"7 Dystopian Reads Similar to The Hunger Games"
If you're a fan of the gripping narrative and intense world of the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, you're in for a treat. With the excitement building around the new Hunger Games book set to release in March, it's the perfect time to dive into similar thrilling reads that echo the brutal yet captivating essence of the series. Here are seven books that will keep you on the edge of your seat, much like the adventures of Katniss and her fellow survivors.
These recommendations encompass everything that makes the Hunger Games so compelling: from deadly games and terrifying tournaments to richly imagined dystopian worlds. Whether you're drawn to the fight for survival, the intricate societal structures, or the emotional journeys of the characters, there's a book on this list that will quench your thirst for more stories like the Hunger Games.
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
### Battle Royale
5See it
It's impossible to discuss the Hunger Games without mentioning Battle Royale, the groundbreaking Japanese novel by Koushun Takami that predates Collins' series by nearly a decade. Known primarily for its legendary film adaptation, the book itself is equally powerful and shocking, perfect for satisfying your Hunger Games cravings. Set in a dystopian near-future Japan, the government combats rising teenage delinquency by forcing a randomly selected class of students to fight to the death on an isolated island, all broadcast on television. Brutal, violent, and haunting, this novel will grip you from the start and leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
### The Sunbearer Trials
7See it
For those seeking a more recent read that evokes the thrill of the Hunger Games, The Sunbearer Trials stands out. This stunning YA novel features children of ancient gods competing in a deadly series of games to replenish the sun. Jade, an unlikely contender, finds himself thrust into the trials and must fight for his life and his friends in unexpected ways. With its memorable characters, intricate worldbuilding, and action-packed plot, this book will remind you of the exhilarating journey you experienced with Katniss.
Hide by Kiersten White
National Bestseller### Hide
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Hide offers a bleak and brutal narrative that reimagines classic mythology while serving as a powerful allegory for gun violence. A group of young adults are lured into playing the ultimate game of hide and seek in an abandoned theme park, competing for a massive cash prize. However, they soon realize the game is deadly serious, with a terrifying entity lurking at the park's center. This chilling tale from Kiersten White not only showcases her prowess in the genre but also adds a gruesome horror element that fans of the Hunger Games' intensity will appreciate.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
New York Times Bestseller### The Gilded Ones
5See it
Although The Gilded Ones diverges from the Hunger Games' game-centric plot, it's a must-read for fans of dystopian fantasy and strong female leads. In this New York Times Bestselling series, Deka discovers her unique nature during a brutal ceremony, leading her to join an army of similarly gifted young women to fight the monsters threatening their nation. As Deka delves deeper into her role, she uncovers the violent truths underpinning her society, making for a gripping and thought-provoking read.
Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
### The Inheritance Games
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Avery Grambs' life takes a dramatic turn when she inherits a fortune from a stranger, requiring her to move into a mysterious mansion filled with puzzles and riddles. Sharing the house with the grandsons who were supposed to inherit, Avery must navigate the dangers and mysteries within. If you enjoy the intrigue, puzzles, and survival elements of the Hunger Games, The Inheritance Games offers a fresh and captivating twist on these themes, reminiscent of contemporary mysteries like Knives Out and Ready or Not.
Legend by Marie Lu
### Legend
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Set in a dystopian United States called the Republic, Legend mirrors the Hunger Games with its division into districts and the struggle between the rich and the poor. June, a prodigy from the elite districts, seeks revenge against Day, a lower-class fugitive accused of killing her brother. As they engage in a thrilling game of cat and mouse, they uncover a deeper conspiracy that could shake the foundations of their society. This book is perfect for fans of the Hunger Games' societal critique and action-packed narrative.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
### Children of Blood and Bone
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An instant bestseller, Children of Blood and Bone offers a rich fantasy world that fans of the Hunger Games will adore. Zélie Adebola, a Diviner in a kingdom where magic has been outlawed, embarks on a quest to restore magic with the help of a princess in hiding. This epic tale combines vibrant worldbuilding, strong female characters, and a fantastical setting, making it an ideal choice for those who crave the immersive experience of the Hunger Games.



