If you like the Hunger Games, try Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Maze Runner by James Dashner, and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard; these offer similar dystopian themes, strong female leads, and thrilling action.
Enjoyed Katniss Everdeen’s fight for survival? Many readers find themselves wanting similar stories after finishing the Hunger Games. Thinking about what books to read if you like the hunger games can lead to so many exciting reading paths. This is understandable given the compelling characters and high-stakes world Suzanne Collins crafted.
What Books to Read If You Like The Hunger Games
So, you’ve devoured all three books of The Hunger Games series, maybe even multiple times, and now you’re experiencing that familiar book hangover. The world of Panem, with its thrilling fight for survival and its complex characters, has left a gap in your reading life. Fear not, fellow tributes! There’s a whole world of books out there that capture the same essence – the same heart-pounding action, the same struggle against injustice, the same compelling characters, and even the touch of romance. This article is your guide to finding those next great reads. We’re diving deep into what makes The Hunger Games so special and how to find books that will give you the same kind of captivating experience.
Dystopian Worlds and Societal Control
One of the biggest draws of The Hunger Games is its chilling depiction of a dystopian society. Panem is a world where the rich rule with an iron fist, and the poor suffer under their control. This struggle against a powerful, oppressive regime is a recurring theme in many books that fans of The Hunger Games will enjoy. Let’s look at some examples:
Divergent Series by Veronica Roth
Like Panem, the world of Divergent, set in a futuristic Chicago, divides its population into factions based on personality types. Tris Prior discovers that she doesn’t fit neatly into any of these factions and must hide her true nature. This series has all the elements that make The Hunger Games so great: a strong female protagonist, high-stakes challenges, a corrupt system, and a group of rebellious individuals who fight for change. You’ll love the action sequences and the deep themes of identity and belonging. The faction system is fascinating, and the stakes feel incredibly real as Tris navigates a dangerous world.
The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner
Imagine waking up in a mysterious glade, surrounded by towering walls, with no memory of who you are or how you got there. That’s the premise of The Maze Runner. Thomas and the other Gladers must work together to solve the puzzle of the maze, all while fighting against the strange and deadly creatures that lurk within. This series is heavy on suspense and action, and it features the same sort of survival-oriented plot that fans of The Hunger Games crave. The group dynamic among the Gladers is a large part of its charm as well.
Legend by Marie Lu
Set in a futuristic, war-torn Los Angeles, Legend follows June, a prodigy from the wealthy Republic, and Day, a legendary criminal from the slums. They are on opposing sides, but their paths soon cross in a complicated web of mystery and rebellion. You will appreciate the fast-paced action and the political themes in this novel, which feels quite similar to the atmosphere found in the world of Panem. The dual perspectives of June and Day add another layer of complexity to this gripping tale.
Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard
In a world where blood color determines social standing, Mare Barrow, a Red-blooded commoner, discovers that she has supernatural powers. This revelation throws her into the deadly world of the Silver-blooded elite and the ensuing rebellion that may lead to change. The class differences are so blatant and similar to those found in Panem that this is a great series for Hunger Games fans. With betrayal and political scheming aplenty, this series provides intrigue that you’ll surely love.
Strong Female Protagonists
Katniss Everdeen is one of the most iconic female characters in young adult literature. Her bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her family are part of what make her so memorable. If you admire Katniss, you’ll be drawn to other books with equally compelling female leads who are tough, resourceful, and aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo. Let’s look at some examples:
Graceling Realm Series by Kristin Cashore
Katsa, the protagonist of Graceling, is a powerful fighter who has been “graced” with the ability to kill. She’s not your typical damsel in distress; she’s a skilled warrior who fights for her own freedom. You’ll like the intricate world-building and the strong character development, as well as the touch of romance. Katsa is a fantastic character to follow.
The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
Princess Elisa of Orovalle is not your typical princess; she is destined for great things but has to find her own strength to fulfill that purpose. The story has elements of adventure, political intrigue, and a touch of magic which all adds to the enjoyment. Elisa’s journey of self-discovery is inspiring.
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Alina Starkov, the lead character in Shadow and Bone, discovers that she is a Sun Summoner, a rare and powerful Grisha who can bend light. Like Katniss, she is thrust into a world of power and politics that she must navigate. This series is known for its richly detailed fantasy world and the compelling characters that inhabit it. The world building and magic systems will draw you in.
Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas
Celaena Sardothien, the protagonist of the Throne of Glass series, is an infamous assassin who is given a chance at freedom if she agrees to compete in a deadly competition. The series has a great mix of action, romance, and magic, which can keep you turning the pages. This is a high fantasy series that delivers on adventure and political intrigue, a perfect choice for those who love Katniss’ rebellious spirit.
