Hundreds of fans gathered across the UK last night for the highly anticipated midnight launch of Sunrise on the Reaping, the latest instalment in The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins.
The book, published by Scholastic, marks the fifth entry in the global bestseller franchise and explores the 50th Hunger Games, focusing on Haymitch Abernathy’s backstory.
A Night of Themed Celebrations
The largest launch event took place at Waterstones Piccadilly, where fans were treated to a themed lock-in from 10pm until midnight. The six-floor bookshop was transformed to reflect the dystopian world of Panem, with each section representing a different District from the novels.
The event featured a world-exclusive virtual interview with David Levithan, Collins’ long-time publisher, as well as a live panel discussion on the series’ cultural impact. The panel included YA authors Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, Samantha Shannon, Katherine Webber, and Bill Wood.
Fans also took part in The Ultimate Hunger Games Quiz, which included sudden-death rounds, adding to the excitement.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, the event included a range of interactive activities inspired by The Hunger Games, such as:
- Axe-throwing and archery challenges
- Film screenings of the previous adaptations
- Capitol-inspired nail art and glitter tattoos
- Face painting and origami workshops
Cosplay actors roamed the store, bringing characters from the novels to life, while eager readers queued for their first copies of the new book.
Nationwide Fan Frenzy
Beyond London, bookshops across the UK also staged midnight openings and publication day celebrations, with independent bookshops and large retailers alike joining in the festivities.
A Return to Panem
Sunrise on the Reaping transports readers back to the 50th Hunger Games, a significant moment in The Hunger Games timeline known as the Quarter Quell. In this brutal edition of the Games, twice as many tributes are forced into the arena, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle for survival.
The novel follows Haymitch Abernathy, a fan-favourite character from the original trilogy, revealing the truth behind his victory and the impact of his experiences.
A Global Phenomenon
Since the release of the original trilogy, The Hunger Games has become a worldwide phenomenon, with over 100 million copies sold. The series has inspired five blockbuster films, starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Rachel Zegler, Tom Blyth, and Peter Dinklage.
A film adaptation of Sunrise on the Reaping is already in development, with a November 2026 release date set.
For now, fans can return to Panem by picking up the latest book, available in shops nationwide.
