How fast can I read?

Fast enough to make it feel like my neck is breaking.

With the release of The Hunger Games and Season 2 of Game of Thrones I was faced with a nerd conundrum these past two weeks: Which books series do I pick up again?

After some careful consideration : Heft vs. tote-ability, condition of actual books, how many times they have been read, which needs the most refreshing, I decided on The Hunger Games.

Hadn’t read it in over a year and I couldn’t even find it ( turned up at Grandma’s of all places . . . hmmm ).

It’s been a week since opening day of the movie and yes, I have only 1/4 of the last book left. I also have a super lame cramp in my neck from reading like a crazy person.

I have set a new record for myself though.

The second time over in the books though, I’ve noticed that the themes take on a different feeling for me, especially when you consider the goings-on of the last 12 months.

I wasn’t an “Occupy” person. Not at all. I was to busy working, taking care of my family and trying to find a second job because I’m usually broke. Writing, you guessed it, doesn’t pay too much.

However, I couldn’t help but imagine what the citizens of Panem would have put on their signs for a protest: “I’ve got 99 Loaves and Katniss got One” “I’ll make you Rue the Day” “I’m the 1% and I’m already dead inside” and the like.

Or how about the arguments for national medical coverage, education for workers, government transparency?

The first time through I saw Katniss as an over glorified 16 year-old. Now I realize she is the anti-thesis of Bella Swan. Whom I loath.

Bella: needs all her self-worth through her boyfriend, has no real personality, is selfish, needy and gets married super young. Doesn’t really want to do anything with her life.

Katniss: Doesn’t really think about boys too much until she realizes that the only way to escape death is keep up a ruse, is willing to sacrifice her life for her sister, is willing to stir the pot to get a better everything for everyone. Is a bit selfish sometimes, but is also self sufficient. Is smart enough to walk away from a guy when he pisses her off.