In January 2026, the question of whether Suzanne Collins is writing a new book has a very exciting and definitive answer. While she famously takes long breaks between projects to ensure her stories have deep philosophical meaning, her latest masterpiece is currently the center of the literary world.
If you are a fan of The Hunger Games, 2026 is officially the year of Haymitch Abernathy. Below is everything you need to know about Suzanne Collins’ newest work, her writing process, and what is coming next for Panem.
1. The Current Title: Sunrise on the Reaping
The short answer is yes, Suzanne Collins has recently completed her latest novel. Titled Sunrise on the Reaping, it was released on March 18, 2025.
As of early 2026, it is sitting at the top of bestseller lists globally. This is the fifth book in The Hunger Games series and serves as a second prequel, following the success of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.
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The Setting: The story begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.5
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The Protagonist: For the first time, readers get the full, brutal origin story of Haymitch Abernathy.
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The Plot: The book explores how Haymitch survived an arena with double the number of tributes (48 in total) and the devastating price he paid for his victory.
2. Themes and Inspiration: Why She Wrote It
Suzanne Collins does not write sequels just for the sake of it. She has stated that she only returns to Panem when she has a specific philosophical question to explore.
In 2026, critics are praising the book’s deep dive into David Hume’s philosophy of “implicit submission”—the idea of how easily the many are governed by the few. Collins has noted that the current global state of propaganda and misinformation made the story of the Second Quarter Quell feel more “real or not real” than ever before.
3. The 2026 Film Adaptation
The reason everyone is asking about Suzanne Collins right now is because the movie adaptation of Sunrise on the Reaping is currently in high-profile production.
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Release Date: November 20, 2026.
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The Cast: In a massive 2025 reveal, Joseph Zada was cast as the young Haymitch Abernathy.
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Returning Stars: In early January 2026, rumors were confirmed that Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson filmed a special “legacy” cameo for the film, likely as an epilogue.
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Collins’ Role: As with her previous books, Collins is heavily involved as a writer and producer for the film to ensure the adaptation stays true to the book’s grim tone.
4. Is she writing another book right now?
As of January 16, 2026, there has been no official announcement of a sixth Hunger Games book.
However, literary analysts have pointed out that Collins’ work often follows a “rule of three.” With the original trilogy and now two prequels, many believe she is currently in the “research phase” for a third prequel to round out a prequel trilogy.
Popular fan theories suggest her next project could focus on:
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The First Quarter Quell (25th Games): Where districts had to vote for who would be sent to the arena.
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The Dark Days: The original rebellion that led to the creation of the Games.
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Mags Flanagan’s Story: The 11th Games, which marked the first time the Games became a “spectacle.”
5. Summary of Suzanne Collins’ 2026 Status
| Milestone | Status | Details |
| Latest Book | Sunrise on the Reaping | Released March 2025 |
| Main Character | Haymitch Abernathy | 50th Hunger Games / 2nd Quarter Quell |
| Film Release | November 20, 2026 | Directed by Francis Lawrence |
| Next Project | Unannounced | Likely in the research/outlining stage |
Conclusion: A Year of Reaping
While the book Sunrise on the Reaping is already in the hands of readers, Suzanne Collins’ “writing” for 2026 is primarily focused on the screenplay and production side of the universe. She remains a master of the slow-burn, ensuring that when she does eventually announce a new title, it will be a cultural event.
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