The correct answer would be the first option. A collective subject is a noun (functioning as the subject) that describes a group made of many parts. For example, the words "team" which means a group of people playing. Another one is "pack" used in a pack of wolves, which means a group of wolves.
I did have not read Burned by Ellen Hopkins. I will however help you out on any questions you may have if you allow me the time to do a bit of research.
