The Hunger Games | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

The Hunger Games | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

February 8, 2024
·
4 min
Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there! So, you've probably heard a lot about The Hunger Games, right? Well, buckle up because I'm about to take you on an adventure through Panem, a dystopian world that will leave you hungry for more. In this action-packed novel by Suzanne Collins, we follow the indomitable Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers for the Hunger Games, a brutal competition where kids are forced to fight to the death. Talk about intense, right? But it's not just about gore and violence. The Hunger Games is an epic tale of survival, rebellion, and the strength of the human spirit. Now, I know what you're thinking: "What other books are like this? I need more!" Don't worry, my friend, I've got you covered. After you've devoured The Hunger Games trilogy (pun fully intended), I'll be here to recommend even more thrilling books that will leave you just as breathless and eager for more. So stay tuned and get ready to embark on a journey unlike any other!
Book Cover Image for The Hunger Games
Book Cover Image for The Hunger Games
Dystopian
Adventure
Coming of Age

Divergent

In a dystopian society, "Divergent" follows Tris Prior as she discovers her unique identity and challenges the rigid system that divides people based on their traits. With action, romance, and exploration of identity, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and rebellion.
Author
Veronica Roth
Year Written
2011
Divergent
Dystopian
Adventure
Mystery

The Maze Runner

"The Maze Runner" is a gripping dystopian novel where a group of young boys are trapped in a maze, with no memory of their past, and must find a way to escape before time runs out. As they face deadly creatures and unravel the mysteries of the maze, the story delves into themes of survival, friendship, and sacrifice.
Author
James Dashner
Year Written
2009
The Maze Runner
Dystopia
Coming of Age
Societal Control

The Giver

"The Giver" is a dystopian novel set in a seemingly perfect society where the absence of pain and emotions is maintained through strict control. When twelve-year-old Jonas is chosen to receive memories of the past from the community's sole Receiver, he starts to question the society's true cost of harmony.
Author
Lois Lowry
Year Written
1993
The Giver
Fantasy
Dystopian
Young Adult

Red Queen

"Red Queen" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a dystopian world divided by blood, where the color of your blood determines your social standing and superhuman abilities. The story follows Mare, a young woman who discovers she possesses a unique power that threatens to disrupt the balance of power and ignite a revolution.
Author
Victoria Aveyard
Year Written
2015
Red Queen

The Selection

"The Selection" is a captivating and romantic dystopian novel where a young girl is thrust into a competition to win the heart of a prince. The book delves into themes of love, social class, and the struggle for acceptance, making it an engaging read for fans of romance and dystopian fiction.
Author
Kiera Cass
Year Written
2012
The Selection
Dystopian
Young Adult
Thriller

Legend

"Legend" is a dystopian young adult novel set in a future where the United States is divided into two warring factions. It follows the thrilling journey of a prodigious teenage criminal, Day, and a driven young prodigy, June, as their paths intertwine in a quest for truth and justice.
Author
Marie Lu
Year Written
2011
Legend
Science Fiction
Young Adult
Military

Ender's Game

"Ender's Game" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a young boy enlisted in an advanced military school in order to prepare for an impending alien invasion. As Ender navigates intense training, complex interpersonal relationships, and ethical dilemmas, the book explores themes of leadership, morality, and the effects of war on youth.
Author
Orson Scott Card.
Year Written
1985
Ender's Game
Science Fiction
Dystopian
Young Adult

The 5th Wave

"The 5th Wave" is a thrilling science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world, where humanity is facing waves of deadly attacks. The story follows a young girl named Cassie as she fights for survival and seeks to uncover the truth about the alien invaders.
Author
Rick Yancey
Year Written
2013
The 5th Wave
Dystopian
Science Fiction
Young Adult

The Unwind Dystology

"The Unwind Dystology" is a gripping series set in a future where, to combat mass conflict, teenagers can be legally "unwound" for organ donation. It follows the journey of several teens who fight for their lives and question the morality of a society that allows such a practice.
Author
Neal Shusterman
Year Written
2007
The Unwind Dystology
Fantasy
Adventure
Mythical

