I find even some of the G and PG stuff can have violent aspects to it. It’s a lottery sometimes. I guess with this one it’s the controversial nature of the concept itself as opposed to the actual violent acts which certainly aren’t portrayed in graphic detailed. Yet I suppose it’s that shocking concept which got everyone talking and interested and thereby makes Collins’ points about our society.

I’ll let you know what I think of the book. It’s good if they are not interested it’s lets you off the hook with having to make the decision.

Have I mentioned I need more sleep? Watching the movie. Goodness. I need to learn to proof read comments.

Really good point – if it was adults vs adults would there be such an outcry? I would still be horrified at the concept of people having to fight each other to the death – but for me seeing 12 year old kids go into the “games” and die was the most awful part – probably didn’t have quite the same reaction to the older kids dying (they looked more like adults) – which is awful to admit. We are probably more used to seeing adult vs adult violence. Although for me the big difficulty with this was the notion that there was no war, no “bad guys” as such, just kids forced into trying to win a horrible game. I get that was central to the point Collins was trying to make – and it was very effective in doing that.

I’ve got the book to read now – Hippie Child says that although she enjoyed the movie she preferred the book. Collins obviously had some important things to say about our world today and I guess the whole concept of the “hunger games” as a contest (and the horror of that) makes here points stronger (perhaps).

Your poor mum. I agree that we do need to have these discussions – my kids are also at a great age where they can argue their point of view on things we have seen, heard, read and I love getting their perspective because it often challenges my own. I guess that’s one of the advantages of having kids, they keep you grounded and in touch with what’s happening (particularly in popular culture).

I reckon 12 is probably as young as I would go – but as always I suppose it depends on the child. I think the statements Collins are making are important but I don’t think younger children will get the links to issues such as reality television, etc etc and like you I struggle with the topic. Thanks Noreen at beauty of everyday life

I think this generation is going to have three big blockbusters now, Harry Potter, Twilight and The Hunger Games. My girls never showed any interest in Twilight and I’ve never read the books or seen the movies but we did get into Harry Potter and now it looks like we’re going all the way the Hunger Games. Thanks Catherine at Farmhouse Home