The story set before the events of the original trilogy, The Hunger Games series, explores a young Haymitch’s early life, particularly his time as a victor from District 12 in the 50th Hunger Games. The actual “games” are a brutal and televised event whereas 24 young children – tributes- are selected from all 12 districts to fight to the earth. These tributes, aged 12 to 18 are chosen during a yearly lottery system known as the “Reaping ceremony.” Each year, one male and one female from each district are selected, and are forced to compete in an arena controlled by the capitol, that are infested with challenges. The games take place in a man-made arena, which can vary in environment and pose its own set of challenges, such as dangerous creatures, deadly traps, and environmental hazards. The tributes are pitted against one another and only one can survive. They must use their survival skills, and even their personality to create alliances and favorites from the country and other tributes to stay alive.
The series follows Katniss Everdeen, a young 16 year old girl from District 12, who becomes a symbol of resistance against the Capitol. The series follows her journey through the games, the rebellion, and the downfall of the capitol. The trilogy consists of the three books, The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Mockingjay.
MILD SUNRISE ON THE REAPING SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!
As for Haymitch Abernathy, a former victor of the Hunger Games from District 12, having won the games many years before Katniss and Peeta. Sunrise on the reaping coincides on his birthday, in which Haymitch plans to spend the day with his girlfriend and his sibling. Though confident and saved from the troubles of the hunger games, Haymitch’s attempt to protect Lenore Dove from the fury of the guards leads with him to be one of the now 48 tributes of the quarter quell. The brutal twist being the double of tributes, making the games more deadlier and chance of survival being slim to none. Being thrusted into high states violent competition, Haymitch fights for his survival to not just keep his life, but to make it back home to the people he loves.
The novel gives fans an intimate look at the psychological cost of victory and survival in the aftermath of Panem. The emotional depth of Haymitch’s pain and eventual alcoholism is explored in a way that adds depth and layers to his personal, aftering explanations for his later behaviors. By the end, readers will understand not just why Haymitch drinks and acts in a seemingly erratic manner, but also how the pain of his past has shaped the man that Katniss and Peeta come to rely on as their mentor.