Action

Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

Fantasy

History

Horror

Music

Mystery

Romance

Science Fiction

Thriller

TV Movie

Western

Delve into the enchanted world of L. Frank Baum's Oz books, where every turn of the page brings thrilling adventures and rich storytelling that extend beyond the familiar landscape of the classic 1939 film. The novels 'The Marvelous Land of Oz' and 'Ozma of Oz' are the creative roots of Dorothy's return journey to Oz, filled with endearing characters like Jack Pumpkinhead and the mechanical wonder Tik-Tok.

Baum's vivid imagination paints a captivating tapestry of Oz that not only expands your understanding of its whimsical kingdoms but also offers a deeper look into themes of friendship, bravery, and the power of mind and heart. Reading these works allows a more immersive and interactive experience in the diverse world of Oz, inspiring the imagination and awakening the childlike wonder within us all.

Dorothy, saved from a psychiatric experiment by a mysterious girl, finds herself back in the land of her dreams, and makes delightful new friends, and dangerous new enemies.

The Marvelous Land of Oz

Ozma of Oz

Return to Oz

If you enjoyed the movie, consider diving deeper into the rich and thoughtful narrative found in the book, 'The Ultimate Gift' by Jim Stovall. The novel offers an intimate exploration of the lessons and values that underpin the storyline. By reading the book, you'll engage with the characters' emotional journeys and the profound wisdom each gift imparts, beyond what the movie can depict. 

Jim Stovall's novel intricately delves into the transformational experiences of Jason Stevens, as he uncovers the twelve gifts left by his uncle, Red Stevens. The book provides a more comprehensive understanding of the themes of gratitude, generosity, and legacy. Reading it will give you insight into the importance of living a meaningful life, creating an immersive experience that expands beyond the cinematic presentation. 

While the movie captures the essence of the story, 'The Ultimate Gift' book offers a fuller development of the characters and their interactions. Engaging with Stovall's writing will allow you to reflect more deeply on the values and morals presented, making for a rewarding and enriching experience that encourages introspection long after you turn the last page.

When his wealthy grandfather finally dies, Jason Stevens fully expects to benefit when it comes to the reading of the will. But instead of a sizable inheritance, Jason receives a test, a series of tasks he must complete before he can get any money.

The Ultimate Gift

While the animated movie 'Home' is entertaining, colorful, and fun, it only scratches the surface of the rich and quirky world created by Adam Rex in 'The True Meaning of Smekday.' The novel offers layers of humor, social commentary, and unique storytelling that are unparalleled in the film. Through the eyes of Gratuity 'Tip' Tucci, readers are taken on a journey that delves deeply into themes such as cultural misunderstanding and the complexity of alien invasions, all while maintaining a witty and engaging tone.

In addition to a more nuanced exploration of the characters, 'The True Meaning of Smekday' also provides an interactive reading experience with its blend of comic strips, journal-like entries, and compelling storytelling. The book challenges readers to think critically about identity and belonging while providing a hearty dose of laughter and adventure. For those who seek a more involved and imaginative journey than what the movie offers, Adam Rex's inventive narrative in 'The True Meaning of Smekday' is a must-read.

When Earth is taken over by the overly-confident Boov, an alien race in search of a new place to call home, all humans are promptly relocated, while all Boov get busy reorganizing the planet. But when one resourceful girl, Tip, manages to avoid capture, she finds herself the accidental accomplice of a banished Boov named Oh. The two fugitives realize there’s a lot more at stake than intergalactic relations as they embark on the road trip of a lifetime.

The True Meaning of Smekday

Home

Embark on a whimsical adventure by diving into the pages of "A Day with Wilbur Robinson" by William Joyce. Unlike the movie's broad narrative, the book invites you into a singular, enchanting day in the life of the Robinson family, filled with quirky characters and imaginative settings.

William Joyce's storytelling is a treat for readers, offering intricate illustrations and engaging prose that transport you to a unique world. The charm and warmth of the Robinson household are unparalleled, capturing the imagination in a way that only literature can.

Reading "A Day with Wilbur Robinson" provides a more intimate experience than watching its film adaptation. Through the book’s delightful illustrations and rich storytelling, you can immerse yourself fully, appreciating the nuances and creativity that inspired the cinematic journey.

