“Sunrise on the Reaping” is the fifth book in “The Hunger Games” franchise, featuring Haymitch Abernathy as its main character.
Haymitch is a character who appeared in the series’ first three books. He was Katniss Everdeen’s mentor during the 74th and 75th Hunger Games. In the books, he is depicted as a middle-aged man with olive-toned skin and, before the first book, is the only victor District 12 has known. Haymitch is not known for his appearance, but rather for his struggles with alcoholism. When Katniss first met him on the train to the Capitol, she immediately recognized that he was drunk.
Throughout the series, it becomes evident that Haymitch is much more than just a drinker. His alcohol use serves as a coping mechanism following the trauma of being a victor in the 50th Hunger Games.
“Sun Rise and the Reaping” reveals that Haymitch’s family consists of his brother, Sid, and their mother. His twin sisters and father passed away before the start of the novel. Haymitch grew up in the Seam, where he was not wealthy, but his family led a semi-comfortable life. He brewed alcohol while his mother washed clothes.
In “Sunrise on the Reaping,” the readers gain insight into Haymitch’s experiences during the 50th Hunger Games. At 16, he was selected as a tribute for the second Quarter Quell, which, as mentioned in “The Hunger Games,” featured twice as many tributes, further slimming the chances for District 12, the poorest district of all.
Readers also learn more about previously undermentioned characters in the first book. For instance, Maysille Donner, the original owner of the mockingjay pin, plays a key role in “Sun Rise on the Reaping. “The fifth book of the “Hunger Games” series shares several parallels with the first book. The deaths of the tributes feel familiar, and both Katniss and Haymitch demonstrate a rebellious attitude toward the Capitol.
Haymitch’s character development in this book differs from what the audience sees in the first three books of “The Hunger Games” series, though. When tributes die, the book describes Haymitch’s emotions. Depending on the tribute, he responds with feelings of revenge, grief, or solemnity.
Fans of “The Hunger Games” are likely already aware of how Haymitch won the second Quarter Quell. While his victory is not surprising, the book still lacks some impactful moments. The deaths of certain characters feel rushed, and there is not much depth to how the Capitol truly affected Haymitch’s mind while in the arena. The torment Haymitch experiences does not seem to be brought up much more after his Hunger Games, but maybe that was because of the aftermath he was forced to face when he came back to District 12.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” is a book that fans have been waiting for. It goes into detail about how Haymitch became the person he is, exploring what he endured that turned him into an alcoholic. It examines the root of his trauma and sheds light on why he is regarded as a father figure among fans. On November 20, 2026, the movie adaptation of Haymitch’s story will be released in theaters. It is only a year until fans of “The Hunger Games” will get to see a younger Haymitch on screen and revisit “The Hunger Games” universe once again.
