The Hunger Games

Reading has become my distraction the past few days.

I have started three different books, but have ended up putting them aside because my mind wouldn't focus on the words on the page. But that all changed yesterday when I read 'The Hunger Games.'

It was recommended to me by two different people - both of whom share a similar love for reading as myself. I trust their judgement, and I figured I needed a distraction, so I bought the book.

Yesterday I came home from my internship, sat down on my bed, and didn't get up until I had finished. Three and a half hours later. I then proceeded to eat dinner and drive back up to Barnes and Noble to buy the sequel, 'Chasing Fire.' I couldn't put it down. It is even better than the first book, which in my opinion is very rare.

The only comparison I can really make is how I feel when I read Harry Potter - when I become so engulfed in the book that I read from the opening line, to the closing sentence. Yesterday there were no are wands, wizards, horcruxes or Dumbledores. But there were districts, killings, Peetas, and a new post-American world unlike anything I could have ever imagined.

Both books are quick reads with underlying messages written to make you think about today's society and its' problems. You will find them both in the young adult section of your bookstore. Buy both. If you don't, you will find yourself driving back to the bookstore in a matter of hours and making small talk with the same employee that sold you the first one. I am not a book critic, but I promise you won't be disappointed.

The third book 'Mockingjay,' is set for release August 24.

What will I distract myself with until then?