Lewis, a brilliant young inventor, is keen on creating a time machine to find his mother, who abandoned him in an orphanage. Things take a turn when he meets Wilbur Robinson and his family.

A Day with Wilbur Robinson

Meet the Robinsons

Dive into the pages of 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret' by Brian Selznick to experience a unique storytelling journey that beautifully melds words and pictures, reminiscent of a silent film brought to life. Unlike a cinematic adaptation, Selznick's work intertwines illustrations with text, offering a rich, tactile exploration of Hugo's world that captures the imagination in an intimate way. The book's format allows readers to engage with the narrative at a personal pace, savoring the intricacies of each drawing that gradually reveals the mystery and magic within.

Reading 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret' offers a deeper connection to its characters and themes, nurturing a vivid sense of discovery that is as much about visual delight as it is about narrative unfolding. The book serves not just as a story to be told, but as an artful experience to be absorbed, giving readers an opportunity to delve into the intricate relationship between the silent motion of the illustrations and the careful, contemplative pacing of the written word. Embrace this enchanting literary masterpiece that pays homage to the origins of cinema while celebrating the power of imagination through the intimacy of a personal reading journey.

Orphaned and alone except for an uncle, Hugo Cabret lives in the walls of a train station in 1930s Paris. Hugo's job is to oil and maintain the station's clocks, but to him, his more important task is to protect a broken automaton and notebook left to him by his late father. Accompanied by the goddaughter of an embittered toy merchant, Hugo embarks on a quest to solve the mystery of the automaton and find a place he can call home.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

Hugo

Dive into the pages of Mary Rodgers' 'Freaky Friday' and experience a world where humor meets heart in the most unexpected ways. While the 2003 film adaptation brings a certain visual charm and modern twists, the original novel offers a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. You are invited into a more nuanced understanding of the family dynamics as told by Rodgers’ sharp wit and insightful storytelling. The book gives a richer backstory and more intimate look at the transformation both characters undergo, rendering their journey all the more meaningful.

Turning the original novel’s pages, readers are welcomed into a cleverly narrated adventure that blends fantasy with reality, far beyond what the screen can convey. Rodgers’ writing captivates with its eloquence and depth, appealing to both young audiences and adults alike. While the movie climaxes with action-packed scenarios and updated cultural references, the book immerses you in gripping emotional and psychological shifts. Opt for this literary gem to truly appreciate the intricacies of teenage angst, parental misunderstandings, and the universal quest for empathy and understanding.

Mother and daughter bicker over everything -- what Anna wears, whom she likes and what she wants to do when she's older. In turn, Anna detests Tess's fiancé. When a magical fortune cookie switches their personalities, they each get a peek at how the other person feels, thinks and lives.

Freaky Friday

Jack London's 'The Call of the Wild' offers readers a deep and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of film. London’s evocative writing brings the harsh and beautiful Yukon environment to life in a way that no screen adaptation can truly capture. The novel's rich detail and introspective exploration of Buck's transformation make it a classic that continues to resonate with readers more than a century after its publication.

While the 2020 film adaptation is a visually impressive interpretation, reading the novel allows you to delve into the psyche of Buck, experiencing his journey from pampered pet to wilderness leader through London's masterful prose. The story's themes of survival, adaptation, and the call of the wild itself invite readers to reflect on their connection with nature and the instinctual drives that shape all living creatures. Discover the original tale and witness the full depth of Buck's adventure in London's timeless narrative.

Buck is a big-hearted dog whose blissful domestic life is turned upside down when he is suddenly uprooted from his California home and transplanted to the exotic wilds of the Yukon during the Gold Rush of the 1890s. As the newest rookie on a mail delivery dog sled team—and later its leader—Buck experiences the adventure of a lifetime, ultimately finding his true place in the world and becoming his own master.

The Call of the Wild

Dive into the enchanting world of Narnia through C.S. Lewis's masterful storytelling in "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader." Experience the depth of imagination and intricate details that bring the world of Narnia to life in a way that only literature can. From the ship's voyage to the unknown lands to the personal growth of characters like Edmund and Lucy, the novel offers a rich tapestry of adventure and discovery.

