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

Discover Seven Riveting Reads Like The Hunger Games!

Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games captivated readers worldwide, spawning a blockbuster film franchise and leaving fans craving more. With a new book on the horizon, the series' popularity is set to surge. This list offers seven captivating alternatives that capture the same brutal brilliance and thrilling dystopian elements. These books offer diverse narratives, from deadly tournaments to dystopian fantasies, promising a satisfying read for any Hunger Games enthusiast.

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1. Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

A groundbreaking Japanese novel that predates The Hunger Games by nearly a decade, Battle Royale is a must-read. Its powerful and shocking narrative, further amplified by Kinji Fukasaku's legendary film adaptation, will undoubtedly satisfy your Hunger Games cravings. In a dystopian Japan, delinquent teenagers are forced into a televised fight to the death on a remote island. Brutal, violent, and haunting, this book is a gripping and thought-provoking experience.

2. The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

This stunning YA novel is a perfect contemporary alternative to The Hunger Games. It features children of ancient gods competing in a deadly series of adventurous games to replenish the sun. Jade, an unlikely participant, must fight for survival and friendship in unexpected ways. With memorable characters, exceptional world-building, and captivating action, this book will evoke the same thrilling experience as Katniss' journey.

3. Hide by Kiersten White

A bleak and brutal reimagining of classic mythology, Hide serves as a powerful allegory for real-life gun violence. Young adults compete in a deadly game of hide-and-seek in an abandoned theme park for a massive prize. However, a terrifying entity lurks within, threatening their survival. White's most poignant work, Hide, offers a gruesome horror twist on the familiar setup.

4. The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

While not following the "dangerous game" plotline, The Gilded Ones is a vibrant fantasy series led by a fearless female protagonist. Deka, a young woman ostracized for her unique abilities, joins an army of women to fight monsters threatening their nation. This New York Times bestseller unveils a violent truth about her nation's history.

5. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Avery Grambs' life changes when she inherits a fortune from a stranger, leading her to a mysterious mansion 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 mirrors The Hunger Games's divided districts and class struggle. June, seeking revenge for her brother's death, engages in a cat-and-mouse game with Day, a lower-class murderer. Their pursuit uncovers a darker truth about the Republic.

7. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This epic fantasy bestseller features Zélie, a Diviner in a kingdom where magic is suppressed. Her unexpected friendship with a princess sets them on a path to restore magic and challenge the oppressive regime. This book delivers vibrant world-building, strong female characters, and a captivating fantastical setting.