Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the evil Capitol of the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games.  A twisted punishment for a past uprising and an ongoing government intimidation tactic, The Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which "Tributes" must fight with one another until one survivor remains. 

“She has no idea. The effect she can have”
-Peeta Mellark 

“Katniss, the girl who was on fire”
-Cinna

 “Only I keep wishing I could think of a way to…to show the Capitol they don’t own me. That I’m more than just a piece in their Games”
-Peeta Mellark 

“The more likable he is, the more deadly he is.”
-Katniss Everdeen 

“Here’s some advice. Stay alive.”
-Haymitch Abernathy 

“Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor!”
-Effie Trinket 

"I volunteer!" I gasp, "I volunteer as tribute." -Katniss

Through the crowd, I spot Gale looking back at me with a ghost of a smile. As reapings go, this one at least has a slight entertainment factor. But suddenly I am thinking of Gale and his forty-two names in that big glass ball and how the odds are not in his favor.