Some of the best movies are based on books, and there are countless examples of films that have brought beloved stories to life on the big screen. In this article, we will cover the top books that have been adapted into movies, providing readers with a list of must-reads and must-sees.
Handpicked by experts and editors, this list includes some of the most iconic books made into movies. From classics to modern favorites, readers will discover a range of titles that have captivated audiences both on the page and on the screen.
1. The Cider House Rules by John Irving
The Cider House Rules by John Irving is a classic novel that was first published in 1985. The story is set in a Maine orphanage and deals with sensitive topics such as illegal abortions, bigotry, and women’s autonomy over their bodies.
The novel is a riveting and eye-opening read that sheds light on the struggles faced by women in society. The book was adapted into a movie in 1999, starring Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, and Michael Caine. For those who prefer a gentler introduction to the story, the movie is a good starting point.
2. Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
Kevin Kwan’s novel “Crazy Rich Asians” was published in 2013 with the aim of introducing contemporary Asia to a North American audience. The book became an international bestseller, and the film adaptation released in 2018 became the highest-grossing romantic comedy of the past decade.
The movie is groundbreaking as it features a mostly Asian and Asian American cast, which is a rare occurrence in Hollywood. The story follows a Chinese-American professor who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend to attend a wedding and discovers that he comes from an extremely wealthy family. The book is known for its humor and is a must-read for anyone looking for a good laugh.
3. High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
High Fidelity is a novel by Nick Hornby that was published in 1995 and later adapted into a movie in 2000. The story revolves around a record store manager’s love for vinyl, lists, and his past girlfriends. It is a modern classic and a must-read for music lovers.
The book takes a sarcastic and humorous look at the many flaws of men in love. The movie adaptation stays true to the book’s rock ‘n’ roll roots and is a must-watch for fans of the novel.
The recently released High Fidelity Hulu series also maintains the book’s musical theme. Overall, High Fidelity is a witty and entertaining novel that explores the complexities of human relationships.
4. The Lord of the Rings Series by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings series, written by J.R.R. Tolkien and published between 1937 and 1955, is a popular fantasy epic that has sold millions of copies worldwide. The series includes The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King.
It features a wide range of characters such as elves, orcs, dwarfs, trolls, humans, and wizards, and boasts of an intricate world-building that has captivated readers for decades.
The Hobbit alone has sold over 140 million copies. The series has been adapted for radio, theater, and film, with the movie adaptations released between 2001 and 2014 being the most famous.
5. The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Published in 2009, The Help is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of two Black maids working in white households in Jackson, Mississippi, during the early 1960s.
The novel explores the struggles of the maids in dealing with racism and discrimination in their workplace. They team up with a white socialite to write a book about their experiences, which ultimately leads to a change in the racial divide during the birth of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement.
In 2011, the movie adaptation of The Help was released, receiving critical acclaim during awards season. Octavia Spencer won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the movie. The impact of the novel and the movie has been significant, resonating with readers and viewers alike.
If you’re interested in reading more books like The Help, check out these book recommendations based on fan-favorite TV shows.
6. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird, a novel published in 1960, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning classic of modern literature. It is a must-read for every high school student as it captures the essence of the human experience.
The book explores themes of innocence, cruelty, love, hate, race, and morality in a complex world. In 1962, a black-and-white film adaptation of the novel was released, starring Gregory Peck as the protagonist, Atticus Finch.
The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actor, and was nominated for five more, including Best Picture. To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers and viewers alike.
7. The Orchid Thief: A True Story of Beauty and Obsession by Susan Orlean
“The Orchid Thief” is a book written by Susan Orlean and published in 1998. The book is based on an article that Orlean wrote for “The New Yorker”. The story revolves around John Laroche, a plant dealer, and his obsession with orchids. The book is not just about flowers but also covers themes of passion, obsession, lust, and criminal justice.
In 2002, the book was adapted into a movie called “Adaptation”. The movie is a remarkable adaptation as it not only uses the original book in its plot but also features star performances from Tilda Swinton, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, and Nicolas Cage. The movie was a success and is considered one of the best adaptations of a book into a movie.
Overall, “The Orchid Thief” is a unique and engrossing read that covers a wide range of themes. Its success as a book and a movie adaptation is a testament to its originality and creativity.
8. Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton
Jurassic Park, a novel by Michael Crichton, was published in 1990 and became a New York Times bestseller. The story revolves around an island where scientists have brought dinosaurs back to life using DNA.
The novel is an action-adventure thriller and is a compulsively readable book. Six movies have been made based on the story, but the book remains a classic.
