Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie R. Wheadon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Haymitch's rebellion, tragedy in bloody, compelling prequel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 11 parent reviews
Based on 35 kid reviews
Kids say this book provides a gripping prequel that delves into Haymitch's tragic backstory, but it is marked by increased violence and sadness compared to the original series. Reviews suggest it may not be suitable for younger readers due to its gory scenes and some debates over an inappropriate shower scene, though many found it captivating and well-written.
- violence warning
- emotional depth
- mature themes
- character development
- appropriate age range
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In SUNRISE ON THE REAPING, Haymitch Abernathy's birthday never feels like a celebration because it's also reaping day in Panem's District 12. On his 16th birthday, he still tries to make plans for afterward, to meet his girlfriend Lenore in the woods and bring her gumdrops, and to help his mother fill the cistern. He dresses up as always, stands with the other 12- to 18-year-olds in the square, and awaits the calling of tribute names, four instead of two this year for the Hunger Games' 50th anniversary. Haymitch's name is not called, but his guilty relief is short-lived when a male tribute bolts and is shot. For attempting to protect Lenore in the ensuing mayhem, Haymitch is dragged onstage. In five minutes, camera footage is altered to wipe away the violent truth, and not for the last time as Haymitch struggles to find a way to rebel against the Capitol.
Is It Any Good?
The origin story of Katniss' mentor Haymitch Abernathy is as bloody and compelling and heartrending as you'd expect, but it's also full of compassion—which, of course, makes it even sadder. At the beginning, Haymitch is a sweet 16-year-old. He's a good big brother who does chores for his mom and adores his girlfriend, Lenore. He makes extra money helping an old lady brew moonshine in the forest, but he doesn't drink any of it himself. After the reaping, his rebellious anger rears up when his childhood friend is crushed by a chariot before the games even begin. It simmers over when the accident is covered up—in a truly disturbing way. Secret Capitol rebels find Haymitch, whisper plans in his ear, and his course is set. We already know he survives the Hunger Games, but not the extent of his rebellion in the process. While it's confusing what happens with one act of vandalism—if only we could get the game-makers' perspective for just a moment—it's satisfying that this Hunger Games is not going as nefariously planned. It's also a poignant surprise that Haymitch is so protective of the other tributes, a big brother to the end. Get the tissues out for these quiet moments of caring, of tending wounds, of sharing food and childhood memories, of mourning in this pit of death. Of course, the other Big Brother—President Snow—takes notice of Haymitch's big-heartedness and knows precisely how to punish him for messing with his deadly games, and tragedy ensues.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the propaganda in Sunrise on the Reaping. How is the media used as a weapon in Panem? What does the Capitol TV audience see of the Hunger Games? What does the media leave out? Why?
Readers of the Hunger Games trilogy know who the main character, Haymitch, becomes as an adult. Does that make it easier to read this tragedy? Or harder to see him younger as someone with compassion and integrity who suffers greatly for standing up against authority?
If this is your third or fifth Hunger Games novel, does reading about the reaping and killing of kids get any easier? There are twice as many deaths in the arena in this book. How many deaths happen in the background, mentioned rather than described? Was this story as bloody as you thought it would be?
Now we know the backstories of President Snow (from The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes) and of Haymitch in this book. Who else deserves a backstory? Would you want to read about someone rich who loves the Capitol? Or more of the rebels?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Activism , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Animals ( Bugs ) , Friendship , Robots
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Scholastic
- Publication date : March 18, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
- Number of pages : 382
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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