Unlike the motion picture, which condenses and alters the story for visual spectacle, the book allows readers to savor every moment and submerge themselves in the vivid descriptions and profound themes. Lewis's prose invites readers to explore the moral undertones and philosophical questions woven into the narrative, providing an experience that is both thought-provoking and inspiring. Embark on this literary journey to unlock the magic within the pages of this timeless classic.

This time around Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their pesky cousin Eustace Scrubb find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to a fantastic Narnian ship headed for the very edges of the world.

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Discover the enchanting origins of the magical car in Ian Fleming's original classic, "Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang: The Magical Car." While the movie brings this fantastical vehicle to life with song and dance, the novel invites you to imagine its adventures with your own creative flair. Ian Fleming, renowned for his James Bond stories, takes a delightful turn into children's fiction, offering readers a captivating journey full of whimsy, imagination, and the quintessential charm of a timeless tale.

Reading the book provides a unique experience where your imagination co-pilots the ride, crafting the landscapes and encounters that the Pott family traverses. The novel's charm lies in its beautifully crafted narrative and its ability to transport readers to a world where cars can fly and adventure awaits around every corner. Escape into the pages of the book to meet the real Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and soar on a journey that only your imagination and Fleming's words can provide.

A hapless inventor finally finds success with a flying car, which a dictator from a foreign government sets out to take for himself.

Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang: The Magical Car

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

While movies can captivate the senses, nothing beats the vivid imagery and personal connection created by reading Donn Fendler's 'Lost on a Mountain in Maine.' The book takes you on an intimate journey, offering a glimpse into Donn's thoughts and emotions that a film simply cannot replicate.

Reading the source novel allows you to delve deeply into the harrowing yet inspiring experiences of young Donn as he struggles against nature with courage and resilience. The detailed recounting of his survival story not only engages your imagination but also emphasizes themes of perseverance and the human spirit, making the reading experience both enriching and thought-provoking.

When twelve-year-old Donn Fendler gets tired of waiting for his father and brothers to join him on the summit of Maine's highest peak, he decides to find his own way back to camp. But Donn doesn't count on a fast-moving fog that obscures the path. He doesn't count on falling down an embankment that hides him from sight. And he doesn't count on taking a turn that leaves him alone to wander aimlessly for nearly two weeks in the empty mountain wilderness.

Lost on a Mountain in Maine

Dive into the pages of Sue Monk Kidd's 'The Secret Life of Bees' and uncover layers of depth and emotion that only literature can offer. While the film beautifully captures the essence of the story, the book invites readers to experience a more intimate connection with the characters and their internal struggles.

In the novel, Kidd's eloquent prose paints a vivid picture of the 1960s American South, allowing readers to vividly imagine the setting and atmosphere. The detailed inner thoughts and emotional landscapes of characters like Lily Owens are explored in ways that the visual medium cannot fully convey, offering a richer, more immersive understanding of their journeys.

Reading 'The Secret Life of Bees' provides an opportunity for introspection and empathy, as the novel's exploration of themes such as identity, loss, and sisterhood resonate deeply with readers. The book's narrative invites you to slow down, reflect, and engage with the story in a personal way that enhances one's connection to its powerful message.

Set in South Carolina in 1964, this is the tale of Lily Owens a 14 year-old girl who is haunted by the memory of her late mother. To escape her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father, Lily flees with Rosaleen, her caregiver and only friend, to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother's past.

The Secret Life of Bees

Embarking on the literary journey of C. S. Lewis’s beloved novels, 'Prince Caspian' and 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,' offers readers a deeper dive into the magical realm of Narnia. The intricacies of Lewis's vivid descriptions and philosophical underpinnings invite readers to explore richly detailed landscapes and complex characters, far beyond what any movie adaptation could convey. In the novels, the characters' inner thoughts and spiritual growth are intricately woven into the narrative, allowing readers to forge a profound connection with the Pevensies, Prince Caspian, and other beloved inhabitants of Narnia.

Moreover, Lewis’s use of allegory and masterful storytelling craft an immersive experience where imagination reigns supreme. The books offer a timeless adventure that encourages reflection on themes of courage, faith, and redemption, serving not only as entertainment but as a source of personal growth and inspiration. Discovering Narnia through its original texts allows readers to create their own vivid imagery and understand the subtle nuances and messages that Lewis intended, making the novels an essential journey for anyone seeking depth beyond the confines of a screen.

