Writes Rachel Harrison, Assistant Librarian
Our most recent book club session drew inspiration from The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Set in the dystopian nation of Panem, a society divided into districts that each provide a specific industry and are controlled by a powerful central Capitol, the novel explores themes of inequality, control, and survival through the annual Hunger Games. In this event, selected tributes must compete in a televised contest of endurance.
To establish the setting and atmosphere, we began by reading selected extracts from the opening of the novel. This was followed by a fast-paced “Cornucopia Grab” exercise, in which Book Boffz selected an object from a pre-prepared collection and explained how it might be used in a survival scenario. The activity encouraged some quick thinking and creativity, as even the most ordinary items were reimagined as tools for survival.
The core of the session centred on a series of district-themed challenges. Working in teams against the clock, Book Boffz tackled a range of puzzles reflecting the specialism of each district. These included logic, mathematical and pattern-based problems, along with a visual analysis task based on a “spot-the-difference” exercise, which unexpectedly proved to be one of the most difficult.
For District 10, known for livestock production, participants completed an auditory puzzle in which they listened to a short audio clip and identified different animal sounds. This required careful attention and proved harder than expected, to the possible amusement (or surprise) of other library users nearby.
District 13, linked to graphite production, featured a mathematical puzzle based on the hexagonal structure of graphite that the Book Boffz initially found difficult to interpret. Chase L. (U3rds) was the first to work out that equal totals were required across adjoining hexagons, both horizontally and diagonally to complete the challenge correctly.
District 7, responsible for lumber and paper, offered an origami-based challenge. This required precision and patience, with one team finding it especially demanding as they worked under the time pressure. Their final paper containers were not suitable for holding much of anything!
The session concluded with biscuits and the announcement of the winning team: Lucas G. (3rds), Eashar S. (U3rds), and Joshua A. (U3rds) whose collaboration and consistency across all the challenges set them apart and enabled them to survive the Book Boffz Hunger Games victorious.
The session showed how literature can be explored in different ways. The mix of reading and fun team-based challenges meant everyone was able to take part, regardless of their prior familiarity with The Hunger Games.
Book Boffz meet every Friday after school for book and reading based activities. All Thirds and Upper Thirds are welcome to come along.
The Hunger Games series of books are available to borrow from the Junior Library. Alternatively place a reservation via Accessit!
