Top quotes by Suzanne Collins

It's embarrassing to admit how many times I've reread the following: 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,' '1984,' 'Lord of the Flies,' 'The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter,' 'Germinal,' 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle,' and 'A Moveable Feast.' Votes: 24

The film opens up the world beyond Katniss' point of view, allowing the audience access to the happenings of places like the Hunger Games control room and President Snow's rose garden, thereby adding a new dimension to the story. Votes: 20

One of the reasons it's important for me to write about war is I really think that the concept of war, the specifics of war, the nature of war, the ethical ambiguities of war, are introduced too late to children. I think they can hear them, understand them, know about them, at a much younger age without being scared to death by the stories. Votes: 17

When I got out of undergrad, I had a degree in theater and telecommunications. My first job, I was a news reporter for the local stories for NPR. Then I was a country-western DJ. I did data entry for a yearbook company. In my mid-20s I went back to grad school at NYU, and I specialized in playwriting. Votes: 17

My father was career military. He was a veteran, he was a doctor of political science, he taught at West Point and Air Command Staff and lectured at the War College. Votes: 16

If I took the 40 years of my dad talking to me about war and battles and taking me to battlefields and distilled it down into one question, it would probably be the idea of the necessary or unnecessary war. Votes: 14

The Underland Chronicles' is an unnecessary war for a very long time until it becomes a necessary war, because there have been all these points where people could have gotten off the train but they didn't; they just kept moving the violence forward until it's gone out of control. Votes: 13

I'm thrilled with the work Tim Palen and his marketing team have done on the film. It's appropriately disturbing and thought-provoking how the campaign promotes 'Catching Fire' while simultaneously promoting the Capitol's punitive forms of entertainment. Votes: 13

Both the 'Gregor' series and 'The Hunger Games' are what I call lightning-bolt ideas. There was a moment where the idea came to me. With 'The Hunger Games,' the lightning bolt sort of hit at a moment when I was channel surfing between reality TV and the coverage of the Iraq war. Votes: 10

I've just had the opportunity to see the finished film of 'The Hunger Games.' I'm really happy with how it turned out. I feel like the book and the film are individual yet complementary pieces that enhance one another. Votes: 9

Frankly, our ancestors don't seem much to brag about. I mean, look at the state they left us in, with the wars, the broken planet. Clearly, they didn't care about what would happen to the people who came after them. Votes: 9

Star-crossed lovers desperate to get home together. Two hearts beating as one. Romance. Votes: 8

I think people respond to dystopian stories because they're ways of acting out anxieties that we have and fears that we have about the future. So much media's coming at you over the Internet, your brain gets overloaded. You don't know what to do with it. And one thing you can do with it is read a story. Votes: 7

I think we put our children at an enormous disadvantage by not educating them in war, by not letting them understand about it at an early age. Votes: 7

Director Gary Ross has created an adaptation that is faithful in both narrative and theme, but he's also brought a rich and powerful vision of Panem, its brutality and excesses, to the film as well. His world building's fantastic, whether it be the Seam or the Capitol. Votes: 7

Whenever I write a story, I hope it appeals to both boys and girls. Votes: 7

Knowing it and seeing it are two different things. Votes: 7

I'm not a very fancy person. I've been a writer a long time, and right now 'The Hunger Games' is getting a lot of focus. It'll pass. The focus will be on something else. It'll shift. It always does. And that seems just fine. Votes: 6

Not like this. He wanted it to be real. Votes: 5

I loved 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.' I read it later as an adult, but I loved 'We Have Always Lived in a Castle.' And that brings you around to 'The Lottery.' You can't pretend - it's a lottery in which you draw a name and people die. That's a short story, but it's such an incredible short story. Votes: 4

They can fatten me up. They can give me a full body polish, dress me up, and make me beautiful again. They can design dream weapons that come to life in my hands, but they will never again brainwash me into the necessity of using them. I no longer feel allegiance to these monsters called human beings, despite being one myself. Votes: 4

If you had hope, maybe you could find a way to make things change,. Because if you thought about it, there were so many reasons to try. Votes: 4

In high school for a couple years we did archery. Votes: 3

And if we burn, you burn with us. Votes: 1

Are you preparing for another war, Plutarch? I ask.Oh, not now. Now we're in a sweet period where everyone agrees that our recent horrors should never be repeated, he says. But collective thinking is usually short-lived. We're fickle, stupid beings with poor memories and a great gift for self-destruction. Although who knows? Maybe this will be it, Katniss. Votes: 1

Remember that even in war there is a time for restraint. A time to hold back your sword. Votes: 1

Even in war there should be lines you didn't cross. Votes: 1

How much energy they put into harming each other. How little into saving. Votes: 1

So this is how a war starts.Not with two armies facing off, waiting for the signal to charge.It begins much more quietly. In a room, on a field, in a remote tunnel when someone who has power decides the time has come. Votes: 1

He puts the chain with the locket around my neck, then rests his hand over the spot where our baby would be"You're going to make a great mother, you know," he says. He kisses me one last time and goes back to Finnick. Votes: 1

My mockingjay pin now lives with Cinna's outfit, but there's the gold locket and the silver parachute with the spile and Peeta's pearl. I knot the pearl into the corner of the parachute, bury it deep in the recesses of the bag, as if it's Peeta's life and no one can take it away as long as I guard it. Votes: 0

Tick, tock," whispers Wiress. I guide her in front of me and get her to lie down, stroking her arm to soothe her. She drifts off, stirring restlessly, occasionally sighing out her phrase"Tick, tock." "Tick, tock," I agree softly"It's time for bed. Tick, tock. Go to sleep. Votes: 0

The raw hunk of meat that used to be my enemy makes a sound, and I know where the mouth is. And I think the word he's trying to say is 'please'. Pity, not vengeance sends my arrow flying into his skull. Votes: 0

I merely feel emptyness. A hollow of dead brush where flowers use to bloom. Votes: 0

If you appeal to the crowd, either by being humorous or brutal or eccentric, you gain favor." Votes: 0

Every day when I wake I tell myself that it will be my last. If you are not trying to hold on to time, you are not so afraid of losing it... And then, if you make it to bedtime, you feel the joy of cheating death out of one more day." Votes: 0

Katniss...how do you think this will end? What will be left? No one is safe. Not in the Capitol. Not in the districts. And you...in Thirteen..." He inhales sharply, as if fighting for air; his eyes look insaneDead by morning!" Votes: 0

I'm almost there, almost to the barricade, when I thinks she hears me. Because for just a moment, she catches sight of me, her lips form my name. And that's when the rest of the parachutes go off. Votes: 0

It's amazing to see things that are suggested in the book fully developed and so brilliantly realized through the artistry of the designers. Votes: 0

It takes ten times as long to put yourself back together as it does to fall apart. Votes: 0

I guess this is a bad time to mention I hung a dummy and painted Seneca Crane's name on it... Votes: 0

Peeta smiles and douses Haymitch's knife in white liquor from a bottle on the floor. He wipes the blade clean on his shirt tail and slices the bread. Peeta keeps all of us in fresh baked goods. I hunt. He bakes. Haymitch drinks. We have our own ways to stay busy, to keep thought of our time as contestants in the Hunger Games at bay. Votes: 0

Something flickers across his bloodshot eyes. Pain. Votes: 0

I notice her blouse has pulled out of her skirt in the back again and force myself to stay calm. "Tuck your tail in, little duck," I say, smoothing the blouse back in place. Prim giggles and give me a small "Quack." "Quack yourself," I say with a light laugh. The kind only Prim can draw out of me. Votes: 0

Panem et Circenses" translates into 'Bread and Circuses.' The writer was saying that in return for full bellies and entertainment, his people had given up their political responsibilities and therefore their power. Votes: 0

Behind a rack of framed photos of Snow, we encounter a wounded Peacekeeper propped up against a strip of brick wall. He asks us for help. Gale knees him in the side of the head and takes his gun. Votes: 0

I'm not prepared for Rue's family. Her parents, whose faces are still fresh with sorrow. Her fiver younger siblings, who resemble her so closely. The slight builds, the luminous brown eyes. They form a flock of small dark birds. Votes: 0

I take a few breaths to calm myself, step back, and lift Buttercup by the scruff of the neck. "I should've drowned you when I had the chance." His ears flatten and he raises a paw. I hiss before he gets a chance, which seems to annoy him a little, since he considers hissing his own personal sound of contempt. Votes: 0

I reach for Prim in the twilight, clamp my hand on her leg and pull myself over to her. Her voice remains steady as she croons to Buttercup. "It's all right, baby, it's all right. We'll be OK down there." My mother wraps her arms around us. I allow myself to feel young for a moment and rest my head on her shoulder. Votes: 0

Entrails. No hissing. This is the closest we will ever come to love. Votes: 0

The morphlings from District 6 are in the camouflage station, painting each other's faces with bright pink swirls. Votes: 0

The bird, the pin, the song, the berries, the watch, the cracker, the dress that burst into flames. I am the mockingjay. The one that survived despite the Capitol's plans. The symbol of the rebellion. Votes: 0

But Gale is not one to keep secrets from me. "Katniss, there is no district twelve. Votes: 0

But I feel as if I did know Rue, and she'll always be with me. Everything beautiful brings her to mind. I see her in the yellow flowers that grow in the Meadow by my house. I see her in the Mockingjays that sing in the trees. But most of all, I see her in my sister, Prim. Votes: 0

Tick tock, this is a clock. Votes: 0

Technically, I am unarmed. But no one should ever underestimate the harm that fingernails can do. Especially if the target is unprepared. Votes: 0

You've got to go through it to get to the end of it. Votes: 0

Really, the combination of the scabs and the ointment looks hideous. I can't help enjoying his distress. "Poor Finnick. Is this the first time in your life you haven't looked pretty?" I say. "It must be. The sensation's completely new. How have you managed it all these years?" he asks. "Just avoid mirrors. You'll forget about it," I say. "Not if I keep looking at you," he says. Votes: 0

Want a sugar cube? [...] They're supposed to be for the horses, but who cares? They've got years to eat sugar, whereas you and I . . . well, if we see something sweet we better grab it quick. [...] You're absolutely terrifying me in that get-up. What happened to the pretty little-girl dresses? Votes: 0

You're hideous, you know that, right? Votes: 0

Shame isn't a strong enough word for what I feel. "You could live a hundred lifetimes and not deserve him, you know," Haymitch says. Votes: 0

I don't like self-righteous people," I say. "What's to like?" says Haymitch, who begins sucking the dregs out of the empty bottles. Votes: 0

I don't know what I expected from my first meeting with Peeta after the announcement. A few hugs and kisses. A little comfort maybe. Not this. I turn to Haymitch. "Don't worry, I'll get you more liquor. Votes: 0

What do you think?" he asks. "I hate them," I say. I can almost smell the blood, the dirt, the unnatural breath of the mutt. "All I do is go around trying to forget the arena and you've brought it back to life. How do you remember these things so exactly?" "I see them every night," he says. Votes: 0

I pull the sleeping bag up to his chin and kiss his forehead, not for the audience, but for me. Because I'm so grateful that he's here, not dead by the stream as I'd thought. So glad I don't have to face Cato alone. Votes: 0

Let the Seventy-forth Hunger Games begin, Cato, I think. Let them begin for real. Votes: 0

Cato kneels beside Clove, spear in hand, begging her to stay with him. In a moment, he will realize it's futile, she can't be saved. Votes: 0

His dad said even the cavemen had geniuses among them. Somebody had thought up the wheel. Votes: 0

Once I'm on my feet i realize escape might not be so simple, panic begins to set in. i can't stay here. flight is essential but i can't let my fear show. Winning means fame and fortune, losing mean certain death, The Hunger Games have begun . . . Votes: 0

I always channel my emotions into my work. That way, I don't hurt anyone but myself. Votes: 0

It crosses my mind that Cinna's calm and normal demeanor masks a complete madman. Votes: 0

Im still betting on you. - Cinna. Votes: 0

Now he's [Cinna] arranging things around my living room: Clothing, fabrics, and sketchbooks with designs he's drawn. I pick one up and examine one of the dresses I supposedly created. You know, I think I show a lot of promise," I say. Get dressed, you worthless thing. Votes: 0

My mouth has gone dry as sawdust. I desperately find Cinna in the crowd and lock eyes with him. I imagine the words coming from his lips. 'What's impressed you most since you arrived here?' I rack my brain for something that made me happy here. Be honest, I think. Be honest. Votes: 0

I don't know how to make people like me. Cinna, how do you make people like you? Votes: 0

Remember, heads high. Smiles. They're going to love you! Votes: 0

Cinna just smiles. 'Had a damp morning?' 'You could wring me out,' I reply. Cinna puts his arm around my shoulder and leads me into lunch. ' Don't worry, I always channel my emotions into my work. That way I don't hurt anyone but myself. Votes: 0

I swear if you cry, I'll kill you here and now.' Cinna just smiles. 'Had a damp morning?' 'You could wring me out.' I reply Votes: 0

They more than do their work, they take pride in it. Like Cinna. Votes: 0

As we curve around into the loop of the City Circle, I can see that a couple of other stylists have tried to steal Cinna and Portia's idea of illuminating their tributes. The electric-light-studded outfits from District 3, where they make electronics, at least make sense. But what are the livestock keepers from Distric 10, who are dressed as cows, doing with flaming belts? Broiling themselves? Pathetic. Votes: 0

There's no point in comforting words, in telling her she'll be all right. She's no fool. Her hand reaches out and I clutch it like a lifeline. As if it's me who's dying instead of Rue. Votes: 0

What I need is the dandelion in the spring. The bright yellow that means rebirth instead of destruction. The promise that life can go on, no matter how bad our losses. That it can be good again. Votes: 0

I roll my eyes. "So when did I become so special? When they carted me off to the Capitol?" "No, about six months before that. Right after New Year's. We were in the Hob, eating some slop of Greasy Sae's. And Darius was teasing you about trading a rabbit for one of his kisses. And I realized...I minded. Votes: 0

Ripred sighed. 'I suppose so. You and I seem to end up doing everything. Shall we say four members for each delegation?' 'Why not?' Luxa said. 'Four can be as stupid as ten. No need to crowd the room.' Ripred laughed. 'You know, I think you an I are going to get on famously. Votes: 0

That if desperate times call for desperate measures, then I'm free to act as desperately as I wish. Votes: 0

The main thing I feel is a sense of relief. That I can give up this game. That the question of whether I can succeed in this venture has been answered, even if that answer is a resounding no. That if desperate times call for desperate measures, I am free to act as desperately as I want. Votes: 0

District 12: Where you can starve to death in safety. Votes: 0

My name is Katniss Everdeen. I am seventeen years old. My home is District 12. I was in the Hunger Games. I escaped. The Capitol hates me........ Votes: 0

In District 12, looking old is something of an achievement since so many people die early. You see an elderly person, you want to congratulate them on their longevity, ask the secret of survival. A plump person is envied because they aren't scraping by like the majority of us. But here is different. Wrinkles aren't desirable. A round belly isn't a sign of success. Votes: 0

We star-crossed lovers of District 12, who suffered so much and enjoyed so little the rewards of our victory, do not seek our fans' favor, grace them with our smiles, or catch their kisses. We are unforgiving. And I love it. Getting to be myself at last. Votes: 0

They recognize me. Of course they recognize me. My face is uncovered and I'm standing here outside of District 12 pointing an arrow at them. Who else would I be? Votes: 0

There's no district 12 to escape from now, no Peacekeepers to trick, no hungry mouths to feed. The Capitol took away all of that, and I'm on the verge of losing Gale as well. The glue of mutual needs that bonded us so tightly together for all those years is melting away. Votes: 0

The audience must be sick to death of the star-crossed lovers from District 12. I know I am. Votes: 0

If you die and i live there's no life for me back in District 12. You're my whole life. I would never be happy again. Votes: 0

District 12. Where you can starve to death in safety," I mutter. Then I glance quickly over my shoulder. Even here, in the middle of nowhere, you worry someone might overhear you. Votes: 0

Then I get it, what it means. At least, for me. District 12 only has three existing victors to choose from. Two male. One female... I am going back into the arena. Votes: 0

But in school I remember hearing that for the second Quarter Quell, the Capitol demanded that twice the number of tributes be provided for the arena. The teachers didn't go into much more detail, which is surprising, because that was the year District 12's very own Haymitch Abernathy won the crown. Votes: 0

Just don't die for me, you won't be doing me any favour ! Votes: 0

Unfortunately, I can't seal the sponsor deals for you. Only Haymitch can do that," says Effie grimly. "But don't worry, I'll get him to the table at gunpoint if necessary." Although lacking in many departments, Effie Trinket has a certain determination I have to admire. Votes: 0

The walls of this elevator are made of crystal so that you can watch the people on the ground floor shrink to ants as you shoot up into the air. It's exhilarating and I'm tempted to ask Effie Trinket if we can ride it again, but somehow that seems childish. Votes: 0

In really bad times, the hungriest would gather at his door at nightfall, vying for the chance to earn a few coins to feed their families by selling their bodies. Had I been older when my father died, I might have been among them. Instead I learned to hunt. Votes: 0

Ally." Peeta says the words slowly, tasting it. "Friend. Lover. Victor. Enemy. Fiancee. Target. Mutt. Neighbor. Hunter. Tribute. Ally. I'll add it to the list of words I use to try to figure you out. The problem is, I can't tell what's real anymore, and what's made up. Votes: 0

