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survival sacrifice a book excerpt review
Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel) (The Hunger Games)
Page 329 Review
Book Review: A Moment of Respite and Looming Danger
The provided excerpt plunges us into a post-apocalyptic world, focusing on the protagonist’s encounter with a weary traveler and their shared struggle for survival.
The narrative is laced with a sense of responsibility and the heavy burden of protecting the vulnerable.
A Sanctuary, However Temporary
The exchange begins with the protagonist attempting to reassure the newcomer about the relative safety of their current location. “Well, I don’t really think anybody much is at home,” I say. “There weren’t many left.
No more than we can handle.
And they don’t kill you when they sting, just give you a nasty shock.
I had dozens and I’m fine.
So it’s probably safer than a lot of places, since they tend to space the mutts out.” This quote highlights the protagonist’s pragmatism and resourcefulness in a dangerous environment.
They’ve assessed the risks and determined a course of action, offering a temporary refuge to the weary traveler.
The Weight of Responsibility
The protagonist’s internal monologue reveals a deeper anxiety and a recurring theme of being a caretaker for those weaker than themselves.
The passage, “Could I rest here a bit, do you think?” / I look at his puffy eyes. “Sure.
I don’t really have any plans this afternoon.” I make him a bed out of my hammock and he tosses a bit, then drifts off to sleep.
Looking at him, I can’t help thinking that all the little ones seem to end up with me.
Louella.
Lou Lou.
Ampert.
I can’t keep a one of them safe.
Why do they flock to me?” paints a poignant picture of their internal conflict.
This section is critical for understanding the character’s motivations and the emotional toll of their responsibilities.
Preparing for the Inevitable: A Nighttime Mission
Despite offering comfort, the protagonist remains focused on the impending danger and the need for proactive action. “When Ampert’s settled into a deep slumber, I begin my preparations for the bombing, gathering double the wood and pine needles I did yesterday.
This will be a nighttime job, and the fire’s my responsibility, both for illumination and ignition.” This emphasizes the constant threat that looms over them and the necessity for strategic planning.
The fire serves as both a source of light and a weapon, symbolizing the protagonist’s ability to adapt and utilize available resources.
Sacrifice and Strategy
The final lines of the excerpt underscore the protagonist’s selflessness and strategic thinking: “Since my butterfly torch held up pretty well, I make sure and break off a few more branches from what I judge to be the same kind of tree.
Not wanting to waste my fuel, I set up the fire site, but hold off on lighting it.
No potatoes tonight.
I’ll leave them for Ampert, who stands a better chance of surviving our mission.” The decision to forgo food for themselves, prioritizing Ampert’s survival, further highlights their compassionate nature and the sacrifices they are willing to make.
This sets the stage for a potentially perilous mission, leaving the reader to wonder about the challenges and outcomes that await.
Final Thoughts
The excerpt effectively establishes a compelling narrative through its strong characterization, vivid world-building, and underlying themes of survival, responsibility, and sacrifice.
The protagonist’s internal struggles and strategic decisions create a sense of anticipation and intrigue, leaving the reader eager to discover what unfolds next.
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Survival Sacrifice A Book Excerpt Review
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