The Hunger Games: District 12 and The Reaping
In District 12, the poorest of Panem's districts, Katniss Everdeen lives with her younger sister Prim and their mother. Their father died in a mining accident, leaving Katniss to become the family provider at age 11. On the morning of the Reaping, tension fills their home as it's Prim's first eligible year for the Games.
Definition: The Reaping is the annual ceremony where two "tributes" - one male and one female between ages 12-18 - are selected from each district to compete in the Hunger Games.
During the fateful ceremony, the unthinkable happens - 12-year-old Prim's name is drawn. Without hesitation, Katniss volunteers for Prim at the reaping, becoming District 12's first-ever volunteer tribute. The crowd responds with silent respect, touching their three middle fingers to their lips and raising them in salute. The male tribute selected is Peeta Mellark, the baker's son who once showed Katniss kindness by giving her burnt bread when her family was starving.
The relationship between Peeta Katniss is complex from the start, weighted with their shared history. Before departing for the Capitol, Katniss receives meaningful gifts: a mockingjay pin from Madge themayor′sdaughter, cookies from Peeta's father, and a promise from her friend Gale to care for her family. These items and promises become symbolic touchstones that will help her maintain her humanity in the brutal Games ahead.