The Hunger Games Author Announces New Prequel Book

Currently untitled, the prequel book will be set 64 years before Katniss Everdeen first volunteered as tribute - meaning it will take place before the lifetime of our ballsy heroine, played in the films by Jennifer Lawrence.

"The reconstruction period 10 years after the war, commonly referred to as the Dark Days - as the country of Panem struggles back to its feet - provides fertile ground for characters to grapple with these questions and thereby define their views of humanity."

It looks like that's all the info we're getting for now, as Scholastic spokeswoman Tracy van Straaten declined to comment on the new book's contents or featured characters.

Lionsgate - the film studio that adapted Collins' books into a film series - is reportedly already eyeing up the prospect of a new movie based on the forthcoming prequel.

Lionsgate chairman Joe Drake said in a recent statement to the Associated Press: "As the proud home of the Hunger Games movies, we can hardly wait for Suzanne's next book to be published.

"We've been communicating with her during the writing process and we look forward to continuing to work closely with her on the movie."

Publisher Scholastic has said it is 'thrilled' to be involved with the new book, which promises an 'entirely new pespective'.

"Suzanne Collins is a master at combining brilliant storytelling, superb world building, breathtaking suspense, and social commentary," Scholastic Trade Publishing President Ellie Berger said in a statement.

"We are absolutely thrilled - as both readers and publishers - to introduce the devoted fans of the series and a new audience to an entirely new perspective on this modern classic."

Fans are already excited for the new book to drop, with one tweeting: "OH MY GOD. That is the most amazing news ever."

Another commented: "IM LITERALLY GOING TO CRY."

A third wrote excitedly: "I can't handle this news right now. I need that book on my hand!!!!"