And she's my fiancee. So if you want to get to him, expect to go through both of us. Votes: 0

I can hear President Snow's voice in my head. 'On the seventy-fifth anniversary, as a reminder to the rebels that even the strongest among them cannot overcome the power of the capital, the male and female tributes will be reaped from their existing pool of victors. Votes: 0

Well, don't expect us to be too impressed. We just saw Finnick Odair in his underwear. Votes: 0

Why...do you find this...distracting? Votes: 0

I wish she was dead,' he says. 'I wish they were all dead and we were, too. It would be best. Votes: 0

Katniss, got that spile?" Finnick asks, snapping me back to reality. Votes: 0

Want a sugar cube?- Finnick Odair, Votes: 0

Lucky thing were allies, right? -Finnick Odair Votes: 0

I'm not flailing now, as my muscles are rigid with the tension of holding myself together. Votes: 0

No one will forget me. Not my look, not my name. Katniss. The girl who was on fire. Votes: 0

My spirit. This is a new thought. I'm not sure exactly what it means, but it suggests I'm a fighter. In a sort of brave way. It's not as if I'm never friendly. Okay, maybe I don't go around loving everybody I meet, maybe my smiles are hard to come by, but i do care for some people. Votes: 0

I can see the first apple teetering when I let the third arrow go, catching the torn flap and ripping it from the bag. For a moment, everything seems frozen in time. Then the apples spill to the ground and I'm blown backward into the air. Votes: 0

Telling a story in a futuristic world gives you this freedom to explore things that bother you in contemporary times. Votes: 0

for some reason Gale and Peeta do not coexist well in my thoughts. Votes: 0

We could do it, you know. Votes: 0

Katniss, there is no District Twelve... Votes: 0

This was the door to both sustenance and sanity. And we were each other's key. Votes: 0

They'll be granted immunity!" I feel myself rising from my chair, my voice full of resonant. "You will personally pledge this in front of the entire population of District Thirteen and the remainder of Twelve. Soon. Today. It will be recorded for future generations. You will hold yourself and your government responsible for their safety, or you'll find yourself another Mockingjay! Votes: 0

I'm more than just a piece in their Games. Votes: 0

I see now that the circumstances of ones birth are irrelevent. it is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are Votes: 0

Girl talk. That thing I've always been so bad at. Votes: 0

All the writing elements are the same. You need to tell a good story... You've got good characters... People think there's some dramatic difference between writing 'Little Bear' and the 'Hunger Games,' and as a writer, for me, there isn't. Votes: 0

Most rats read. Our frustration is, we cannot hold a pen to write. Votes: 0

For the last year his grandma had been slipping in and out of reality. One minute she was as clear as a bell and the next she was calling him Simon. Who was Simon? He had no idea. Votes: 0

Doors are for those who lack enemies. Votes: 0

One more time? For the audience?" he says. His voice isn't angry. It's hollow, which is worse. Already the boy with the bread is slipping away from me. I take his hand, holding on tightly, preparing for the cameras, and dreading the moment when I will finally have to let go. Votes: 0

I take his hand, holding on tightly, preparing for the cameras, and dreading the moment when I will finally have to let go. Votes: 0

The cat that Prim got hates me, I think partly because I tried to drown it. Votes: 0

So it's you and a syringe against the Capitol? See, this is why no one lets you make the plans. Votes: 0

Here's some advice. Stay alive. Votes: 0

When you're in the arena...you just remember who the enemy is" - Haymitch Votes: 0

Make sure they remember you. Votes: 0

You call that a kiss? Votes: 0

In the end, the only person I truly want to comfort me is Haymitch, because he loves Peeta, too. Votes: 0

Listen up. You're in trouble. Word is the Capitol's furious about you showing them up in the arena. The one thing they can't stand is being laughed at and they're the joke of Panem Votes: 0

Fine, than I will not have to blame you for killing my friends with your stupidity. -Haymitch Votes: 0

Got it," I say. "Did you tell Peeta this?" "Don't have to," says Haymitch. "He's already there. Votes: 0

That's right. Who am I thinking of? Oh, I know. It's Cinna who likes you. But that's mainly because you didn't try to run when he set you on fire," says Peeta. "On the other hand, Haymitch... well, if I were you, I'd avoid Haymitch completely. He hates you. Votes: 0

Haymitch said you'd take a lot of convincing. Votes: 0

Great. Now I have to go back and tell Haymitch I want an eighty-year-old and Nuts and Volts for my allies. He'll love that. Votes: 0

I can almost hear Haymitch groaning as I team up with this wispy child. But I want her. Because she's a survivor, and I trust her, and why not admit it? She reminds me of Prim. Votes: 0

Haymitch in my head full-time. Horrifying Votes: 0

Yeah, we wouldn't want to lose our little Mockingjay when she's finally begun to sing. Votes: 0

I know. I was hoping," I say. "Exactly. Because you're desperate," says Haymitch. I don't argue because, of course, he's right. Votes: 0

By the end of the session, I am no one at all. Haymitch started drinking somewhere around witty, and a nasty edge has crept into his voice. "I give up, sweetheart. Just answer the questions and try not to let the audience see how openly you despise them. Votes: 0

Oh, he's on top of it. It was volunteer only, but he pretended not to notice me waving my hand in the air," says Haymitch. "See? He's already demonstrated good judgment. Votes: 0

A furious Peeta hammers Haymitch with the atrocity he could become party to, but I can feel Haymitch watching me. This is the moment, then. When we find out exactly just how alike we are, and how much he truly understands me. "I'm with the Mockingjay," he says. Votes: 0

That's very funny," says Peeta. Suddenly he lashes out at the glass in Haymitch's hand. It shatters on the floor, sending the bloodred liquid running toward the back of the train. "Only not to us. Votes: 0

If you'd been taken by the Capital and hijacked and then tried to kill Peeta, is this the way he would be treating you? Votes: 0

If he wants me broken, then I will have to be whole. Votes: 0

You love me. Real or not real?" I tell him, "Real. Votes: 0

The numbness of his loss had passed, and the pain would hit me out of nowhere, doubling me over, racking my body with sobs. Where are you? I would cry out in my mind. Where have you gone? Of course, there was never any answer. Votes: 0

Sometimes, when I clean a kill, I feed Buttercup the entrails. He has stopped hissing at me. Entrails. No hissing. This is the closest we will ever come to love. Votes: 0

Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor. Votes: 0

Because...because...she came here with me. Votes: 0

No matter what I do, I'm hurting someone." - Katniss Everdeen Votes: 0

Okay, maybe I don't go around loving everybody I meet, maybe my smiles are hard to come by, but I do care for some people. Votes: 0

All those months of taking it for granted that Peeta thought I was wonderful are over. Finally, he can see me for who I really am. Violent. Distrustful. Manipulative. Deadly. And I hate him for it. Votes: 0

I will never give up if you never give in. Votes: 0

I pound on the glass, screaming my head off. Everyone ignores me except for some Capitol attendant who appears behind me and offers me a beverage. Votes: 0

Embrace the probability of your imminent death....and know there is nothing i can do to save you. Votes: 0

Katniss, the girl who was on fire! Votes: 0

My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead. Votes: 0

Katniss Everdeen, the girl who was on fire, you have provided a spark that, left unattended, may grow to an inferno that destroys Panem," he says. Votes: 0

Katniss. I remember about the bread. Votes: 0

Katniss....he's still trying to keep you alive. Votes: 0

We had to save you because you're the mockingjay, Katniss," says Plutarch. "While you live, the revolution lives. Votes: 0

Katniss?" Peeta says. I meet his eyes, knowing my face must be some shade of green. He mouths the words. "How about that kiss? Votes: 0

Don't you see, Katniss, this will decide things. One way or the other. By the end of the day, they'll ether be dead or with us. It's...it's more than we could hope for! Well, that's a sunny view of our situation. Votes: 0

Although who knows? Maybe this will be it, Katniss." "What?" I ask. "The time it sticks. Maybe we are witnessing the evolution of the human race. Think about that." And then he asks me if I'd like to perform on a new singing program he's launching in a few weeks. Something upbeat would be good. He'll send the crew to my house. Votes: 0

I've asked you fifty questions and still have no sense of your life, your family, what you care about. They want to know about you, Katniss." "But I don't want them to! They're already taking my future! They can't have the things that mattered to time in the past!" I say. Votes: 0

I wonder how she'll make up her mind." "Oh, that I do know." I can just catch Gale's last words through the layer of fur. "Katniss will pick whoever she thinks she can't survive without. Votes: 0

Katniss," Gale says softly. I recognize that voice. It's the same one he uses to approach wounded animals before he delivers a deathblow. I Instinctively raise my hand to block his words but he catches it and holds on tightly. Don't," I whisper. But Gale is not one to keep secrets from me. Katniss, There is no District Twelve. Votes: 0

What's going on down there, Katniss? Have they all joined hands? Taken a vow of nonviolence? Tossed the weapons in the sea in defiance of the Capitol?' Finnick asks. No,' I say. No,' Finnick repeats. 'Because whatever happened in the past is in the past. And no one in this arena was a victor by chance.' He eyes Peeta for a moment. 'Except maybe Peeta. Votes: 0

Katniss: I guess all those hours decorating cakes paid off. Peeta: Yes, frosting. The final defence of the dying. (252) Votes: 0

Even though I don't ask, Plutarch gives me cheerful updates on the phone like "Good news, Katniss! I think we've almost got him convinced you're not a mutt!" Or "Today he was allowed to feed himself pudding! Votes: 0

I say we try it,' says Peeta. 'Katniss is right.' Finnick looks at Johanna and raises his eyebrows. He will not go forward without her. 'All right,' she says finally. 'It's better than hunting them down in the jungle, anyway. And I doubt they'll figure out our plan, since we can barely understand it ourselves. Votes: 0

To this day, I can never shake the connection between this boy, Peeta Mellark, and the bread that gave me hope, and the dandelion that reminded me that I was not doomed. Votes: 0

My lips are just forming his name when his fingers lock around my throat. Votes: 0

Kind people have a way of working their way inside me and rooting there. Votes: 0

Remember, we're madly in love, so it's all right to kiss me anytime you feel like it. Votes: 0

Fine. Somebody else can arrange to get the stupid goat knocked up. Votes: 0

I don't care if you got knocked up. I can still rip your throat out Votes: 0

I'm sick of people lying to me for my own good. Because really it's mostly for their own good. Votes: 0

Maybe everyone is just trying to protect me by lying to me. I don't care. I'm sick of people lying to me for my own good. Votes: 0

That's when I hear the scream. So full of fear and pain it ices my blood. And so familiar. I drop the spile, forget where I am or what lies ahead, only know I must reach her, protect her. I run wildly in the direction of the voice, heedless of danger, ripping through vines and branches, through anything that keeps me from reaching her. From reaching my little sister. Votes: 0

Your only defense can be you were so madly in love you weren't responsible for your actions. Votes: 0

Since Mags seems to have no ill effects from the nuts, Peeta collects bunches of them and fries them by bouncing them off the force field. Votes: 0

We each get fifteen minutes before the Gamemakers to amaze them with our skills, but I don't know what any of us might have to show them. There's a lot of kidding about it at lunch. What we might do. Sing, dance, strip, tell jokes. Mags, who i can understand a little better now, decides she's just going to take a nap. Votes: 0

Well, I can't leave Mags behind," says Finnick. "She's one of the few people who actually likes me. Votes: 0

It's as if I'm Finnick, watching images of my life flash by. The mast of a boat, a silver parachute, Mags laughing, a pink sky, Beetee's trident, Annie in her wedding dress, waves breaking over rocks. Then its over. Votes: 0

I just...I just miss him. And I hate being so alone. Votes: 0

They'll either want to kill you, kiss you, or be you. Votes: 0

Fire is catching! And if we burn, you burn with us! Votes: 0

I must have loved you a lot. Votes: 0

There are much worse games to play. Votes: 0

Still, I hate them. But, of course, I hate almost everybody now. Myself more than anyone. Votes: 0

Sometimes when I'm alone, I take the pearl from where it lives in my pocket and try to remember the boy with the bread, the strong arms that warded off nightmares on the train, the kisses in the arena. Votes: 0

I drag myself out of nightmares each morning and find there's no relief in waking. Votes: 0

Well you are a piece of work aren't you? Votes: 0

Stay with me. Always. Votes: 0

Roses. Wolf mutts. Tributes. Frosted Dolphins. Friends. Mockingjays. Stylists. Me. Everything screams in my dreams tonight. Votes: 0

Are you, are you coming to the tree? Wear a necklace of rope, side by side with me. Strange things did happen here. No stranger would let it be if we met up At midnight in the hanging tree. Votes: 0

I begin to fully understand the lengths to which people have gone to protect me. What I mean to the rebels. My on going struggle against the Capitol, which has so often felt like a solitary journey, has not been undertaken alone. I have had thousands upon thousands of people from the districts at my side. I was their Mockingjay long before I accepted the role. Votes: 0

While I was waiting...I ate your lunch. Votes: 0

You'll never be able to let him go. You'll always feel wrong about being with me. Votes: 0

Better not to give in to it. Votes: 0

Deep in the meadow, hidden far away A cloak of leaves, a moonbeam ray Forget your woes and let your troubles lay Votes: 0

One of the most memorable things I hear is when someone tells me that my books got a reluctant reader to read. Votes: 0

Since my father died and I stopped trusting my mother, no one else's arms have made me feel this safe. Votes: 0

They're already taking my future! They can't have the things that mattered to me in the past! Votes: 0

He never lets go of Annie's hand. Not when they walk, not when they eat. I doubt he ever plans to. Votes: 0

I clench his hands to the point of pain. "Stay with me." His pupils contract to pinpoints, dialate again rapidly, and then return to something resembling normalcy. "Always," he murmurs. Votes: 0

I am not pretty. I am not beautiful. I am as radiant as the sun. Votes: 0

I have two older sisters and one older brother and hold them largely responsible for the trouble I got into growing up. I believe as the youngest child, that is my right. Votes: 0

And then, if you make it to bedtime, you feel the joy of cheating death out of one more day," she said. "Do you see? Votes: 0

Every day when I wake I tell myself that it will be my last. If you are not trying to hold on to time, you are not so afraid of losing it... And then, if you make it to bedtime, you feel the joy of cheating death out of one more day. Votes: 0

It's impossible to be the Mockingjay. Impossible to complete even this one sentence. Because now I know that everything I say will be directly taken out on Peeta. Result in his torture. But not his death, no nothing so merciful as that. Snow will ensure that his life is much worse than death. Votes: 0

I wish I could freeze this moment, right here, right now and live in it forever. Votes: 0

So that day, in music assembly, the teacher asked who knew the valley song. Your hand shot right up in the air. She stood you up on a stool and had you sing it for us. And I swear, every bird outside the windows fell silent...and right when your song ended, I knew - just like your mother - I was a goner. Votes: 0

I think....you still have no idea. The effect you can have. Votes: 0

And then he gives me a smile that just seems so genuinely sweet with just the right touch of shyness that unexpected warmth rushes through me. Votes: 0

No, it happened. And right when your song ended, I knew - just like your mother - I was a goner,' Peeta says. Votes: 0

You're a painter. You're a baker. You like to sleep with the windows open. You never take sugar in your tea. And you always double-knot your shoelaces. Votes: 0

You here to finish me off, Sweetheart? Votes: 0

I realize only one person will be damaged beyond repair if Peeta dies. Me. Votes: 0

I don't think it's going to work out. Winning...won't help in any case. Because...she came here with me. - Peeta Mellark Votes: 0

You're still trying to protect me. Real or not real," he whispers. "Real," I answer. "Because that's what you and I do, protect each other. Votes: 0

And while I was talking, the idea of actually losing Peeta hit me again and I realized how much I don't want him to die. And it's not about the sponsors. And it's not about what will happen when we get home. And it's not just that I don't want to be alone. It's him. I do not want to lose the boy with the bread. Votes: 0

They don't own me. If I'm gonna die, I wanna still be me. Votes: 0

Gale and I were thrown together by a mutual need to survive. Peeta and I know the other's survival means our own death. How do you side step that? Votes: 0

It's meant to be pretty," whispers Octavia, and I can see the tears threatening to spill over her lashes. Posy considers this and says matter-of-factly, "I think you'd be pretty in any color." The tiniest of smiles forms on Octavia's lips. "Thank you. Votes: 0

I think you'd be pretty in any color."-Posy to Octavia Votes: 0

It's hard to hate my prep team. They're such total idiots." - Katniss. Votes: 0

Cleaning me up is just a preliminary step to determining my new look. With my acid-damaged hair, sunburned skin, and ugly scars, the prep team has to make me pretty and then damage, burn, and scare me in a more attractive way. Votes: 0

Peeta looks at the glass again and puts it together. "You mean this will make me puke?" My prep team laughs hysterically. "Of course, so you can keep eating," says Octavia. "I've been in there twice already. Everyone does it, or else how would you have any fun at a feast? Votes: 0

If I feel ragged, my prep team seems in worse condition, knocking back coffee and sharing brightly colored little pills. As far as I can tell, they never get up before noon unless there's some sort of national emergency, like my leg hair. Votes: 0

And some small gnarled place inside me hated her for her weakness, for her neglect, for the months she had put us through. I had taken a step back from my mother, put up a wall to protect myself from needing her, and nothing was ever the same between us again. Votes: 0

You and me Haymitch.Very cozy.Picnics, birthdays, long winter nights sitting around the fire retelling old Hunger Games tale. -Peeta Mellark Votes: 0