Survival and High-Stakes Challenges
The Hunger Games are, at their core, a brutal survival game where the participants fight for their lives. That intensity is a key part of what makes the series so gripping. If you’re looking for other books with high-stakes challenges, then you might like these titles:
The Testing Trilogy by Joelle Charbonneau
In this series, a select few teens are chosen to undergo a series of difficult trials, with the promise of a better future if they succeed. However, what starts off as a competition soon becomes a matter of life and death. The high stakes and the ethical questions posed in this trilogy are what make it a thrilling read.
The Long Walk by Stephen King
Although a bit different in tone, The Long Walk offers a similarly grim contest, where a group of teenagers must walk constantly or face being shot. King creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere as the walkers face their physical and mental limits. It is a classic survival story with suspense and dread that will stick with you.
The Lord of the Flies by William Golding
This classic novel explores what happens when a group of British schoolboys are stranded on a desert island. Without the rules and order of society, the boys descend into savagery, creating their own dangerous rules and challenges. It’s a fascinating and disturbing look at human nature and survival. While not a futuristic setting like the other books, the fight for survival has the same tension.
Rebellion and Fighting Against Injustice
At the heart of The Hunger Games is the fight against injustice and oppression. Katniss isn’t just fighting for her own survival; she is also fighting to change the system that put her and others like her in danger. If you’re drawn to stories of rebellion and fighting for what’s right, you’ll want to check out these recommendations:
The Giver by Lois Lowry
This seemingly perfect utopian society hides a dark secret. When Jonas is chosen to become the new Receiver of Memory, he begins to see the truth about his world and the sacrifices that have been made to maintain its order. It explores the power of knowledge, choice, and resistance against a seemingly unbreakable system. It’s a thought-provoking story that questions the concept of utopia.
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Ender Wiggin is a genius strategist who is drafted into military training to prepare for a war against an alien race. As he undergoes increasingly difficult simulations, he learns about leadership and the cost of war. The high stakes and political maneuvering are similar to what you see in The Hunger Games. It also explores ethical issues surrounding fighting, rebellion, and sacrifice.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Narrated by Death, this story follows Liesel Meminger during World War II. She finds solace in stolen books and a secret friendship with a Jewish refugee. While not as action-packed as other books on this list, it explores themes of resistance, the power of words, and human spirit amidst oppression. It’s a beautifully written story that speaks to the power of kindness in the darkest of times.
The Touch of Romance
While romance isn’t the main focus of The Hunger Games, the love triangle between Katniss, Peeta, and Gale adds another layer of complexity to the story. If you also enjoyed this element, here are some other recommendations that mix romance with high stakes, adventure, and societal rebellion:
Shatter Me Series by Tahereh Mafi
Juliette Ferrars has a dangerous touch that can kill with ease, making her a dangerous weapon in the hands of the oppressive Reestablishment. As she navigates a complicated relationship with Adam and Warner, she also discovers the extent of her powers and the way she can change her dystopian world. The mix of romance and action is sure to keep you glued to the pages.
Red Rising Saga by Pierce Brown
Darrow is a Red, a member of the lowest class on Mars, who is determined to rise up and dismantle the social hierarchy. This series blends political intrigue, action sequences, and complex characters. The romance is intertwined with the high-stakes conflicts and the fight for a fairer society. It’s a great series for those who enjoy a mix of action and romance.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas
Feyre Archeron finds herself in a dangerous world of fae after accidentally killing a magical wolf. This series is known for its intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and a captivating romance that will have you invested in what happens next. It’s a good pick for fans of the romantic aspects of The Hunger Games with a touch of fantasy.
Finding the next book after a series like The Hunger Games can feel like a daunting task. However, many books out there capture the same essence of action, survival, complex characters, and fighting against societal oppression. With this list, you’re well on your way to finding a new book or series that will thrill you, challenge you, and leave you just as satisfied as you were after reading The Hunger Games. Don’t be afraid to explore and find the new world that awaits you within the pages of these compelling stories.
Books to read if you loved the hunger games
Final Thoughts
For those craving similar dystopian thrills, The Maze Runner series presents a must-read, filled with desperate escapes and coded puzzles. Divergent offers a compelling choice too, showcasing societal factions and individual rebellion.
Consider Red Queen with its caste system and powerful protagonists, if you enjoy themes of social injustice. These titles provide action, strong characters, and thrilling plots.
So, what books to read if you like the hunger games? These recommendations offer similar themes of survival and revolution, a definite must-explore for fans.
