Okay, not to make anyone jealous or anything, but I got a top secret package in the mail the other day . . .

Yes! Yes! It was an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy) of the sequel to the most marvelous HUNGER GAMES . . .

Here's what the highly anticipated CATCHING FIRE by Suzanne Collins looks like . . .

Also in the package was a letter that began, "Dear Very Deserving, Very Lucky Reader . . ."

Why? Because the book isn't in stores until September 1st!!! 

Uh oh. Wait. That's the release date of my book BOBBY VS. GIRLS (ACCIDENTALLY). Guess, you'll just have to run out and get both books! Here's my friend and illustrator Dan Santat taunting me because he got his ARCs first . . .

Anyway, back to CATCHING FIRE. I got other goodies too, like a CD and pins . . .

I had to read the book fast, before any family member got a hold of it . . .

(Um, I also read it backwards so no one would suspect I had the book.)

Now, I was asked not to reveal any of the plot, so here's my review:

CATCHING FIRE was amazing. Not only was it full of great words, but a lot of stuff happened that I can't talk about. And then there was this one part when I screamed. Plus, when that thing occurred, I thought, "Oh man, that's it." You MUST read CATCHING FIRE when it comes out. I promise, you won't be disappointed!

Here I am with Suzanne Collins on the day that I gave her the idea for her bestselling series . . .

(Or maybe it wasn't my idea. I'm sort of fuzzy on that.)