The Scorpio Races

"The Scorpio Races" by Maggie Stiefvater is a gripping tale set on a dangerous island where annually, fierce water horses called Capaill Uisce emerge from the sea. Pitting humans against these untamable beasts, this race for survival becomes a thrilling test of courage and loyalty.
Author
Maggie Stiefvater.
Year Written
2011
The Scorpio Races
Dystopian
Coming of Age
Superpowers

The Darkest Minds

"The Darkest Minds" is a gripping dystopian novel following the story of Ruby, a teenage girl with mysterious powers who becomes a part of a group seeking freedom and safety. As Ruby unravels the truth about her abilities and the oppressive society she lives in, she must navigate a world full of danger, betrayal, and hope.
Author
Alexandra Bracken
Year Written
2012
The Darkest Minds
Dystopian
Adventure
Discovery

The City of Ember

The City of Ember is a gripping dystopian novel set in an underground city where two young protagonists uncover secrets that could save their entire community from destruction. With a unique and suspenseful storyline, this book is a thrilling adventure that explores themes of discovery and determination.
Author
Jeanne DuPrau
Year Written
2003
The City of Ember
Fantasy
Young Adult

The Lunar Chronicles Coloring Book

"The Lunar Chronicles Coloring Book" by Marissa Meyer is a beautifully illustrated coloring book based on her popular "Lunar Chronicles" series, featuring intricate scenes and characters from the books. It provides a fun and creative way for fans to engage with the captivating world of the Lunar Chronicles.
Author
Marissa Meyer
Year Written
2016
The Lunar Chronicles Coloring Book

FAQ

Overview

The Hunger Games, penned by Suzanne Collins, is a riveting adventure set in a dystopian world where children are pitted against each other in a fight for survival. The story revolves around Katniss Everdeen, a resourceful and resilient girl who volunteers to take her sister's place in the brutal Hunger Games. Held annually by the oppressive Capitol, the Games serve as a reminder of the Capitol's absolute control over its districts. Forced into an arena, Katniss must navigate treacherous situations, fight for her life, and make allies in the process. The novel expertly combines elements of action, romance, and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its thought-provoking themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and the corrupting influence of power, The Hunger Games is bound to captivate readers of all ages.

Length of Read

The average reader, reading at a speed of 300 WPM, would take to read The Hunger Games

Main Characters

- Katniss Everdeen: A brave and skilled archer, Katniss volunteers for the Hunger Games and becomes a symbol of rebellion against the Capitol. - Peeta Mellark: A kind-hearted baker's son, Peeta's love for Katniss and his ability to manipulate the audience play a crucial role in the Games and the uprising. - Gale Hawthorne: Katniss's best friend and hunting partner, Gale's loyalty and determination fuel the resistance against the Capitol. - Primrose Everdeen: Katniss's younger sister, Prim's innocence and vulnerability serve as a driving force for Katniss's actions throughout the series. - Haymitch Abernathy: A former Hunger Games victor, Haymitch becomes Katniss and Peeta's mentor, providing them with guidance and strategies to survive. - Effie Trinket: A flamboyant Capitol escort, Effie's contrasting personality and fashion sense bring a touch of humor to the story. Each character brings their unique strengths and flaws to the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the plot as they navigate the treacherous world of the Hunger Games and the fight against oppression.

Ending & Meaning

In the heart-stopping finale of The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen defies the Capitol's oppressive regime and emerges as a symbol of hope and rebellion. Alongside her fellow tribute, Peeta Mellark, Katniss devises a plan to overthrow the Capitol's cruel rule. With the support of their allies and the districts rising up against their oppressors, Katniss and Peeta embark on a dangerous mission to bring down President Snow. The climactic battle sees Katniss facing unimaginable obstacles and making heart-wrenching choices. In the end, she triumphs, but not without paying a heavy price. The novel's conclusion highlights themes of sacrifice, the corrupting nature of power, and the indomitable spirit of the human will. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, hope can prevail and ignite a spark of revolution.
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