Sunrise on the Reaping follows the storyline of Haymitch Abernathy, or the victor of the 50th Hunger Games. Abernathy, played by Woody Harrelson in the original film adaptations, appears in the original trilogy as a mentor for District 12 tributes; however, this is the first time readers get a true insight into his past.
While readers already knew the broader strokes of Haymitch’s story, it’s clear Collins didn’t just write this novel for entertainment. She clearly depicts the pitfalls of propaganda and authoritarianism that take form and change lives forever.
The book begins as usual in District 12; however, as fate would have it, the 50h Hunger Games marks a Quarter Quell–meaning the number of tributes from each district has been doubled. Haymitch as a teenager is vastly different from what we see in the original trilogy: he is down-to-earth, kind, and in love (though still full of wit). After an unlucky reaping, Haymitch is forced to say goodbye to his mother, his brother, and his lover, Lenore Dove. However, the parallels that Collins draws between Haymitch and the other District 12 victors we know and love from the original trilogy, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, adds a captivating thematic element to the novel. From familiar characters to a thirst for rebellion, the story contains connections which truly add a whole other dimension to Sunrise on the Reaping.
It seems the rebellion against the gruesome Capital began long before readers met Katniss Everdeen. While there are horrifying scenes from the arena (aligning with the violent tone of the series), Collins writes characters that readers instantly get attached to. Her characters bring to light another underlying meaning: even when it seems tyranny has no end, determined people can still take it apart.
It’s safe to say that Sunrise on the Reaping has added a much-needed history to Panem, and furthermore, has left readers in shambles. Social media users describe the book as one of the most amazing – yet cruel – pieces of literature they’ve read. The ending truly does rip the reader apart and leave them grieving and full of anger towards the world; however, one thing’s for sure: Suzanne Collins never fails to impress.
Sunrise on the Reaping is a must-read novel and contains powerful messages, and while the book may contain violence, sorrow, agony, and heartbreak, it has left marks on readers’ hearts and left us wanting more.
