The post-apocalyptic nation of Panem holds an annual, televised battle to the death among randomly-selected teenage "tributes" from each of its 12 districts, punishment for a long-ago rebellion against the decadent, totalitarian Capitol. Katniss, an experienced hunter from the mining District 12, volunteers as tribute to replace her little sister, Prim. When she enters the arena, along with fellow District 12 tribute Peeta and competitors from across the country, she quickly learns to apply her skills to earn sympathy from spectators and to survive. She bonds with some of the other tributes and battles others, all leading up to a decision that could shatter Panem as everyone knows it.