Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games)

Bookseller recommendation

“We're introduced to Haymitch Abernathy in The Hunger Games; now he returns as a teenager in the 50th Hunger Games. You may think you know his story from the original trilogy, but this book turns that story on its head. It deals with propaganda, trauma, and grief in a very timely way, and the emotional gut punches Haymitch endures makes you understand how he became the person he is in The Hunger Games. It shattered my heart in the best way possible!”

— Maggie • Eagle Harbor Book Co.

Bookseller recommendation

“The fifth instalment in The Hunger Games series serves as a powerful exploration of propaganda and censorship, underscoring the Capitol's relentless efforts to maintain its tyrannical grip on power. It stands as a chilling reminder of the lengths authoritarian regimes will go to preserve the illusion of control over their citizens. Witnessing Haymitch's transformation into the character we come to know in the original series is both heartbreaking and deeply radicalizing, offering a poignant glimpse into the life he kept so secretive from Katniss and Peeta”

— Sammie • Anderson's Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“I am now stuck in District 12. It was just what I didn’t know I needed.”

— Heidi • Hideaway Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Devastating. So good. It will make you want to reread the whole series. ”

— Marisa • Chapter One Book Store

Bookseller recommendation

“The second prequel novel to the Hunger Games Trilogy, Sunrise on the Reaping takes us back to the 50th Annual Hunger Games and teenaged Haymitch Abernathy's experience as Tribute. As always, Suzanne Collins has interweaved the political and the personal with absolute control and creativity.”

— Sian • The Violet Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“If you loved the other hunger games books, then get ready for another gripping adventure and even more reasons to despise President Snow. ”

— Andi • The Burrow Bookstore

Bookseller recommendation

“As the sun rises on the Second Quarter Quell, one young District 12 boy named Haymitch Abernathy has anything but going into the arena on his mind—in fact, it's his birthday and he's off to see his sweetheart. But life is hard for hoeing in a district like his, and when blood warms the ground, Haymitch finds himself thrust into the dizzying conspicuous consumption of the Capital and all its horrific glam. An engaging addition to the Hunger Games prequels, this timely entry reminders ever cautious readers that real or not real, the capitalism is full of vicious machinations that will devour those we benefit least with gaping maws and teeth meant to cut down any hint of rebellious spirit.”

— Cy • Village Books

Bookseller recommendation

“I'm an original trilogy superfan and this prequel really is for people who love the pacing and structure of the original books. It has SO MANY Easter Eggs and call backs to the previous books (I counted upwards of 60) and is a chillingly relevant story about rebellion, control, and connection. ”

— Laura • Annie Bloom's Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This book just broke me. If you loved Haymmich after reading the Hunger Games, you will fall in love WITH him after reading this book. He has no business being sober after what he has been through, some of it brought on by the games, most of it by Snow himself. ”

— Tania Galiñanes • White Rose Books & More

Bookseller recommendation

“This book feels like a prophecy fulfilled. We learn about the state of the world before Katniss. Her parents generation by way of Haymitch Abernathy. A whole cast of characters to love, a fast-paced plot, and a complex but enjoyable storyline. Absolutely recommend!”

— Bonnie • Spoke & Word Books

Bookseller recommendation

“If you love Haymitch, you will love his backstory!”

— Christin • Monarch Books & Gifts

Bookseller recommendation

“This was a great chance to revisit the world of The Hunger Games and learn more about Haymitch's story. Fast paced, engaging and emotional. Couldn't stop listening. ”

— Nicki • Volume Bookshop & Studio, LLC