I start to crack at four hundred to one. Votes: 0

You want a piece of advice?" said Ripred. "Don't bother. I know what you'll say. The whole thing's stupid," said Gregor. "Quite the contrary. I was going to say that life is short. There are only a few good things in it, really. Don't pretend that one isn't happening." said Ripred. Votes: 0

He felt around desperately for a weapon. What did he have? Diapers? Cookies? Oh, why hadn't they given him a sword? He was the stupid warrior, wasn't he? His fingers dug in the leather bag and closed around the root beer can. Root beer! He yanked out the can shaking it with all his might. "Attack! Attack!" he yelled. Votes: 0

I want to do something, right here, right now, to shame them, to make them accountable, to show the Capitol that whatever they do or force us to do there is a part of every tribute they can't own. That Rue was more than a piece in their Games. And so am I. Votes: 0

How did Rue end up on that stage with nothing but the wind offering to take her place? Votes: 0

Peeta. Blut wie Regentropfen am Fenster. Wie feuchte Erde an den Stiefeln. Votes: 0

In fact, all three are so readily respectful and nice to my mother that I feel bad about how I go around feeling so superior to them. Who knows who I would be or what I would talk about if I'd been raised in the Capitol? Maybe my biggest regret would be having feathered costumes at my birthday party, too. Votes: 0

So the moment he walks in the door I snap, I swear if you cry, I'll kill you here and now.Cinna just smilesHad a damp morning?You could wring me out, I reply. Votes: 0

Ugh. Peeta makes comments like this in such an offhand way, and it's like being hit in the gut. He's only answering my question honestly. He's not pressing me to reply in kind, to make any declaration of love. But I still feel awful, as if I've been using him in some terrible way. Have I? I don't know. Votes: 0

As we ride the elevator Gale finally says You're still angry.And you're still not sorry, I reply.I will stand by what I said. Do you want me to lie about it? he asks.No, I want you to rethink it and come up with the right opinion, I tell him. Votes: 0

I'm sorry. About screaming at you yesterday.I've heard worse, she says. You've seen how people are, when someone they love is in pain.Someone they love. The words numb my tongue as if it's been packed in snow coat. Of course, I love Gale. But what kind of love does she mean? What do *I* mean when I say I love Gale? Votes: 0

When I break into the clearing, she's on the ground, hopelessly entangled in a net. She just has the time to reach her hand through the mesh and say my name before the spear enters her body. Votes: 0

You asked why the rate hate Overlanders so deeply. It is because they know one will be the warrior of the prophecy," said Vikus."Oh, I see," said Gregor. "So, when's he coming?"Vikus fixed his eyes on Gregor. "I believe he is already here. Votes: 0

You don't destroy what you want toacquire in the future. Votes: 0

For there to be betrayal, there would have to have been trust first. Votes: 0

Don't. Don't let's pretend when there's no one around. Votes: 0

It made me realize how I needed to stop punishing her for something she couldn't help [...] because sometimes things happen to people and they're not equipped to deal with them. Votes: 0

Upon this crown my pledge I give,To my last breath,I hold this choice, I will your unjust deaths avenge,All here who died without a voice. Votes: 0

We're victors, remember? We're the ones who can survive anything they throw at us Votes: 0

As coal pressured into pearls by our weighty existence. Beauty that arose out of pain. Votes: 0

I know I'll never marry, never risk bringing a child into the world. Because if there's one thing being a victor doesn't guarantee, it's our children's safety. My kids' names would go right into the reaping balls with everyone else's. And I swear I'll never let that happen. Votes: 0

A need for revenge can burn long and hot. Especially if every glance in a mirror reinforces it. Votes: 0

I'm running on hate. Votes: 0

Orange? Like Effie's hair?" I say."A bit more muted," he says. "More like sunset. Votes: 0

But because two can play at this game, I stand on tiptoe and kiss his cheek. Right on his bruise. Votes: 0

You have a... remarkable memory.""I remember everything about you. You're the one who wasn't paying attention. Votes: 0

But some secrets are too delicious not to share. Votes: 0

We could do it, you know.""What?""Leave the district. Run off. Live in the woods. You and I, we could make it. Votes: 0

I can feel Peeta press his forehead into my temple and he asks, 'So now that you've got me, what are you going to do with me?' I turn into him. 'Put you somewhere you can't get hurt. Votes: 0

Because, sometimes, things happen to people and they're not equipped to deal with them. Votes: 0

All around the dining hall, you can feel the rejuvenating effect that a good meal can bring on. The way it can make people kinder, funnier, more optimistic, and remind them it's not a mistake to go on living. It's better than any medicine. Votes: 0

Having an eye for beauty isn't the same thing as a weakness...except possibly when it comes to you. Votes: 0

And I said, 'A coal miner? Why did she want a coal miner if she could've had you?' And he said, 'Because when he sings ... even the birds stop to listen. Votes: 0

Aim higher in case you fall short. Votes: 0

Because when he sings...even the birds stop to listen. Votes: 0

In our world, I rank music somewhere between hair ribbons and rainbows in terms of usefulness. Votes: 0

It's old, very old I think. Made up long ago in our hills. What my music teacher calls a mountain air. But the words are easy and soothing, promising tomorrow will be more hopeful than this awful piece of time we call today. Votes: 0

Here your dreams are sweet and tomorrow brings them true... Votes: 0

If you hit bottom, there's a whole lot of people here to help you up Votes: 0

But for better or worse, I am not motivated by kindness. Votes: 0

We hand the meat over to Greasy Sae in the kitchen. She likes District 13 well enough, even though she thinks the cooks are somewhat lacking in imagination. But a woman who came up with a palatable wild dog and rhubarb stew is bound to feel as if her hands are tied here. Votes: 0

I swing my arms to loosen myself up. Place my fists on my hips. then drop them to my sides. Saliva's filling my mouth at a ridiculous rate and i feel vomit at the back of my throat. I swallow hard and open my lips so I can get the stupid line out and go hide in the woods and-that's when i start crying. Votes: 0

On and on we seal the pages with salt water and promises to live well to make their deaths count. Votes: 0

A faint light burned in the pit revealing a furry creature hunched over a stone slab, fiddling with something. At first Gregor raised a warning hand. He thought it was a rat. Then the creature lifted his head and Gregor recognized what was left of his dad. Votes: 0

I can hear him weeping but I don't care. They probably won't even bother to question her, she's so far gone. Gone right off the deep end years ago in her Games. There's a good chance I'm headed in the same direction. Maybe I'm already going crazy and no one has the heart to tell me. I feel crazy enough. Votes: 0

If there's a more helpless feeling than trying to reach someone you love who's trapped underground, I don't know it. Votes: 0

The star-crossed lovers Votes: 0

Barbarism? That's ironic coming from a woman helping to prepare us for slaughter. And what's she basing our success on? Our table manners? Votes: 0

I'm not their slave," the man mutters. "I am," I say. "That's why I killed Cato... and he killed Thresh... and he killed Clove... and she tried to kill me. It just goes around and around, and who wins? Not us. Not the districts. Always the capitol. But I'm tired of being a piece in their games. Votes: 0

Making knots. Making knots. No word. Making knots. Tick-tock. This is a clock. Do not think of Gale. Do not think of Peeta. Making knots. Votes: 0

Did you love Annie right away, Finnick?" I ask. "No." A long time passes before he adds, "She crept up on me. Votes: 0

It's not easy to find a topic. Talking of home is painful. Talking of the present unbearable. Votes: 0

The pain over my heart returns, and from it I imagine tiny fissures spreading out into my body. Through my torso, down my arms and legs, over my face, leaving it crisscrossed with cracks. One good jolt...and I could shatter into strange razor-sharp shards. Votes: 0

It's ideal really. They will come up with a plan. No one will like it. Everyone will feel they have been treated unfairly, but will be happy that their neighbors feel the same. And that is the nature of compromise. Now let's go eat an awful lot. Votes: 0

Glimmer, I hear someone call her - ugh, the names the people in District 1 give their children are so ridiculous ... Votes: 0

In that one slight motion, I see the end of hope, beginning of destruction of everything I hold dear in the world. I can't guess what form my punishment will take, how wide the net will be cast, but when it is finished there most likely be nothing left. So you would think that at this moment, I would be in utter despair. Votes: 0

Hey, Effie, watch this!" says Peeta. He tosses his fork over his shoulder and literally licks his plate clean whit his tongue making loud, satisfied sounds. Then he blows a kiss out to her in general and calls, "We miss you, Effie! Votes: 0

It's there. The white rose among the dried flowers in the vase. Shriveled and fragile, but holding on to that unnatural perfection cultivated in Snows greenhouse. I grab the vase, stumble down to the kitchen, and throw its contents into the embers. As the flowers flare up, a burst of blue flame envelops the rose and devours it. Fire beats roses again. Votes: 0

Kids have so much screen time, and it's a concern. I know how overloaded I can feel sometimes. Votes: 0

A verbal promise behind closed doors, even a statement written on paper-these could easily evaporate . . . . Votes: 0

Is that why you hate me?" I ask. "Partly," She admits. "Jealousy is certainly involved. I also think you're a little hard to swallow. With your tacky romantic drama and your defender-of-the-helpless act. Only it isn't an act, which makes you more unbearable. Please feel free to take this personally. Votes: 0

I don't write about adolescence. I write about war. For adolescents. Votes: 0

If I have to pick one story that most influenced 'The Hunger Games,' it would be the Greek myth of Theseus, which I read when I was about 8 years old. In punishment for past deeds, Athens periodically had to send seven youths and seven maidens to a labyrinth. In the maze was this Minotaur, and it would eat them. Votes: 0

'Lord of the Flies' is one of my favorite books. That was a big influence on me as a teenager; I still read it every couple of years. Votes: 0

My mother tried really hard to protect us, but occasionally, after afternoon cartoons of whatever was on... the nightly news would come on, and I'd see footage from the war zone, and I would hear the word 'Vietnam,' and I would know my dad was over there, and it was a very frightening experience for me. Votes: 0

I try to catch flies in cups and put them outside. After I wrote 'The Underland Chronicles'... well, once you start naming cockroaches, you lose your edge. Votes: 0

There's a basis for the war, historically, in the 'Hunger Games,' which would be the third servile war, which was Spartacus' war, where you have a man who is a slave who is then turned into a gladiator who broke out of the gladiator school and led a rebellion and then became the face of the war. Votes: 0

In 'The Hunger Games,' in most people's idea, in terms of rebellion or a civil-war situation, that would meet the criteria for a necessary war. These people are oppressed, their children are being taken off and put in gladiator games. They're impoverished, they're starving, they're brutalized. Votes: 0

I started as a playwright. Any sort of scriptwriting you do helps you hone your story. You have the same demands of creating a plot, developing relatable characters and keeping your audience invested in your story. My books are basically structured like three-act plays. Votes: 0

The cast, led by the extraordinary Jennifer Lawrence, is absolutely wonderful across the board. It's such a pleasure to see how they've embodied the characters and brought them to life. Votes: 0

Katniss Everdeen owes her last name to Bathsheba Everdene, the lead character in 'Far From the Madding Crowd.' The two are very different, but both struggle with knowing their hearts. Votes: 0

When I was young, I was trained in stage fighting and rapier and dagger for several years. Votes: 0

If your parent is deployed and you are that young, you spend the whole time wondering where they are and waiting for them to come home. As time passes and the absence is longer and longer, you become more and more concerned - but you don't really have the words to express your concern. There's only this continued absence. Votes: 0

I think it's very uncomfortable for people to talk to children about war, and so they don't because it's easier not to. But then you have young people at eighteen who are enlisting in the army, and they really don't have the slightest idea what they're getting into. Votes: 0

I sort of half read Thomas Hardy's 'The Mayor of Casterbridge.' It was assigned in 10th grade, and I just couldn't get into it. About seven years later, I rediscovered Hardy and consumed four of his novels in a row. Votes: 0

"ŽI'm not going anywhere. I'm going to stay right here and cause all kinds of trouble. Votes: 0

"ŽWhat is to prevent, say, an uprising? Votes: 0

A hysterical young woman with flowing brown hair is also called from 4, but she's quickly replaced by a volunteer, an eighty-year-old woman who needs a cane to walk to the stage. Votes: 0

A light was on in the kitchen. His mother sat at the kitchen table, as still as a statue. Her hands were clasped together, and she stared fixatedly at a small stain on the tablecloth. Gregor remembered seeing her that way so many nights after his dad had disappeared. He didn't know what to say. He didn't want to scare her or shock her or ever give her any more pain. So, he stepped into the light of the kitchen and said the one thing he knew she wanted to hear most in the world. "Hey, Mom. We're home. Votes: 0

A spark could be enough to set them ablaze. Votes: 0

Actually, Katniss isn't complaining because she has no intention of staying with the "Star Squad," but she recognizes the necessity of getting to the Capitol before carrying out any plan. Votes: 0

Agreed," I say. "It's going to be a long hour." "Maybe not that long," says Peeta." what was that you were saying just before the food arrived? Something about me ... no competition ... best thing that ever happened to you ... " " I don't remember that last part," I say, hoping it's too dim in here for the cameras to pick up my blush. " Oh, that's right. That's what I was thinking," he says " Scoot over, I'm freezing. Votes: 0

All I can think of is the emaciated bodies of children on our kitchen table as my mother prescribes what the parent's can't give. More food. Votes: 0

All the general fear I've been feeling condenses into an immediate fear of this girl, this predator who might kill me in seconds. Adrenaline shoots through me and I sling the pack over one shoulder and run full-speed for the woods. I can hear the blade whistling toward me and reflexively hike the pack up to protect my head. The blade lodges in the pack. Both straps on my shoulders now, I make for the trees. Somehow I knew the girl will not pursue me. That she'll be drawn back into the Cornucopia before all the good stuff is gone. A grin crosses my face. Thanks for the knife, I think. Votes: 0

All the times these arms were my only refuge from the world. Perhaps not fully appreciated then, but so sweet in my memory, and now gone forever. Votes: 0

Allow me to translate, Twitchtip said, not even bothering to move. "She said if you don't stop your incessant babble, that big rat sitting in the boat next to you will rip your head off. Votes: 0

An ability to look into the confusing mess of life and see things for what they are. Votes: 0

And don't you let your guard down for a second because you think anything's inevitable. Votes: 0

And here I am, strapped into a tree, a stone's throw from the biggest idiot in the games. Votes: 0

And it takes so much energy to stay angry with someone who cries so much. Votes: 0

And it's all my fault, Gale. Because of what I did in the arena. If I had just killed myself with those berries, none of this would've happened. Peeta could have come home and lived, and everyone else would have been safe, too." "Safe to do what?" he says in a gentler tone. "Starve? Work like slaves? Send their kids to the reaping? You haven't hurt people "“ you've given them an opportunity. They just have to be brave enough to take it. Votes: 0

And once we reach the city, my stylist will dictate my look for the opening ceremonies tonight anyway. I just hope I get one who doesn't think nudity is the last word in fashion. Votes: 0

And random bits of happiness, like Finnick and Annie's newborn boy. Votes: 0

And she's very clever, Peeta. Well, she was. Until you outfoxed her Votes: 0

And so I'm stupid for thinking they might be useful. Because of something Johanna Mason said while she was oiling her breasts for wrestling. Votes: 0

And suddenly, it's as if there's no one in the world but these two, crashing through space to reach each other. They collide, enfold, lose their balance, and slam against a wall, where they stay. Clinging into one being. Indivisible. Votes: 0

And then it happens. Up and down the row, the victors begin to join hands. Some right away, like the morphlings, or Wiress and Beetee. Others unsure but caught up in the demands of those around them, like Brutus and Enobaria. By the time the anthem plays its final strains, all twenty-four of us stand in one unbroken line in what must be the first public show of unity among the districts since the Dark Days. You can see the realization of this as the screens begin to pop into blackness. It's too late, though. In the confusion they didn't cut us off in time. Everyone has seen. Votes: 0

And then there was Tick. Brave little Tick, who had flown into the faces of an army of rats to save his baby sister. Tick - who never spoke much. Tick - who shared her food. Tick - who was after all just a roach. Just a roach who had given all the time she had left so that Boots could have more. Gregor pressed Boots's fingers against his lips and felt scalding tears begin to slide down his cheeks. He hadn't cried, not the whole time he'd been down here, and there had been plenty of bad stuff. But somehow Tick's sacrifice had crushed whatever thin shell remained between him and sorrow. Votes: 0

And then, when he's been underwater so long I feel certain he's drowned, his head pops up right next to me and I start. "Don't do that," I say. "What? Come up or stay under?" he says. "Either. Neither. Whatever Votes: 0

And there I am, blushing and confused, made beautiful by Cinna's hands, desirable by Peeta's confession, tragic by circumstance, and by all accounts, unforgettable. Votes: 0

And to us, we're more married than any piece of paper or big party could make us. Votes: 0

And we must fight back! President Snow says he's sending us a message? Well, I have one for him. You can torture us and bomb us and burn our districts to the ground, but do you see that? Fire is catching! And if we burn, you burn with us! Votes: 0

And when again it's morning, they' ll wash away. Here it's safe, here it's warm Here the daisies guard you from every harm Votes: 0

and when he kissed me i didn't know what to do. Votes: 0

And, my God, the actors. The cast, led by the extraordinary Jennifer Lawrence, is absolutely wonderful across the board. It's such a pleasure to see how they've embodied the characters and brought them to life. Votes: 0

