A review by vernip
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, by Suzanne Collins
3.0
Prequels that focus on the villain in the series proper are fascinating. We're introduced to a usually younger version of the big bad and they're full of hope for better things in the future.
Of course, we know that's not going to be the case for Coriolanus Snow, tyrannical future president of a crapsack country whose only entertainment is seeing MORE SUFFERING!
Set way further back from "the Hunger Games" but still far enough in the future that North America will be known for Panem, Snow and his classmates at his prestigious school are given the unenviable task of being the first mentors to the tributes of the 10th Hunger Games. The games are still pretty much rough draft stages now, and the schoolkids have to find ways to not only make the bloodsport more appealing to the masses/keep them engaged, but of course, trying to keep their sheep to slaughter alive. Vile & shadowy forces are at play however, and even the Capitol kids aren't safe from them. Who will not only be victorious, but also survive their ordeal...and at what cost?
Arguably MORE brutal than the worldwide phenomenon series, it also brings up ideals of the true(?) nature of humanity, how to stave off savage natures, and what is necessary to get what you want. Of course, since this is the HUNGER GAMES, it's heartbreaking & cynical with only the faintest glimmers of hope for humanity.
Alexa, play "Hanging Tree" for the next hour as I soak in the sadness of the true meaning now...
Of course, we know that's not going to be the case for Coriolanus Snow, tyrannical future president of a crapsack country whose only entertainment is seeing MORE SUFFERING!
Set way further back from "the Hunger Games" but still far enough in the future that North America will be known for Panem, Snow and his classmates at his prestigious school are given the unenviable task of being the first mentors to the tributes of the 10th Hunger Games. The games are still pretty much rough draft stages now, and the schoolkids have to find ways to not only make the bloodsport more appealing to the masses/keep them engaged, but of course, trying to keep their sheep to slaughter alive. Vile & shadowy forces are at play however, and even the Capitol kids aren't safe from them. Who will not only be victorious, but also survive their ordeal...and at what cost?
Arguably MORE brutal than the worldwide phenomenon series, it also brings up ideals of the true(?) nature of humanity, how to stave off savage natures, and what is necessary to get what you want. Of course, since this is the HUNGER GAMES, it's heartbreaking & cynical with only the faintest glimmers of hope for humanity.
Alexa, play "Hanging Tree" for the next hour as I soak in the sadness of the true meaning now...