The adventure series The Underland Chronicles by Suzanne Collins, author of the bestselling The Hunger Games series, is geared towards slightly younger readers —perfect if your independent reader enjoys the fantasy genre but is just not ready for Katniss's tale. The Chronicles begins as Gregor and his younger sister Boots dive into the depths of the underground New York. It's up to the siblings to save the world — filled with rodents, insects, and menacing rats — from destruction. Their adventures through Underland unfold as they battle evil enemies, form alliances, and learn that their father has mysteriously disappeared. As a leader in the unknown realm, Gregor must rise up and face difficult missions while discovering his inner strength. This page-turning saga will keep even the most reluctant readers entertained.