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 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 women to pick up a bow and arrow. If you're ready to dive back into Panem, or experience it for the first time, here's the perfect 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 context of the first three books enhances the prequel experience. We recommend reading the originals first for optimal enjoyment. However, for a 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 created a gripping story of children forced to fight to the death. This brutal yet captivating tale spawned countless imitators and a hugely successful film series.

Katniss, a young woman from impoverished District 12, scavenges to survive. When her sister is chosen for the Hunger Games, Katniss volunteers, embarking on a harrowing journey of survival. Alongside Peeta, she must outwit both competitors and the Capitol's manipulative regime.

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 bravery of other districts, fueling the flames of resistance. This installment introduces beloved characters like Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason, setting the stage for a shocking twist.

3. Mockingjay

### Mockingjay

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

The climactic finale plunges Katniss into a brutal war against the Capitol. As she fights to overthrow President Snow, she becomes the reluctant face of the rebellion. The battle extends beyond the arena, testing her limits and revealing shocking truths about those she trusts. This emotionally powerful conclusion offers a surprisingly realistic and poignant ending.

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. While written with existing fans in mind, it's a compelling addition to the series. It focuses on young Coriolanus Snow and his involvement in the 10th Hunger Games, showcasing the origins of the Games and the rise of the villainous President Snow.

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 a new installment: Sunrise on the Reaping. This prequel, set 40 years after Lucy Gray's story and 24 years before the original novel, will feature Haymitch Abernathy and the Second Quarter Quell. A film adaptation is planned for November 20, 2026.

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

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