, think he is one of the most unsung heros in winning the revolution. — Lyndsay
Nothing. Everything in the books is absolutely neccessary for Katniss to become who she is. If anything were different, I believe Katniss would be different, and the ending would be different also. Suzanne Collins wrote it perfectly.– Christy
QOTW #8 How would you describe The Hunger Games series to someone who is unfamiliar with the books?
I usually start off by saying, “If you could read just one book series in your entire life, The Hunger Games Trilogy is the one…” It’s just so great – a fascinating story about a not-so-far-off future in a dystopian society, and yet there is just so much more to it. It’s a depressingly fantastic story about survival, rebellion, life-choices, and yes, even a touch of romance. — Madison
QOTW #9 What are your 5 favorite moments from The Hunger Games trailer, and why do you love them?
ALL OF IT!!!!! YOU CANT MAKE ME CHOOSE!!!!! — Georgia
QOTW #10: Was Prim’s name being drawn in the reaping, pure odds, or a plant?
When I read this book, I actually thought it might have been a capital plant. I thought that the capital picked and chose who they thought would make the games most interesting. Of course they couldn’t control the volunteers, like our incredible Katniss, but choosing the names to be read would give them a little more power, something they are never able to get enough of. — Kate
Merchandising for this series in general is kind of a sore spot with me. When I buy something Hunger Games related, it makes me feel just like a Capitol citizen. That being said though, I’m hoping they go for manufacturing those district jackets…that would be so cool. Much better than “Team Peeta” or “Team Gale”. But, we all know that those will still be made. — Emily
QOTW #12 What tokens do you think the other tributes in the 74th Hunger Games had with them in the arena?
Something personal. Maybe a parent or sibling or friend has something that they always wear or are never seen without, so they give it to you. So when you’re in the arena you won’t forget them or your district. — Georgia
QOTW #13: How are you planning to celebrate the theatrical release of The Hunger Games?
My sister and I are going to go to the movie at midnight, but we plan on getting to the theater to wait in line early Thursday morning. It’s during our spring break which is awesome! We’re definitely going to be first! And we’ll be bringing the fold out chairs too
We also plan on playing the Hunger Games board game about a gazillion times. She’s going to dress up as Katniss and I’m going as Effie! It’s going to be so much fun; I can’t wait! — Emily
QOTW #14: Have you asked for or are you giving any Hunger Games related gifts this holiday season?
I asked for a bow and arrow set. I know that this gift is probably the least common asked for for a hunger games fan, but I want to shoot arrows like Katniss!!! — Kati
QOTW #15: Did you receive any Hunger Games gifts this Holiday?
I got the Hunger Games 16-Month Calendar, a FULL-SIZED (27″ x 40″) Peeta poster (omg…), the Collector’s Edition of the book, the Movie Magic magazine on the movie, and a REAL recurve bow!!!(I’m taking up archery…its official)
— Madison
QOTW 16: What resolutions do you think the residents of Panem would make for the new year?
katniss- try to eat less food…LOL no.
Peeta- Try NOT to think about bread…
Haymitch- BLAME IT ON THE ALCOHOL.
Effie- Don’t give people unrealistic expectations
Gale- Get checked to see if he’s bipolar
Clove- Stay away from large rocks. Forever.
Cato- LIV IT UP.
Marvel- Do not spear all the innocent things.
Glimmer- Stay away from any sort of bee. — Cillia848
QOTW #17: How did you discover The Hunger Games Trilogy?
I discovered The Hunger Games because I subscribe to Entertainment Weekly. It was the issue where Jennifer Lawrence was on the cover as Katniss. The article was pretty interesting and I saw that the movie was being filmed in my home state. So I picked up a copy of The Hunger Games and the next day I bought Catching Fire and Mockingjay. I read all 3 in 2 days and then immediately reread them. — TickTockHG
Last year in reading class, we had to do a paper that introduced us to debates by coming up with a simple topic like “Why Mr. Krabs should give Plankton the krabby patty formula.” Then we had to fill out what we would say to support our case. I did “Why The Hunger Games should be a part of every school’s reading curriculm.” My reading teacher, who was actually the one who first recommended the trilogy to me, then assigned it as summer reading. I introduced approx. 35 kids to the world of Panem
The first one because not only do I own it, but thats where all the main hunger games excitement really began!