Anyone? On Snow's visit before the Victory Tour, he challenged me to erase any doubts of my love for Peeta. "Convince me," Snow said. It seems, under that hot pink sky with Peeta's life in limbo, I finally did. And In doing so, I gave him the weapon he needed to break me. Votes: 0

Anyway, even if she's sugarcoating my good points, I appreciate it. Frankly, I could use a little sugarcoating. Votes: 0

aren't they the very reason I have to try to fight? Because what has been done to them is so wrong, so beyond justification, so evil that there is no choice? Because no one has the right to treat them as they have been treated? Votes: 0

As I descend the stairs, I can't help brushing my fingers along the unblemished white marble walls. So cold and beautiful. Even in the Capitol, there's nothing to match the magnificence of this old building. But there is no give to the surface - only my flesh yields, my warmth taken. Stone conquers people every time. Votes: 0

As long as you can find yourself, you'll never starve. Votes: 0

As the alcohol overcomes my mind, I hear the glass bottle shatter on the floor. This seems appropriate since I have obviously lost my grip on everything. Votes: 0

As we ride the elevator Gale finally says "You're still angry." "And you're still not sorry," I reply. "I will stand by what I said. Do you want me to lie about it?" he asks. "No, I want you to rethink it and come up with the right opinion," I tell him. Votes: 0

As we trudge back through the woods, we reach a boulder, and both Gale and I turn our heads in the same direction, like a pair of dogs catching a scent on the wind. Cressida notices and asks what lies that way. We admit, without acknowledging each other, it's our old hunting rendez-vous place. She wants to see it, even after we tell her it's nothing really. Nothing but a place where I was happy, I think. Votes: 0

At least, you two have decent manners," says Effie as we're finishing the main course. "The pair last year ate everything with their hands like a couple of savages. It completely upset my digestion." ... My mother taught Prim and me to eat properly, so yes, I can handle a fork and knife. But I hate Effie Trinket's comment so much I make a point of eating the rest of my meal with my fingers. Then I wipe my hands on the tablecloth. This makes her purse her lips tightly together. Votes: 0

At once, it's clear I cannot gush. We try me playing cocky, but I just don't have the arrogance. Apparently, I'm too "vulnerable" for ferocity. I'm not witty. Funny. Sexy. Or mysterious By the end of the session, I am no one at all. Votes: 0

At some point, you have to stop running and turn around and face whoever wants you dead.The hard thing is finding the courage to do it. Votes: 0

At the moment, the choice would be simple. I can survive just fine without either of them. Votes: 0

Beauty that arose out of pain. Votes: 0

Because I can count on my fingers the number of sunsets I have left, and I don't want to miss any of them. Votes: 0

Because I can't handle the nightmares. Not without you. Votes: 0

because I have learned the hard way how deadly these beauties can be. Votes: 0

Because I'm selfish. I'm a coward. I'm the kind of girl who, when she might actually be of use, would run to stay alive and leave those who couldn't follow to suffer and die. Votes: 0

Because it doesn't matter anymore, and because I'm so desperately lonely I can't stand it. Votes: 0

Because something is significantly wrong with a creature that sacrifices its children's lives to settle its differences. Votes: 0

Because something is significantly wrong with a creature that sacrifices its children's lives to settle its differences. You can spin it any way you like... But in the end, who does it benefit? No one. The truth is, it benefits no one to live in a world where these things happen Votes: 0

Because that's what you and I do, protect each other. Votes: 0

Beetee is still messing round the tree, doing I don't know what. At one point he snaps off a sliver of bark, joins us, and throws it against the force field. It bounces back and lands on the ground, glowing. In a few moments it returns to its original color. "Well, that explains a lot," says Beetee. I look at Peeta and can't help biting my lip to keep from laughing since it explains absolutely nothing to anyone but Beetee. Votes: 0

Besides, it's the first gift that's always the hardest to pay back. I wouldn't even have been here to do it if you hadn't helped me then. Votes: 0

Birds are settling down for the night, singing lullabies to their young. Votes: 0

But after several hours, I go anyway, walking in silent sock feet, so as not to awaken the ghosts. Votes: 0

But between the images, we are privy to the real-life action being played out on the set. Peeta's attempt to continue speaking. The camera knocked down to record the white tiled floor. The scuffle of boots. The impact of the blow that's inseparable from Peeta's cry of pain. And his blood as it splatters the tiles. Votes: 0

But collective thinking is usually short-lived. We're fickle, stupid beings with poor memories and a great gift for self-destruction. Votes: 0

But don't worry; as I've been saying - and this has been very clever of me, I'm sure you'll agree - if you put enough pressure on coal, it'll turn to pearls! Votes: 0

But I don't know what to him about the aftermath of killing a person. About how they never leave you. Votes: 0

But I have to confess, I'm glad you two had at least a few months of happiness together." I'm not glad," says Peeta. "I wish we had waited until the whole thing was done officially." This takes even Caesar aback. "Surely even a brief time is better than no time?" Maybe I'd think that, too, Caesar," says Peeta bitterly, "If it weren't for the baby. Votes: 0

But if you want to find peace, you must first be able to hope it is possible. Votes: 0

But in my head I can hear Haymitch's smug, if slightly exasperated, words: "Yes, that's what I'm looking for, sweetheart. Votes: 0

but it's not safe and I can feel him slipping away, so I just get out one more sentence. "Stay with me." As the tendrils of sleep syrup pull me down, I hear him whisper a word back but I don't catch it. Votes: 0

But it's Posy, Gale's five-year-old sister, who helps the most. She scoots along the bench to Octavia and touches her skin with a tentative finger. "You're green. Are you sick?" "It's a fashion thing, Posy. Like wearing lipstick," I say. "It's meant to be pretty," whispers Octavia, and I can see the tears threatening to spill over her lashes. Posy considers this and says matter-of-factly, "I think you'd be pretty in any color. Votes: 0

But just before they cut back to the main newscaster, I see the unmistakable flash of that same mockingjay's wing. The reporter has simply been incorporated into the old footage. She's not in District 13 at all. Which begs the question, What is? Votes: 0

But just the fact that he was sparkling leads me to doubt everything that happened. Votes: 0

But Mockingjays were never a weapon," said Madge. "They're just songbirds. Right?" "Yeah, I guess so," I said, But it's not true. A mockingbird is just a songbird. A mockingjay is a creature the capitol never intended to exist. They hadn't counted on the highly controlled jabberjay having the brains to adapt to the wild, to thrive in a new form. They hadn't anticipated its will to live. Votes: 0

But once I saw Fulvia Cardew crumple up a sheet of paper with just a couple of words written on it and you would've thought she'd murdered someone from the looks she got. Votes: 0

But the only thing that distracts me from my current situation is fantasizing about killing President Snow. Votes: 0

But the words are easy and soothing, promising tomorrow will be more hopeful than this awful piece o time we call today. Votes: 0

But there was only one kiss that made me feel something stir deep inside. Only one that made me want more. But my head wound started bleeding and he made me lie down. Votes: 0

But there's food if you know how to find it. My father knew and he taught me some before he was blown to bits in a mine explosion. There was nothing even to bury. I was eleven then. Five years later, I still wake up screaming for him to run. Votes: 0

But what was it Haymitch said when I asked if he had told Peeta the situation? That he had to pretend to be desperately in love? "Don't have to. He's already there. Votes: 0

Buttercup, miserable even with Prim's constant attention, huddles in the cube and exhales cat breath in my face. Votes: 0

By the way, I know about the kiss." Then the door clicks shut behind him. Votes: 0

Caesar Flickerman asks if the president has a date in mind. "Oh, before we set a date, we better clear it with Katniss's mother," says the president. The audience gives a big laugh and the president puts his arm around me. "Maybe if the whole country puts its mind to it, we can get you married before you're thirty." "You'll probably have to pass a new law," I say with a giggle. "If that's what it takes," says the president with conspiratorial good humor. Oh, the fun we two have together. Votes: 0

Charred bits of black silk swirl into the air, and pearls clatter to the stage" I'm in a dress of the exact design of my wedding dress, only it's the color of coal and made of tiny feathers. Wonderingly, I lift my long, flowing sleeves into the air, and that's when I see myself on the television screen. Clothed in black except for the white patches on my sleeves. Or should I say my wings. Because Cinna had turned me into a mockingjay. Votes: 0

Closing my eyes doesn't help. Fire burns brighter in the darkness. Votes: 0

Clove!" Cato's voice is much nearer now. I can tell by the pain in it that he sees her on the ground. "You better run now, Fire Girl," says Thresh. I don't need to be told twice. I flip over and my feet dig into the hard-packed earth as I run away from Thresh and Clove and the sound of Cato's voice. Only when I reach the woods do I turn back for an instant. Thresh and both large backpacks are vanishing over the edge of the plain into the area I've never seen. Cato kneels beside Clove, spear in hand, begging her to stay with him. In a moment, he will realize it's futile, she can't be saved. Votes: 0

Come on and eat with him. I promise, I won't let him kiss you again. Votes: 0

Courage only counts when you can count. Votes: 0

Crying is not an option. Votes: 0

Dawn comes before sleep does. Votes: 0

deep in the meadow , under the willow , a bed of grass , a soft green pillow Votes: 0

Deep in the meadow, hidden far away A cloak of leaves, a moonbeam ray Forget your woes and let your troubles lay And when it's morning again, they'll wash away Here it's safe, here it's warm Here the daisies guard you from every harm Here your dreams are sweet and tomorrow brings them true Here is the place where I love you. Votes: 0

Delly lost her temper at Peeta over how he treated you. She got very squeaky. It was like someone stabbing a mouse with a fork repeatedly. Votes: 0

Desperate, yet no longer alone after that day, because we'd found each other. Votes: 0

Despite serious reservations, I had to forgive Finnick for his role in the conspiracy that landed me here. He, at least has some idea of what I'm going through. And it takes too much energy to stay angry with someone who cries so much. Votes: 0

Despite what I feel for Peeta, this is when I accept deep down that he'll never come back to me. Or i'll never go back to him. I'll die for my trouble. And he'll die insane and hating me. Votes: 0

Destroying things is much easier than making them. Votes: 0

Do i really want him dead? What i want... what i want is to have him back. Votes: 0

Do it. Before they send those mutts back or something. I don't want to die like Cato," he says. "Then you shoot me," I say furiously, shoving the weapons back at him. "You shoot me and go home and live with it!" And as I say it, I know death right here, right now would be the easier of the two. Votes: 0

Do you really know what's going on And if you don't... find out Votes: 0

Don't let him take you from me. Votes: 0

Don't want that, do they?" She throws back her head and shouts, "Whole country in rebellion? Wouldn't want anything like that! Votes: 0

Each time I wake,I think, At last, this is over, but it isn't. Votes: 0

Either you came in here a swimmer or you'd better be a really fast learner Votes: 0

Enobaria smiles at Johanna. 'Don't look so smug,' says Johanna. 'We'll kill you anyway. Votes: 0

Even if times got bad, he would never again deny himself the possibility that the future might be happy even if the present was painful. He would allow himself dreams. Votes: 0

Everything is about them, not the dying boys and girls in the arena. Votes: 0

Everything is happening too fast for me to process it. Votes: 0

Exactly how am I supposed to work in a thank-you in there? Somehow it just won't seem sincere if I'm trying to slit his throat. Votes: 0

Eyes on the forest, not on the trees. Votes: 0

Finally, Peeta turns to Pollux. "Well, then you just became our most valuable asset." Castor laughs and Pollux manages a smile. We're halfway down the first tunnel when I realize what was so remarkable about that exchange. Peeta sounded like his old self, the one who could always think of the right thing to say when nobody else could... I glance back at him as he trudges along under his guards, Gale and Jackson, his eyes fixed on the ground, his shoulders hunched forward. So dispirited. But for a moment, he was really here. Votes: 0

Finally, the intercom crackles and Hatmitch's acerbic laugh fills the studio. He contains himself just long enough to say, 'And that, my friends, is how a revolution dies. Votes: 0

Fine. I'll train. But I'm going to the stinking capitol if I have to kill a crew and fly there myself." Says Johanna. "Probably best not to bring that up in training," I say. "But it's nice to know I'll have a ride. Votes: 0

Finnick!" Something between a shriek and a cry of joy. A lovely if somewhat bedraggled young woman--dark tangled hair, sea green eyes--runs toward us in nothing but a sheet. "Finnick!" And suddenly, it's as if there's no one in the world but these two, crashing through space to reach each other. They collide, enfold, lose their balance, and slam against a wall, where they stay. Clinging into one being. Indivisible. A pang of jealousy hits me. Not for either Finnick or Annie but for their certainty. No one seeing them could doubt their love. Votes: 0

Finnick:" Good to see you, Peeta." Peeta:" You be nice to her, Finnick. Or I might try and take her away from you." It could be a joke, if the tone wasn't so cold. Everything it conveys is wrong. The open distrust of Finnick, the implication that Peeta has his eye on Annie, that Annie could desert Finnick, that I do not even exist. Finnick:"Oh Peeta," says Finnick lightly. "Don't make me sorry I restarted your heart. Votes: 0

Finnick?" I say, "Maybe some pants?" He looks down at his legs as if noticing his outfit for the first time. Then he whips off his hospital gown leaving him in just his underwear. "Why? Do you find this" -- he strikes a ridiculously provocative pose -- "distracting?" I laugh. Boggs looks embarrassed and Finnick looks more like the guy I met at the Quarter Quell Votes: 0

Fire beats roses again. Votes: 0

Five years later I still wake up screaming for him to run Votes: 0

Flight is essential, but I can't let my fear show. Votes: 0

For a second, I'm afraid he's dying. I have to remind myself that I don't care. Votes: 0

For me, it's better to wake up with a paintbrush than a knife in my hand. -Peeta Votes: 0

Four people wheel out a huge wedding cake from a side room. Most of the guests back up, making way for this rarity, this dazzling creation with blue-green, white-tipped icing waves swimming with fish and sailboats, seals and sea flowers. But I push my way through the crowd to confirm what I knew at first sight. As surely as the embroidery stitches in Annie's gown were done by Cinna's hand, the frosted flowers on the cake were done by Peeta's. Votes: 0

Frankly, I could use a little sugarcoating. Votes: 0

Gale is mine. I am his. Anything else is unthinkable. Votes: 0

Go to sleep," he says softly. His hand brushes the lose strands of my hair off my forehead. Unlike the staged kisses and caresses so far, this gesture seems natural and comforting. I don't want him to stop and he doesn't. He's still stroking my hair when I fall asleep. Votes: 0

Greeting to the final contestants of the Seventy-fourth Hunger Games. The earlier revision has been revoked. Closer examination of the rule book has disclosed that only one winner may be allowed," he says. "Good luck and may the odds be ever in your favor. Votes: 0

Haymich finally drops the good-natured act. "you know who else, Katniss. You know who stepped up first." Of course I do. Gale. Votes: 0

He could have had his choice of any woman in the district. And he chose solitude. Not solitude "“ that sounds too peaceful. More like solitary confinement. Votes: 0

He frosted under heavy guard. Votes: 0

He hasn't accepted his death. He is already fighting hard to stay alive. Which also means that kind Peeta Mellark, the boy who gave me bread, is fighting hard to kill me. Votes: 0

He hates me more," says Peeta. "I don't think people in general are his sort of thing. Votes: 0

He puts the chain with the locket around my neck, then rests his hand over the spot where our baby would be. "You're going to make a great mother, you know," he says. He kisses me one last time and goes back to Finnick. Votes: 0

He tilts his forehead down to rest against mine and pulls me closer. His skin, his whole being radiates heat from being so near the fire, and I close my eyes, soaking in his warmth. I breathe in the smell of snow-dampened leather and smoke and apples, the smell of all those wintry days we shared before the Games. I don't try to move away. Why should I anyway? His voice drops to a whisper. "I love you." That's why. Votes: 0

He wants as many victors as possible for the cameras to follow in the Capitol. Thinks it makes for better television." "Are you and Beetee going?" I ask. "As many young and attractive victors as possible," Haymitch corrects himself. "So, no. We'll be here. Votes: 0

Her name's Prim. She's just twelve. And I love her more than anything. Votes: 0

Here began countless days of hunting and snaring, fishing and gathering, roaming together through the woods, unloading our thoughts while we filled our game bags. This was the doorway to both sustenance and sanity. And we were each other's key. Votes: 0

Here, cover yourself with this and I'll wash your shorts." "Oh, I don't care if you see me," says Peeta. Votes: 0

He's dozed off again, but I kiss him awake, which seems to startle him. Then he smiles as if he'd be happy to lie there gazing at me forever. Votes: 0

Hey, Finnick, come on in! We figured out how to make you pretty again! Votes: 0

Hey, look at this!" He holds up a glistening, perfect pearl about the size of a pea. "You know, if you put enough pressure on coal it turns to pearls," he says earnestly to Finnick. "No, it doesn't," says Finnick dismissively. But I crack up, remembering that's how a clueless Effie Trinket presented us to the people of the Capitol last year, before anyone knew us. As coal pressured into pearls by our weighty existence. Beauty that arose out of pain. Votes: 0

hey. I just wanted to make sure you got home," I say. "Katniss, I live three houses away from you," he says. Votes: 0

Highly unlikely but not impossible. Votes: 0

Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. Votes: 0

Hope, it is the only thing stronger than fear. A little hope is effective, a lot of hope is dangerous. Votes: 0

