Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Book 5) by Suzanne Collins

Sunrise on the Reaping is the fifth gripping installment in Suzanne Collins’ iconic Hunger Games series, diving deeper into the harrowing world of Panem. Set during the 50th Annual Hunger Games—a Quarter Quell doubling the number of tributes—the story follows Haymitch Abernathy, the sharp-witted, broken hero fans know from the original trilogy. As fear sweeps the districts, Haymitch grapples with love, loss, and the crushing weight of survival when he’s thrust into the Capitol’s deadly arena.

Collins masterfully explores themes of propaganda, rebellion, and the cost of defiance through Haymitch’s raw, first-person perspective. The novel unravels his relationships with fellow tributes, including a friend like a sister, a calculating oddsmaker, and a rival whose arrogance masks hidden depths. Each character’s journey intertwines with Panem’s brutal politics, revealing how even the smallest acts of courage can ignite revolutions.

The book’s emotional core lies in its unflinching portrayal of trauma and resilience. Haymitch’s voice is both cynical and vulnerable, offering fresh insight into his later years as a mentor. Fans will uncover Easter eggs linking to beloved characters like Katniss and Peeta, while newcomers are drawn into a standalone tale of sacrifice and hope.

Praised for its “brutal, emotional storytelling” (Publishers Weekly ), Sunrise on the Reaping balances heart-pounding action with poignant reflection. Collins weaves a narrative that feels both intimately personal and sweepingly epic, cementing its place in the dystopian canon.