It was with that poster that helped to draw in all the non ans and people who haven’t read the book before! — FinnickLover
QOTW #20: If you lived in Panem, which District would you choose to live in and why?
District 1 all the way! The thought of being Capitol-like without actually being THE Capitol is very tempting… if not, I’d rather live in 12, where the Peacekeepers are less harsh and you can starve in safety
— Gil
QOTW #21: Which of the new Hunger Games products are your must haves and why?
I’m not a big fan of the merchandise, personally. It’s very pretty and they did a good job, yes, but I feel like it’s going against the message of the books. I feel like it’s bringing us closer and closer to the superficial, ultra-consumer and clueless people from the Capitol who wore mockingjay belt buckles and watches following Katniss’ time in the arena. On the other hand, the mockingjay pins themselves could be perceived as a show of force for the “rebellion” against those values. I think I’ll pass on them, though I can’t wait for the movie. — GloryisBen
I think the first D12 victor was probably alive for the Haymitch’s games. My guess, though, is that maybe he didn’t have a big role in teaching Haymitch. Haymitch seems very independent. Either his mentor didn’t pay much attention to Haymitch, or Haymitch didn’t pay much attention to his mentor. I think that Haymitch went into the games telling himself the same thing he told Katniss and Peeta – stay alive. I don’t think he would’ve felt like he needed much more instruction.
As for at the beginning of the games, I would think that The Hunger Games probably started out as not such a glamorous event. My guess is that it probably started as just 24 kids thrown into an arena to kill each other, no tribute parades, no mentors, no stylists, no interviews, maybe even no sponsors. Then, as the Capitol citizens got more and more tired of just watching gore, they changed the Games to make it more interesting, more exciting, more “fun” for the Capitol citizens. And later on, if there was no living victor to mentor a tribute, I would think that they would appoint someone from the Capitol. — Alexandra
QOTW#23: Can changes made for a film adaption end up being better than the book?
Books and films are 2 different mediums and I think it’s important to recognize those differences, say, when translating a book to film.
It’s certainly possible that changes made in a movie can be better than the book. For example, Hedwig’s death was far better in the movie. Her death was noble, and made the reason the Deatheaters know it was Harry better. — Dudley
QOTW #24: Do you plan to see The Hunger Games in the theater more than one time? And if so, any ideas how many times you’ll be viewing it?
I’m gonna watch it as many times as I can, this movie is not all about just killing each other, The Hunger Games is all about learning to value the ones you love and to stand for what is right. )– Next Katniss
QOTW #25: On a scale of 1 – 10 How would you rate The Hunger Games film?
11. Like Katniss’ training score.
When I watched it for the first time, it absolutely blew me away. “The movie event of the year” didn’t feel like the movie event of the year. It felt like an indie–intimate and personal and real. That’s exactly how reading the book felt. Suzanne Collins puts you in Katniss’ shoes as she wanders through Panem and its Hunger Games, and in this film, Gary Ross does the same. But that being said, the book and the movie are two slightly different and wonderful things, and that’s perfectly okay. In fact, I think it’s better that way. Why? Because we get new scenes, new lines, and it’s not an exact copy of the book we’ve come to know and love. It’s an expansion. A wonderful, moving expansion. And it honestly doesn’t get any better than that.
Enough said. — Madison
QOTW #26: Would you choose to form an alliance in the arena? Why or Why not?
nope. i would never do it. if i had an ally it would take my mind off surviving. i would constantly be worrying about being the last 2 left, her waching my ally die. i know if you survive the arena your never the same, but it would be even worse if i killed or saw my ally be killed. i would never forgive my self because they trusted me. if i was killed i wouldnt want them to live with the burden of seeing me die. cuz its different if you dont know the person, its still wrong and it will still screw you up, but betraying your ally? thats even worse. — sarah
I think I whould choose Katniss because she’s smart, loyal and she can hunt and find food. I would also choose Finnick because he’s loyal, good with the trident, smart and has a lot of sponsors. I also thougt about FoxFace Because she is very clever, but I dont think she would ever want an alley, and as Katniss said, i might get a knife in my back… — Emily
QOTW: #28: How Many Times Have You Seen The Hunger Games? Do you have plans to go back for more?
