"Hannibal Rising" is a novel by Thomas Harris that serves as a prequel to the famous Hannibal Lecter series. It explores the early life of Hannibal Lecter, detailing his childhood in Lithuania during World War II and the traumatic experiences that shape him into a future serial killer. The story delves into his relationship with his younger sister, Mischa, and the horrific events that lead to her death. As Hannibal grows up, he seeks revenge against those who wronged him and his family. The narrative follows his transformation from a victim of war to a cunning and intelligent predator, setting the stage for his later exploits in the series.