Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

Okay, Ms. Collins, I have been sat.

Writing quality 4.75/5
Honestly, Suzanne can do no wrong for me. However, I’m deducting .25 (and I couldn’t decide if it should be in this category or characters) solely because I had a hard time reading Haymitch’s voice. I caught myself a few times re-reading phrases and sentences as I wasn’t sure if there was a spelling or grammar mistake or if it was his idiolect.

Characters and characterizations 5/5:
Haymitch deserved to have his story told and Suzanne did not disappoint. You may think you know Haymitch but this was a deep dive I needed to fully understand him. I also loved seeing the younger versions of multiple characters we see in the original trilogy and their stories.

Overall story 5/5:
A Heart wrenching and devastating love story, a piece on propaganda, making a stand against the man no matter the outcome. Did that sentence make a lot of sense? Probably not. So just read it so you can understand.
The last few chapters and epilogue had me on the verge of a mental b. I felt the trauma and grief.

Plot 5/5:
Suzanne did it again. Though we know the ultimate outcome of Haymitch and all the characters in the arena (and those we see outside) this plot is still riveting until the end.

Post reading rating 4.75/5
I’m wrecked. I’m emotionally damaged. 0.25 off because I’m sad and wish Haymitch could have had a better life.

Overall rating: 4.9

Content Warnings