If you're a fan of the gripping narrative and dystopian thrill of The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, you're in for a treat. With the announcement of a new book in the series set to release in March, the excitement is palpable among fans eager to dive back into the world of Katniss Everdeen and her harrowing adventures. To keep that adrenaline pumping, we've curated a list of seven books that echo the intense, captivating essence of The Hunger Games.
These selections embody the elements that make The Hunger Games so compelling—whether it's the life-or-death stakes of a brutal competition, the chilling atmosphere of a dystopian society, or the rich tapestry of a fantastical world. Each book on this list promises to satisfy your craving for stories filled with tension, survival, and unforgettable characters.
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
### Battle Royale
5See itA precursor to The Hunger Games, Battle Royale by Koushun Takami is a must-read for fans of the genre. Set in a dystopian Japan, this novel follows a class of teenagers forced into a deadly game where they must fight to the death on an isolated island. The book, which inspired a cult classic film, is both brutal and thought-provoking, offering a gripping narrative that will resonate with Hunger Games enthusiasts.
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
### The Sunbearer Trials
7See itFor those seeking a more recent addition to the genre, The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas is a standout. This YA novel introduces readers to a world where the children of gods compete in a deadly series of trials to replenish the sun. With its engaging characters and thrilling plot, it's a perfect match for fans of Katniss's journey.
Hide by Kiersten White
National Bestseller### Hide
4See itHide by Kiersten White offers a chilling twist on the survival game theme. Set in an abandoned theme park, young adults play a high-stakes game of hide and seek for a cash prize, only to discover a sinister force lurking within. This novel combines horror with social commentary, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate the darker elements of The Hunger Games.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
New York Times Bestseller### The Gilded Ones
5See itWhile The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna diverges from the traditional survival game plot, it captivates with its richly constructed world and fierce protagonist, Deka. This fantasy novel follows Deka's journey from outcast to warrior as she joins a legion of women fighting against monstrous threats. Its themes of empowerment and resistance will appeal to fans of The Hunger Games.
Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
### The Inheritance Games
9See itIn The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, readers are introduced to Avery Grambs, who inherits a fortune and a mysterious mansion filled with puzzles and secrets. This contemporary mystery, reminiscent of films like Knives Out, offers intrigue and suspense that fans of The Hunger Games will enjoy.
Legend by Marie Lu
### Legend
9See itLegend by Marie Lu transports readers to a dystopian United States divided by wealth and power. The story follows June and Day, two young protagonists caught in a web of deception and rebellion. With its fast-paced action and societal critique, Legend mirrors the intensity of The Hunger Games.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
### Children of Blood and Bone
4See itChildren of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi is an epic fantasy that delves into themes of magic, oppression, and resistance. Following Zélie Adebola's quest to restore magic to her kingdom, this novel offers a vibrant world and strong characters that will resonate with fans of The Hunger Games.
