In "The Hunger Games," Katniss Everdeen initially hesitates to accept the call to adventure when her younger sister, Prim, is selected as a tribute for the Hunger Games. Her fears and doubts stem from her deep love for Prim and overwhelming concern for her safety; she knows that the brutal competition is deadly. This is evident when Katniss volunteers to take Prim's place, as she views it as the only way to protect her sister, showcasing her fear for Prim's life and the instinct to safeguard her family above all else.
Moreover, Katniss grapples with the uncertainty of her own abilities. She has experience hunting in the woods, but the prospect of participating in the Hunger Games, against trained tributes, fills her with self-doubt. She reflects on the skills she’ll need to survive and worries about being thrust into a spectacle that serves as a reminder of the Capitol's oppressive control over the districts. For example, in her internal monologue, she questions, “I’m not prepared for this” (Collins, 2008), highlighting her fears about her survival and capability in such a high-stakes environment.
In summary, her hesitation stems from her protective instincts toward Prim and her anxieties about the formidable challenges of the Hunger Games, both of which are critical components of her character development at the onset of the story.