On March 18th, Suzanne Collins released the fifth book in the Hunger Games universe, titled Sunrise on the Reaping. Taking place 24 years before the original series and 40 years after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, this novel follows Haymitch Abernathy as he competes in the 50th Hunger Games. Longtime readers first met Haymitch in the original trilogy as Katniss and Peeta’s haggard, self-absorbed, damaged, and alcoholic mentor. However, by the end of the series he grows to be a fan favorite character, acting as a father figure towards Katniss especially. Before Katniss and Peeta’s victory in the Games, Haymitch was District 12’s only victor, and it was apparent that the Hunger Games had irrevocably changed Haymitch forever. 

This mysterious past coupled with reader’s love for Haymitch made everyone extremely excited in June 2024, when Suzanne Collins announced that she would be writing a book from Haymitch’s perspective during his time in the Games. 

Even more exciting however, was the other announcement released by Collins on the same day announcing that she had signed a movie deal with Lionsgate. The movie is set to come out in November, 2026. Yes, she had already signed a movie deal for a book that she had not even begun writing yet! This speaks to Collin’s reputation as a skilled writer, but also to her confidence in the mastery of her craft. 

After not even a full year of waiting, readers everywhere were eagerly anticipating the release day of the book. Local New Orleans bookstore Blue Cypress even hosted a release party at midnight on the day of.

Newman students have also been very excited to read the new book. One Newman student said: 

“I am very excited, I’ve been basically stalking the whole book on Goodreads and all the reviews. I’ve been waiting for this since November. I haven’t bought it yet, but I’m super excited, I am a huge Hunger Games fan.”

While fans who have not read Sunrise on the Reaping are clearly very excited, many people who have already read the book have focused on the political and social messages that they have noticed are crucial elements of the novel. One of the biggest themes of the book is combatting authoritarian rule and oppression from The Capitol. Many readers have interpreted this as a warning from Collins on the effects of oppression in the real world. 

Whether readers enjoy Sunrise on the Reaping for its political messages or simply for its action filled plot, all readers can share in their anticipation for the movie release next year.