Action

Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

Fantasy

History

Horror

Music

Mystery

Romance

Science Fiction

Thriller

TV Movie

Western

Dive into the pages of Alan Caillou's 'The Cheetahs' and embark on a thrilling adventure that delves deeper into the majestic world of Africa and its wildlife than the 1989 film adaptation. This engrossing novel provides a rich tapestry of environmental themes and relationships, crafted with vivid descriptions and a gripping narrative that captures the reader's imagination.

While the movie offers a visual spectacle, reading 'The Cheetahs' allows you to fully explore the complexities and nuances of the characters' relationships with each other and the environment. The book invites readers to ponder the intricate balance between human and nature, weaving educational insights with an exhilarating storyline. Experience the true depth of this story in the novel's pages, where imagination reigns supreme.

An American boy and girl, spending six months in Kenya with their scientist parents adopt a cheetah, only to realize that they must set it loose so that it can learn to hunt and be free. However, when the animal is captured by poachers planning to race it against greyhounds, the two city kids, together with a young African goat herder they befriended, head off into the wild to rescue the cheetah.

The Cheetahs

Cheetah

Dive into the whimsical world of Gideon Defoe's 'The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists,' a rollicking literary adventure that promises much more than its cinematic counterpart. While the movie offers a delightful visual experience, the book tantalizes readers with a deeper, more engaging narrative filled with charming wit and humor that brightly shines through Defoe's skillful writing. Embrace the full depth of the eccentric Pirate Captain and his motley crew as they embark on a hilariously bewildering journey, showcasing Defoe's flair for comedy and satire.

In Defoe's book, you'll find layers of witty dialogue and curious scenarios that the film only briefly touches upon. The text offers intricate, brilliantly absurd plots and rich character development that can only be truly appreciated through the author's original work. Reading the book unveils a treasure trove of literary humor, inviting you to further explore the colorful absurdity of these pirate escapades in ways that only Defoe's writing can offer. Set sail on this literary voyage, and discover the joy of a story that is as witty as it is adventurous, ensuring an unforgettable reading experience.

The enthusiastic Pirate Captain, along with his rag-tag crew, sets out to beat his bitter rivals. The chaotic adventure takes them from exotic shores to Victorian London, and from a haplessly smitten scientist to a diabolical queen.

The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists

The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists!

Dive into the rich narrative of 'So B. It' by Sarah Weeks, a beautifully woven tale that invites readers to embark on an intimate journey alongside Heidi, the young protagonist. While the movie offers a visual portrayal, the book delves deeper into the emotional experiences and inner thoughts of Heidi, providing a more profound understanding of her quest to uncover her past.

Through vivid storytelling and carefully crafted characters, 'So B. It' in its literary form immerses you in a world that inspires empathy and self-discovery. Embrace the nuances of Heidi's adventures and the tender relationships she forms by reading the novel, an experience the film encapsulates but only begins to scratch the surface of emotionally and thematically.

A young girl named Heidi who lives with her mentally disabled mother, travels across the country to find out about her and her mothers past.

So B. It

Dive into the enchanting world of 'My Father's Dragon' by Ruth Stiles Gannett, where imagination knows no bounds. This beloved classic promises a delightful journey with young Elmer Elevator as he sets off on a daring adventure to rescue a baby dragon. Fans of fantastical tales will appreciate the unique charm and warmth that this Newbery Honor book brings to each page.

The novel sparkles with timeless storytelling that has captivated readers for generations. Its narrative is rich in creativity, effortlessly weaving magic and reality in a way that only great children's literature can. Reading 'My Father's Dragon' lets you paint your own vivid pictures of the settings and characters, offering a personal journey that surpasses even the most stunning cinematographic adaptations. Engage with this literary gem to experience the full breadth of wonder that Gannett's original words invite.

Struggling to cope after a move to the city with his mother, Elmer runs away in search of Wild Island and a young dragon who waits to be rescued. Elmer’s adventures introduce him to ferocious beasts, a mysterious island and the friendship of a lifetime.

