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If you enjoyed the film 'The Family', the book 'Malavita' by Tonino Benacquista offers an even deeper dive into the intricate dynamics of a family trying to reform their lives. The novel provides richer character development and amusing insights into the minds of each family member, capturing all the quirks and complexities that the movie could only briefly touch upon.

With its witty narrative style and keen observations on human nature, 'Malavita' invites readers into a world where humor and danger intertwine seamlessly. Readers will relish the opportunity to discover the little details and backstories, which enrich the storyline and make the family's journey all the more compelling and relatable. Dive into the pages of Benacquista's work for an experience that is both captivating and delightfully entertaining.

After ratting out his Mafia cohorts, Giovanni Manzoni and his family enter the Witness Protection Program and relocate to a sleepy town in France. Despite the best efforts of their handler to keep them in line, Giovanni (now called Fred Blake), his wife and children can't help but resort to doing things the "family" way. However, their dependence on such old habits places everyone in danger from vengeful mobsters.

Malavita

The Family

Before diving into the mesmerizing cinematic adaptation, immerse yourself in Deborah Levy's rich prose with her novel, 'Swimming Home'. Levy's writing offers a depth and introspection that can only be fully appreciated through her carefully crafted words and layered narrative structure. Her novel is a masterclass in psychological complexity and the subtle unraveling of familial tension.

In 'Swimming Home', every sentence and passage carries a weight of meaning that the screen cannot capture in its full nuance. Levy’s novel guides the reader through the intricate dance of character interactions and revelations with a tenderness that invites deep reflection. The prose is not just a vessel for plot but a carefully woven tapestry of emotion and intellect.

Choose to read 'Swimming Home' and discover not just a story, but an experience that resonates beyond the final page. Explore the interior worlds of Levy's characters in a way that only literature allows, where every thought is a window into profound human truths. Let the novel's evocative language and intricate themes take you to new depths of understanding and empathy.

Joe and Isabel’s marriage is dying when Kitti, a naked stranger found floating in the pool at their holiday villa in Greece, is invited to stay. Kitti collects and eats poisonous plants, and Nina, their teenage daughter, is enthralled by her. What kind of relief can Kitti provide for this family in crisis?

Swimming Home

Dive into the pages of Terry McMillan's novel 'Waiting to Exhale' and discover a richer, more nuanced portrayal of friendship and personal journeys than any film could capture. The novel delves deep into the innermost thoughts and emotions of its characters, offering a truly immersive experience that allows readers to build a profound connection with each woman's story. 

Experience the unfiltered complexities of relationships, self-discovery, and the trials of life with the powerful prose that only Terry McMillan can provide. The book captures the authenticity and depth of its characters' struggles and triumphs, offering readers both relatability and inspiration. 

Unlike the movie, which condenses and simplifies the narrative for cinematic time constraints, the novel provides an expansive exploration of the women's lives, filled with intimate moments and detailed backgrounds. Embrace the depth and breadth of the source material to truly understand and appreciate the essence of 'Waiting to Exhale'.

Cheated on, mistreated and stepped on, the women are holding their breath, waiting for the elusive "good man" to break a string of less-than-stellar lovers. Friends and confidants Vannah, Bernie, Glo and Robin talk it all out, determined to find a better way to breathe.

Waiting to Exhale

Embark on a literary journey with Jules Verne's classic novel "Around the World in Eighty Days". This timeless masterpiece captivates readers with its detailed depictions of diverse landscapes and cultures, offering a more immersive experience than any screen adaptation can provide. Verne's ingenious storytelling allows you to travel alongside the precise Phileas Fogg and his loyal valet Passepartout, as they outwit obstacles in a race against the clock. 

Reading "Around the World in Eighty Days" not only entertains but also educates, enriching your understanding of the 19th-century world and its technological marvels. Verne's ability to weave science and fiction sets the groundwork for modern genres, making it a must-read for those who appreciate the roots of adventure literature. Experience the thrill of discovery as you imagine the bustling marketplaces of Bombay, the serene landscapes of the American plains, and the bustling streets of London. 

