Avid readers of "The Hunger Games" books are up for a treat. Suzanne Collins is revisiting the world of Panem in her upcoming novel, "Sunrise on the Reaping," marking the fifth installment in her highly acclaimed dystopian series. The story is set 24 years before the original novel and 40 years after her most recent release, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes." The book explores the reaping of the Fiftieth Hunger Games. Lionsgate has also announced a film adaptation, set to release next year, with Francis Lawrence returning as director.

Potential Plot: Drawing Inspiration From David Hume

In her previous books, Collins drew inspiration from Greek mythology and Roman gladiator games. The forthcoming novel will take inspiration from Scottish Enlightenment philosopher David Hume. In "Sunrise on the Reaping," Collins explores Hume's concept of implicit submission, delving into the themes of propaganda and narrative control. 

The story prompts reflection on the power dynamics between the masses and the few in society, echoing Hume's observation on governance. Collins finds relevance in Hume's ideas, highlighting the pressing nature of the question "Real or not real?" in today's world.

Collins' fictional narrative shows that Haymitch Abernathy won the Fiftieth Hunger Games, often known as the Second Quarter Quell. In the first four films, Woody Harrelson played Haymitch. It seems as though "Sunrise on the Reaping" will tell the story of the games that Haymitch won and the terrible fallout that followed, sending him into a downward spiral of alcoholism and hopelessness.

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Expanding the Franchise

A film adaptation is in the works. Franchise producer Nina Jacobson and her producing partner Brad Simpson will helm the production of "Sunrise on the Reaping" under their Color Force banner. This project marks Color Force's sixth project since joining Lionsgate in 2012, continuing their collaboration with the franchise.

Meredith Wieck and Scott O'Brien will supervise the production on behalf of the studio, while Patricia Laucella and Phil Strina manage the book rights for Lionsgate. Collins was represented by Jason Dravis of The Dravis Agency and Diane Golden and Sarah Lerner of the law firm Katz Golden Lerner LLP. In addition to the film adaptation, a stage production will premiere in London this fall.

A Literary Phenomenon and Cinematic Success

The book series has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, and its popularity has been aided by the earlier volumes' successful film adaptations. Collins was surprised avid readers when she published "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" in 2020. Her initial intention had been to wrap up the series with "Mockingjay."

Hollywood was made aware of young adult post-apocalyptic fiction due to the success of Lionsgate's franchise, which also opened the door for other dystopian-themed film series. To further develop the brand, Lionsgate has created new experiences, live events, and theme park attractions. An example is The World of the Hunger Games at Motiongate Dubai.

For Lionsgate, the film adaptations - which star Jennifer Lawrence and have a fantastic ensemble cast - have proven to be a successful series. Lionsgate chair Adam Fogelson praised Collins as a master storyteller and a guiding force for the studio. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with someone whose talent and imagination are consistently remarkable.

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