How about you, Mockingjay? You feel totally safe?" "Oh, yeah. Right up until I got shot," I say. Votes: 0

How are you managing? And don't say you're fine." It's true. Whatever the opposite of fine is, that's what I am. Votes: 0

How could I leave Prim, who is the only person in the world I'm certain I love? Votes: 0

How do you bear it?" Finnick looks at me in disbelief. "I don't, Katniss! Obviously, I don't. I drag myself out of nightmares each morning and find there's no relief in waking." "The more you can distract yourself the better, " he says. "First thing tomorrow, we'll get you your own rope. Until then take mine. Votes: 0

How much better my life has been for knowing him. For loving him, even if it's only in the limited way that I can manage. But I never get the chance. Votes: 0

I also want to tell him how much I already miss him. But that wouldn't be fair on my part. Votes: 0

i can win but you cant lose, this makes us all even in our ways. Votes: 0

I can't argue that Finnick isn't one of the most stunning, sensuous people on the planet. But I can honestly say he's never been attractive to me. Maybe he's too pretty, or maybe he's too easy to get, or maybe it's really that he'd just be too easy to lose. Votes: 0

I can't fight the sun. I can only watch helplessly as it drags me into a day that I've been dreading for months. Katniss Everdeen Votes: 0

I can't help comparing what I have with Gale to what I'm pretending to have with Peeta. How I never question Gale's motives while I do nothing but doubt the latter's. It's not a fair comparison really. Gale and I were thrown together by a mutual need to survive. Peeta and I know the other's survival means our own death. How do you sidestep that? Votes: 0

I carefully lay out the provisions. One thin black sleeping bag that reflects body heat. A pack of crackers. A pack of dried beef strips. A bottle of iodine. A box of wooden matches. A small coil of wire. A pair of sunglasses. And a half-gallon plastic bottle with a cap for carrying water that's bone dry. No water. How hard would it have been for them to fill up the bottle? Votes: 0

I cover my face with my arms because this isn't happening. It isn't possible. For someone to make Peeta forget he loves me . . . no one can do that. Votes: 0

I curl up, make myself smaller, try to disappear entirely. Wrapped in silence, I slide my bracelet that reads 'mentally disoriented' around and around my wrist. Votes: 0

I do plan on saying one or two things to him when we're allowed an hour for goodbyes. To let him know how essential he's been to me all these years. How better my life has been for knowing him." -Katniss Everdeen Votes: 0

I do think you're mad and I'll still go with you. Votes: 0

I don't have a talent, unless you count hunting illegally, which they don't. Or maybe singing, which I wouldn't do for the Capitol in a million years. My mother tried to interest me in a variety of suitable alternatives from a list Effie Trinket sent her. Cooking, flower arranging, playing the flute. None of them took, although Prim had a knack for all three. Finally Cinna stepped in and offered to help me develop my passion for designing clothes, which really required development since it was non-existent. Votes: 0

I don't know how to say it exactly. Only...I want to die as myself. Does that make any sense?' he asks. I shake my head. How could he die as anyone but himself. 'I don't want them to change me in there. Turn me into some kind of monster that I'm not. Votes: 0

I don't know what it is with Finnick and bread, but he seems obsessed with handling it. Votes: 0

I don't know what the explosion did, but it damaged something deep and irreparable. Never mind. If I get home, I'll be so stinking rich, I'll be able to pay someone to do my hearing. Votes: 0

I don't stand a chance if he doesn't get better. You'll never be able to let him go. You'll always feel wrong about being with me." "The way I always felt wrong kissing him because of you," I say. Gale holds my gaze. "If I thought that was true, I could almost live with the rest of it. Votes: 0

I don't want anyone with me today. Not even him. Some walks you have to take alone. Votes: 0

I don't want to cry. Everyone will make note of my tears and I'll be marked as an easy target. A weakling. I will give no one that satisfaction. Votes: 0

I don't want to lose the boy with the bread. Votes: 0

I drink in his wholeness, the soudness of his body and mind. It runs through me like the morphling they give me in the hospital, dulling the pain of the last weeks. Votes: 0

I feel like I owe him something, and I hate owing people. Maybe if I had thanked him at some point, I'd be feeling less conflicted now. I thought about it a couple of times, but the opportunity never seemed to present itself. And now it never will. Because we're going to be thrown into an arena to fight to the death. Exactly how am I supposed to work in a thank-you in there? Somehow it just won't seem sincere if I'm trying to slit his throat. Votes: 0

I flee what I can't fight. What can only do me harm. Votes: 0

I go back to my room and lie under the covers, trying not to think of Gale and thinking of nothing else. Votes: 0

I go to the saltwater and wash off the blood, trying to decide which I hate more, pain or itching. Fed up, I stomp back onto the beach, turn my face upward and snap, "Hey, Haymitch, if you're not too drunk, we could use a little something for our skin." It's almost funny how quickly the parachute appears above me. I reach up and the tube lands squarely in my open hand. "About time" I say, but I can't keep the scowl on my face. Haymitch. What I wouldn't give for five minutes of conversation with him. Votes: 0

I guess after tonight Boots won't think the whole world is her friend," thought Gregor. She had to find out sometime, but it still made him sad. Votes: 0

I guess there isn't a rule book for what might be unacceptable to do to another human being. Votes: 0

I had to do that. At least once. Votes: 0

I have been keeping track of the boy with the bread. Votes: 0

I have not wept since the death of my parents," said Luxa quietly. "But I am thought to be unnatural in this respect. Votes: 0

I have zero interest in these Capitol people. They are only distractions from the food. Votes: 0

I just don't want them to change me, if I'm going to die I still want to be me. Votes: 0

I keep hoping that as time passes by, we'll regain the ease between us, but part of me knows it's futile. There's no going back. Votes: 0

I killed you. And you. And you. Votes: 0

I knew it. In this way, Peeta's not hard to predict. While I was wallowing around on the floor of that cellar, thinking only of myself, he was here, thinking of me. Shame isn't a strong enough word for what I feel. Votes: 0

I knew you'd kiss me." "How?" I say. Because I didn't know myself. "Because I am in pain," He say's. "That's the only way I get your attention. Votes: 0

I know he was desperate. That makes people do all kinds of crazy things. Votes: 0

I know we promised Haymitch, we'd do exactly what they said, but I don't think he considered this angle.' 'Where is Haymitch, anyway? Isn't he supposed to protect us from this sort of thing?' says Peeta. 'With all that alcohol in him, it's probably not advisable to have him around an open flame,' I say. Votes: 0

I know what blood poisoning is, Katniss," says Peeta. "Even if my mother isn't a healer." I'm jolted back in time, to another wound, another set of bandages. "You said that same thing to me in the first Hunger Games. Real or not real?" "Real," he says. "And you risked your life getting the medicine that saved me?" "Real." I shrug. "You were the reason I was alive to do it. Votes: 0

I lean over and put my good ear to his lips, which tickle me as he whispers. "Remember, we're madly in love, so it's all right to kiss me any time you like it. Votes: 0

I look at Peeta and he gives me a sad smile. I hear Haymitch's voice. "You could do a lot worse." At this moment, it's impossible to imagine how I could do any better. The gift...it is perfect. So when I rise up on my tiptoe to kiss him, it doesn't seem forced at all. Votes: 0

I look coolly in to the blue eyes of the person who is now my greatest opponent, the person who would keep me alive at his own expense. And I promise myself I will defeat his plan. Votes: 0

I look down at our linked fingers as I loosen my grasp, but he regains his grip on me. "No, don't let go of me," he says. Votes: 0

I look down from the branch I'm perched on. The Careers look murderous. Now I smile.'How have things been with you?' I ask sweetly. Votes: 0

I mean I know it's cold out here and not everybody has a sleeping bag. But when you grit your teeth and stick it out until dawn! Votes: 0

I miss him so badly it hurts. Votes: 0

I miss home badly sometimes. But then I remember there's nothing left to miss anymore. I feel safer here. Votes: 0

I mourn my old life here. We barely scraped by, but I knew where I fit in, I knew what my place was in the tightly interwoven fabric that was our life. I wish I could go back to it because, in retrospect, it seems so secure compared to now, when I am so rich and famous and so hated by the authorities in the capitol. Votes: 0

I must still look perplexed because Gale delivers the next line very slowly. "Katniss"he's still trying to keep you alive." To keep me alive? And then I understand. The Games are still on. Votes: 0

I never see these things coming. They happen too fast. One second you're proposing an escape plan and the next... Votes: 0

I no longer feel any allegiance to these monsters called human beings, despise being one myself. Votes: 0

I noticed just about every girl, but none of them made a lasting impression but you. Votes: 0

I noticed the plants growing around me. Tall with leaves like arrowheads. Blossoms with three white petals. I knelt down in the water, my fingers digging into the soft mud, and I pulled up handfuls of the roots. Small, bluish tubers that don't look like much but boiled or baked are as good as any potato. "Katniss," I said aloud. It's the plant I was named for. And I heard my father's voice joking, "As long as you can find yourself, you'll never starve. Votes: 0

I poke around in the pile, about to settle on some cod chowder, when Peeta holds out a can to me. "Here." I take it, not knowing what to expect. The label reads LAMB STEW. Votes: 0

I press my ear against his chest, to the spot where I always rest my head, where I know I will hear the strong and steady beat of his heart. Instead, I find silence. Votes: 0

I pull an arrow, whip the notch into place, and am about to let it fly when I'm stopped by the sight of Finnick kissing Peeta. And it's so bizarre, even for Finnick. Votes: 0

I raise my left arm and twist my neck down to rip off the pill on my sleeve. Instead my teeth sink into flesh. I yank my head back in confusion to find myself looking into Peeta's eyes, only now they hold my gaze. Blood runs from the teeth marks on the hand he clamped over my nightlock. "Let me go!" I snarl at him, trying to wrest my arm from his grasp. "I can't," he says. Votes: 0

I reach out to touch his cheek and he catches my hand and presses it against his lips. Votes: 0

I realize, for the first time, how very lonely I've been in the arena. How comforting the presence of another human being can be. Votes: 0

I really can't think about kissing when I've got a rebellion to incite. Votes: 0

I remember the first time I saw you. Your hair was in two braids instead of one. I remember when you sang in the music assembly and the teacher said "who knows the valley song?" and your hand shot straight up. After that, I watched you going home everyday. Everyday Votes: 0

I search his eyes for the slightest sign of anything, fear, remorse, anger. But there's only the same look of amusement that ended our last conversation. It's as if he's speaking the words again. "Oh, my dear Miss Everdeen. I thought we had agreed not to lie to each other." He's right. We did. The point of my arrow shifts upward. I release the string. And President Coin collapses over the side of the balcony and plunges to the ground. Dead. Votes: 0

I send a silent thank-you to Dalton for suggesting I wash off the makeup. How ridiculous, how perverse I would feel presenting that painted Capitol mask to these people. The damage, the fatigue, the imperfections. That's how they recognize me, why I belong to them. Votes: 0

I shift on to my side and find myself looking directly into Gale's eyes. For an instant the world recedes and there is just his flushed face, his pulse visible at his temple, his lips slightly parted as he tries to catch his breath. Votes: 0

I sit back on my bed cross-legged and find myself rubbing the smooth iridescent surface of the pearl back and forth against my lips. For some reason, it's soothing. A cool kiss Votes: 0

I squeeze my eyes shut and try to reach for him across the hundreds and hundreds of miles, to send my thoughts into his mind, to let him know he is not alone. But he is. And I can't help him. Votes: 0

I stand there, feeling broken and small, thousands of eyes trained on me. Votes: 0

I stare at the mirror as I try to remember who I am and who I am not. Votes: 0

I take Peeta's face in my hands. "Don't worry. I'll see you at midnight. Votes: 0

I think about going to the lake, but I'm so weak that I barely make it to my meeting place with Gale. I sit on the rock where Cressida filmed us, but it's too wide without his body beside me. Several times I close my eyes and count to ten, thinking that when I open them, he will have materialized without a sound as he so often did. I have to remind myself that Gale's in 2 with a fancy job, probably kissing another pair of lips. Votes: 0

I think of the snarling, cruel exchange back on the hovercraft. The bitterness that followed. But all I say is "I can't believe you didn't rescue Peeta." "I know," he replies. There's a sense of incompleteness. And not because he hasn't apologized. But because we were a team. We had a deal to keep Peeta safe. A drunken, unrealistic deal made in the dark of night, but a deal just the same. And in my heart of hearts, I know we both failed. "Now you say it," I tell him. "I can't believe you let him out of your sight that night," says Haymitch. Votes: 0

I thought he wanted it, anyway," I say. "Not like this," Haymitch says. "He wanted it to be real. Votes: 0

I trusted him. I put what was precious in Haymitch's hands. & he has betrayed me Votes: 0

I try to forgive her for my father's sake. But to be honest, I'm not the forgiving type. Votes: 0

I turn and put my lips close to Peeta's and drop my eyelids in imitation... "He offered me sugar and wanted to know all my secrets," I say in my best seductive voice. Votes: 0

I volunteer!" I gasp. "I volunteer as tribute! Votes: 0

I vote yes....for Prim. Votes: 0

I walk around the room eating goose liver and puffy bread until there's a knock on the door. Effie's calling me to dinner. Good. I'm starving. Votes: 0

I will never have a life with Gale even if I want to. Votes: 0

I wish Peeta were here to hold me, until I remember I'm not supposed to wish that anymore. I have chosen Gale and the rebellion, and a future with Peeta is the Capitol's design, not mine. Votes: 0

I wish they were all dead and we were, too. It would be best." Well, there's no good response to that. I can hardly dispute it since I was walking around with a syringe to kill Peeta when I found them. Do I really want him dead? What I want...what I want is to have him back. Votes: 0

I wonder if Effie will still be wearing that silly pink wig, or is she'll be sporting some other unnatural color especially for the Victor Tour. Votes: 0

I wrap my arms around his neck, feel his arms hesitate before they embrace me. Not as steady as they once were, but still warm and strong. A thousand moments surge through me. All the times these arms were my only refuge from the world. Perhaps not fully appreciated then, but so sweet in my memory, and now gone for ever. Votes: 0

I'd begun to think that he'd given up on me in the weeks that had passed. Or that he no longer cared about me. Hated me even. And the idea of losing him forever, my best friend, the only person I'd ever trusted with my secrets, was so painful I couldn't stand it. Votes: 0

if he goes and dies on me now, I know I'll go completely insane. Votes: 0

If I can make it clear that I'm still defying the Capitol right up to the end, the Capitol will have killed me... but not my spirit. What better way to give hope to the rebels? Votes: 0

If I could grow wings, I could fly. Only people can't grow wings," he say's. "Real or not real?" "Real," I say. "But people don't need wings to survive." "Mockingjays do. Votes: 0

If I get home, I'll be so stinking rich, I'll be able to pay someone to do my hearing. Votes: 0

if i win and you die, i dont have a home to go back to. you are my life. Votes: 0

If I'm going to cry, now is the time. By morning, I'll be able to wash all the damage done by the tears from my face. But no tears come. I'm too tired or too numb to cry. The only thing I feel is a desire to be somewhere else. So I let the train rock me into oblivion. Votes: 0

If I'm going to die, I want to still be me Votes: 0

If it's true, why do they leave us to live like this? With the hunger and the killings and the Games?" And suddenly I hate this imaginary underground city of District 13 and those who sit by, watching us die. They're no better than the Capitol. Votes: 0

If my holding out those berries was an act of temporary insanity, then those people will embrace insanity too. Votes: 0

If the careers want me, let them find me. Votes: 0

If Under fell, if Over leaped, If death was life and Death life reaped, Something rises from the gloom, To make the Underland a tomb Hear it scratching down below, Rat of long forgotten snow, Evil cloaked in coat of White, Will the Warrior drain your light? What could turn the Warrior week? What do burning Gnawers seek? Just a barely speaking pup That holds the Land of Under up Die the baby, die his heart Die his most essential part Die the peace that rules the hour, Gnawers have their key to power Votes: 0

If you appeal to the crowd, either by being humorous or brutal or eccentric, you gain favor. Votes: 0

If you are not trying to hold on to time, you are not so afraid of losing it. Votes: 0

If you won't talk about yourself, at least compliment the audience. Just keep turning it back around, all right. Gush. Votes: 0

I'll never know what it was he wanted me to remember. Votes: 0

I'll tell them how I survive it. I'll tell them that on bad mornings, it feels impossible to take pleasure in things because I'm afraid it could be taken away. That's when I make a list in my head of every act of goodness I've seen someone do. It's like a game. Repetitive. Even a little tedious after more than twenty years. But there are much worse games to play. Votes: 0

I'll tell them that on bad mornings, it feels impossible to take pleasure in anything because I'm afraid it could be taken away. Votes: 0

I'm filled with awe, as I always am, as I watch her transform from a woman who calls me to kill a spider to a woman immune to fear. Votes: 0

I'm going to be the Mockingjay. Votes: 0

I'm in a shallow hole, not filled with the humming orange bubbles of my hallucination but with old, dead leaves. Votes: 0

I'm in pain. That's the only way I get your attention Votes: 0

I'm not allowed to bet, but if I could, my money would be on you. Votes: 0

I'm not good at talking about myself. Votes: 0

I'm on a frosting sailboat, tossed around by blue-green waves, the deck shifting beneath my feet. Votes: 0

