Donna TysionIntroduction
Books have a unique power to transport readers to another world. They allow us to visualize characters and scenes in a way that is deeply personal and rich with imagination. But when those same stories are adapted into movies, the experience becomes even more exhilarating, especially for those who read the book first. If you’ve ever been on the edge of your seat, waiting to see how your favorite book will come to life on the big screen, then you know how thrilling it is to read a book before it’s made into a movie.
In this article, we explore 11 books to read before they become movies—books that have already caught the attention of filmmakers and are set to be adapted into films soon. These books span different genres, from historical fiction to fantasy, and offer a little something for every reader.
The Appeal of Books Becoming Movies
There’s something special about watching a movie that’s based on a book you’ve already read. You get to compare the characters and scenes in your mind to what the filmmakers envisioned. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of spotting details that were either changed or left out in the adaptation. While some adaptations may not do the book justice, others can become legendary in their own right. For book lovers, it’s a bit like reliving a story they adore, but through a new medium.
How to Choose Books to Read Before They Become Movies
If you’re eager to dive into books that are soon to be adapted into movies, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Look for upcoming film adaptations: Websites like IMDb or Goodreads can provide a list of books being adapted to film.
- Focus on highly anticipated releases: Movies based on bestselling books or those that have generated significant buzz often live up to the hype.
- Read the reviews and synopsis: Before diving into a book, check out a synopsis and reviews to ensure it fits your reading tastes.
Now, let’s jump into the 11 books you should read before they hit the big screen.
1. ‘The Night Circus’ by Erin Morgenstern
This mesmerizing tale of magic, mystery, and romance follows two young illusionists who are bound by a magical competition. The circus itself, which appears only at night, is as much a character in the story as the people. With its vivid imagery and complex plot, it’s no surprise that The Night Circus is being adapted into a film.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The rich world-building and fantastical elements will make for a visually stunning movie experience.
Upcoming movie details: The film is in development with director Matt Shakman attached, and fans are eagerly awaiting news of casting.
2. ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ by Delia Owens
Set in the marshes of North Carolina, Where the Crawdads Sing tells the story of Kya Clark, a young woman who grows up in isolation. When a local man is found dead, Kya becomes the prime suspect, and the book explores themes of survival, loneliness, and love.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The atmospheric setting and emotional depth of the characters make it a great choice for a film.
Upcoming movie details: The film adaptation, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, was released in 2022 and has already gained critical acclaim.
3. ‘The Shadow and Bone’ Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo
This fantasy series, set in a war-torn world where light and shadow are at constant odds, follows Alina Starkov, a young soldier who discovers she may be the key to saving her world. The trilogy has captivated readers with its rich world-building and complex characters.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The world-building and magical elements are ideal for a cinematic experience.
Upcoming movie details: Netflix has already adapted Shadow and Bone into a successful series, with more seasons planned.
4. ‘Circe’ by Madeline Miller
A retelling of the story of Circe, the witch from Greek mythology, Circe dives into the character’s complex journey from an outcast to a powerful and self-aware figure. The novel has been praised for its feminist take on mythological stories.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The story’s mythological roots and focus on empowerment will translate beautifully to film.
Upcoming movie details: A film adaptation is in the works, with Hollywood’s top studios eager to bring the story to the screen.
5. ‘The Paper Palace’ by Miranda Cowley Heller
This gripping family drama is set in a beautiful beach house and follows the complicated relationships between its inhabitants. It’s a story of love, betrayal, and family secrets.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The layered narrative and strong emotional themes are ripe for a compelling film.
Upcoming movie details: The film adaptation is set to star Reese Witherspoon and will be released in 2023.
6. ‘The Midnight Library’ by Matt Haig
Nora Seed finds herself in a library between life and death, where each book on the shelves represents a different life she could have lived. It’s a poignant exploration of regret, choice, and self-discovery.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The book’s exploration of parallel lives lends itself well to a visually creative movie.
Upcoming movie details: The movie adaptation is in development with Netflix, making this one to watch out for.
7. ‘The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This novel chronicles the glamorous and tumultuous life of Evelyn Hugo, a Hollywood starlet, through interviews about her seven marriages. It’s a beautiful blend of celebrity, romance, and drama.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The intriguing story and complex characters are perfect for a star-studded movie.
Upcoming movie details: The movie adaptation is in development with Netflix and is expected to feature a powerhouse cast.
8. ‘The Night Swim’ by Megan Goldin
A gripping thriller about a true crime podcast host who becomes embroiled in a mystery involving a recent death and an old unsolved case.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The dark and suspenseful plot is sure to translate into a chilling film.
Upcoming movie details: The movie rights have been acquired, and production is expected to start soon.
9. ‘The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue’ by V.E. Schwab
This fantasy novel follows Addie LaRue, a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The concept of eternal life and the rich historical backdrop provides endless cinematic potential.
Upcoming movie details: A film adaptation is in the works, with V.E. Schwab herself attached as a consultant.
10. ‘The Giver of Stars’ by Jojo Moyes
Set in the 1930s, this historical novel follows a group of women who become packhorse librarians in rural Kentucky. It’s an inspiring story about friendship, independence, and fighting for what’s right.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The historical setting and strong female characters will resonate in a movie format.
Upcoming movie details: The film adaptation was released in 2022 and stars Felicity Jones.
11. ‘Project Hail Mary’ by Andy Weir
In this science fiction novel, Ryland Grace is a lone astronaut tasked with saving humanity from an extinction-level disaster. It’s a thrilling, heart-pounding tale of survival and discovery.
Why it’s perfect for adaptation: The high-stakes plot and scientific exploration make it a perfect fit for a blockbuster movie.
Upcoming movie details: The movie is in production, with Ryan Gosling starring as the lead.
Conclusion
Reading a book before it becomes a movie is one of the most rewarding experiences for any book lover. The novels listed here are not only engaging stories but also have the potential to make incredible cinematic experiences. If you want to enjoy the best of both worlds, dive into these books before they hit theaters.
FAQs
- Which of these books is the most anticipated movie adaptation?
The Night Circus and Where the Crawdads Sing are some of the most eagerly awaited adaptations. - How do you find books that will be adapted into movies?
Websites like IMDb and Goodreads, along with film news outlets, often provide updates on upcoming book adaptations. - Can reading the book before the movie gives a better experience?
Yes, it allows you to visualize the story your way before filmmakers offer their interpretation. - What is the best book-to-movie adaptation you’ve seen so far?
Many people consider The Lord of the Rings trilogy to be one of the best adaptations. - How do I know if a movie will be good based on the book?
A good adaptation stays true to the spirit of the book while translating the story to film. - Are there any books that should never be turned into movies?
Some books with highly imaginative or introspective narratives may lose their essence in a movie. - What are some classic books that have become iconic movies?
The Great Gatsby, Pride and Prejudice, and To Kill a Mockingbird are examples of classic literature turned into iconic films.
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