Why settle for a condensed cinematic depiction when the novel offers so much more depth and nuance? The 2004 movie adaptation, though amusing, glosses over the intricate plot and character development that Verne masterfully crafts. Engage with the source material to fully appreciate the wit and intelligence of one of literature's finest adventure writers. Reading Verne's original work invites you to picture the world as he saw it—a place brimming with wonder and infinite possibilities.

A bet pits a British inventor, a Chinese thief and a French artist on a worldwide adventure that they can circle the globe in 80 days.

Around the World in Eighty Days

Around the World in 80 Days

Dive into the captivating world of Norman Lindsay's 'Age of Consent,' a novel that weaves artistry, inspiration, and personal discovery into a picturesque narrative. Unlike the film, which captures only a glimpse of the protagonist's transformative journey, the book delivers a rich, layered exploration of creativity and human nature that will leave you pondering long after the last page.

Through Lindsay's evocative prose, readers embark on a deeper, more intimate adventure alongside the artist. The lush descriptions of the Australian landscape are brought to life in vivid detail, creating a backdrop that not only sets the stage for the protagonist’s enlightenment but also becomes a character in its own right. Immerse yourself in a literary experience that fully captures the essence and spirit of its setting and characters, something the visual medium can only partially convey.

In addition to the book's insightful explorations of art and life, Lindsay masterfully captures the complexity of relationships. Characters are intricately developed, offering nuanced perspectives that enhance the central themes of art as a vehicle for personal growth. By choosing to read the novel, you're engaging with a brilliant tapestry that only a masterful storyteller like Lindsay can weave, making it a far richer experience than simply watching the film adaptation.

An elderly artist thinks he has become too stale and is past his prime. His friend (and agent) persuades him to go to an offshore island to try once more. On the island he re-discovers his muse in the form of a young girl.

Age of Consent

Dive into the enchanting world of Nurse Matilda, a delightful literary creation by Christianna Brand, whimsically illustrated by Edward Ardizzone. Unlike the films, the books offer a richly detailed exploration of this magical nanny's mischievous adventures that capture the imagination and heart. Through Brand's engaging storytelling and Ardizzone's charming illustrations, readers can fully immerse themselves in the imaginative escapades of the Brown children and Nurse Matilda, experiencing the quaint yet captivating atmosphere first-hand, chapter by chapter.

While the movie adaptation provides a visually captivating version of the tale, the books allow your imagination to roam free, painting vivid mental images of Nurse Matilda's fantastical interventions and her unorthodox methods of transforming unruly children. With a turn of each page, you become an active participant in the story, transported into a bygone era brimming with magic and moral lessons, where fun and mischief reign supreme. For those who relish the texture of words and the artistry of illustration, the original novels promise a rich, rewarding reading experience beyond the films.

Widower Cedric Brown hires Nanny McPhee to care for his seven rambunctious children, who have chased away all previous nannies. Taunted by Simon and his siblings, Nanny McPhee uses mystical powers to instill discipline. And when the children's great-aunt and benefactor, Lady Adelaide Stitch, threatens to separate the kids, the family pulls together under the guidance of Nanny McPhee.

Nurse Matilda

Nanny McPhee

Dive into 'Matchstick Men' by Eric Garcia, a gripping novel that masterfully blends tension and wit. The book provides deeper character exploration and psychological insights than the film adaptation. The rich narrative immerses readers into the workings of cons and the complexities of father-daughter relationships. Experience multilayered themes and intimate character moments that offer a more comprehensive understanding of the protagonists' motivations. Readers will appreciate the intricate plot and subtle details that create a vivid world distinct from the movie. Eric Garcia’s prose allows for personal interpretations of characters' inner lives, offering an enriching experience that a visual medium may gloss over. Engage with the text to appreciate the nuanced portrayal of deception and redemption, and revel in the satisfying payoff that awaits those who embrace the written word.

A phobic con artist and his protege are on the verge of pulling off a lucrative swindle when the con artist's teenage daughter arrives unexpectedly.

