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

Fans of Suzanne Collins' *The Hunger Games* series, a captivating blend of dystopian fiction and thrilling survival, are in for a treat with the upcoming release of a new book. For those eager to delve back into that brutal yet brilliant world, or for readers seeking similar experiences, we've compiled seven exceptional reads that capture the essence of the Hunger Games.

These books offer diverse narratives that resonate with the core elements of the Hunger Games franchise. Whether it's a fight for survival, a terrifying competition, or a dystopian fantasy set in a breathtaking world, this list offers something for every reader's taste.

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

No discussion of *The Hunger Games* is complete without mentioning *Battle Royale*, the groundbreaking Japanese novel that predates Collins' series by nearly a decade. While the film adaptation is iconic, the book is equally powerful and shocking. Set in a dystopian near-future Japan grappling with rising juvenile delinquency, the government devises a brutal solution: a televised tournament where randomly selected teenagers fight to the death on a remote island. Brutal, violent, and unforgettable, this is a gripping read that will stay with you long after you finish.

The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

Among recent releases that capture the Hunger Games spirit, *The Sunbearer Trials* stands out. This stunning YA novel pits children of ancient gods against each other in a deadly series of trials. Every decade, the community gathers for the Sunbearer Trials to replenish the sun. Jade, an unexpected participant, must fight for his life and friends in a thrilling adventure. With memorable characters, exceptional world-building, and captivating action, this book evokes the same feeling of breathlessly following Katniss's journey.

Hide by Kiersten White

This dark and brutal reimagining of classic mythology serves as a powerful allegory for real-life gun violence. A group of young adults are recruited for a deadly game of hide-and-seek in an abandoned theme park for a massive cash prize. They soon discover the game is far more sinister than it appears, with a horrifying entity lurking within the park. White delivers a chilling and poignant tale that offers a gruesome twist on the classic setup, perfect for fans of *The Hunger Games* who enjoy a darker edge.

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

While not strictly a "dangerous game" narrative like *The Hunger Games*, *The Gilded Ones* is a captivating fantasy series set in a vibrant world led by a fearless female protagonist. Deka, a young woman, discovers she's unlike others during a brutal ceremony revealing her superhuman abilities. Shunned by her community, she joins an army of women to fight the monsters threatening their nation, uncovering a violent truth about her world along the way.

Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Avery Grambs' life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits a fortune from a stranger, leading her to a sprawling mansion filled with puzzles, mysteries, and danger. She must navigate the house and its inhabitants—the grandsons who were also in line for the inheritance—in a thrilling blend of mystery, intrigue, and puzzles that will appeal to fans of *The Hunger Games*'s intricate plotlines and suspenseful atmosphere.

Legend by Marie Lu

Set in a dystopian United States divided into districts, *Legend* mirrors the social inequalities of *The Hunger Games*. June, a young woman, seeks revenge after her brother's death, only to find herself embroiled in a cat-and-mouse game with Day, a lower-class criminal. As their pursuit unfolds, they uncover a deeper conspiracy that threatens the very foundation of their society.

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This epic fantasy, a bestseller with a major upcoming film adaptation, follows Zélie Adebola, a Diviner whose magic has been suppressed under a tyrannical king. When she befriends a princess who holds the secret to restoring magic, Zélie embarks on a journey that could change her life and kingdom forever. Fans of *The Hunger Games*'s world-building, strong female characters, and fantastical settings will find this a compelling read.