Young Prince Caspian of Narnia wonders and dreams about the old days of Narnia when animals talked, and there were mythical creatures and four rulers in Cair Paravel. But his uncle and aunt don’t like to hear him thinking of such things, and plan to murder him and take his throne. Caspian’s tutor, Dr. Cornelius manages to save him, and not only teach him about the old ways, but bring him into the real Narnia and introduce him to the real Narnia. But Caspian’s plight is desperate, and he must use the legendary horn to call help from another world: Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy.  Then, Lucy and Edmund are sent back to Narnia, along with their cousin Eustace, to assist Caspian on a voyage. Along their journey the children battle dragons and sea serpents, and sail across a golden lake to reach the edge of the world.

Prince Caspian

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian & The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Dive into the captivating world of 'The Rocketeer: The Complete Adventures,' a comic series that transcends its silver screen adaptation. Dave Stevens' artistry brings life to each page, immersing readers in a nostalgic yet imaginative universe where 1930s aviation and heroism unite. While the film offers a glimpse of this world, the source material provides a richer, more expansive experience with intricate details and storylines the movie couldn't encompass.

The pages of these comics are infused with vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative that captures the essence of adventure better than any cinematic retelling. Rather than a single storyline, Stevens offers a tapestry of tales featuring the Rocketeer's daring feats and timeless character. These original stories reveal deeper character motivations and the thrilling spirit of the era that the movie adaptation can only hint at.

For true fans of historical fiction and superhero lore, delving into Dave Stevens' original comics is like stepping back in time to experience the originality and depth of the Rocketeer's universe. Each frame is a work of art, and each dialogue adds another layer to the legend, making it a must-read that enriches and broadens one's appreciation beyond the confines of its film adaptation.

A stunt pilot comes across a prototype jetpack that gives him the ability to fly. However, evil forces of the world also want this jetpack at any cost.

The Rocketeer: The Complete Adventures

The Rocketeer

For those seeking a deeper connection with the tale of the beloved spotted canines, Dodie Smith's novel "The Hundred and One Dalmatians" offers a rich narrative beyond what the screen can capture. Smith's storytelling weaves a tapestry of emotions and vivid imagery, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the journey of Pongo, Missis, and their daring pups.

While the film brings a delightful portrayal of the characters to life, it is the book that expands the world of Dalmatians with intimate details and heartwarming moments, lending a sacred space for imagination to flourish. The novel provides a profound exploration of themes such as loyalty and courage, driving readers to reflect and connect deeply with the story.

Embark on a literary adventure where Smith's exquisite prose guides you through an unforgettable odyssey that stands as a testament to the boundless power of love and family. "The Hundred and One Dalmatians" is not just a tale to be read, but an experience cherished in the hearts of those who venture into its pages.

An evil, high-fashion designer plots to steal Dalmatian puppies in order to make an extravagant fur coat, but instead creates an extravagant mess.

The Hundred and One Dalmatians

101 Dalmatians

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative world of 'The Yearling' by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, a story that paints an indelible portrait of the struggles and joys of rural life. The novel delves deeper into the emotional landscapes of its characters, providing a nuanced narrative that goes beyond what a visual medium can capture. You'll savor the author's lush descriptions of nature and feel as if you're there, experiencing the serenity and the challenges of backcountry living.

'Rawlings takes readers on an introspective journey through the eyes of young Jody Baxter, capturing the pure essence of youth, innocence, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood. Her writing imbues each scene with a palpable sense of place and time, making the reading experience not just a story, but a trip back to a more uncomplicated era. As you turn the pages, you'll find yourself deeply connected to Jody's poignant journey, one that speaks to the universal themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of life.

While the film version of 'The Yearling' captures the visual beauty of the landscape, it is the novel that offers a more complex exploration of the emotional depth and psychological growth of its characters. Choose the book for a fuller, richer understanding of Jody's world, a world where every page offers a new layer of insight and a deeper appreciation of life's simple, yet profound moments.

Jody convinces his parents to allow him to adopt a young deer, but what will happen if the deer misbehaves?

Categories

Movies by Year

Movies