The trilogy is set in Panem, a fictional North American nation divided into twelve districts and the Capitol. Most of the industrial and agricultural production takes place in the districts, whereas the Capitol is populated by the rich and powerful. District 13, which was supposedly destroyed in the civil war between the Capitol and the districts, was actually just pushed underground, and now serves as a base for the rebellion.

The Capitol, now under the leadership of the dictatorial President Snow, devised a twisted plan to intimidate the districts into staying in line: annual Hunger Games wherein two “tributes” (children) from each district fight until only one is left alive. The event is televised and has become a gladiator-like spectacle in the Capitol, with citizens able to bet on their favorites and even help them by paying to send gifts (usually food or medicine) into the arena. Victors are rewarded with houses and riches, but are expected to mentor. . .