I can count on one finger the times I’ve waited in line for the midnight release of a novel. And that was Mockingjay.

The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins (Book 1 & 2 reviews) is a masterpiece of pure heart-gripping storytelling. From the very first page of Hunger Games, you’re inside the head of Katniss, a young girl whose only goal is to survive and protect her family.

In the Hunger Games and Catching Fire, Collins takes her readers on an emotional rollercoaster in this futuristic world of Paneam – the former continent of North America.  In Mockingjay, the stages of revolution are set, and the icon of the revolution – the girl who unwittingly set the wheels in motion.

Katniss is a complex character you root for and at the same time, wish to shake by the shoulders. There were a few times I wanted Collins to do a bit more with Katniss and her perspective, but the character is still brilliantly handled.

Mockingjay is fitting finale for this incredible series. It is even more tumultuous than the first two, full of dubious characters, plot twists and moments of sheer awe. Collins’ imagination knows no bounds and her writing sings.

I highly, highly recommend this series. While the level of violence plants it firmly for audiences 12 years or older, it contains a powerful message about the effects of violence on young adults and what society views as entertainment. This series is something families should read together and discuss. Then, pass it along to a friend and encourage him or her to read it. And have him or her pass it along when finished. It’s that good.