Hunger Games Book Reading Order

2025 marks the 17th anniversary of Suzanne Collins' debut of The Hunger Games, introducing the brutal world and its iconic rebel leader, Katniss Everdeen. With a new prequel arriving soon, now's the perfect time to revisit the original trilogy.

Set in a dystopian society where children fight to the death, The Hunger Games ignited a YA phenomenon and inspired countless women to take up archery. If you're ready to dive back in (or jump in for the first time!), here's the reading order: You can also find our guides to The Hunger Games movies and similar books.

How to Read the Hunger Games Books in Order

While The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes precedes the original trilogy, understanding the original three books enhances the prequel's impact. We recommend reading the originals first for optimal enjoyment. However, for a strictly chronological journey through Panem, start with Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.

### 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 Amazon

This groundbreaking YA novel launched the Hunger Games franchise. Inspired by a blend of war coverage and reality TV, Suzanne Collins crafted a bestselling story about children forced to fight to the death. A brutal yet captivating entry into the dystopian YA genre, it spawned countless imitators and a hugely successful film series.

Katniss, a young woman from impoverished District 12, scavenges for survival. When her sister is chosen as a tribute, Katniss volunteers, embarking on a harrowing journey. Alongside Peeta, she must outwit competitors and the manipulative Capitol.

2. Catching Fire

### Catching Fire

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

Following their survival, Katniss and Peeta face even greater danger. Their defiance has ignited rebellion, and President Snow threatens their loved ones. Their "Victory Tour" exposes Katniss to the bravery of the Districts, fueling the rebellion. This installment expands the world, introducing beloved characters like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason, leading to a shocking twist that reshapes Panem.

3. Mockingjay

### Mockingjay

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

The explosive finale sees Katniss and her allies engaged in a war against the Capitol. Aiming to overthrow President Snow, they face perilous challenges and horrific violence. Katniss, the reluctant face of the rebellion, discovers that nothing is as it seems. This emotionally intense conclusion provides a surprisingly realistic and somber end to the trilogy.

Note: The film 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

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

This prequel, set 64 years before the original trilogy, is best enjoyed after reading the originals. It offers an intriguing look at the early Hunger Games and the origins of the villainous President Snow. The story follows young Coriolanus Snow as a mentor and his relationship with tribute Lucy Gray Baird, shaping the Games' history.

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 Kindle

Four years after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Suzanne Collins announced Sunrise on the Reaping, another prequel set 40 years after Lucy Gray's story and 24 years before the original novel. It will feature Haymitch Abernathy and the Second Quarter Quell. A film adaptation is planned for November 20, 2026.

For more reading lists, check out Lord of the Rings, Percy Jackson, and Game of Thrones.

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