My Father's Dragon

Dive into the enchanting world of Robert Nathan’s 'The Bishop's Wife', the delightful novel that inspired the movie 'The Preacher's Wife'. This literary classic from 1928 is a charming tale of divine intervention, filled with warmth, wit, and a touch of fantasy. Nathan’s novella delights readers with its whimsical and poetic storytelling, capturing the essence of hope and love in the face of life's challenges.

Reading 'The Bishop's Wife' offers a unique experience that goes beyond the film adaptation. Nathan's beautifully crafted prose provides a deeper exploration of the characters’ inner lives and offers thematic richness that resonates with the spirit of Christmas. Let your imagination soar as you engage with this timeless story through the pages of the book, where each reader becomes a witness to the tender interplay of faith, grace, and unexpected joy.

Good-natured Reverend Henry Biggs finds that his marriage to choir mistress Julia is flagging, due to his constant absence caring for the deprived neighborhood they live in. On top of all this, his church is coming under threat from property developer Joe Hamilton. In desperation, Biggs prays to God for help – which arrives in the form of an angel named Dudley.

The Bishop's Wife

The Preacher's Wife

The original novel 'The Black Stallion' by Walter Farley offers a richly detailed and imaginative experience that goes beyond the cinematic adaptation. Through its vivid prose, readers are captivated by the intimate bond between young Alec Ramsay and the majestic stallion, gaining insight into each character’s inner world and motivations. The book provides an expansive backdrop for the adventure, delving into the cultural and historical context of the story, which adds depth to Alec's journey.

Reading 'The Black Stallion' allows the audience to engage with Farley's eccentric and articulate storytelling at their own pace, letting imaginations run wild with the exhilarating moments and poignant scenes crafted by the author. The novel’s ability to explore emotions and themes in a more nuanced manner gives readers a more fulfilling connection with Alec's transformation and growth. With subtle elements of suspense and discovery, the book remains an unmatched classic that celebrates the human-equine connection in a way that film cannot fully encapsulate.

While traveling with his father, young Alec becomes fascinated by a mysterious Arabian stallion that is brought on board and stabled in the ship he is sailing on. When it tragically sinks both he and the horse survive only to be stranded on a deserted island. He befriends it, so when finally rescued both return to his home where they soon meet Henry Dailey, a once successful trainer. Together they begin training the horse to race against the fastest ones in the world.

The Black Stallion

If you’re drawn to stories that delve into the nuances of individuality and the impact of nonconformity, then Jerry Spinelli’s novel 'Stargirl' is a must-read. The book offers a depth and introspection that can often be lost in cinematic adaptations. Through Spinelli's adept storytelling, readers are invited to explore the intricacies of high school dynamics and the courage it takes to be different in a seemingly homogeneous environment.

Reading 'Stargirl' allows you to experience the richness of the protagonist’s internal world, her unique perception of life, and the authentic way she touches those around her. Spinelli's narrative provides an intimate journey through emotions and character development that words on a page can so vividly convey. Rather than glossing over complex themes, the book encourages readers to contemplate and connect with the characters on a profound level. Choose the book for a truly immersive experience that the screen might only partly capture.

An unassuming high schooler finds himself inexplicably drawn to the free-spirited new girl, whose unconventional ways change how they see themselves…and their world.

Stargirl

If you're drawn to the enchanting charm of early 1900s America, then Milam McGraw Propst's novel, 'A Flower Blooms on Charlotte Street,' offers a heartwarming experience that delves deeper into the life and adventures of young Ociee Nash than the film adaptation. The pages of the novel unfold Ociee's world with rich detail and emotional depth, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in her journey of self-discovery.

Leaping from the screen to the pages, Ociee's tales come alive with vivid imagery and character development that adds layers of complexity often missed in a cinematic rendition. The author's narrative style beautifully captures the period's essence, making it an ideal choice for readers seeking a wholesome story rich with cultural history and enduring life lessons. Choose to read the book and savor the full spectrum of Ociee's adventures, where imagination paints a fuller picture than any film possibly could.

Ociee Nash, a spirited nine-year-old from rural Mississippi, is sent to live with her Aunt Mamie to become a "young lady". Her true bravery, character, and spirit are put to the test.

