Girls on Fire

I've been feeling upbeat about the future since I found out that twelve year olds are having “The Hunger Games” themed birthday parties.
If you haven't read the book, that might surprise you. Isn't it a story about children killing each other? That's what I thought. I was dismayed when Ryanne was so enthusiastic about seeing the movie. Then I found out that her school library had ordered extra copies, and was using them in reading groups.
What is going on! I thought. So I bought a copy and began reading it. And reading almost all night because it is so well written. The movie was all right, and not nearly as violent as it could have been, but the message was still clear.
It is a political story for this generation and these times. But unlike the political fiction books that I'm used to like “Fahrenheit 451” or “Animal Farm” this story empowers and celebrates the strength and independence of ordinary people and....
Okay, I already have my English degree, so I'll stop there. I just wanted to say that I'm glad that Ryanne and her friends want to be a girl on fire.

Nancy Sherer