I’m sitting at 18 times right now. Going again tomorrow and probably several times when it is back in Imax. :3 — wthemily
I am most excited to see Johanna. She is strong, with a powerful personality, and independent. It also is interesting to watch someone argue with Katniss. A lot. I don’t want to have any prefrances for an actress because I feel if the fans choose an actress, she most likely won’t fullfill the traits of the character the way it is described in the book. Somehow to see Johanna’s rash, stubborn personality that covers her loss and pain. — Allison
I would give Katniss a trip around Panem, but this time without the constraints of the Victory Tour. She could see the beach in District 4 and visit Annie and her baby. In District 11, Katniss would be able to meet Rue’s family face-to-face and thank Thresh’s family since he saved her life. She would also have the opportunity to visit the memorials to the victims of the Hunger Games. Finally, Katniss could visit her mother and Gale and introduce them to her children. — Maddie
QOTW #31 Do you think having an (almost) all adult cast will change the ‘feel’ of Catching Fire?
It will change because the first book is about the atrocities of children killing each other and survival. In Catching Fire its about pure survival. The atrocities of people killing each other are still there (The Morphling being Killed, Mags) Those characters are portrayed as weak and mostly innocent, just like the children from the other districts in the Hunger Games.
Also every contestant is a threat now. They have won before and know how to kill someone if necessary. This will up the suspense. In the first book we have to only worry about the Careers, Thresh, and maybe Foxface. Now almost everyone is a threat. (To the audience at least) — David B
While I think it’s great fans are involved so much, I don’t think they should have a say in the casting. We should all have faith in the casting directors. I had picked my perfect cast for The Hunger Games but it turned out better with the cast they picked. I think we shouldn’t have a say in it, the casting directors will do a great job!!! — Anna Everdeen
I plan to buy the Target 3-Disc Edition and the Two-Disc edition at a midnight release at a Target near my house. If a Target doesn’t hold a midnight release, I will buy the two-disc edition St a Walmart party then buy the three disc edition the next day at Target!!
SO EXCITED!!! — Little O’l Me
Somewhere in between because I would be able to look at the official stuff and be able to look at the actors in the rumors and weigh the options for them and broaden my horizons on who should be in Catching Fire. — McKenna
QOTW #35 If you were in The Hunger Games what item would you want the sponsors to send to you?
Depends on how the Games play out. The main things would have to be food, water, medicine and a weapon. Like Katniss, the first thing I would do is find a source of water, so I hopefully won’t need that. I’ll pay attention to the survival skills in training so hopefully I’ll have food. And the others depend on if I think I can get stuff from the Cornucopia and get away without dying. But really, it all depends on what happens in the Games. — Georgia
QOTW #36 Which character casting for Catching Fire do you think will be confirmed first? second? third?
1. Plutarch Heavensbee (I mean, isn’t he the only one we’ve heard anything official about?)
2. Johanna Mason
3. Finnick Odair (as the person above me said, he’s the most popular, so more consideration would probably go into his casting) — Alexandra
I would ask Francis if, like Gary, he would show what was going on outside the arena during the Games. I hadn’t read the books before I watched The Hunger Games, and details which are explained in Katniss’ train of thought were very well explained in showing us details of what was happening with the Gamemakers and so on. — Belinda
Definitely I will re-read and re-read all the trilogy. I will wait until August 18th to buy the Blu-Ray and see the movie again… and again…
Yup, also I will be fangirling when finnick cast will be announce but… Willl I suvive until Catching Fire?
Please 2012, dont kill me. — Fiorella
QOTW #39 How and Where do you think the “split” will occur in Mockingjay?
Somewhere with a cliffhanger, most likely involving Peeta. Or when they first get to the Capitol. Either the start of the war or something with Katniss and Peeta that will have a big affect on the audience. — Georgia
QOTW #40 How many times have you read ‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy from start to finish?
I’ve probably reread the series from start-to-finish about three times. Most of the time, I just pick up the book, turn to a random page, and start reading (so that doesn’t count in “start-to-finish”). I’ve probably read the scenes I really love at least 40 times. haha — Savanah
QOTW #41 What scene(s) are you most excited to see in Catching Fire?
