Starved for the Sequel?????

Good news for those who are ready for another serving of "The Hunger Games" series by Suzanne Collins. Scholastic publishing company has announced that "Mockingjay," the third and final installment in this series, will be released August 24, 2010. Sort of unfortunate timing if you ask me, but this series is so engrossing that it just may have teens wishing away their summer so that they can hurry up and get this book.

I'm know I'm one of those who can't wait to once again "fear the reaper!" Although Collins isn't dishing anything about the plot of this book, we can be sure that there will be plenty of adventure, treachery and love triangle action. Let the games begin!

If you haven't already become hooked on "The Hunger Games" maybe this booktrailer by Justin Breaux of Saint Amant High School will help whet your appetite.

Who Wants to Live Forever?!

In a cruel, futuristic world, 14 year old "surplus" Anna is trying her best to survive Grange Hall and become a valuable asset to society. As a valuable asset she will become an invisible helper in someone's home, blending into the background and doing whatever is needed. Anna's crime was...being born!

Her parents have taken longevity drugs and have the ability to live forever. But in order to obtain the drugs, they had to sign "The Declaration" and promise that they would not have children. Anna's parents decide to sneak and have a child, but unfortunately Anna is snatched by the vicious "catchers" and taken to Grange Hall.

Depsite her parents' efforts, Anna cannot be returned. She will be forced to live out her days like the other surpluses, obeying the rules and repenting for the sins of their parents. But what about Peter, the new surplus who refuses to accept his situation? Could there really be an underground movement that could help Anna and the other surpluses?

I listened to this book on tape and exercising became a joy. The time on the treadmill flew by while I listened to the reader describe the dismal conditions at Grange Hall and the frightening life outside for those who dared defy the Declaration. The reader is excellent and her British accent makes the story that much more believable.

Whether you read it or listen to it, The Declaration will leave you wondering if you really would like to live forever.