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"Hunger Games Books: Correct Reading Order Revealed"

Author:Kristen Update:May 14,2025

2025 marks a significant milestone as it celebrates 17 years since Suzanne Collins introduced us to the gripping and dystopian world of The Hunger Games and its iconic rebel leader, Katniss Everdeen. As we anticipate the release of a new prequel in just a few weeks, it's the perfect moment to dive back into the original series that ignited a global phenomenon. Set in a dystopian society where children are forced into annual combat for survival, The Hunger Games not only sparked a Young Adult (YA) reading frenzy but also inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to take up archery. Whether you're revisiting the series or experiencing it for the first time, let's guide you through the Hunger Games books in order. You can also explore our detailed guide on The Hunger Games movies and discover our curated list of the best 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 events of the original trilogy, the foundational context provided by the three Hunger Games books is crucial for fully appreciating the prequel. We recommend starting with the original trilogy to grasp the full scope of the series' world. However, for those seeking a chronological journey through Panem, you can begin with "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" before moving on to the others.

Includes All 4 Books Hunger Games Box Set

7See paperback and hardcover options.See it at Amazon

1. The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games

0Winning means fame and fortune. Losing means certain death. The Hunger Games have begun...See it at AmazonThe Hunger Games series burst onto the scene with this compelling YA novel that launched the franchise. Inspired by the juxtaposition of war coverage and reality TV, Suzanne Collins crafted a story where children fight to the death for the entertainment of their nation. This brutal entry into the dystopian YA genre set the stage for numerous imitations and a successful film franchise still beloved today.

The narrative follows Katniss Everdeen, a young woman from the impoverished District 12, who volunteers as a tribute to save her younger sister from the deadly Hunger Games. Alongside her fellow tribute, Peeta Mellark, Katniss navigates the brutal arena, outsmarting her competitors and the oppressive government of Panem.

2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Catching Fire

0Sparks are igniting. Flames are spreading. And the Capitol wants revenge. See it at AmazonFollowing their survival in the Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta are thrust back into danger as their act of defiance has sparked resistance across Panem. President Snow targets Katniss, threatening her loved ones, forcing her to navigate a delicate balance between compliance and rebellion. During their "Victory Tour," Katniss becomes inspired by the Districts' bravery, leading to their re-entry into the Hunger Games. Collins expands the world, introducing beloved characters like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason, culminating in a world-altering twist.

3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay

Mockingjay

0My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead.See it at AmazonIn the series' gripping finale, Katniss becomes the face of the rebellion against the Capitol. As the war intensifies, the Hunger Games' brutality extends to the streets of the Capitol, challenging Katniss and her allies with nightmarish traps and violence. The novel delves into the complexities of power and revolution, culminating in a poignant and realistic conclusion to the blockbuster trilogy. Note that the 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 AmazonThis prequel, set 64 years before the original series, explores the early days of the Hunger Games through the eyes of a young Coriolanus Snow. As a mentor to District 12's tribute, Lucy Gray Baird, Snow's ambitions and relationship with Lucy shape the Games' future. While intended for fans familiar with the series, it offers a poignant origin story of the villainous President Snow, filled with Easter eggs for longtime fans and a fresh perspective for newcomers.

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Will There Be More Hunger Games Books?

Preorder the Next Novel

### Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel)

48Release: March 18, 2025.$27.99 save 30%$19.59 at Amazon$27.99 save 32%$18.99 at KindleFour 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 40 years after Lucy Gray's story and 24 years before the original Hunger Games, featuring Haymitch Abernathy. A movie adaptation is scheduled for November 20, 2026.

For those eager to explore more literary worlds, check out 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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