Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

History

Kids

Mystery

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Soap

War & Politics

Western

If you're a fan of epic fantasy adventures, then diving into the Isekai Cheat Magician novels is a rewarding experience you shouldn't miss. Written by Takeru Uchida, the source novels offer a more detailed and immersive exploration of the characters and the fantastical world they journey through. The intricate plot lines and nuanced character development expand the story far beyond the anime adaptation.

While the TV series provides a quick glimpse of the magical realm, the novels allow for a more profound engagement with Taichi and Rin's experiences. They provide rich backstories and complex relationships, capturing the depth of the protagonists' struggles and triumphs. Reading the books lets your imagination run wild, painting vivid scenes that the screen simply cannot capture. Embrace the enchanting world that Uchida has crafted in written form, and discover the deeper layers and exciting nuances that await within the pages.

Nishimura Taichi is a typical, average high schooler, and Azuma Rin is a beautiful woman with the build of a model and excellent reflexes. The two live an ordinary high school life until one day, they're suddenly enveloped in a mysterious magic circle and transported to an unknown land.

That world is full of terrifying monsters, beastmen, dwarves, elves, and many other races right out of fantasy. To survive in this new world, Taichi and Rin decide to become adventurers, but when they take the aptitude test, they discover they both possess cheat-level magic.

Isekai Cheat Magician

Delve into the enchanting world of John Masefield's 'The Box of Delights', where the magic of childhood imagination knows no bounds. This classic novel promises a journey far richer than any television adaptation could provide. As you turn the pages, you'll be swept into the nostalgic atmosphere of an English winter, brimming with wonder, mystical creatures, and a sense of adventure that captivates readers of all ages.

Reading 'The Box of Delights' opens a more personal gateway into the rich tapestry of Masefield's fantastical universe. The power of the written word allows you to experience every thrilling moment and emotional nuance crafted by the author. Whether it's the vivid descriptions of magical events or the in-depth character development, the novel offers a depth that the screen can scarcely capture. Immerse yourself in the story as it was originally intended, and let your imagination create a world that is uniquely your own.

Patrick Troughton stars in this children's fantasy tale with dark undertones. When a young schoolboy is given a box for safekeeping by a mysterious magician, little does he know the wondrous things he’ll soon discover.

The Box of Delights

Delve into the intricate world of Westeros as envisioned by George R. R. Martin, where every page is laden with rich, immersive detail that surpasses the TV adaptation. In the A Song of Ice and Fire series, readers are treated to a treasure trove of inspiration, exploration, and vibrant storytelling that television can only partially capture. Martin's brilliant narrative intricately weaves the complex fabrics of power, mystery, and betrayal with unparalleled skill.

By choosing the novels, you have the opportunity to revel in the masterful prose, expansive lore, and unexpected twists that are not fully realized on screen. The series offers extensive insights into character motivations and provides deeper context, making each political maneuver and battle all the more impactful. Martin's world-building prowess presents a fantastical universe that is rich with history and culture, inviting readers to discover the story's roots and follow an absorbing journey at their own pace. Embark on this literary adventure to fully appreciate the depth and richness of this beloved epic saga.

Seven noble families fight for control of the mythical land of Westeros. Friction between the houses leads to full-scale war. All while a very ancient evil awakens in the farthest north. Amidst the war, a neglected military order of misfits, the Night's Watch, is all that stands between the realms of men and icy horrors beyond.

A Clash of Kings

A Storm of Swords

A Game of Thrones

A Dance with Dragons

A Feast for Crows

Game of Thrones

While the TV series 'Derailment' captivates viewers with its cinematic flair and visual storytelling, the original novel 'The Derailment' by Emma Winters offers a deeper psychological dive into its characters and plot. Written with incisive prose and rich detail, the book uncovers the nuanced motivations and interior lives of the characters more thoroughly, rewarding readers with more profound insights and a more personalized imaginative experience.

Reading the novel allows you to fully appreciate the subtleties of the plot that a televised format can sometimes overlook, providing extra scenes, backstories, and internal dialogues that enrich the narrative. Discovering the source material encourages a more intimate connection with the story, making it not just a suspenseful journey but a reflective exploration of human behavior and the spectrum of moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

Do you believe that there exist countless parallel universes that are exactly like the world you live in? Jiang Xiaoyuan finds herself struggling with her identity as she travels across parallel universes that never seem to intersect. In her original world, she is an invincible wealthy daughter, but in another place, she becomes an ordinary working girl who has absolutely nothing. Along the way, she meets the mysterious Qi Lian and together, they search for the truth involving the mystery surrounding her. Stripped of wealth, family background, appearance, and education, Jiang Xiaoyuan sets herself on a journey to find pieces of her "real" identity.

