the hunger games

The beginning of the book paints a bleak picture. The people of the district are oppressed and poor. Katniss, at a young age had to become an adult and take care of her mother and her little sister. She risks her life by going hunting to provide food. The kids in the district have to live their lives knowing that their names can always be drawn to go kill or be killed. How can you be happy living like that? Your name or the name of a family member or friend can always be drawn. The kids are all disposable. You can always lose a loved one. Katniss had to volunteer as tribute to take the place of her sister who she lives for.