It is common for "Hunger Games" fans to argue over whether there should have been only three "Hunger Games" films as opposed to four (The novel “Mockingjay” was split into two feature films).

This is a different story with the “Hunger Games” novels. It could be argued that the book should have a been a four novel series. "Mockingjay" does not need a sequel. While the ending might not be fully satisfactory, it has finality. However, there is possibly room between the first novel and “Catching Fire” for another book.

Specifically, an intriguing plot is hinted at in the first installment which never comes to fruition. When Katniss is staying with Peeta in their cave the realization that she might actually win the games occurs to her. She then realizes “It must be hell to mentor two kids and then watch them die.I realize that if I get out of here that will be my job.To mentor the girl from District 12. The idea is so repellent I thrust it from my mind”.

If she wins the games, Katniss will have to become Haymitch; to the female tributes at least. This role is one she will never escape unless another female tribute somehow becomes a victor.

Suzanne Collins could have written her second novel with Katniss and Peeta as mentors to the next year’s tributes.This plot construction would have been intriguing in numerous ways.

Firstly, it would give readers a look into how the behind the scenes elements of the games functions.The first "Hunger Games" film attempts to give this view, but only briefly.

Also, having Katniss in this role would have involved an interesting character arc. In the arena, Katniss is in her “comfort zone”. All the skills she has accumulated over her lifetime have prepared her for the arena. She is a fighter. She, however, is not prepared for the arena of mentorship.The existing book graphically depicts Katniss’ inability to “schmooze” with Capitol citizens. Katniss as a mentor would put her into the position where she would be forced to advocate with Capitol sponsors for the sake of her tribute.

This plot would also introduce an interesting psychological conflict. Katniss would face the internal conflict of whether or not to distance herself from her charge. To help the girl, some degree of intimacy is needed. But if she becomes too attached, she will be merely fated to probably watch the girl die a horrible death in the arena. Knowing Katniss, she could probably not help becoming emotionally attached. Watching the girl die would also be an excellent lead up to to events in "Catching Fire". It would prepare Katniss for her ultimate rebellion against the Capitol.

Furthermore, this twist would introduce an interesting element in Katniss and Peeta's complicated relationship. Katniss would know doubt rely on Peeta's social skills to help her with sponsors. But, the two of them would again be forced to compete. Unless another love story was feigned, their tributes would be competing against each other. An interesting climax would be pitting Katniss and Peeta's tributes against each other for the victor's crown. The implications of such a confrontation for Katniss and Peeta's relationship would be fascinating.

There are obvious downsides to this plot line. Katniss is put in a passive position if the book is told through her viewpoint. While Suzanne Collins is an adept enough author to still make the book fast-paced, the tone of the book would necessarily be less expeditious than the style of the other three novels. There is also the chance that the series would inevitably become repetitious. Having the Hunger Games be the central feature of two books was a risky enough move. If it were the focus of three, even if the games were not directly experienced by Katniss, might be difficult to avoid redundancy.

However, having Katniss in such an unconventional role would have been fascinating. While at this time it is probably a moot point, it is still compelling to ponder what could have been.