Imagine sloping hills, covered in joyful arrays of flowers and birds chirping melodic tunes overhead. It would be a peaceful scene if not for your imminent death. In a few seconds, twenty-three teenagers will fight you, trying to survive the bloodthirsty arena until they are the last one breathing.
“The Hunger Games” series by Suzanne Collins is one of the most renowned franchises, continuing to captivate millions with the immersive world of Panem. Growing up, I adored the writing and complex personalities in the dystopian trilogy. Despite it being years since I last read the series, I was drawn to Collins’ fifth book—set twenty-four years before the series’ debut. “Sunrise on the Reaping” does not disappoint with its beautifully tragic plot; however, the lack of dynamic antagonists obscures the tale’s depth.
Published in March of 2025, during a time of political instability across the United States, “Sunrise on the Reaping” serves as a cautionary tale. It is certain to stir readers’ empathy as it transports them into the terrifying dystopian world. The young-adult novel follows Haymitch Abernathy on his sixteenth birthday, which is also the annual Reaping Day,” when two teenagers, from each of Panem’s twelve districts, are chosen for the unforgiving Hunger Games. An especially bloody event, the fiftieth games have twice the usual sacrifices, who are forced to fight to the death, creating a fast-paced story filled with action and painfully lovable characters.
The poignant themes and emphasis on strong relationships in “Sunrise on the Reaping” create an emotionally charged novel that remains strong independently, without support from the original trilogy. An enticing aspect of the novel comes from its likeable characters. The pre-teen tributes are adorable, following Haymitch and loving him despite his faults. Young Haymitch’s development of paternal characteristics while caring for them is heartwarming. Likewise, Haymitch’s doomed love for his resilient girlfriend in this prequel adds to the harrowing plot. Haymitch tries to defend his lover, Lenore Dove, and with that selfless act, ends up hurting himself in the process. Collins’ portrayal of Haymitch’s hopelessness when facing the government’s evils is tragic, as he realizes that fighting feels futile when it hurts his loved ones. Haymitch is an endearing, raw protagonist, and his acceptance that change can only come after pain is heart-wrenching, displaying Collins’ talent in creating a powerful plot. But does the writing I have such fond memories of satisfy my preferences as I have matured?
Suzanne Collins’ thrilling universe is mesmerizing beyond the last page. “Sunrise on the Reaping” succeeds in crafting a sorrowful tale that remains unpredictable because of its many twists. Nevertheless, the roles the original characters play in this prequel seem unbelievable, as if Collins is trying to appeal to fans, rather than create a cohesive storyline. By introducing more characters, the book is unable to examine the many perspectives. “The Careers”—the wealthiest tributes, are written flatly, as simply unintelligent or heartless. Despite the Careers suffering from the Capitol’s propaganda, their intricacies are barely acknowledged. Unable to distinctly distinguish the victims of brainwashing and their perpetrators, the novel is less meaningful in discussing a relevant topic.
Regardless of its superficial characters, “Sunrise on the Reaping” successfully addresses the modern world through Panem’s Capitol, where citizens obsess over their bets on the Hunger Games, swoon over children, and enjoy ruthless murders on television.
Like today, Panem’s government manipulates the media to make themselves seem favorable and prevent uprisings. They attempt to cause rifts between the twelve districts, to keep them unable to riot against the greater evil. Currently, the news has had a significant impact on controlling narratives and sharing information with people in the United States. As technology encompasses more of our society, the media is increasingly becoming a weapon that governments use to control public opinion. The prequel, with its comparisons to modern day, while being set in unsettling circumstances, leaves readers vulnerable and perturbed. From their obsession with cosmetic surgery to their desensitization of violence, turning into the Capitol is becoming more feasible in our society.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” is ideal for readers who enjoy rebellion against an unjust system, but it underwhelms those seeking rich prose and elaborate characterization. While my nostalgia warms my critiques on this prequel, it is certainly a gripping read. Ultimately, Collins’ book raises important and blatant concerns through its parallels to our society, but simplifies its deep themes.