Matchstick Men

Dive into the rich tapestry of human emotion and small-town intricacies crafted by Richard Russo in 'Nobody’s Fool'. This novel offers a deeper, more intimate exploration of its characters and setting than a film could portray. Russo's masterful prose and keen observation give readers a vivid experience of Sully's world, capturing the nuances of his struggles and relationships with depth and authenticity.

The book's nuanced depiction of its quirky, lovable cast of characters lends an understanding that transcends surface-level storytelling. Russo intricately develops his characters' pasts and presents, allowing readers to uncover each layer of their personalities and motivations, something that a film, constrained by time, might only hint at.

Reading 'Nobody’s Fool' allows you to linger on Richard Russo’s beautifully constructed sentences and savor his wry humor. The pages offer an immersive journey through themes of aging, redemption, and the enduring complexities of small-town dynamics, promising a rewarding and contemplative reading experience beyond cinematic adaptation.

A rascally nearing-retirement man juggles a workers' compensation suit while secretly working for his nemesis and flirting with his nemesis' young wife. As his estranged son returns, he faces new family responsibilities, while a banker plots to evict him from his home.

Nobody's Fool

Dive into the delightful world of 'Cheaper by the Dozen' by Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, where you'll discover the hilarious and touching real-life stories of the Gilbreth family. This classic memoir offers a rich and authentic glimpse into the early 20th century household of efficiency pioneer Frank Gilbreth, as seen through the eyes of two of his children. 

Unlike its modern film adaptation, the book provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the historical context and innovative methods used by the family. Each chapter is filled with amusing anecdotes and heartfelt moments that paint a vivid picture of life with twelve siblings during a time of great change and invention. 

Reading the book allows you to experience the charm and wit of the original family tales that inspired adaptations over the years. It is an opportunity to appreciate the resilience, creativity, and love that bound this remarkable family together, making it a timeless read for anyone interested in family dynamics, history, and humor.

This remake of the beloved classic follows the raucous exploits of a blended family of 12, the Bakers, as they navigate a hectic home life while simultaneously managing their family business.

Cheaper by the Dozen

Dive into the pages of 'Happiness for Beginners' by Katherine Center, where the nuances of self-discovery are inextricably tied to the introspective journey of its protagonist. The novel offers a depth of character development, allowing you to explore Helen's inner thoughts, fears, and hopes in a way that a film simply cannot capture. Katherine Center's insightful writing guides readers through a vividly personal adventure, lending each chapter to more meaningful contemplation than any scene on the screen.

Reading 'Happiness for Beginners' provides an intimate connection with the characters, whose growth and experiences transcend the mere passage of time depicted in a movie. Each interaction, each decision, is steeped in emotional complexity that unfolds gradually, allowing the reader to savor the wilderness not just as a backdrop, but as a metaphor for life's unpredictable journey. Katherine Center's portrayal of human relationships and personal triumphs lends a literary richness that the constraints of a film adaptation might overlook.

Moreover, the book beckons readers to pause and reflect on their own life path. It offers prompts for personal evaluation and presents life lessons embedded within each chapter. The slow-burn progression and detailed landscapes that you immerse yourself in bring a satisfaction and lasting impression, making 'Happiness for Beginners' not just a read, but a fulfilling life experience, inviting introspection beyond the immediacy of a movie experience.

At a crossroads after her divorce, a schoolteacher ventures toward a fresh start in life — and love — when she signs up for a grueling group hiking trip.

Happiness for Beginners

Official Movie Version of the 2020 series “Begin Again” available on MangoTV US starring Gong Jun and Zhou Yutong.

Begin Again

Immerse yourself in the compelling narrative of Ethel Lina White’s novel 'The Wheel Spins', where the thrilling origins of 'The Lady Vanishes' spring to life. While Alfred Hitchcock's film is a cinematic masterpiece, the novel offers readers a chance to delve deeper into the psychological tension and intricate character development that originally inspired the movie. Reading 'The Wheel Spins' provides a unique perspective on the intricate plot and the suspenseful elegance of White’s storytelling.

