If you're a fan of the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, which has captivated readers with its dystopian setting and thrilling survival narrative, you're in luck. With a new addition to the series slated for release in March, fans are eagerly awaiting more of Katniss Everdeen's world. To tide you over until then, here are seven books that capture the essence of the Hunger Games with their own unique twists on dystopian themes, survival challenges, and compelling narratives.
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
Battle Royale
5See it Battle Royale is a seminal work that predates The Hunger Games by nearly a decade. This Japanese novel, also known for its iconic film adaptation, sets a grim stage where a class of teenagers is forced into a deadly game on an isolated island. It's a haunting and brutal read that echoes the survivalist themes of The Hunger Games.
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
The Sunbearer Trials
7See it For a more recent addition that mirrors the intensity of The Hunger Games, The Sunbearer Trials is a must-read. This YA novel involves a deadly competition among the children of gods, filled with action, world-building, and characters that will remind you of Katniss's journey.
Hide by Kiersten White
National Bestseller
Hide
4See it Hide offers a chilling twist on the survival game concept, set in an abandoned theme park. It's a terrifying tale that combines elements of horror with the high stakes of The Hunger Games, making it a gripping read for fans of the genre.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
New York Times Bestseller
The Gilded Ones
5See it While not directly a survival game, The Gilded Ones shares the Hunger Games' intensity through its vivid world and the journey of Deka, a young woman fighting against societal norms and monstrous threats. It's a powerful fantasy that fans of strong female protagonists will love.
Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
The Inheritance Games
9See it For those intrigued by the puzzles and mysteries akin to The Hunger Games, The Inheritance Games offers a thrilling narrative centered around a mysterious inheritance and the challenges that come with it. It's a captivating blend of mystery and survival.
Legend by Marie Lu
Legend
9See it Legend presents a dystopian America divided into districts, much like The Hunger Games. It follows June and Day, two young protagonists caught in a web of deception and rebellion. The book's fast-paced plot and societal themes will resonate with fans of Collins' series.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
Children of Blood and Bone
4See it This epic fantasy tale delves into themes of oppression, magic, and resistance, much like The Hunger Games. With its strong female lead and richly crafted world, it's an excellent choice for readers seeking a similar emotional and thematic experience.
Each of these books offers a unique perspective on the themes that make The Hunger Games so compelling, ensuring that fans have plenty to enjoy while awaiting the next installment in Collins' saga.