I am really excited to see the scene where Katniss and Peeta get the day off and go for the picnic on the roof because I think it shows that Katniss isn’t pretending to be in love with Peeta and that their love is real also the scene when Peeta almost dies and and Finnick has to save him but then Katniss starts freaking out. I am just excited for the whole movie, it’s hard for me to pinpoint just a couple of scenes. — Athena
I would dive right into the movie, because i can’t wait to relive the wonderful story of Katniss Everdeen and panem. I love the books and the movie. I will watch the bonus features afterwards, and then watch the movie again while following along in the book. I can’t wait!!!!! — Emily
QOTW #43 Which of The Hunger Games DVD/Blu-ray Special Features is your favorite?
I love the one section of “The Making Of The Hunger Games” called “Casting” towards the end, there’s a hint of a deleted scene where Haymitch walks up to Effie at the tribute’s parade and says in a really high pitched voice “Devine! Delightful! Delicious, de-lovely, delectable!” — Priscilla
QOTW #44 Which characters are you most excited to get a first look at in their Catching Fire style?
I’m looking forward to seeing Katniss in her dresses for the District tour! Im also really looking forward to seeing Sam Clafin as Finnick!!! I wonder if he’s actually going to be in his underwear for one scene!!– Shayne
Definitely Sam Claflin!! I wasn’t too sure on his “look” for Finnick, but those photos…WOW!! Now I’m convinced! — Allyson
I certainly wouldn’t put it past Snow, and he very well may have done it. But, you also have to consider it was a pretty big risk for him to take. Look what Katniss did in the first games. Giving her a platform again would only make her more dangerous. Yes, it was almost certain she would die, but he must also know she could die in a way that would inspire the revolution. So, my guess is he didn’t plan it, and if he did, it wasn’t his smartest move. — Laura
Well, I’m a survivalist, so I could definitely go for 12. District 4 would make me feel the most secure in terms of the Games, as you get trained, but you’re not automatically part of the pack. But I’d probably be fine with District 6 as well, as it’s been hinted (since it’s transportation) to be in Detroit (the motor city? get it?). Where I actually live could have been District 12 since everything under our feet is coal haha. — Aelia
Definitely Cinna. He’s such a vital character, and yet we know next to nothing about his life. Why didn’t he turn out like the rest of the people in the Capitol? Why did he request District 12? Was he even from the Capitol originally? There are so many unanswered questions about him, and for one of the most interesting characters in the series, I feel like he deserves to have his story told. — Alexandra
QOTW #49 How many times have you watched The Hunger Games since it arrived on DVD/Blu-ray?
Like 25 times since I got it…
Its totally my drug — Fernanda
if you could do anything in this moment to complete/fulfil your life, what would you do? — Ellie
QOTW #51 What are your three must have quotes for the Catching Fire film?
“Oh, Finnick. Isn’t this the first time you haven’t looked pretty?” –Katniss Everdeen
“I swear if you cry, I’ll kill you right here and now.” –Katniss Everdeen
“Hey, Haymitch, if you’re not too drunk, we could use a little something for our skin.” –Katniss Everdeen – Primrosette
Favorite was definitely Johanna’s. She looks perfect, done-up Capitol style, but you can still see the fierceness behind her eyes. Least favorite was Gale. There was really no reason for him to have a Capitol portrait other than for the fangirls. Missed seeing Mags and Wiress, definitely. — Alexandra
I read the first Hunger Games book shortly after seeing the movie trailer in late Feb of 2012. By the time I had finished the first book, I had my Mom, lil’sis, and my older sister and her family all hooked on HG. It was so hilarious, we would all stand around and talk about every single chapter and were like, “Well what part at you at?” “Oh my gosh” “NO! I can’t tell you what happens!” Soon after, my brother-in-law and niece got hooked as well. We all went together to see it in theaters the week after the movie came out to miss the crowds. I still have my movie tickets!
I would like to go to a midnight showing of Catching Fire so I could dress up as a character! — Katie
QOTW #54 What are your top 5 “must have” moments for the Catching Fire Trailer?
I don’t want a bunch of spoilers… just a tantalizing glimpse of where this movie will take us.
1. Snow at Katniss’ home
2. Victory Tour in District 11 – preferably when Peeta goes ballistic after Katniss finally tells him what’s up
3. Katniss intervention of Gale’s whipping
4. Haymitch – you know you’re going to have to marry that boy
5. Katniss’ reaction Quarter Quell announcementWhat I really want is Sugarcube scene, but I don’t want it to be spoiled for me more so I’m restraining myself from asking for it. — Hunger Games Bookclub