A Flower Blooms on Charlotte Street

The Adventures of Ociee Nash

Dive into the evocative world of Kersti Bergroth’s 'A Clearing in the Forest'. This novel intricately paints the landscape of post-war Finland, captured through the eyes of a young girl navigating a precarious world caught between two cultures. Where the film offers glimpses, the novel immerses you deeply into the protagonist's inner world, showcasing Bergroth’s masterful storytelling that effortlessly blends the personal with the historical.

The book expands on themes of identity and belonging, providing readers with richer context and character development that only literature can provide. By choosing to read the novel, you gain not only a deeper understanding of the cultural tensions depicted but also an appreciation for Bergroth's nuanced portrayal of childhood innocence amidst societal upheaval. Discover the source of the film’s inspiration and let Bergroth’s profound narrative envelop you in its timeless beauty.

In rural Sweden of the early 1950s, little Elina goes to school again after recovering from tuberculosis, the same illness that has killed her father a few years earlier. Elina's family belongs to Finnish-speaking Finns frowned upon by a staunch schoolmistress who starts hounding Elina for questioning her authority. Elina's mother, sister, and a liberal young male teacher all try to mediate the ensuing battle of wills between Elina and Miss Holm. Elina finds consolation in wandering out on the dangerous marshlands to have imaginary conversations with her dead father. Written by Markku Kuoppamäki

A Clearing in the Forest

Elina: As If I Wasn't There

Delve into the enchanting world of 'The Mouse and His Child' by Russell Hoban, a magnificent novel that transcends its surface simplicity to explore profound themes of life, identity, and perseverance. While the 1977 film adaptation captures some of the book's whimsy, it is the novel that truly immerses the reader in the richly-crafted universe of the toy mice, each page brimming with heart, humor, and haunting wisdom crafted in Hoban’s distinctive narrative style.

Reading Hoban's work offers a deeply rewarding experience, inviting readers into a tapestry of memorable characters and philosophical musings that resonate long after the book is closed. The vivid imagery, poetic prose, and the timeless metaphor of the toy mice’s journey to self-awareness render the book an unforgettable exploration of the human condition. For those seeking a story that goes beyond the screen, 'The Mouse and His Child' offers a captivating adventure, alive with the kind of depth and insight that only Russell Hoban’s eloquence can provide.

A mouse and his child, the two parts of a single small wind-up toy, go on a quest to become "self-winding".

The Mouse and His Child

Embark on a timeless journey by reading Mark Twain’s iconic novels, 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'. These books offer a deeper insight into the adventurous lives and rich environments of their young protagonists, Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. Twain’s masterful storytelling brings the vibrant Mississippi River to life, capturing the spirit of 19th-century America with authenticity and humor that transcends generations. 

The novels go beyond mere adventure tales; they offer a poignant exploration of social issues and moral dilemmas, reflecting the complexity of the American South during that era. Through the eyes of Tom and Huck, readers experience moments of youthful bravery, rebellion, and growth, making them not only entertain but also provoke thought. Engaging with Twain's vivid prose allows readers to fully immerse themselves, gaining a genuine connection with the characters and their world in a way that a film adaptation simply cannot match.

A mischievous young boy, Tom Sawyer, witnesses a murder by the deadly Injun Joe. Tom becomes friends with Huckleberry Finn, a boy with no future and no family. Tom has to choose between honoring a friendship or honoring an oath because the town alcoholic is accused of the murder. Tom and Huck go through several adventures trying to retrieve evidence.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Tom and Huck

Dive into the whimsical world crafted by Angela Sommer-Bodenburg with 'The Little Vampire' series. As enchanting as any cinematic adaptation, the books offer a richly detailed narrative that captures the imagination with vivid storytelling and complex characters. Unlike the movie, which condenses the story into a limited runtime, the books allow you to savor every magical encounter and adventurous twist at your own pace. 

In the books, you are introduced to young Tony Thompson, who befriends a vampire named Rudolph. The magic of their unlikely friendship unfolds page by page, with each installment offering new challenges and adventures. Sommer-Bodenburg's writing invites you to explore themes of friendship, bravery, and acceptance, making every chapter a journey worth taking. 