The 1993 Steven Spielberg movie adaptation with Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum is considered the best movie adaptation of the book. Jurassic Park is perfect for Father’s Day and is a great read for dads who have seen the movies but never read the book. It can be purchased on Amazon.com.
9. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Published in 2017, The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful novel that explores the ongoing battle for civil rights in the United States. The story follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old black girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed friend by a white police officer.
The novel has become a bestseller and has been praised for its honest portrayal of racism and police brutality. In 2018, a film adaptation was released, starring Amandla Stenberg as Starr.
The movie brought the book’s anti-racist message to a wider audience and received critical acclaim. The Hate U Give should be required reading in high schools across the country.
10. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Alice Walker’s novel, The Color Purple, was published in 1982 and won the Pulitzer Prize. The book is known for its poignant and evocative storytelling, making it one of the best books of all time. The story’s cultural impact also makes it one of the best books about race relations in early 20th-century America.
In 1985, Steven Spielberg coproduced and directed the movie adaptation of the book, which starred Whoopi Goldberg as the lead character. The movie’s screenplay, written by Menno Meyjes, was stellar and brought Walker’s important tale to life for generations of new audiences.
The movie did justice to the book and is considered one of the best books made into movies. The book and movie are available for purchase on Amazon.com.
11. The Shining by Stephen King
Stephen King’s The Shining was published in 1977 and adapted into a movie in 1980 by Stanley Kubrick. The story follows Jack Torrance, who is spending the winter with his family in a remote mountain resort where he is the caretaker. However, instead of having plenty of time to write, madness descends, leading to a bloody and horrific outcome.
Kubrick’s adaptation of the novel is considered a masterpiece, with chilling cinematography and a heart-pounding score. Jack Nicholson’s performance as Jack Torrance is also considered one of the greatest acting performances of all time.
For those interested in experiencing the horror of The Shining, the book and movie are available for purchase on Amazon.com.
12. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Jeannette Walls’ memoir, The Glass Castle, published in 2005, portrays the love that can exist within a nonconformist family. Walls’ upbringing was far from typical, with her family struggling financially and living a nomadic lifestyle.
Despite these challenges, Walls writes about the strength and determination that helped her overcome adversity. The 2017 movie adaptation of the book helped bring Walls’ story to a wider audience. The book is available for purchase on Amazon.com.
13. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia is a series of seven fantasy novels that were published from 1950 to 1956. The series begins with The Magician’s Nephew and includes the popular The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
The books feature epic battles between good and evil, imaginative creatures, unexpected betrayals, and heartwarming friendships, all set in a magical and fantastical world. The series has been adapted for various media including film, radio, television, stage, and computer games. The books are available for purchase on Amazon.com.
14. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland was first published in 1865 and has since become one of the most beloved works of English-language fiction. The fantastical story, filled with peculiar characters and riddles, has been adapted into several films, both live-action and animated.
However, the 2010 movie directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp is widely regarded as a sensory delight, capturing the wonder and magic of the original story.
Viewers are transported into the same world of curiosity and imagination that young readers experience when first encountering the book. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
15. Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx
Annie Proulx’s “Brokeback Mountain” is a tale of two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, who fall in love while working as sheepherders in Wyoming in the 1960s. The story was first published in The New Yorker in 1997 and won the National Magazine Award for Fiction the following year. It is a powerful exploration of the complexities of love between two men in a time and place where such love is considered taboo.
The story was later included in Proulx’s short story collection, Close Range, and has since been sold as a standalone novel. In 2005, the story was adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by Ang Lee, starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger. The film helped to change the way the world views gay love and the struggles that come with it.
Today, Brokeback Mountain remains a poignant and important work of literature and film, showcasing the enduring power of love and the human experience.
16. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey
Ken Kesey’s novel, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, was published in 1963 and was later adapted into a movie in 1975. The story follows the life of a mental hospital misfit and the harsh conditions he and other patients endure.
The novel’s comedic yet empathetic approach makes it one of the best books ever made into a movie. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest is considered one of the best works of fiction in modern history.
17. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
In 2007, Brian Selznick published his book The Invention of Hugo Cabret. The book is a thick hardback that tells a magical story of a boy in 1930s Paris, an automaton built by his dad, and a secret from the early days of cinema.
The book is mostly full of pencil sketches that evoke graphic novels, picture books, flip books, and films. It won the 2008 Caldecott Medal, even though it was written for children, and adults adore it as well.
In 2011, Martin Scorsese adapted the book into a film called Hugo. The movie starred Asa Butterfield, Ben Kingsley, Chloë Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Emily Mortimer, and Jude Law. The film was nominated for a 2012 Best Picture Academy Award.
