Heartbreak and Brutality: Haymitch’s Origin in Sunrise on the Reaping

Sunrise on the Reaping delivers a gut-wrenching, emotionally charged look into Haymitch’s past, revealing the brutal origins of a fan-favorite character in what may be the most heartbreaking Hunger Games novel yet.

Sunrise on the Reaping is a heartbreaking, breathtaking addition to The Hunger Games universe—one I loved, even as it shattered me emotionally. As a longtime fan of the series, having read all the books and seen the first four movies (though I still need to watch The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes), I felt this installment offered profound new insight, particularly into Haymitch. Knowing what we know about him from the original trilogy made reading this story all the more devastating.

Emotional Impact of the Book

As I read, I kept thinking, “Oh my goodness, this poor kid.” Haymitch’s story is brutal—arguably the most brutal in the series—and that’s saying a lot. The trauma he endures, the emotional toll of the 50th Hunger Games with its double set of tributes, and the sheer intensity of his involvement with characters like Maysilee, Wyatt, Lou Lou, Wellie, and Ampert hit him incredibly hard. I especially grieved for Wellie, one of his doves—one of many small but powerful moments that took my breath away.

The emotional weight in this book is staggering. Because readers already know Haymitch’s future and the pain he carries into the later series, watching him experience it in real-time makes it even harder to bear. The deaths in this book aren’t just tragic—they’re deeply personal, and they haunt you long after you’ve closed the cover.

Story Structure and Haunting Scenarios

What astonishes me is how Suzanne Collins continues to breathe new life into this world. This book feels both fresh and timely, while also layered with meaning for longtime fans. There are Easter eggs and callbacks that enrich our understanding of Haymitch’s decisions later in life. His relationships with Beetee and Plutarch add a new dimension, giving readers a deeper appreciation for the political complexity behind the rebellion.

The story’s structure also amplifies its emotional resonance—Haymitch being reaped on his birthday, for example, is almost unbearably cruel. Watching him form alliances, adapt to the Games, and bond with strangers to survive makes for a gut-wrenching reading experience. You can already tell the eventual film adaptation will be emotionally devastating.

This installment also captures a rawer, more unrefined version of the Hunger Games. By Katniss’s era, the spectacle has been polished for maximum entertainment. But in Haymitch’s time, the Games are still evolving—messier, less orchestrated, and arguably more dangerous in their unpredictability. That lack of polish makes every moment feel more uncertain and more human.

In contrast to Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, which gave us a more detached view through Snow’s eyes, Sunrise on the Reaping is deeply emotional. It pulls you into Haymitch’s suffering and resilience in a way that’s far more personal and affecting. The brutality isn’t just physical—it’s psychological. And every loss lands with devastating clarity.

Final Thoughts

Sunrise on the Reaping is powerful, painful, and utterly unforgettable. It expands the world we thought we knew and adds heartbreaking context to a character who has always deserved more understanding. Collins proves once again that this universe still has so much left to say—and she says it with brutal, beautiful clarity.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or returning to Panem after a break, this book is a must-read. Just be prepared: it will break your heart in the best—and worst—ways possible.

Like this review?

Don’t forget to follow Cyn’s Workshop on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter | Tumblr | Spotify | YouTube | BookBub | Goodreads | LinkedIn to stay tuned for future reviews.

About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband, two kids (the perfect pair), and their two cats Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx (aka Girl).