"The Hunger Games" is one of the most famously popular book and movie series around the world. It has launched the careers of actors and actresses (like Jennifer Lawrence), became an international bestseller, earned a place in pop culture and the books have sold over 65 million copies in the United States as of October 2014 .
However, this series is not just important because of its popularity. A good book teaches its reader important life lessons and/or has the reader ponder a certain issue. "The Hunger Games"is about survival, trust, sacrifice and knowing the world is not black and white. There are seven lessons everyone should glean from this series.
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1. People are not always who they appear to be.
Effie may appear air-headed and self-absorbed at first, but as the novels progresses she proves herself to be a loyal, caring friend and ally to Katniss and Peeta. Peeta appears to be lying about having feelings for Katniss at first but it doesn't take long for her to figure out his feelings are genuine. Heavensbee, a Game Maker, is also revealed to be on Katniss' side as well as a rebel.
2. People are the product of their environments and society.
That means that sadists like Cato and Enobaria should be pitied and we should sympathize with them; because, like Katniss, they are just trying to survive. It is because of the horrible circumstances under which they live that people like them learn to enjoy killing and suffering.
3. It takes one person to spark a revolution or change.
Katniss is the face of the rebellion and has launched an era of change by her actions in the Hunger Games. It is because of her that the resistance can put their plans into motion.
4. Even heroes are not perfect.
Katniss does not have great people skills, is kind of oblivious when it comes to love, often acts before she thinks and is not a great actress. Especially when she's trying to create rebel propaganda.
5. Nobody can survive on their own.
Katniss cannot survive the Games without help from Haymitch, Cinna and Effie. Peeta also helps her survive. Before the Games, Gale helped her provide food for both of their families. As the series progresses, Katniss has to rely on more and more people to survive despite her independent instincts.
6. Other people's opinions are important.
We tell ourselves we do not have to be liked or receive sympathy, but in the end we do. Katniss has to be popular in order to receive sponsors during the Games and has to be liked by the people of Panem in order to get them to rebel against the Capitol.
7. Everyone needs someone.
Katniss is strong, but comes to realize that she cannot survive emotionally on her own. Slowly she allows other people in, namely Peeta.
