The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
2020 novel by Suzanne Collins
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Key Takeaways
- The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is a dystopian young adult action-adventure novel written by the American author Suzanne Collins.
- It was released on May 19, 2020, by Scholastic, with an audiobook of the novel, read by the American actor Santino Fontana, released simultaneously.
- A film adaptation by Lionsgate, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes , was released on November 17, 2023.
- Author Suzanne Collins also stated: With this book, I wanted to explore the state of nature, who we are, and what we perceive is required for our survival.
- It features a golden mockingjay at a new angle, entwined with a snake.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is a dystopian young adult action-adventure novel written by the American author Suzanne Collins. It is a prequel to the original The Hunger Games trilogy, set 64 years before the events of the first novel. It was released on May 19, 2020, by Scholastic, with an audiobook of the novel, read by the American actor Santino Fontana, released simultaneously. The book had a virtual launch due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A film adaptation by Lionsgate, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, was released on November 17, 2023.
Background
Development
Regarding the title, Scholastic publisher and editorial director David Levithan stated:
Over a decade ago, Panem provided a very useful lens through which to see our own world, and I think applies as well in 2020, where questions of power and moral choice are as prevalent as ever. It's also fascinating to revisit a place you feel you know, but 64 years earlier.
Author Suzanne Collins also stated:
With this book, I wanted to explore the state of nature, who we are, and what we perceive is required for our survival.
Cover art
The cover art for the book was designed by Tim O'Brien. It features a golden mockingjay at a new angle, entwined with a snake. Regarding the cover art, VP publisher and editorial director for Scholastic David Levithan stated:
This cover does an extraordinary job of capturing the conflict—both inner and outer—that lies at the heart of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. The mockingjay has returned, but at a new angle . . . which is very much in line with the story that Suzanne Collins is telling.
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