Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteFor a first read, follow publication order: The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, Mockingjay, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, then Sunrise on the Reaping. To read the story in Panem’s timeline, start with the two prequels: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Sunrise on the Reaping, then the original trilogy.
What order should you read The Hunger Games books?
For most newcomers, publication order is the clearest choice. It follows the sequence in which readers first encountered the story, with the original trilogy first and both prequels afterward. The chronological order is a good alternative if you specifically want events presented in their in-world sequence.
Publication order
- The Hunger Games (September 2008)
- Catching Fire (September 1, 2009)
- Mockingjay (August 24, 2010)
- The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (May 19, 2020)
- Sunrise on the Reaping (March 18, 2025)
The first three titles are the original trilogy. Scholastic’s series page lists the five novels and their publication dates.
What is the chronological order?
In story chronology, read the novels in this order. The two prequels are sequenced by how far before The Hunger Games their stories take place.
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#1 Best Overall
- Complete set for fans of dystopian fiction.
- Great for collectors and new readers alike.
- Ideal gift set for young adult readers.
- The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes — set 64 years before The Hunger Games, according to Scholastic’s announcement.
- Sunrise on the Reaping — set 24 years before The Hunger Games; it follows young Haymitch at the Fiftieth Hunger Games, as described in Scholastic’s announcement.
- The Hunger Games
- Catching Fire
- Mockingjay
Both prequels were published after the original trilogy, even though their stories occur earlier. That is why publication order and chronological order differ.
Should you read The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes first?
Only if you prefer timeline-first reading. It is the earliest story in the series, but it was written and published after the original trilogy. Starting with it is a valid way to follow the in-world chronology; starting with The Hunger Games preserves the original publication sequence and is the more straightforward recommendation for a first read.
Rank #2
- Collects all four Hunger Games paperback novels in one complete box set, including the prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and SnakesFeatures Suzanne Collins' complete dystopian saga from the original trilogy to the origin story of President SnowA must-have collection for Hunger Games fans and lovers of dystopian fiction
Choosing an edition
Scholastic announced a five-book paperback boxed set containing all five novels, scheduled for publication on September 1, 2026, in the United States and Canada. Availability may differ in other territories; check local listings for editions and stock. The set is an option if you want the complete series together, while individual books make sense if you already own some titles. Current prices and retailer inventory are not established here.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Age guidance
Scholastic lists the series for readers ages 12 and up. This is publisher guidance, not an assessment of an individual reader’s readiness.
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