I'm relieved Peeta's alive. I tell myself again that if I get killed, his winnings will benefit my mother and Prim the most. This is what I tell myself to explain the conflicting emotions that arise when I think of Peeta. The gratitude that he game an edge by professing his love for me in the interview. The anger at his superiority on the roof. The dread that we may come face-to-face at any moment in this arena. Votes: 0

I'm running on hate. When the energy from that ebbs I'll be worthless. Votes: 0

I'm so sorry," I whisper. I lean forward and kiss him. His eyelashes flutter and he looks at me through a haze of opiates. "Hey, Catnip." "Hey, Gale," I say. "Thought you'd be gone by now," He says. My choices are simple. I can die like a quarry in the woods or I can die here beside Gale. "I'm not going anywhere. I'm going to stay right here and cause all kinds of trouble." "Me, too," Gale says. He just manages a smile before the drugs pull him back under. Votes: 0

I'm so tired, Katniss. Votes: 0

I'm stopped by the sight of Finnick kissing Peeta. Votes: 0

I'm sure they didn't notice anything but you. You should wear flames more often," he says. "They suit you. Votes: 0

I'm trying to think of a witty comeback, when Boggs says brusquely, "Well, don't expect us to be too impressed. We just saw Finnick Odair in his underwear." I decide to go ahead and like Boggs. Votes: 0

I'm unaware that my feet are moving to the table until I'm inches from the holograph. My hand reaches in and cups a rapidly blinking green light. Someone joins me, his body tense. Finnick, of course. Because only a victor would see what I see so immediately. The arena. Laced with pods controlled by Gamemakers. Finnick's fingers caress a steady red glow over a doorway. "Ladies and gentlemen..." His voice is quiet, but mine rings through the room. "Let the Seventy-sixth Hunger Games begin! Votes: 0

I'm very hard to catch," says Rue. "And if they can't catch me, they can't kill me. So don't count me out. Votes: 0

Impulsively, I lean forward and kiss him, stopping his word. This is probably overdue anyway since he's right, we are supposed to be madly in love. Votes: 0

In my mind, President Snow should be viewed in front of marble pillars hung with oversized flags. It's jarring to see him surrounded by the ordinary objects in the room. Like taking the lid off a pot and finding a fanged viper instead of stew. Votes: 0

In one horrible moment the last piece of the prophecy became clear. So bid him take care, bid him look where he leaps, As life may be death and death life again reaps. He had to leap, and by his death, the others would live. That was it. That was what Sandwich had been trying to say all along, and by now he believed in Sandwich. He put on a final burst of speed, just like the coach taught him in track. He gave everything he had. In the last few steps before the canyon he felt a sharp pain in the back of his leg, and then the ground gave way under his feet. Gregor the Overlander leaped. Votes: 0

In other words, I step out of line and we're all dead. Votes: 0

In stark contrast to two nights ago, when I felt Peeta was a million miles away, I'm struck by his immediacy now. As we settle in, he pulls my head down to use his arm as a pillow; the other rests protectively over me even when he goes to sleep. No one has held me like this in such a long time. Since my father died and I stopped trusting my mother, no one else's arms have made me feel this safe. Votes: 0

Instead of satisfying me, the kisses have the opposite effect, of make my need greater. I thought I was something of an expert on hunger, but this is an entirely new kind. Votes: 0

Instead, I watch myself get shot on television. Votes: 0

Isn't it strange that I know you'd risk your life to save mine, but I don't even know what your favorite color is? Votes: 0

it is a perfect weapon Votes: 0

It means thanks, it means admiration, it means good-bye to someone you love. Votes: 0

It means we're on your side." That's what Bonnie said. I have people on my side? What side? Am I unwittingly the face of the hoped-for rebellion? Has the mockingjay on my pin become a symbol of resistance? If so, my side's not doing too well. Votes: 0

It must be very fragile, if a handful of berries can bring it down. Votes: 0

It sends out a very clear message: "Mess with us and we'll do something worse than kill you. We'll kill your children. Votes: 0

It starts at midnight. Votes: 0

It'd be better if he were easier to hate. Votes: 0

It's a long shot, it's suicide maybe, but I do the only thing I can think of. I lean in and kiss Peeta full on the mouth. His whole body starts shuddering, but I keep my lips pressed to his until I have to come up for air. My hands slide up his wrists to clasp his. "Don't let him take you from me." Peeta's panting hard as he fights the nightmares raging his head. "No. I don't want to. . ." I clench his hands to the point of pain. "Stay with me." His pupils contract to pinpoints, dilate again rapidly, and then return to something resembling normalcy. "Always," he murmurs. Votes: 0

It's funny, because even though they're rattling on about the Games, it's all about where they were or what they were doing or how they felt when a specific event occurred. . . . Everything is about them, not the dying boys and girls in the arena Votes: 0

It's just me and the Bane. And I'm fighting him because he killed all of those innocent mice and people, and I have to stop him. Not because Sandwich says so but because I say so. Votes: 0

It's lovely. If only you could frost someone to death. Votes: 0

It's lovely. If only you could frost someone to death." "Don't be so superior. You can never tell what you will find in the arena. Say it's a gigantic cake- Votes: 0

It's more complicated than that. I know them. They're not evil or cruel. They're not even smart. Hurting them, it's like hurting children. Votes: 0

its not in my nature to go down without a fight even when things seem insurmountable Votes: 0

It's not wondering what I breathe in, but who, that threatens to choke me. Votes: 0

It's strange to be so physically close to someone who's so distant Votes: 0

It's the final word in camouflage. Forget chucking weights around. Peeta should have gone into his private session with the Gamemakers and painted himself into a tree. Or a boulder. Or a muddy bank full of weeds. Votes: 0

It's the first gift that's always the hardest to pay back. Votes: 0

It's the first time I've ever kissed a boy, which should make some sort of impression I guess, but all I can register is how unnaturally hot his lips are from the fever. Votes: 0

It's to the Capitol's advantage to have us divided among ourselves. Another tool to cause misery in our district. A way to plant hatred between the starving workers [of the Seam] and those who can generally count on supper and thereby ensure we will never trust one another. Votes: 0

It's weird, how much he's noticed me... And apparently, I have not been as oblivious to him as I imagined, either. Votes: 0

It's your own fault for being so camera-ready," I tell Gale. If looks could kill. Votes: 0

I've spent so much time making sure I don't underestimate my opponents that I've forgotten it's just as dangerous to overestimate them as well. Votes: 0

I've stopped talking because there's really nothing left to say and there's this piercing sort of pain where my heart is. Maybe I'm even having a heart attack, but it doesn't seem worth mentioning. Votes: 0

Jackson has devised a game called "Real or Not Real" to help Peeta. He mentions something he thinks happened, and they tell him if it's true or imagined, usually followed by a brief explanation. Votes: 0

Johanna glances over at Finnick, to be sure, then turns to me. "How'd you lose Mags?" "In the fog. Finnick had Peeta. I had Mags for a while. Then I couldn't lift her. Finnick said he couldn't take them both. She kissed him and walked right into the poison," I say. "She was Finnick's mentor, you know," Johanna says accusingly. "No, I didn't," I say. "She was half his family," she says a few moments later, but there's less venom behind it. Votes: 0

Just because people starve in a book, doesn't mean that we will starve in the future.... Votes: 0

Just give him the medicine!" I scream at her. "Give it to him! Who are you, anyway, to decide how much pain he can stand! Votes: 0

Just last year i wanted to kill him, but now it is my duty to save him. Votes: 0

Just one more thing. I kill Snow. Votes: 0

Just remember, stealing's punishable by death Votes: 0

Just the perfect touch of rebellion," says Haymitch "Very nice." Rebellion? Votes: 0

Just the sound of his voice twists my stomach into a knot of unpleasant emotions like guilt, sadness and fear. And longing. I might as well admit there's some of that too. Votes: 0

Katniss Everdeen, you have caused a spark, wich left unattended, may cause a spark that could cause a whole rebelion Votes: 0

Katniss, I don't think President Snow will kill Peeta. If he does, he won't have any way to hurt you." "So, what do you think they'll do to him?" I ask. "Whatever it takes to break you. Votes: 0

Katniss: 'What about you? Ive seen you in the market. You can lift hundred pound bags of flour'. I snap at him Tell him that. Thats not nothing. Peeta: Yes and Im sure the arena will be full of bags of flour for me to chuck at people. Votes: 0

Katniss?" He drops my hand and I take a step, as if to catch my balance. "It was all for the Games," Peeta says. "How you acted." "Not all of it," I say, tightly holding onto my flowers. "Then how much? No, forget that. I guess the real question is what's going to be left when we get home?" he says. "I don't know. The closer we get to District Twelve, the more confused I get," I say. He waits, for further explanation, but none's forthcoming. "Well, let me know when you work it out," he says, and the pain in his voice is palpable. Votes: 0

KEEP CALM and HAVE A SUGAR CUBE Votes: 0

Ladies and gentlemen....." His voice is quiet, but mine rings through the room. "Let the Seventy-sixth Hunger Games begin! Votes: 0

Lay down your head, and close your sleepy eyes, and when again they open, the sun will rise. Votes: 0

Let me go!" I snarl at him, trying to wrest my arm from his grasp. "I can't," he says. Votes: 0

Let the Hunger Games Begin! Votes: 0

Let them go, I tell myself. Say good-bye and forget them. I do my best, thinking of them one by one, releasing them like birds from the protective cages inside me, locking the doors against their return. Votes: 0

Live your life, take chances, be crazy. Dont wait 'cause right now is the oldest you've ever been & the youngest you'll be ever again Votes: 0

Living out here, I have found that many creatures would prefer not to fight. But if your first instinct is to reach for your sword, you will never discover that. Votes: 0

ll I can think about, every day, every waking minute since they drew Prim's name at the reaping, is how afraid I am. Votes: 0

Look how we take your children and sacrifice them and there's nothing you can do. If you lift a finger, we will destroy every last one of you. Just as we did in District Thirteen. Votes: 0

Look, if you wanted to be babied you should have asked Peeta. Votes: 0

Maybe . . . because for the first time . . . there was a chance I could keep him," I say. "So now that you've got me, what are you going to do with me?" "Put you somewhere you can't get hurt." And when he kisses me, people in the room actually sigh. Votes: 0

Maybe I'd think that, too, Caesar," says Petta bitterly, "if it weren't for the baby." There. He's done it again. Votes: 0

Maybe I'll be like that man in "The Hanging Tree'. Still waiting for an answer. Votes: 0

Maybe I'll be like the man in the Hanging Tree still waiting for an answer.' Gale who I have never seen cry has tears in his eyes. To keep them from spilling over. I reach forward and press my lips against his. We taste of heat, ashes and misery. Votes: 0

maybe it's that we are all so starved for something good to happen that we want to be a part of it. Votes: 0

Maybe the other tributes are out there beating one another senseless. Which would be fine. - Katniss - Votes: 0

Most of the Peacekeepers turn a blind eye to the few of us who hunt because they're as hungry as we are for fresh meat as anyone. In fact, they're among our best customers. Votes: 0

Mostly we just add to the piles of rainbow glass that's been blown off the exteriors of the cany-colored buildings. Votes: 0

Mutually counting on each other, watching each other's backs, forcing each other to be brave. Votes: 0

My death could, in fact, save him. If it can't, no matter. It's enough to die of spite. To punish Haymitch, who, of all the people in this rotting world, has turned Peeta and me into pieces in his Games. I trusted him. I put what was precious in Haymitch's hands. And he has betrayed me. Votes: 0

My guess is that fearful events are the hardest to root out. They're the ones we naturally remember the best, after all. Votes: 0

My little sister, Prim, curled up on her side, cocooned in my mother's body, their cheeks pressed together. In sleep, my mother looks younger, still worn but not so beaten-down. Prim's face is as fresh as a raindrop, as lovely as the primrose for which she was named. My mother was very beautiful once, too. Or so they tell me. Votes: 0

My mother just wanted me to forget it. So, of course, every word was immediately, irrevocably branded into my brain. Votes: 0

My mother says healers are born, not made. Votes: 0

My name is Katniss Everdeen. My home is District Twelve. Peeta was taken prisoner. He is thought to be dead. Most likely is dead. It would probably be best if he were dead... - Katniss EverdeenS Votes: 0

My nightmares are usually about losing you. I'm okay once I realize you're here. Votes: 0

My sleep wasn't peaceful, though. I have the sense of emerging from a world of dark, haunted places where I traveled alone. Votes: 0

My time in the arena made me realize how I needed to stop punishing [my mother] for something she couldn't help, specifically the crushing depression she fell into after my father's death. Because sometimes things happen to people and they're not equipped to deal with them. Votes: 0

My voice, at first rough and breaking on the high notes, warms up into something splendid. A voice that would make the mockingjays fall silent and then tumble over themselves to join in. Votes: 0

My words hang in the air. I look to the screen, hoping to see them recording some wave of reconciliation going through the crowd. Instead I watch myself get shot on television. Votes: 0

Nerrissa? You believe her? Well, you at least have to credit her with a certain instability! Remember when she told you that I was going to take over the Fount with and army of Lobsters?" said Ripred. You did try to take over the Fount with an army of Lobsters." said Vikus. Yes, yes, but it was years before she was born. My point is, she flip-flops in and out of time like a fish in shallow waters." answered Ripred. Votes: 0

Never having been in love, this is going to be a real trick. I think of my parents. The way my father never failed to bring her gifts from the woods. The way my mother's face would light up at the sound of his boots at the door. The way she almost stopped living when he died. Votes: 0

Never underestimate the power of a brillian stylist. Votes: 0

Never," said Gregor. "I'll never get rid of you, no matter how hard I try." It was no longer an effort to say the words. "I love you." "I love you, too," said Luxa. After that there was nothing left to say. Votes: 0

No more fear of hunger. A new kind of freedom. But what then ... what? What would my life be like on a daily basis? Most of it has been consumed with the acquisition of food. Take that away and I'm not really sure who I am, what my identity is. The idea scares me some. Votes: 0

No more kisses for you, until you have eaten ! Votes: 0

No one knows what to do with you, girlie. Votes: 0

No one really needs me," he says, and there is no self-pity in his voice. It's true his family doesn't need him. They will mourn him, as will a handful of friends. But they will get on. Even Haymitch, with the help of a lot of white liquor, will get on. I realize only one person will be damaged beyond repair if Peeta dies. Me. "I do," I say. "I need you. Votes: 0

No one really needs me," he says, and there's no self-pity in his voice..."I do," I say. "I need you." He looks upset, takes a deep breath as if to begin a long argument, and that's no good, no good at all, because he'll start going on about Prim and my mother and everything and I'll just get confused. So before he can talk, I stop his lips with a kiss. Votes: 0

No wonder I won the Games. NO decent person ever does. Votes: 0

No, you won her over. Gave up everything for her. Maybe that's the only way to convince her you love her. Votes: 0

No. Now, shut up and eat your pears. Votes: 0

Not daring to flee since my general location has just been broadcast to any killer who cares. I mean, I know it's cold out here and not everybody has a sleeping bag. Votes: 0

Not exactly. You see, Portia and I think that the coal miner thing's very overdone. No one will remember you in that. And we both see it has our job to make District 12 tributes unforgettable,' says Cinna. I'll be naked for sure, I think. 'So rather than focus on the coal mining itself, we're going to focus on the coal,' says Cinna. Naked and covered in black dust, i think. 'And what do we do with coal? We burn it,' says Cinna. 'You're not afraid of fire, are you, Katniss?' He sees my expression and grins. Votes: 0

Not if we blow it up," Gale says brusquely. His intent, his full intent, becomes clear. Gale has no interest in preserving the lives of those in the Nut. No interest in caging the pray for later use. This is one of his death traps. Votes: 0

Not only does he hate me, and want to kill me, he no longer believes I'm human. It was less painful being strangled. Votes: 0

Obviously this person's a hazard. Stupid people are dangerous. Votes: 0

Of course you are. The tributes were necessary to the Games, too. Until they weren't," I say. "And then we were very disposable - right, Plutarch? Votes: 0

Oh, and I suppose the apples ate the cheese. Votes: 0

Oh, my dear Miss Everdeen. I thought we had an agreement not to lie to each other. Votes: 0

Oh, no. It costs a lot more than your life. To murder innocent people?" says Peeta. "It costs everything you are. Votes: 0

Oh, Peeta, Don't make me sorry I restarted your heart. Votes: 0

Oh, that I do know...Katniss will pick whoever she thinks she can't survive without. Votes: 0

Oh, the fun we two have together. Votes: 0

Oh, well. At least my blood is flowing. Votes: 0

Okay, listen to me, you're stronger than they are. You are. They just want a good show, that's all they want. You know how to hunt. Show them how good you are. Votes: 0

Once I'm on my feet I realize escape might not be so easy. Votes: 0

One night, I was lying in bed, and I was channel surfing between reality TV programs and actual war coverage. On one channel, there's a group of young people competing for I don't even know; and on the next, there's a group of young people fighting in an actual war. I was really tired, and the lines between these stories started to blur in a very unsettling way. That's the moment when Katniss's story came to me. Votes: 0

One slip. One slip in thousands. The odds had been entirely in her favor. But it hadn't mattered. Votes: 0

One time, my mother told me that I always eat like I'll never see food again. And I said, "I won't unless I bring it home." That shut her up. Votes: 0

Only I keep wishing I could think of a way...to show the Capitol they don't own me. That I'm more than just a piece in their Games. Votes: 0

Only.. I want to do die as myself Votes: 0

Our romance became a key strategy for our survival in the arena. Only it wasn't just a strategy for Peeta. Votes: 0