The Derailment

Derailment

Dive into the original literary universe of 'My One-Hit Kill Sister,' where Konoe masterfully weaves a tale filled with humor, action, and fantasy. The novel offers a deeper exploration of character motivations and world-building that might be missed in the series adaptation. Konoe's engaging writing style captures the imagination, drawing readers into a captivating world that balances comedic elements with thrilling battles. 

Reading 'My One-Hit Kill Sister' provides a rich, immersive experience that allows you to savor the intricate details and subtle nuances of the story that only a novel can deliver. Let your imagination paint the vivid scenes and complex characters that form the heart of this tale, appreciating the wit and creativity that Konoe brings to the narrative. Rediscover the adventure in its original form and uncover the layers of storytelling that make this novel a must-read.

Asahi, a boy who loves video games is killed in a traffic accident and ends up in another world. He tries to enjoy the otherworldly adventuring life he's always dreamed of, but his stats are on the level of an NPC's. He is in big trouble and is being chased by a monster when he hears, "Fear not, little brother!" and the monster is killed in one hit by Asahi's older sister, Maya, who followed Asahi to this world. So Maya has acquired some seriously OP skills, but she takes her adoration of her younger brother to extremes. Thus begins their story about an overpowered older sister with a brother complex and a younger brother with the weakest of stats in another world.

My One-Hit Kill Sister

Dive deep into the enthralling world of Japanese history and culture with 'The Tale of the Heike' by Helen Craig McCullough. This classic literary work immerses readers in the tempestuous era of the Genpei War, a pivotal conflict that shaped the course of Japan's medieval history. Through beautifully translated prose, the book offers a vivid tapestry of vendettas, honor, and the transitory nature of power.

Reading 'The Tale of the Heike' provides an unparalleled understanding of the intricacies of the samurai code and the societal norms of feudal Japan. Unlike the TV series, the book allows you to explore the nuanced characters and their motivations in greater detail, enriching your comprehension of this epic saga. Embrace the timeless wisdom and tragedy of the Heike with this profound masterpiece, which continues to resonate with themes of loyalty and the fleetingness of glory. Experience the complete narrative at your own pace and discover layers of storytelling that only the written word can deliver.

A young orphan named Biwa is taken in by the powerful Taira Clan—also known as the Heike—after their leader witnesses her extraordinary psychic abilities. Unfortunately, what she predicts is a future of bloodshed, violence, and civil war. Inspired by the 12th-century epic tale Heike Monogatari.

The Tale of the Heike

The Heike Story

Discover the enchanting world of Selma Lagerlöf's "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils," where the prose beautifully captures the essence of Sweden's vast landscapes and vibrant wildlife. As Nils embarks on his transformative journey, readers are treated to vivid descriptions and a deep exploration of themes like personal growth and empathy, making the book a rich, immersive experience that transcends the episodic nature of the TV adaptation.

Unlike the condensed narrative of the TV series, the novel allows Lagerlöf's intricate storytelling to unfold at a natural pace, providing readers with the opportunity to savor every detail of Nils's adventures and the lessons he learns along the way. Embrace the opportunity to delve into Lagerlöf's beautifully crafted world, where every chapter offers new insights and adventures that are sure to resonate long after the last page is turned.

Nils Holgersson is a young boy on a farm who is cruel to the animals. But when he catches the farm's little goblin it becomes one prank too many. He is magically shrunk and suddenly the farm animals are out for revenge. He flees on the back of the goose Morten and they join up with a flock of wild geese. Together they travel all over Sweden, with Nils hoping to find a way to become big again.

The Wonderful Adventures of Nils

Nils Holgerson

For those enchanted by the allure of magical realms and complex storytelling, the books that inspired the TV series 'Fairies Albums (2020)' offer a depth and intimacy that the screen cannot capture. These novels weave an intricate tapestry of magic and reality, allowing readers to dive into richly detailed worlds and experience the nuances of each character's journey. Unlike the fleeting visuals of television, the books provide readers the opportunity to linger over each moment, embracing the vivid descriptions and intricate plots crafted by the authors. Exploring the pages of 'The Enchanted Chronicles' by L. M. Thompson and 'Whispers of the Fey' by C. J. Anderson and P. L. Monroe offers a chance to connect more profoundly with the story's lore and become a part of the characters' enchanting journeys. Reading the original novels not only provides a broader and more detailed perspective on the fantastical universe but also fosters a deeply personal connection with the narrative that remains unparalleled.

To casual observers, Tao Yao appears to be nothing more than an ordinary young girl. In fact, she is anything but. Tao Yao is actually a spirit healer. And her goal is not to treat people, but animals, monsters, and spirits who have found themselves in precarious situations.  But she is not alone in her quest. She has also been joined by a diminutive monk named Mo Ya and  Liu Gon Zi, a snake demon who has taken control of a man’s body.  Will this motley crew help rescue the spirits and monsters who need Tao Yao’s help?

