How to Read the Hunger Games Books in Order

2025 marks 17 years since Suzanne Collins introduced the brutal world of The Hunger Games and its iconic rebel leader, Katniss Everdeen. With a new prequel arriving soon, now's the perfect time to revisit the books that started it all.

Set in a dystopian world where children fight to the death, The Hunger Games ignited a YA phenomenon and inspired countless women to pick up a bow and arrow. If you're ready to delve back into Panem, we'll guide you through the books in order. You can also explore 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, the newest addition, precedes the original trilogy, understanding the original three books enhances the prequel experience. We recommend reading the originals first for optimal enjoyment. However, for a chronological journey, start with Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.

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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 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 fighting for survival. This brutal yet captivating dystopian tale spawned countless imitators and a hugely successful film series.

Katniss, a young woman from impoverished District 12, scavenges to support her family. When her sister is chosen for the Hunger Games, Katniss volunteers, embarking on a harrowing journey of survival. Alongside Peeta, she must outsmart competitors and the tyrannical Capitol.

2. Catching Fire

### Catching Fire

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

Following their shocking survival, Katniss and Peeta face even greater danger. Their defiance has ignited rebellion across Panem, and President Snow seeks retribution. Forced on a Victory Tour, Katniss witnesses the bravery of the Districts, fueling the flames of resistance. This installment expands the world, introduces beloved characters like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason, and delivers a game-changing twist.

3. Mockingjay

### Mockingjay

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

The explosive finale plunges Katniss into a war against the Capitol. As she fights to overthrow President Snow, she becomes the reluctant face of the rebellion, placing her loved ones at risk. Snow brings the Hunger Games to the streets, forcing Katniss and her allies to navigate treacherous traps and brutal violence. This conclusion offers a surprisingly dark and realistic ending.

Note: The film adaptation split this book 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 original books. It focuses on the 10th Hunger Games and young Coriolanus Snow, who mentors a tribute from District 12, Lucy Gray Baird. Their relationship profoundly impacts the Games' history. This prequel offers intriguing insight into the Games' origins and the characters who shaped them.

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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 features Haymitch Abernathy and the Second Quarter Quell. A film adaptation is planned for November 20, 2026.

Looking for more? Check out our reading lists for The Lord of the Rings, Percy Jackson, and Game of Thrones.

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