7 Books Like The Hunger Games to Read for More Dystopian Goodness

Discover Seven Books Like The Hunger Games: A Reading List for Fans

Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games captivated readers and launched a blockbuster franchise. With a new book on the horizon, the series' popularity is set to surge. If you're craving more of the brutal brilliance that defined The Hunger Games, this list offers seven compelling alternatives. These books capture the essence of the series, whether through deadly competitions, dystopian settings, or powerful female protagonists.

1. Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

A groundbreaking Japanese novel that predates The Hunger Games, Battle Royale offers a similarly shocking and powerful narrative. In a dystopian future, teenagers are forced to fight to the death in a televised tournament. This brutal, violent, and haunting story will leave a lasting impression.

2. The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

This YA novel features children of ancient gods competing in deadly games to replenish the sun. Jade, an unlikely participant, must fight for survival and friendship in a captivating world filled with memorable characters and thrilling action.

3. Hide by Kiersten White

A brutal reimagining of classic mythology, Hide offers a terrifying twist on the classic hide-and-seek game. Young adults compete for a cash prize, unaware of the horrifying danger lurking within an abandoned theme park. This poignant and genuinely frightening novel adds a gruesome horror element.

4. The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

While not directly mirroring The Hunger Games' plot, The Gilded Ones delivers a vibrant fantasy world centered around a fearless female protagonist. Deka discovers she's more than human and joins an army of women fighting to protect their nation, uncovering a violent truth along the way.

5. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Avery Grambs inherits a fortune and a mysterious house filled with puzzles, riddles, and dangerous inhabitants. This adventurous mystery blends elements of love, intrigue, and intricate puzzles, appealing to fans who enjoyed the puzzle-solving aspects of The Hunger Games.

6. Legend by Marie Lu

Set in a dystopian United States, Legend follows June, a young woman seeking revenge, and Day, a lower-class criminal. Their cat-and-mouse game uncovers a hidden truth that could spark a revolution. The story shares the dystopian setting and themes of rebellion found in The Hunger Games.

7. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This epic fantasy follows Zélie, a Diviner in a world where magic has vanished. Her friendship with a princess leads her on a path to restore magic and challenge a ruthless king. Fans of The Hunger Games' world-building and strong female characters will appreciate this captivating story.