Read Before You Watch! 4 Books Coming to the Big Screen This Year

The age-old question: “if it’s made into a movie do I need to even bother reading the book?” As a reading enthusiast, I can confidently say the answer is YES! While I rely heavily on Rotten Tomatoes reviews, it’s always fun to step into the role of a critic and read the book first to then judge the screen adaptation accordingly. Getting to create your own vision of characters in your head while reading a book is part of the thrill, and spoiler alert: the books are almost ALWAYS better than the films.  

For fans of Big Little Lies and Normal People that are looking for a new novel to get into – look no further than these books being made into TV series (or movies) this year! While most release dates have yet to be announced, many feature a star-studded roster of celebrities, so make sure to read them before they premiere! 

1. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty

In true Moriarty style, the book is told from the different perspectives of the various main characters – a clinic’s staff and guests attending a wellness retreat. As a fan of Big Little Lies, I eagerly picked up this book, and while it wasn’t a suspense novel, I was immediately drawn to the well-developed backstories and superb character development. I love a good plot twist, and the ending, while a bit eccentric did not disappoint. Starring Nicole Kidman and Melissa McCarthy, the Hulu mini-series will premiere sometime this year. Reader’s beware: it may make you wary of attending any future health retreats! 

2. Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney 

If you liked Normal People, you will love Rooney’s Conversations with Friends (a much more PG-rated read)! This book is fast-paced and quick witted, and I soared through this book in one day, immersing myself in the lives and dramas of characters Francis, her best friend Bobbi and a couple they find their lives intertwined with. This is a perfect book for those who aren’t self-proclaimed ‘readers,’ for the narrative is easy to navigate. I found the characters extremely relatable, although slightly exasperating at times, and I am sure you will too. While no casting decisions have yet been made, the show is said to premiere this year on Hulu. 

3. A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult 

Picoult is one of my favorite authors of all time, hands down. She is provocative and unapologetic as she addresses controversial topics and themes humanizing the issues at hand. This book is no exception as you will ride a rollercoaster of emotions watching the events unfold at the Center – a women’s reproductive health services clinic – as a gunman enters and holds all the staff and patients hostage, setting the stage for a crisis negotiator to fight for the life of his daughter who is being held on the inside.  I can’t salute Picoult enough for taking an unbiased approach to hot button topics and giving a voice to each side. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking story for your next book club, make sure to add this suggestion to your list as it is great for deep discussion and reflection. This limited series starring Joey King is set to premiere this year.  

4. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Probably one of my favorite reads on this list, this charming narrative follows the life of Eleanor, a thirty-something social outcast who is set in her routines leads a pretty mundane existence, until fate intervenes in the form of a co-worker, an emergency hospital visit, and of course – an unrequited love interest. Through the last page I was wrapped up in her story, enjoying all her quirks and laughs the book had to offer. This is a must read for anyone in need of some self-love and appreciation as it will give you a new perspective on life while redefining your notion of social awkwardness. While specific details haven’t been released, it is said to be in the works of being made into a film and will be produced by Reese Witherspoon (who knows a thing or two about book adaptations!). 

Happy reading and watching!

Feature image courtesy of ThePlaylist.net