Book adaptations worth watching (and reading)

If you’re anything like me, you love when a great story doesn’t end on the page. There’s something special about seeing a favourite book reimagined on screen and yes, I’ll admit it, I love comparing the two. This page is for readers who want to explore the best book adaptations, whether you’re planning your next watch or your next read.

Why book adaptations are everywhere right now

We’re in a golden era of book to movie adaptations. Studios are pulling from bestselling novels, backlist gems, and even niche favourites, which means more stories we love are getting the spotlight.

Personally, I use this as a reading guide. If I hear about an upcoming book to movie adaptation, I’ll usually bump it up my TBR. Reading first makes the experience richer, I catch more details, understand characters better, and notice what’s changed.

What makes the best book to movie adaptations

Not every adaptation lands, but the best book to movie adaptations strike a balance. They stay true to the core of the story while embracing what works on screen.

For me, the best book to film adaptations:

  • Capture the tone and emotional depth

  • Cast characters that feel right

  • Make smart changes without losing the story’s heart

When it works, it’s the best of both worlds!

Below, I’m sharing a curated list of must-see book adaptations. These picks include recent hits as well as upcoming book to movie adaptations you’ll want to read before watching. I hope you find something you are excited about!

Must-see book adaptations

  • Book cover and fil poster of Margo's Got Money Troubles

    Margo's Got Money Troubles (teleseries)

    Based on the book by Rufi Thorpe

  • Book cover and movie poster of Kay Scarpetta

    NEW | Kay Scarpetta (teleseries)

    Based on the books by Patricia Cornwell

  • Cross teleseries promo image

    NEW | Cross (teleseries)

    Based on James Patterson books

  • Movie poster of Preparation for the Next Life movie

    NEW | Preparation for the Next Life (movie)

    Based on the book by Atticus Lish

  • Promo for The Night Manager tv series

    NEW | The Night Manager (teleseries)

    Based on the book by John Le Carré

  • Promo image for Oh. What. Fun. movie

    Oh. What. Fun. (movie)

    Based on the short story by Chandler Baker

  • Woman looking over the side of a boat

    The Woman in Cabin 10 (movie)

    Based on the novel by Ruth Ware

  • The Marlow Murder Club (teleseries)

    Based on the novel by Robert Thorogood

  • Promo image of Three Pines series

    Three Pines (teleseries)

    Based on the Inspector Gamache series by Louise Penny

  • The Map that Leads to You (movie)

    Based on the novel by J. P. Monninger.

  • Nine Perfect Strangers (teleseries)

    Based on the book by Liane Moriarty

  • Three teenagers on a beach

    The Summer I Turned Pretty (teleseries)

    Based on the novel by Jenny Han

  • A woman and man in a crowd

    Daisy Jones & The Six (teleseries)

    Based on the book by Taylor Jenkins Reid

  • A man holding an antique item

    A Gentleman in Moscow (miniseries)

    Based on the novel by Amor Towles

  • A woman holding a fan to her lips

    Snow Flower and the Secret Fan (movie)

    Based on the novel by Lisa See