Both the book and the film have received critical acclaim and are beloved by audiences of all ages.
18. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde’s only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, was published in 1891 and caused quite a stir among his Victorian contemporaries due to its themes of hedonism, homosexuality, beauty, and youth.
The novel tells the story of Dorian Gray, a young man who sells his soul to ensure that a portrait of himself ages instead of his body. The story was first published in a magazine, but the editor removed controversial elements without Wilde’s knowledge or approval, citing fears that the story might violate public morality laws of the day.
Since then, the novel has been adapted into several movies, including a 1945 version shot primarily in black and white. The use of Technicolor for Dorian’s aging portrait was a genius way to bring the book’s central theme to life. Another adaptation was released in 2009.
Despite its controversial themes, The Picture of Dorian Gray remains a classic in English literature and is still widely read and studied today.
19. The BFG by Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl is a renowned author of children’s literature, known for his imaginative and daring stories. Among his most beloved works is The BFG, first published in 1982. The heartwarming tale focuses on the Big Friendly Giant, whose job it is to collect and distribute good dreams to children. The book was an expansion of a short story included in Dahl’s 1975 book Danny, the Champion of the World.
In 2016, a movie adaptation of The BFG was released, with Mark Rylance portraying the lovable giant. Although the movie was well-received, the book remains a classic and is a must-read for children and adults alike. Reading this story to young people or with them is sure to fill their hearts and minds with hope.
For those interested in experiencing the magic of The BFG, the book is available for purchase on Amazon.com.
20. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Published in 2001 and adapted into a movie in 2012, Life of Pi by Yann Martel is a fantasy novel that takes place at sea. The story follows a young boy named Pi Patel and a Bengal tiger who are stranded on a small boat for over 200 days after a shipwreck.
The book explores themes of spirituality and offers a vivid portrayal of life adrift in the Pacific Ocean. It has been a commercial success, selling over ten million copies worldwide and winning the Man Booker Prize for Fiction.
The movie adaptation, directed by Ang Lee, was nominated for eleven Academy Awards and won four, making it one of the most successful films of 2012. For those seeking groundbreaking fiction, a book subscription box is recommended as a way to discover new and exciting reads.
21. The Godfather by Mario Puzo
The Godfather, a crime novel by Mario Puzo, was first published in 1969. It is a classic work of fiction and a bestseller that has been adapted into three movies. The films, released in 1972, 1974, and 1990, are widely regarded as some of the best movies ever made.
The Godfather story revolves around the Corleone family and their involvement in the American mafia. The book and movies, co-written by Puzo and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, are known for their portrayal of the ruthless underworld of the American mafia. If you’re looking for a great book to read and a fantastic movie to watch, The Godfather is a must-read and must-watch.
22. Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
Chuck Palahniuk’s 1996 novel “Fight Club” was adapted into a film in 1999, directed by David Fincher and starring Brad Pitt and Edward Norton. Despite his own reservations, Palahniuk has acknowledged that the movie streamlined the plot and made connections he had not thought of, making it more effective than the book.
The story, narrated by an unnamed protagonist, explores themes of psychotherapy, mental health, and male aggression. It is known for its visceral energy and shocking scenes. “Fight Club” has become a modern classic and is available for purchase on Amazon.
23. The Hours by Michael Cunningham
Published in 1998, The Hours is a novel by Michael Cunningham that won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction in 1999. The book was adapted into an award-winning film in 2002, featuring stellar performances from Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep, and Julianne Moore.
The story follows three women from different generations who are all affected by Virginia Woolf’s mental illness and her novel Mrs. Dalloway. Despite its heavy themes, The Hours is a powerful and inventive work that will captivate fans of Woolf’s writing and fans of fantastic filmmaking alike. For those interested in purchasing the book, it is available on Amazon.com.
24. Little Women by Louisa M. Alcott
Little Women is a classic novel that was originally published in two parts in 1868-1869. It is a coming-of-age story that follows the lives of the March sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, as they grow up during the Civil War in New England.
Each sister has her own unique personality, from Jo’s tomboyishness to Amy’s romanticism. Despite their differences, the sisters share a strong bond and demonstrate the power of family love.
The latest film adaptation of Little Women, released in 2019, received numerous award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
The film does justice to the book and introduces a new generation to the timeless story. It also provides the ending that the author, Louisa M. Alcott, always intended but was unable to provide due to the time period in which she lived.
Little Women is a great choice for a mother-daughter book club read, and its enduring relevance makes it a worthwhile read for anyone.
25. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
In 2012, Cheryl Strayed published her memoir, Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. The book chronicles Strayed’s journey of self-discovery during a grueling 1,100-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail.
It quickly became a bestseller, reaching number one on the New York Times bestseller list. The book’s success earned it the unique honor of being the first selection for Oprah’s Book Club 2.0.
In 2014, a movie adaptation of the book was released, starring Reese Witherspoon as Strayed. The screenplay was written by novelist Nick Hornby. Wild is a great read for those seeking inspiration and a tale of perseverance.
26. Atonement by Ian McEwan
Ian McEwan’s novel, Atonement, was published in 2003 and was later adapted into a film that was released in 2007. The story is set during World War II and explores the consequences of a young girl’s mistake that affects the lives of those around her.
The novel was shortlisted for the 2001 Booker Prize for fiction and is praised for its themes of love, childhood, war, and the power of the written word.
The film adaptation is a meticulous piece of filmmaking, with stunning performances by James McAvoy and Keira Knightley that do justice to McEwan’s book. Atonement is available for purchase on Amazon.com.
27. Push by Sapphire
Push, a novel published in 1996, tells the story of Precious, an uneducated and abused teenager who struggles to overcome her difficult upbringing. The book was adapted into a movie in 2009, which premiered at the Cannes and Sundance film festivals without a distributor.
Despite this, the film went on to receive six Oscar nominations, including nods for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress. The movie, also titled “Precious,” is an emotional and powerful portrayal of the book’s themes of resilience and hope.
28. 12 Years A Slave by Solomon Northup
“12 Years A Slave” is a nonfiction book published in 1853 that tells the story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the South. The book gained wider recognition after the release of the 2013 movie adaptation, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film is a powerful portrayal of Northup’s harrowing journey. However, to fully appreciate the story, readers should turn to the original memoir written by Northup himself. “12 Years A Slave” is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the horrors of American slavery.
29. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic of English literature. The novel follows the story of a mother’s efforts to marry off her five daughters and is hailed as the originator of the hate-to-love romance trope.
Jane Austen’s witty and skillful observations are on full display as she portrays the flirtation between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet as a nimble dance of words and movement.
While the book is a must-read for every home library, the screen adaptations are also highly recommended. The 1995 and 2005 movie adaptations are still popular among tweens and teens today. For those interested in owning a copy, Pride and Prejudice is available for purchase on Amazon.com.
30. Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
Call Me By Your Name, a novel by André Aciman, was first published in 2007. It tells the story of a teenage boy who falls in love with an older man who is a guest at his family’s home in the Italian Riviera during the summer of 1988.
Aciman’s beautiful prose explores themes of love, attraction, desire, and sexuality. The novel has won several awards and is considered one of the best LGBTQ+ books of all time.
In 2017, the novel was adapted into a movie, which starred Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer. Chalamet’s nuanced performance earned him a nomination for Best Actor Oscar. The film stays true to the book’s themes and is equally remarkable. Call Me By Your Name is a rare example of a book and movie being equally successful.
31. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina is a masterpiece of literature that was first published in 1878. It is a novel that explores themes of love, humanity, and adultery in Russia. The story is presented in a non-judgmental way, allowing readers to observe the lives of the characters without being forced to take a moral stance.
The book is a hefty tome, with 864 pages, and has been adapted into four films. The 2012 adaptation, featuring Keira Knightley, Jude Law, and Domhnall Gleason, is the most creative and visually stunning of all the adaptations. It is a glamorous portrayal of the story that captures the essence of Tolstoy’s work.
32. The Lost Child of Philomena Lee by Martin Sixsmith
The Lost Child of Philomena Lee is a book published in 1955 by journalist Martin Sixsmith. The book tells the emotional story of an Irish woman’s search for the son she was forced to give up when her father sent her away to a convent.
The book was adapted into a movie in 2013, simply titled Philomena, starring Steve Coogan and Judi Dench. The movie was nominated for a Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar and brought attention to the book.
In the movie, Sixsmith (played by Coogan) reluctantly helps Philomena, and the two form a strong bond on screen. This is a great example of a film adaptation bringing attention to a fantastic book. For more true stories, readers can check out the best biographies available at Barnesandnoble.com.
Summary
Book-to-movie adaptations have been a popular trend in the entertainment industry for decades. While some adaptations have been successful, others have failed to capture the essence of the original story. Successful adaptations often require a balance between staying true to the source material and making necessary changes for the medium. The popularity of book-to-movie adaptations shows no signs of slowing down, with many highly anticipated adaptations set to release in the coming years.