Suzanne Collins is revisiting the post-apocalyptic world of Panem with a new "The Hunger Games" novel, inspired by an 18th-century Scottish philosopher and the contemporary issue of misinformation.
Scholastic announced on Thursday that "Sunrise on the Reaping," the fifth volume in Collins' acclaimed dystopian series, will hit shelves on March 18, 2025. This new installment delves into the reaping of the Fiftieth Hunger Games, occurring 24 years before the events of the original "Hunger Games" novel released in 2008 and 40 years after Collins' most recent book, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes."
Following the announcement, Lionsgate revealed that "Sunrise on the Reaping" will hit theaters on Nov. 20, 2026. Francis Lawrence, who directed all but the first "Hunger Games" movie, will return as director for this adaptation.
The "Hunger Games" series has captivated millions of readers worldwide, with over 100 million copies sold and translations in numerous languages. After seemingly concluding the series with "Mockingjay" in 2010, Collins surprised fans by returning to Panem with "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" in 2020, set 64 years prior to the events of the original book.
Drawing from her previous use of Greek mythology and Roman gladiator games in her earlier "Hunger Games" books, Suzanne Collins now looks to the Scottish Enlightenment philosopher David Hume for inspiration in her upcoming novel.
"In 'Sunrise on the Reaping,' I was inspired by David Hume’s concept of implicit submission and the ease with which the masses are governed by the few," Collins explained in a statement. "The narrative also delves into the manipulation of propaganda and the influence wielded by those who control the story. The question of 'Real or not real?' feels increasingly pertinent to me every day."
The "Hunger Games" movies, a multibillion-dollar franchise for Lionsgate, have featured Jennifer Lawrence as the iconic heroine Katniss Everdeen, alongside acclaimed actors like Philip Seymour Hoffman, Josh Hutcherson, Stanley Tucci, and Donald Sutherland.
Lionsgate chair Adam Fogelson praised Collins as a "master storyteller" and expressed gratitude for her continued guidance and trust. Meanwhile, the film adaptation of "Songbirds and Snakes," starring Tom Blyth and Rachel Zegler, premiered last year. Additionally, a "Hunger Games" stage production is set to debut in London this fall.
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