2025 marks a remarkable 17 years since Suzanne Collins introduced us to the harrowing world of The Hunger Games and its iconic heroine, Katniss Everdeen. As we eagerly await the release of the latest prequel in just a few weeks, it's the perfect moment to dive back into the gripping saga that captured the hearts of millions and sparked a YA phenomenon. Set in a dystopian future where children are forced into annual combat to suppress a divided nation, The Hunger Games not only ignited a global fascination with archery among women but also redefined the genre.
If you're looking to re-enter the world of Panem but unsure where to start, let us guide you through the Hunger Games books in the order they should be read. For those interested in the cinematic adaptations, don't miss our comprehensive guide to The Hunger Games movies, and explore our curated list of the best books similar to The Hunger Games.
How to Read the Hunger Games Books in Order
The newest addition to the series, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," takes place before the events of the original trilogy. However, to fully appreciate the depth and context of the prequel, we highly recommend starting with the original three Hunger Games books. For a chronological experience, though, you may begin with "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" and then proceed to the others.
Includes All 4 Books Hunger Games Box Set
See paperback and hardcover options. See it at Amazon
1. The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games
Winning means fame and fortune. Losing means certain death. The Hunger Games have begun... See it at Amazon
This groundbreaking YA novel catapulted the Hunger Games franchise into stardom. Inspired by the juxtaposition of war coverage and reality TV, Suzanne Collins crafted a story where children fight to the death for entertainment. Set in the struggling District 12, we follow Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers as a tribute to save her younger sister from the brutal Games. Alongside Peeta, another District 12 tribute, Katniss navigates the deadly arena, outwitting both her peers and the oppressive Capitol.
2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
Catching Fire
Sparks are igniting. Flames are spreading. And the Capitol wants revenge. See it at Amazon
After surviving the Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta find themselves in greater peril. Their defiance has sparked rebellion across Panem, drawing the wrath of President Snow. As they embark on a "Victory Tour," Katniss is inspired by the Districts' courage. The tension escalates as they are thrust back into the arena, introducing new characters like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason. Collins expands the universe, setting the stage for a dramatic shift in the series.
3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay
Mockingjay
My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead. See it at Amazon
The final installment sees Katniss and her allies embroiled in a full-scale war against the Capitol. As the face of the rebellion, Katniss navigates a landscape of deceit and danger, with President Snow turning the city into a deadly arena. The trilogy concludes on a somber note, challenging the notion of victory and exploring the cost of freedom.
Note: The movie adaptation of this book was split into two parts, "Mockingjay - Part 1" and "Part 2."
4. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
Ambition will fuel him. Competition will drive him. But power has its price. See it at Amazon
Set 64 years before the original series, this prequel focuses on the 10th Hunger Games and a young Coriolanus Snow, who mentors a tribute from District 12, Lucy Gray Baird. As they navigate the early, less refined Games, their relationship evolves, shaping the future of the Hunger Games. This novel offers a poignant look at the origins of the series' antagonist and the Games themselves, enriched with references for fans and a compelling entry point for new readers.
Will There Be More Hunger Games Books?
Preorder the Next Novel: Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel)
Release: March 18, 2025. $27.99 save 30% $19.59 at Amazon $27.99 save 32% $18.99 at Kindle
Four years after "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," Suzanne Collins has announced a new addition to the Hunger Games universe, "Sunrise on the Reaping," set to be published on March 18, 2025. This prequel will delve into the Second Quarter Quell and feature Haymitch Abernathy, taking place 40 years after Lucy Gray's story and 24 years before the events of the original novel. A film adaptation is already scheduled for release on November 20, 2026.
For more literary adventures, explore our reading lists for the Lord of the Rings Books in Order, Percy Jackson Books in Order, and Game of Thrones Books in Order.
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