Reading 'The Little Vampire' series offers a deeper, more intimate experience than watching the film. The narrative is enriched by the author’s original vision and her ability to create a world both eerie and enchanting. Indulge in the charm and mystery that only the written word can provide, and discover why these books continue to captivate readers young and old alike.

Based on the popular books, the story tells of Tony who wants a friend to add some adventure to his life. What he gets is Rudolph, a vampire kid with a good appetite. The two end up inseparable, but their fun is cut short when all the hopes of the vampire race could be gone forever in single night. With Tony's access to the daytime world, he helps them to find what they've always wanted.

The Little Vampire

Embark on an imaginative journey with Clive King's 'Stig of the Dump,' a classic that captivates young readers with its blend of mystery and adventure. The book transports you deep into Barney's world, where he befriends a mysterious figure, Stig, in an extraordinary hidden chalk pit. Each page is filled with vivid descriptions and whimsical storytelling that ignites the imagination in a way only reading can. 

Unlike a movie, which fits a story into a fixed runtime, the novel offers a depth of detail that's left to the imagination, enriching the narrative and allowing the reader to form their own visuals. King's storytelling crafts a timeless tale that resonates with themes of friendship and discovery, making it an engaging read for both young and old. 

Reading 'Stig of the Dump' also fosters a deeper connection with the characters and their development. It provides an intimate journey where you control the pace, letting you savor each moment of excitement and wonder. Moreover, it's a chance to engage with the story on an individual level, where your imagination fills in the gaps, creating a unique experience that stays with you far beyond the last page.

Young boy discovers a teenaged caveman living in the local rubbish dump.

Stig of the Dump

Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' offers a richly detailed world that transcends the confines of film, immersing readers in a narrative full of wonder and intrigue. The novel's intricate descriptions and carefully crafted scientific elements take you on an exploration that stimulates the imagination far beyond the visualization possible in any adaptation.

Delve deeper into the minds and motivations of the compelling characters Verne has crafted. The novel provides a more intimate and nuanced portrayal of their relationships, challenges, and triumphs, which lends an added layer of depth and empathy that cannot be fully captured onscreen.

Not only does the book provide a gripping adventure, but it also offers a window into the scientific curiosity and optimism of the 19th century. Verne's visionary perspective and pioneering spirit encourage readers to ponder the mysteries of the Earth and beyond, inspiring a sense of exploration and discovery more profound than any cinematic experience.

An Edinburgh professor and assorted colleagues follow an explorer's trail down an extinct Icelandic volcano to the earth's center.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Delve into the enchanting world of Arthur and the Minimoys by Luc Besson, the original inspiration for the movie Arthur and the Invisibles. This novel promises a more immersive dive into the imaginative world of the Minimoys with rich descriptions and deeper character development that only a book can offer.

Reading Arthur and the Minimoys allows you to explore the nuanced emotions and motivations of the protagonist, Arthur, as he navigates the fantasy world of the Minimoys. The intricate details of the society and characters are beautifully crafted, creating a vivid tapestry of adventure that will thoroughly captivate your imagination.

Furthermore, Luc Besson's unique narrative style brings a layered and engaging experience that goes beyond the visual spectacle of the film. The novel invites you into a more intimate journey with Arthur, offering a profound appreciation of storytelling through its pages. Experience the full depth of the world Besson created by picking up the book!

Arthur is a spirited ten-year old whose parents are away looking for work, whose eccentric grandfather has been missing for several years, and who lives with his grandmother in a country house that, in two days, will be repossessed, torn down, and turned into a block of flats unless Arthur's grandfather returns to sign some papers and pay off the family debt. Arthur discovers that the key to success lies in his own descent into the land of the Minimoys, creatures no larger than a tooth, whom his grandfather helped relocate to their garden. Somewhere among them is hidden a pile of rubies, too. Can Arthur be of stout heart and save the day? Romance beckons as well, and a villain lurks.

Categories

Movies by Year

Movies