Peeta and I had adjoining cells in the capitol. We're very familiar with each other's screams. Votes: 0

Peeta and I had adjoining cells in the Capitol. We're very familiar with each other's screams." Annie, who's on Johanna's other side, does that thing where she covers her ears and exits reality. Finnick shoots Johanna an angry look as his arm encircles Annie. "What? My head doctor says I'm not supposed to censor my thoughts. It's part of my therapy," replies Johanna. Votes: 0

Peeta bakes. I hunt. Haymitch drinks until the liquor runs out. Votes: 0

Peeta crouches down on the other side of her and strokes her hair. When he begins to speak in a soft voice, it seems almost nonsensical, but the words aren't for me. "With my paint box at home, I can make every color imaginable. Pink. As pale as a baby's skin. Or as deep as rhubarb. Green like spring grass. Blue that shimmers like ice on water. Votes: 0

Peeta looks me right in the eye and gives my hand what I think is meant to be a reassuring squeeze. Maybe it's just a nervous spasm. Votes: 0

Peeta rinses the pearl off in the water and hands it to me. "For you." I hold it out on my palm and examine its iridescent surface in the sunlight. Yes, I will keep it. For the few remaining hours of my life I will keep it close. This last gift from Peeta. The only one I can really accept. Perhaps it will give me strength in the final moments. Votes: 0

Peeta smiles at me, sad and mocking. "Okay. Thanks for the tip, sweetheart. Votes: 0

Peeta" I said "Stay with me" I heard him say one word before the drigs pulled me under, I realised later that what he said was 'always Votes: 0

Peeta, how come I never know when you're having a nightmare?" I say. "I don't know. I don't think I cry out or thrash around or anything. I just come to, paralyzed with terror," he says. "You should wake me," I say, thinking about how I can interrupt his sleep two or three times on a bad night. About how long it can take to calm me down. "It's not necessary. My nightmares are usually about losing you," he says. "I'm okay once I realize you're here. Votes: 0

Peeta, you were supposed to wake me after a couple of hours," I say. "For what? Nothing's going on here," he says. "Besides, I like watching you sleep. You don't scowl. Improves your looks a lot." This, of course, brings on a scowl that makes him grin. Votes: 0

Peeta: You be nice to her, Finnick. Or I might try and take her away from you. Finnick: Oh, Peeta. Don't make me sorry I restarted your heart. Votes: 0

Peeta?" I creep along the bank. "Well, don't step on me. Votes: 0

People deal with me, but they are genuinely fond of Prim. Maybe there will be enough fondness to keep her alive. Votes: 0

People don't need wings to survive" "Mockingjays do. Votes: 0

Pity does not get you aid. Admiration at your refusal to give in does. Votes: 0

Plants are tricky. Many are edible, but one false mouthful and your dead Votes: 0

Please feel free to take this personally. Votes: 0

Plutarch rushes to reassure me. "Oh, no, Katniss. Not your wedding. Finnick and Annie's. All you need to do is show up and pretend to be happy for them." "That's one of the few things I won't have to pretend, Plutarch," I tell him. Votes: 0

Poison. The perfect weapon for a snake. Votes: 0

Positioned on my dresser, that white-as-snow rose is a personal message to me. It speaks of unfinished business. It whispers, I can find you. I can reach you. Perhaps I am watching you now. Votes: 0

Really? What did you cost me again? I ask. A lot of trouble. Don't worry. You'll get it all back,he says. Votes: 0

Remember, girl on fire," he says, "I'm still betting on you. Votes: 0

Remembering from last year how Haymitch's gifts are often timed to send a message, I make a note to myself. Be friends with Finnick. You'll get food. Votes: 0

Right before the explosions begin, I find a star. Votes: 0

Rue, who when you ask her what she loves most in the world, replies, of all things, "Music. Votes: 0

Scores only matter if they're very good, no one pays much attention to the bad or mediocre ones. Votes: 0

See that little girl? I wanted to marry her mother, but she ran off with a coal miner," "A coal miner? Why did she want a coal miner if she could've had you?" "Because when he sings...even the birds stop to listen. Votes: 0

Several sets of arms would embrace me. But in the end, the only person I truly want to comfort me is Haymitch, because he loves Peeta, too. I reach out for him and say something like his name and he's there, holding me and patting my back. "It's okay. It'll be okay, sweetheart." He sits me on a length of broken marble pillar and keeps an arm around me while I sob. Votes: 0

She genuinely likes people. All people, not just a select few she's spent years making up her mind about. Votes: 0

She must have really loved him to leave her home for the Seam. I try to remember that when all I can see is the woman who sat by, blank and unreachable, while her children turned to skin and bones. I try to forgive her for my father's sake. But to be honest, I'm not the forgiving type. Votes: 0

She reaches in, digs her hand deep into the ball, and pulls out a slip of paper. The crowd draws in a collective breath, and then you can hear a pin drop, and I'm feeling nauseous and so desperately hoping that it's not me, that it's not me, that it's not me. Effie Trinket crosses back to the podium, smoothes the slip of paper, and reads out the name in a clear voice. And it's not me. It's Primrose Everdeen. Votes: 0

She's not here," I tell him. Buttercup hisses again. "She's not here. You can hiss all you like. You won't find Prim." At her name, he perks up. Raises his flattened ears. Begins to meow hopefully. "Get out!" He dodges the pillow I throw at him. "Go away! There's nothing left for you here!" I start to shake, furious with him. "She's not coming back! She's never ever coming back here again!" I grab another pillow and get to my feet to improve my aim. Out of nowhere, the tears begin to pour down my cheeks. "She's dead, you stupid cat. She's dead. Votes: 0

She's Prim's size in diameter. Votes: 0

She's really gone, then. The little girl with the back of her shirt sticking out like a duck tail, Votes: 0

She's really gone, then. The little girl with the back of her shirt sticking out like a duck tail, the one who needed help reaching the dishes, and who begged to see the frosted cakes in the bakery window. Time and tragedy have forced her to grow too quickly, at least for my taste, into a young woman who stitches bleeding wounds and knows our mother can hear only so much. Votes: 0

Sick and disoriented, I'm able to form only one thought: Peeta Mellark just saved my life. Votes: 0

Slowly, with many lost days, I come back to life. Votes: 0

Smiling is mostly about smiling more. Votes: 0

So at least half the victors have instructed their mentors to request you as an ally. I know it can't be your sunny personality." "They saw her shoot," says Peeta with a smile. "Actually, I saw her shoot, for real, for the first time. I'm about to put in a formal request myself." "You're that good?" Haymitch asks me. Votes: 0

So Haymitch, what do you think of the games have one hundred percent more competitors than usual?" asks Caesar. Haymitch shrugs. "I don't see that it makes that much difference. They'll still be one hundred percent as stupid as usual, so I figure my odds will be roughly the same. Votes: 0

So I learned to hold my tongue and to turn my features into an indifferent mask so that no one could ever read my thoughts. Votes: 0

So I only say, "So what should we do with our last few days?" "I just want to spend every possible minute of the rest of my life with you," Peeta replies. Votes: 0

So I thought if I stopped being so, you know, wounded, we could take a shot at just being friends. - Peeta Mellark Votes: 0

So instead of acknowledging applause, I stand there unmoving while they take part in the boldest form of dissent they can manage. Silence. Which says we do not agree. We do not condone. All of this is wrong. Votes: 0

so people really do tear out their hair and beat the ground with their fists Votes: 0

So that's who Finnick loves, I think. Not his string of fancy lovers in the Capitol. But a poor, mad girl back home. Votes: 0

So we both strip off our boots and socks and, while there's some improvement, I could swear he's making an effort to snap every branch we encounter Votes: 0

So what I'd really like is to try and conceal him somewhere safe, then go hunt, and come back and collect him. But I have a feeling his ego isn't going to go for that suggestion. Votes: 0

So, here's what you do. You win, you go home. She can't turn you down then, eh?" says Caesar encouragingly. "I don't think it's going to work out. Winning"won't help in my case," says Peeta. "Why ever not?" says Caesar, mystified. Peeta blushes beet red and stammers out. "Because"because"she came here with me. Votes: 0

So, in a way, my name being drawn in the reaping was a real piece of luck," says Peeta. Votes: 0

So, what do you think they'll do to him?" I ask. Prim sounds about a thousand years old when she speaks. "Whatever it takes to break you. Votes: 0

Some walks you have to take alone. Votes: 0

Somehow it always comes back to coal at school. Votes: 0

Someone ought to get Haymitch a drink. Votes: 0

Something inside me shuts down and I'm too numb to feel anything. It's like watching complete strangers in another Hunger Games. But I do notice they omit the part where I covered her in flowers. Right. Because even that smacks of rebellion. Votes: 0

Something inside me twists as I remember another voice. Rue. In the arena. When I gave her the leg of groosling. "Oh, I've never had a whole leg to myself before." The disbelief of the chronically hungry. Votes: 0

Something keeps me moving forward, though. A lifetime of watching the Hunger Games lets me know that certain areas of the arena are rigged for certain attacks. And that if I can just get away from this section, I might be able to move out of reach of the launchers. I might also then fall straight into a pit of vipers, but I can't worry about that now. Votes: 0

Something small and quiet, like a match being struck, lights up the gloom inside of me. Votes: 0

Sometimes things happen to people and they're not equipped to deal with them. Votes: 0

Sometimes when things are particularly bad, my brain will give me a happy dream. Votes: 0

Sometimes when things are particularly bad, my brain will give me a happy dream. [...] When I fully awaken, I'm momentarily comforted. I try to hold on to the peaceful feeling of the dream, but it quickly slips away, leaving me sadder than ever. Votes: 0

Sorry excuses for hunters and friends. Both of us. Votes: 0

Stupid people are dangerous. Votes: 0

Suddenly I am furious, that with my life on the line, they don't even have the decency to pay attention to me. That I'm being upstaged by a dead pig. Votes: 0

Swathed in silk, I feel like a caterpillar in a cocoon awaiting metamorphosis. I always supposed that to be a peaceful condition. At first it is. But as I journey into the night, I feel more and more trapped, suffocated by the slippery bindings, unable to emerge until I have transformed into something of beauty. I squirm, trying to shed my ruined body and unlock the secret to growing flawless wings. Despite enormous effort, I remain a hideous creature, fired into my current form by the blast from the bombs. Votes: 0

Taking the kids from our districts, forcing them to kill one another while we watch "“ this is the Capitol's way of reminding us how totally we are at their mercy. Votes: 0

Taking the kids from our districts, forcing them to kill one another while we watch "“ this is the Capitol's way of reminding us how totally we are at their mercy. How little chance we would stand of surviving another rebellion. Whatever words they use, the real message is clear. "Look how we take your children and sacrifice them and there's nothing you can do. If you lift a finger, we will destroy every last one of you. Just as we did in District Thirteen Votes: 0

Thank you for you consideration Votes: 0

That it's no good loving me because I'm never going to get married anyway and he'd just end up hating me later instead of sooner. Votes: 0

That seems to be crossing some kind of line," I say. :So anything goes?" They both stare at me- Beetee with doubt, Gale with hostility. "I guess there isn't a rule book for what might be unacceptable to do to another human being. Votes: 0

That should have been my strategy! By the time I've worked through the emotions of surprise, admiration, anger, jealousy, and frustration, I'm watching that reddish mane of hair disappear into the trees well out of shooting range. Votes: 0

That was the first time I ever saw him smile. It transformed him from someone menacing to someone you wished you knew. Votes: 0

That was the one thing I had going for me. Taking care of your family. Votes: 0

That what?" "That I knew i misjudged you. That you love him. I'm not saying In what way. Maybe you don't know yourself. But anyone paying attention could see how much you care about him," he says gently. Votes: 0

The air's warm with hopeful hints of spring in it. Spring would be a good time for an uprising, I think. Everyone feels less vulnerable once winter passes. Votes: 0

The anguish I always feel when she's in pain wells up in my chest and threatens to register on my face. Votes: 0

The arenas are historic sites, preserved after the Games. Popular destinations for Capitol residents to visit, to vacation. Go for a month, rewatch the Games, tour the catacombs, visit the sites where the deaths took place. You can even take part in reenactments. They say the food is excellent Votes: 0

The awful thing is that if i can forget they're people, it will be no different at all Votes: 0

The berries. I realize the answer to who I am lies in that handful of poisonous fruit. If I held them out to save Peeta because I knew I would be shunned if I came back without him, then I am despicable. If I held them out because I loved him, I am still self-centered, although forgivable. But if I held them out to defy the capitol, I am someone of worth. The trouble is, I don't know exactly what was going on inside me at that moment. Votes: 0

The damage, the fatigue, the imperfections. That's how they recognize me; Why I belong to them. Votes: 0

The Eleventh Plague hits disturbingly close to home An excellent, taut debut novel. Votes: 0

the evil thing is inside, not out. Votes: 0

The glue of mutual need that bonded us so tightly together for all those years is melting away. Dark patches, not light, show in the spaces between us. Votes: 0

The hatred I feel for him, for the phantom girl, for everything, is so real and immediate it chokes me. Gale is mine. I am his. Anything else is unthinkable. Why did it take him being whipped within an inch of his life to see it? Votes: 0

The heat of the bread burned into my skin, but I clutched it tighter, clinging to life. Votes: 0

The idea of being strong for someone else having never entered their heads, I find myself in the position of having to console them. Since I'm the person going in to be slaughtered, this is somewhat annoying. Votes: 0

The more likable he is, the more deadly he is." -Katniss Everdeen Votes: 0

The more you can distract yourself, the better. Votes: 0

The most exciting thing either of us does is nap. Votes: 0

The ones I loved fly as birds in the open sky above me. Soaring, weaving, calling to me to join them. I want so badly to follow them, but the seawater saturates my wings, making it impossible to lift them. The ones I hated have taken to the water, horrible scaled things that tear my salty flesh with needle teeth. Biting again and again. Dragging me beneath the surface. Votes: 0

The only indication of the passage of time lies in the heavens, the subtle shift of the moon. So Peeta begins pointing it out to me, insisting I acknowledge its progress and sometimes, for just a moment I feel a flicker of hope before the agony of the night engulfs me again. Votes: 0

The only thing worse than fighting a giant scorpion was fighting a giant scorpion who was trying to protect her young. Votes: 0

The pounding music, the cheers, the admiration work their way into my blood, and I can't suppress my excitement. Cinna has given me a great advantage. No one will forget me. Not my look, not my name. Katniss. The girl who was on fire. Votes: 0

The problem is, I can't tell what's real anymore, and what's made up. Votes: 0

The question is, what are you going to do?" It turns out the question that's been eating away at me has only ever had one possible answer. But it took Peeta's ploy for me to recognize it. What am I going to do? I take a deep breath. My arms rise slightly - as if recalling the black-and-white wings Cinna gave me - then come to rest at my sides. "I'm going to be the Mockingjay. Votes: 0

The rat turned his glowing eyes on him, and Gregor was shocked by what he saw there. The intelligence, the deadliness, and, most surprisingly, the pain. This rat was not like Fangor and Shed. He was much more complicated and much more dangerous. For the first time in the Underland, Gregor felt completely out of his league. If he fought this rat, he wouldn't stand a change. He would lose. He would be dead. Votes: 0

The rat was merely trying to sleep. Believe me, pup, if I had wanted to kill you we wouldn't be having this conversation," said Ripred. Votes: 0

The realization that I'd have nothing to take home had finally sunk in. My knees buckled and I slid down the tree trunk to its roots. It was too much. I was too sick and weak and tired, oh, so tired. Let them call the Peacekeepers and take us to the community home, I thought. Or better yet, let me die right here in the rain. Votes: 0

The rules of the Hunger Games are simple. In punishment for the uprising, each of the twelve districts must provide one girl and one boy, called tributes, to participate. The twenty-four tributes will be imprisoned in a vast outdoor arena that could hold anything from a burning desert to a frozen wasteland. Over a period of several weeks, the competitors must fight to the death. The last tribute standing wins. Votes: 0

The sensation inside me grows warmer and spreads out from my chest down through my body out along my arms and legs to the tips of my being. Instead of satisfying me the kisses have the opposite effect of making my need greater. Votes: 0

The sun persists in rising, so I make myself stand Votes: 0

The way she kissed you in the Quarter Quell"well she never kissed me like that"I should have volunteered to take your place in the first Games. Protected her then"I guess it's Katniss' problem. Who to choose"Katniss will pick whoever she thinks she can't survive without. Votes: 0

The woods always look different at night...as if the daytime trees and flowers and stones had gone to bed and sent slightly more ominous versions of themselves to take their places. Votes: 0

Then he smiles as if he'd be happy to lie there and gaze at me forever. Votes: 0

Then I dive into my tent before I do something stupid like cry. Votes: 0

Then I know Prim is right, that Snow cannot afford to waste Peeta's life, especially now, while the Mockingjay causes so much havoc. He's killed Cinna already. Destroyed my home. My family, Gale, and even Haymitch are out of his reach. Peeta's all he has left. "So, what do you think they'll do to him?" I ask. Prim sound about a thousand years old when she speaks."Whatever it takes to break you. Votes: 0

Then it's just Venia, whose skin is so pale her tattoos appear to be leaping off it. Almost rigid with determination, she does my hair and nails and makeup, fingers flying swiftly to compensate for her absent teammates. The whole time, she avoids my gaze. It's only when Cinna shows up to approve me and dismiss her that she takes my hands, looks me straight in the eye, and says, "We would all like you to know what a"privilege it has been to make you look your best." Then she hastens from the room. Votes: 0