Ethel Lina White expertly crafts a world filled with intrigue and unease, capturing the atmosphere of mystery that Hitchcock later brought to the silver screen. From the first page, you are drawn into a web of suspense, where every line enhances the reader's anticipation and curiosity. The book allows for a more intimate connection with the protagonist Iris Carr, offering a detailed look at her inner thoughts and growing sense of urgency as the mystery unfolds.

Choosing to read 'The Wheel Spins' means embracing the detail-rich narrative that only a book can provide. The subtle details and observations White includes build the suspense gradually, allowing for a slow burn that is both satisfying and thrilling. Whether you are a fan of mysteries or simply enjoy a well-told tale, White’s novel remains an exemplary piece of literature that stands proudly beside its cinematic adaptation.

On a train headed for England a group of travelers is delayed by an avalanche. Holed up in a hotel in a fictional European country, young Iris befriends elderly Miss Froy. When the train resumes, Iris suffers a bout of unconsciousness and wakes to find the old woman has disappeared. The other passengers ominously deny Miss Froy ever existed, so Iris begins to investigate with another traveler and, as the pair sleuth, romantic sparks fly.

The Wheel Spins

The Lady Vanishes

Dive into 'The Passionate Witch' and unravel the deeper enchantment of Thorne Smith's captivating storytelling, where wit and fantasy collide in unexpected ways. While the film adaptation captures the humor and charm, the novel presents a richer tapestry of characters and magical antics that invite you to explore the intricacies of every spellbinding moment.

Reading the original novel offers an immersive experience with subtler nuances and developing intricacies that the movie simply glosses over. Norman Matson's completion of Thorne Smith's creative work ensures that the story maintains its delightful breadth, presenting an array of scenes and characters that come alive in vivid detail.

Discover the unique humor and narrative flair of Thorne Smith paired with Norman Matson's continuation in 'The Passionate Witch' that extends beyond the screen. The book promises richer world-building and an invitation to let your imagination run wild, pacing alongside the whims and charm of the original bewitching tale.

A 17th-century witch returns to wreak havoc in the life of a descendant of the Puritan witch hunter who burned her.

The Passionate Witch

I Married a Witch

Dive into the pages of Donald E. Westlake's novel 'Why Me?' and immerse yourself in a brilliantly crafted narrative that goes beyond the slapstick of its film adaptation. Readers are invited to explore the depths of each character's psyche, delighting in the wit and satire that Westlake is famous for. 

The book offers a richer plot and more nuanced character motivations that the movie glosses over in favor of fast-talking and visual gags. Enjoy the clever twists and turns in the novel, and understand the reasons behind each caper, all while being treated to Westlake's signature humor. For those who enjoy a well-written comedy-crime novel, the book 'Why Me?' offers a compelling, thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.

A jewel thief steals a sacred ruby which sets off a chase by the police, the Turkish government, nutty American terrorists, and the CIA.

Why Me?

While 'Christmas with the Kranks' offers a comedic, light-hearted take on holiday mishaps, the source novel 'Skipping Christmas' by John Grisham introduces readers to a deeper exploration of the holiday's meaning and pressures. Through his rich storytelling, Grisham delves into the lives of Luther and Nora Krank, unraveling the motivations behind their unconventional decision to skip Christmas festivities.

By choosing to read 'Skipping Christmas,' you immerse yourself in the nuances of Grisham's world, where the themes of societal expectation and personal rebellion unfurl with subtlety and humor. The novel invites readers to reflect on their own holiday traditions and the true essence of the season, offering a narrative that resonates long after the story concludes, unlike the transient laughter of the film.

When their only daughter Blair leaves the family nest, Luther and Nora Krank decide to book an island cruise to beat the yuletide blues and just skip the holidays. But their decision to boycott tradition has the whole neighborhood in an uproar, and when Blair calls on Christmas Eve to announce a surprise visit with her new fiancée, the Kranks have just twelve hours to perform a miracle and pull themselves and their neighbors together to throw the best celebration ever!

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