Hunger Games Book Reading Order: A Guide

2025 marks 17 years since Suzanne Collins introduced the brutal world of The Hunger Games and its defiant heroine, 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 society where children fight to the death, The Hunger Games ignited a YA phenomenon and inspired countless readers. If you're ready to delve back into Panem, here's the reading 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 precedes the original trilogy, understanding the original three books enhances the prequel's impact. We recommend reading the originals first, but a chronological journey through Panem begins 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 gripping tale of children forced to fight for survival. It's a brutal yet captivating entry into dystopian fiction, spawning countless imitators and a hugely successful film series.

Katniss Everdeen, a resourceful young woman from impoverished District 12, volunteers as tribute when her sister is chosen for the annual Hunger Games. She embarks on a harrowing journey, battling not only other children but also the oppressive Capitol. Alongside Peeta Mellark, she must outwit her competitors and the manipulative government.

2. Catching Fire

### Catching Fire

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

Following their miraculous 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 growing unrest and finds herself thrust back into the arena, facing new challenges and formidable opponents like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason. This installment expands the world, introducing compelling characters and setting the stage for a shocking climax.

3. Mockingjay

### Mockingjay

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

The thrilling conclusion to the original trilogy plunges Katniss into a brutal war against the Capitol. As the rebellion fights to overthrow President Snow, Katniss becomes the reluctant symbol of their cause. The battle extends beyond the arena, testing her resilience and forcing her to confront difficult truths. This powerful finale offers a surprisingly realistic and poignant end to the blockbuster series.

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, offers a different perspective on the Hunger Games' origins. It follows young Coriolanus Snow as he mentors a tribute from District 12, Lucy Gray Baird. Their relationship profoundly impacts both their lives and the future of Panem. This prequel provides context and expands the lore for existing fans while serving as an engaging entry point for newcomers.

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 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 release on November 20, 2026.

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

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