"Guide to Reading Hunger Games Series in Sequence"

2025 marks 17 years since Suzanne Collins introduced us to the gripping world of The Hunger Games and its iconic heroine, Katniss Everdeen. With the anticipation building for the upcoming prequel release in just a few weeks, there's no better time to dive back into the dystopian saga that captivated readers worldwide. Set in a future where children are forced to fight to the death in an annual event designed to suppress rebellion, The Hunger Games not only ignited a young adult (YA) craze but also inspired countless women to pick up archery. If you're eager to re-explore this universe but unsure where to begin, let us guide you through the Hunger Games books in order. Additionally, don't miss our resources on The Hunger Games movies and our curated list of books similar to The Hunger Games.

How to Read the Hunger Games Books in Order

While the latest addition to the series, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," is set before the original trilogy, the rich context provided by the first three Hunger Games books is essential for a full appreciation of the prequel. We recommend starting with the original trilogy to fully grasp the world of Panem before delving into the prequel. However, if you prefer a chronological journey, you can begin with "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" and then proceed to the others.

Includes All 4 Books Hunger Games Box Set

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1. The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games

0Winning means fame and fortune. Losing means certain death. The Hunger Games have begun... See it at Amazon

This dramatic YA novel launched the epic Hunger Games franchise. Inspired by the juxtaposition of reality TV and war coverage, Suzanne Collins crafted a world where children fight to the death for entertainment. The story follows Katniss, a young woman from the impoverished District 12, who volunteers as a tribute to save her younger sister. Alongside her fellow tribute Peeta, Katniss navigates the deadly arena, outsmarting competitors and the oppressive Capitol.

2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Catching Fire

0Sparks are igniting. Flames are spreading. And the Capitol wants revenge. See it at Amazon

After surviving the Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta face new dangers as their victory inspires resistance across Panem. Forced into another arena, they encounter new allies like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason. This sequel expands the lore and sets up a world-shifting twist that redefines the fight against the Capitol.

3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay

Mockingjay

0My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead. See it at Amazon

In the trilogy's gripping finale, Katniss and her allies wage war against the Capitol. As the face of the rebellion, Katniss navigates a brutal urban battlefield, facing traps and violence. The conclusion offers a realistic and somber end to the series, with unexpected twists about power and change.

***Note**: The theatrical version of this final book was split into two films, Mockingjay - Part 1 and Part 2.*

4. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

0Ambition will fuel him. Competition will drive him. But power has its price. See it at Amazon

Set 64 years before the original Hunger Games, this prequel follows the young Coriolanus Snow as he mentors District 12's tribute, Lucy Gray Baird. Their relationship and the early Hunger Games shape the future of Panem. This novel is best enjoyed after the original trilogy to appreciate its full impact and Easter eggs.

Will There Be More Hunger Games Books?

Preorder the Next Novel: Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel)

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Four years after "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," Suzanne Collins announced another prequel, "Sunrise on the Reaping," set for release on March 18, 2025. This novel will explore the Second Quarter Quell and feature Haymitch Abernathy, with a film adaptation scheduled for November 20, 2026.

For more reading options, explore our guides to the Lord of the Rings Books in Order, Percy Jackson Books in Order, and Game of Thrones Books in Order.

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