In combat, men measure up. Or don't. There are no second chances.
In this vivid account of the U.S. Army's legendary 10th Mountain Division's heroic stand in the mountains of Afghanistan, Captain Sean Parnell shares an action-packed and highly emotional true story of triumph, tragedy, and the extraordinary bonds forged in battle.

16-year-old Katniss Everdeen lives in the poorest sector of Panem-its coal producer, District 12. Along with her younger sister, Prim, Katniss awaits the yearly lottery to see who will participate in the Hunger Games, a nationally televised battle where contestants-one boy and one girl, ages 12 to 18, from each of Panem's 12 districts-fight to the death. But when 12-year-old Prim is chosen as that year's "tribute," Katniss spares her sister's life by volunteering to take her place. Katniss is shipped off to the Capitol-and certain death-along with her fellow District 12 Tribute, the peaceful Peeta Mellark. The pair's mentor, an arena survivor named Haymitch, comes up with a ploy to pass the two off as star-crossed lovers to gain public sympathy. Katniss and Peeta play for the camera and attempt to avoid a terrible death at the hands of their arena competitors. With the help of her hunting skills and sharp instincts, Katniss gradually becomes a symbol of hope for Panem's oppressed citizens-and a pawn in a rebellion. Throughout the series, Katniss struggles with her place in the spotlight; her feelings for Peeta and another young fighter from District 12, Gale Hawthorne; and her purpose as a warrior.