Then Octavia drops to her knees, rubs the hem of a skirt against her cheek, and burst into tears. "It's been so long," she gasps, "since I've seen anything pretty. Votes: 0

Then something unexpected happens. At least, I don't expect it because I don't think of District 12 as a place that cares about me. But a shift has occurred since I stepped up to take Prim's place, and now it seems I have become someone precious. At first one, then another, then almost every member of the crowd touches the three middle fingers of their left hand to their lips and holds it out to me. It is an old and rarely used gesture of our district, occasionally seen at funerals. It means thanks, it means admiration, it means good-bye to someone you love. Votes: 0

Then, in my most careful handwriting, come all the details it would be a crime to forget. Lady licking Prim's cheek. My father's laugh. Peeta's father with the cookies. The colour of Finnick's eyes. What Cinna could do with a length of silk. Boggs reprogramming the Holo. Rue poised on her toes, arms slightly extended, like a bird about to take flight. On and on. We seal the pages with salt water and promises to live well to make their death count. Votes: 0

There was no discussion between them; it was as if the bugs had worked out this whole scenario long ago. Temp put on a burst of speed for the end of the bridge, and Tick turned to face down the army of rats alone. Votes: 0

There were two Avoxes with me in prison. Darius and Lavinia, but the guards mostly called them the redheads. They'd been our servants in the Training Center, so they arrested them, too. I watched them being tortured to death. She was lucky. They used too much voltage and her heart stopped right off. It took days to finish him off. Beating, cutting off parts. They kept asking him questions, but he couldn't speak, he just made these horrible animals sounds. They didn't want information, you know? They wanted me to see it. Votes: 0

There's a chance that the old Peeta, the one who loves you, is still inside. Trying to get back to you. Don't give up on him. Votes: 0

There's a meeting in Command. Disregard your current schedule,' he says. 'Done,' I say. 'Did you follow it at all today?' he asks in exasperation. 'Who knows? I'm mentally disoriented.' I hold up my wrist to show my medical bracelet and realize it's gone. 'See? I can't even remember they took my bracelet.' (Katniss and Boggs) Votes: 0

There's always hand-to-hand combat. All you need is to come up with a knife, and you'll at least stand a chance. If I get jumped, I'm dead!" I can hear my voice rising in anger. "But you won't! You'll be living up in some tree eating raw squirrels and picking off people with arrows. Votes: 0

There's no going back. So we might as well get on with things. Votes: 0

there's plenty of blame to go around. Votes: 0

They can pump whatever they want into my arm but it takes more than that to keep a person going once she's lost the will to live. Votes: 0

They can't hurt me. I'm not like the rest of you. There's no one left I love. Votes: 0

They don't know that I'm already asking for the moon. Votes: 0

They erase my face with a layer of pale makeup and draw my features back out. Votes: 0

They hadn't counted on the highly controlled jabberjay having the brains to adapt to the wild, to pass on its genetic code, to thrive in a new form. They hadn't anticipated its will to live. Votes: 0

They play in the Meadow. The dancing girl with the dark hair and blue eyes. The boy with blond curls and gray eyes, struggling to keep up with her on his chubby toddler legs. It took five, ten, fifteen years for me to agree. But Peeta wanted them so badly. When I first felt her stirring inside of me, I was consumed with a terror that felt as old as life itself. Only the joy of holding her in my arms could tame it. Votes: 0

They're a little strange, but I'm pretty sure neither of them is going to try to make me uncomfortable by stripping naked. Votes: 0

They're betting on how long I'll live!' I burst out. 'They're not my friends! Votes: 0

They're betting on how long I'll live!" I burst out. "They're not my friends!" "Well, try and pretend!" snaps Effie. Then she composes herself and beams at me. "See, like this. I'm smiling at you even though you're aggravating me. Votes: 0

Thinking like your prey. . . that's where you find their vulnerabilities. Votes: 0

This is no place for a girl on fire. Votes: 0

This is the first kiss that we're both fully aware of. Neither of us hobbled by sickness or pain or simply unconscious. Our lips neither burning with fever or icy cold. This is the first kiss where I actually feel stirring inside my chest. Warm and curious. This is the first kiss that makes me want another. Votes: 0

This is what birds see. Only they're free and safe. The very opposite of me. Votes: 0

This perplexing, good natured boy who can spin out lies so convincingly to be hopelessly in love with me ... and I admit it there are moments when he makes me believe it myself. Votes: 0

Tick, tock," whispers Wiress. I guide her in front of me and get her to lie down, stroking her arm to soothe her. She drifts off, stirring restlessly, occasionally sighing out her phrase. "Tick, tock." "Tick, tock," I agree softly. "It's time for bed. Tick, tock. Go to sleep. Votes: 0

Time and tragedy have forced her to grow too quickly, at least for my taste, into a young woman who stitches bleeding wounds and knows our mother can hear only so much. Votes: 0

To be honest, I'm not much of a drinker. It makes me sick, and I hate that. Votes: 0

To the everlasting credit of the people of District 12, not one person claps. Not even the ones holding betting slips, the ones who are usually beyond caring. Possibly because they know me from the Hob, or knew my father, or have encountered Prim, who no one could help loving. So instead of acknowledging applause, I stand there unmoving while they take part in the boldest form of dissent they can manage. Silence. Which says we do not agree. We do not condone. All of this is wrong. Votes: 0

Today I might lose both of them. I try to imagine a world where both Gale's and Peeta's voices have ceased. Hands stilled. Eyes unblinking. I'm standing over their bodies, having a last look, leaving the room where they lie. But when I open the door to step out into the world, there's only a tremendous void. A pale grey nothingness that is all my future holds. Votes: 0

Tomorrow's a hunting day," I say. "I won't be much of a help with that," Peeta says. "I've never hunted before." "I'll kill and you cook," I say. "And you can always gather." "I wish there was some sort of bread bush out there," says Peeta. Votes: 0

Tonight. After the reaping, everyone is supposed to celebrate. And a a lot of people do, out of relief that their children have been spared for another year. But at least two families will pull their shutters, lock their doors, and try to figure out how they will survive the painful weeks to come. Votes: 0

Trapped for days, years, centuries maybe. Dead, but not allowed to die. Alive, but as good as dead. So alone that anyone, anything no matter how loathsome would be welcome. Votes: 0

Tuck in your tail, little duck. Votes: 0

turn and turn and turn again you see the what, but not the when remedy and wrong entwine and so they form a single vine Votes: 0

Underground. Which I hate. Like mines and tunnels and 13. Underground, where I dread dying, which is stupid because even if I die aboveground, the next thing they'll do is bury me underground anyway. Votes: 0

Vikus looked at Luxa and opened his arms. She stood, still frozen, staring at him as if he were a complete stranger. "Luxa, it's your grandpa," said Gregor. It seemed like the best and most important thing to say at the moment. "It's your grandpa." Luxa blinked. A tiny tear formed at the corner of her eye. A battle took place on her face as she tried to stop the feelings rising up inside her. The feelings won, and to Gregor's great relief, she ran into Vikus's arms. Votes: 0

Want a sugar cube?" he asks in his old seductive voice. Votes: 0

Want a sugar cube?" he asks in his old seductive voice. That's how we met, with Finnick offering me sugar. Surrounded by horses and chariots, costumed and painted for the crowds, before we were allies. Before I had any idea what made him tick. The memory actually coaxes a smile out of me. "Here, it improves the taste," he says in his real voice, plunking three cubes into my cup. Votes: 0

Warmblood now a bloodborne death, Will rob your body of it's breath Mark your skin and seal your fate The Underland becomes a plate Votes: 0

We fight, we dare, we end our hunger for justice. Votes: 0

We follow instructions to my destination, a chamber for my preparation. Votes: 0

We sit in silence awhile then I blurt out the thing that's on both our minds. "How are we going to kill these people, Peeta? Votes: 0

Well, I don't have much competition here." "You don't have much competition anywhere. Votes: 0

Well, I knew that goat would be a little gold mine," I say. Yes, of course I was referring to that, not the lasting joy you gave your sister you love so much you took her place in the reaping," says Peeta drily. Votes: 0

We're supposed to be making up this stuff, playing at being in love, not actually being in love. Votes: 0

What about Gale?" "He's not a bad kisser either," I say shortly. "And it was okay with both of us? You kissing the other?" He asks. "No. It wasn't okay with either of you. But I wasn't asking your permission," I tell him. Peeta laughs again, coldly, dismissively. "Well, you're a piece of work, aren't you? Votes: 0

What about you?" "Not a clue. I keep wishing I could bake a cake or something. Votes: 0

What do I mean when I say I love Gale? I don't know. I did kiss him last night, in a moment when my emotions were running so high. But I'm sure he doesn't remember it. Does he? I hope not. If he does, everything will just get more complicated and I really can't think about kissing when I've got a rebellion to incite. Votes: 0

What do you think?" I whisper to Peeta. "About the fire?" "I'll rip off your cape if you'll rip off mine," he says through gritted teeth. Votes: 0

What does this mean? It means I get to spend the morning having the hair ripped off my body while Peeta sleeps in. Votes: 0

What happens when we get back? I don't know. I guess we try and forget. I don't want to forget. Votes: 0

What have the nibblers ever done for you?" The breeze ruffled her hair, pushing it back from her face, giving him a clear shot of her eyes. They were asking for an answer. Needing to know if she could count on him. "They saved your life," he said. And for just a moment, Luxa's face softened and she smiled. Votes: 0

what is the worst pain? To me, it's always the pain that is present. Votes: 0

What must it be like, I wonder, to live in a world where food appears at the press of a button? Votes: 0

What must it be like, I wonder, to live in a world where food appears at the press of a button? How would I spend the hours I now commit to combing the woods for sustenance if it were so easy to come by? What do they do all day, these people in the Capitol, besides decorating their bodies and waiting around for a new shipment of tributes to rill in and die for their entertainment? Votes: 0

What say you, Luxa?" said Vikus. "What can I say, Vikus? Can I return to our people and tell them I withdrew from the quest when our survival hangs in the balance?" said Luxa bitterly. "Of course you cannot, Luxa. This is why he times it so," said Henry. "You could choose to - " started Vikus. "I could choose! I could choose!" retorted Luxa. " Do not offer me a choice when you know none exits!" She and Henry turned their backs on Vikus. Votes: 0

What was that you were saying just before the food arrived? Something about me... no competition... best thing that ever happened to you... Votes: 0

What will break me into a million pieces so that I am beyond repair, beyond usefulness? Votes: 0

What? My head doctor says I'm not supposed to censor my thoughts. It's part of my therapy. Votes: 0

Whatever it takes to break you. Votes: 0

Whatever the opposite of fine is, that's what I am. Votes: 0

Whatever the truth is, I don't see how it will help me get food on the table. Votes: 0

When I ask Plutarch about his absence, he just shakes his head and says, "He couldnt face it." "Haymitch? Not able to face something? Wanted a day off, more likely," I say. "I think his actual words were 'I couldn't face it without a bottle,'" says Plutarch. Votes: 0

When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim`s warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress. She must have had bad dreams and climbed in with our mother. Of course, she did. This is the day of the Reaping. Votes: 0

When I wake, I have a brief, delicious feeling of happiness that is somehow connected with Peeta. Happiness, of course, is a complete absurdity at this point, since at the rate things are going, I'll be dead in a day. And that's the best-case scenario, if I'm able to eliminate the rest of the field, including myself, and get Peeta crowned as the winner of the Quarter Quell. Still, the sensation's so unexpected and sweet I cling to it, if only for a few moments. Before the gritty sand, the hot sun, and my itching skin demand a return to reality. Votes: 0

Where did they get those screams, Katniss? Votes: 0

While you live, the revolution lives Votes: 0

Who says i can't handle it? I can handle it," said Gregor obviously not handling it. Votes: 0

Whose is it, do you think?" I say finally. "No telling," says Finnick. "Why don't we let Peeta claim it, since he died today? Votes: 0

Why am I hopping around like some trained dog trying to please people I hate? Votes: 0

Why don't I just pretend I'm on camera, Plutarch?" I say. "Yes! Perfect. One is always much braver with an audience," he says. "Look at the courage Peeta just displayed!" It's all I can do not to slap him. Votes: 0

Winning means fame and fortune. Losing means certain death. The Hunger Games have begun" Votes: 0

Winning the Games will make you famous, losing will mean death. Votes: 0

Yeah, about that," says Peeta, entwining his fingers in mine. "Don't try something like that again." "Or what?" I ask. "Or . . . or . . ." He can't think of anything good. "Just give me a minute. Votes: 0

Yes, and I'm sure the arena will be full of bags of flour for me to chuck at people. Votes: 0

Yes, everyone in the districts will be watching me to see how I handle this death sentence, this final act of President Snow's dominance. They will be looking for some sign that their battles have not been in vain. If I can make it clear that I'm still defying the Capitol right up to the end, the Capitol will have killed me"but not my spirit. What better way to give hope to the rebels? Votes: 0

Yes, frosting. The final defense of the dying. Votes: 0

Yes, I'm a mouse. Squeak, squeak. Now shoo-shoo back to your little bug friends," said Rirped, picking up a hunk of dried beef. He tore a off a piece with his teeth and noticed Boots hadn't moved. He pulled back his lips to reveal a row of jagged teeth and gave her a sharp hiss. Votes: 0

Yes, it's your fault I'm alive. Votes: 0

Yes, they have to have a victor. Without a victor, the whole thing would blow up in the Gamemakers' faces. They'd have failed the Capitol. Might possibly even be executed, slowly and painfully, while the cameras broadcast it to every screen in the country. Votes: 0

Yes, victors are our strongest. They're the ones who survived the arena and slipped the noose of poverty that strangles the rest of us. They, or should I say we, are the very embodiment of hope where there is no hope. And now twenty-three of us will be killed to show how even that hope was an illusion. Votes: 0

Yes. I killed him. And buried her in flowers," I say. "And I sang her to sleep. Votes: 0

You can swim, too." he says. "Where did you learn that in District Twelve?" "We have a very big bathtub. Votes: 0

You can tell by the way the girls whisper about him when he walks by in school that they want him. It makes me jealous but not for the reason people would think. Good hunting partners are hard to find. Votes: 0

You can't miss your schedule. Every morning, you're supposed to stick your right arm in this contraption in the wall. It tattoos the smooth inside of your forearm with your schedule for the day in a sickly purple ink. 7:00—Breakfast. 7:30—Kitchen Duties. 8:30—Education Center, Room 17. And so on. The ink is indelible until 22:00—Bathing Votes: 0

You could do a lot worse. Votes: 0

You don't forget the face of the person who was your last hope. Votes: 0

You haven't hurt people—you've given them an opportunity. They just have to be brave enough to take it. Votes: 0

You know what I miss? More than anything? Coffee. -- Plutarch Heavensbee Votes: 0

You know, I think this is the first time we've ever done anything normal together. Votes: 0

You know, you could live a thousand lifetimes and not deserve him. Votes: 0

You know, you're kind of squeamish for such a lethal person Votes: 0

You never know. Say the arena's actually a giant cake-" "Say we move on," I broke in. Votes: 0

You would think after all the hours I'd spent with Gale"“ watching him talk and laugh and frown"“ that I would know all there was to know about his lips. But I hadn't imagined how warm they would feel pressed against my own. Or how those hands [...] could entrap me" I vaguely remember my fingers, curled tightly closed, resting on his chest. Votes: 0

You'd have thought we planned it," says Peeta, giving me just the hint of a smile. "Didn't you?" asks Portia. Her fingers press her eyelids closed as if she's warding off a very bright light. "No," I say looking at Peeta with a new sense of apreciation. "Neither of us even knew what we were going to do before we went in." "And Haymitch?" says Peeta. "We decided we don't want any other allies in the arena." "Good. Then I won't be responsible for you killing off any of my friends with your stupidity," he says. Votes: 0

Your favorite colour . . . it's green?" "That's right." Then I think of something to add. "And yours is orange." "Orange?" He seems unconvinced. "Not bright orange. But soft. Like the sunset," I say. "At least, that's what you told me once." "Oh." He closes his eyes briefly, maybe trying to conjure up that sunset, then nods his head. "Thank you." But more words tumble out. "You're a painter. You're a baker. You like to sleep with the windows open. You never take sugar in your tea. And you always double-knot your shoelaces. Votes: 0

You're alive," I whisper, pressing my palms against my cheeks, feeling the smile that's so wide it must look like a grimace. Peeta's alive. Votes: 0

You're not afraid I'll kill you tonight?" "Like I couldn't take you. Votes: 0

You're not going to die. I forbid it. All right?" "All right," he whispers. Votes: 0

You're not leaving me here alone," I say. Because if he dies, I'll never go home, not really. I'll spend the rest of my life in this arena, trying to think my way out. Votes: 0

You're punishing him over and over for things that are out of his control. Votes: 0

You're punishing him over and over for things that are out of his control. Now, I'm not saying you shouldn't have a fully loaded weapon next to you round the clock. But I think it's time you flipped this little scenario in your head. If you'd been taken by the Capitol, and hijacked, and then tried to kill Peeta, is this the way he would be treating you?" demands Haymitch. I fall silent. It isn't. It isn't how he would be treating me at all. He would be trying to get me back at any cost. Not shutting me out, abandoning me, greeting me with hostility at every turn. Votes: 0

You've got about as much charm as a dead slug. Votes: 0