Sunrise on the Reaping

by Suzanne Collins

Read Dates: 3/26/25 to 3/27/25

Review

Out of all the books in The Hunger Games series, this one just might be my favorite. What truly made it special for me was the way it seamlessly tied back to characters and events from the original trilogy. I loved uncovering more of their backstory, as it added so much depth and meaning to the world of Panem. Unlike the first prequel, which felt a bit disconnected from the core series, this book bridges the gap beautifully. It felt like coming home in a way, reconnecting with the familiar while still experiencing something entirely new.

That said, I don't think this book would have hit the same emotional notes if I’d read it in chronological order. For me, the payoff of reading it last was much more impactful because I already had such a strong connection to the original trilogy. While the first prequel can definitely serve as an introduction to the series, this one is best enjoyed as the final chapter of the saga. If you’ve ever enjoyed The Hunger Games, I can’t recommend this book enough—it’s a must-read for fans looking to dive even deeper into Suzanne Collins’ world.