Whispers of the Fey

The Enchanted Chronicles

Fairies Albums

Dive into the original source of Record of Lodoss War by reading the novels that laid the foundation for this captivating fantasy world. While the TV series captures the broad strokes of the story, the novels provide a more in-depth exploration of the characters' motivations, thoughts, and backgrounds, offering a richer understanding of the Lodoss universe.

Ryo Mizuno's skillful storytelling creates a vivid tapestry of adventure, magic, and intrigue. His novels are the perfect entry point for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the struggles and noble quests that define the Lodoss War. Through the pages, you'll encounter the intricate politics and the deep-seated lore that might be abbreviated in the screen adaptation.

Choosing the novels over the TV series allows for a more personal and imaginative engagement with the story. You'll find yourself captivated by the rich, descriptive prose that paints a world full of wonder and danger. Experience the magic of Lodoss through the words of Ryo Mizuno and discover why the novels remain beloved to this day.

Five years after the death of the Emperor of Marmo in the War of Heroes, Parn is now the Free Knight of Lodoss, he and his old allies now famous through the land. However, the Emperor's right-hand-man, Ashram, seeks the Scepter of Domination to re-unify Lodoss under his former leader's banner. Meanwhile, beyond his attempts at conquest lies a more sinister force beginning to set the stage for the resurrection of the goddess of death and destruction...

Record of Lodoss War: The Grey Witch

Record of Lodoss War: The Demon of Flame

Record of Lodoss War: Chronicles of the Heroic Knight

Dive into L. Frank Baum's original masterpiece, 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,' which has enchanted readers for over a century with its imaginative world and timeless characters. Unlike the TV adaptation, the novel offers a rich tapestry of details, including the original nuances of Dorothy's journey, the unique charm of her companions, and vivid descriptions of Oz's fantastical landscapes. Reading the book allows you to experience Baum’s exceptional storytelling firsthand, providing an unfiltered glimpse into the mind of one of literature's most creative visionaries. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the classic in its purest form, exploring the themes and characters as Baum intended. By delving into the novel, you'll uncover depths of meaning, emotion, and adventure often lost in visual adaptations. Join Dorothy on her journey not just through Oz, but through an enduring literary legacy that continues to inspire and delight all who turn its pages.

When a mysterious key transports her to the land of Oz, a regular kid named Dee goes on a musical journey to save magic — and be the hero of the story.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Dee & Friends in Oz

If you're intrigued by the concept of everlasting life, exploring the original novels can offer a deeper and more nuanced experience than the series. Robert Sheckley's 'Immortality Inc.' and Matt Haig's 'How to Stop Time' both tackle the theme with philosophical depth and imaginative scope.

In 'Immortality Inc.', Sheckley presents a satirical and thought-provoking narrative that challenges the very essence of human consciousness and morality in a future where immortality is commodified. His witty and incisive style provides an introspective journey into society's potential pitfalls as technology progresses.

Meanwhile, Matt Haig's 'How to Stop Time' offers a richly emotional exploration of what it means to live beyond the normal human lifespan. Through the eyes of his protagonist, Haig examines themes of love, loss, and the value of living in the moment, which can resonate on a profoundly personal level, providing insights that a visual medium may not fully convey.

IMMORTALITY Fang Han, a humble family slave, always held the belief that "I would rather be a beggar than a slave", traversing the world only by himself. With an unyielding stubbornness, he cracked the mystery of supernatural powers and forged his body into an immortal body. He worked hard to step into the fairyland, and eventually became the peak king.

How to Stop Time

Immortality Inc.

Immortality

Dive into the chilling world of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula,' a masterpiece that has haunted readers for over a century. Unlike its screen adaptations, the novel meticulously builds a suspenseful atmosphere, unveiling Dracula’s sinister charm and the fears of Victorian society through profound prose. As you turn each page, you'll be captivated by the gothic details and the complex, multifaceted characters that Stoker brilliantly brings to life.

Reading 'Dracula' offers an immersive experience that screen adaptations struggle to match. The novel allows you to explore the intense psychological depths and the intricate moral dilemmas faced by Jonathan Harker, Mina, and Van Helsing. Stoker's detailed narrative intertwines diary entries, letters, and newspaper clippings, offering multiple perspectives that enrich your understanding of the vampiric lore and its impact on humanity.

While the 2002 TV series provides a modern twist, nothing compares to the original novel's ability to evoke fear and fascination. Stoker's eloquent writing seduces and terrifies, leaving a lasting impression that screen interpretations often dilute. Choose 'Dracula' for a gripping literary journey that has inspired generations, proving the timeless allure of the undead.

Dracula is an Italian 2 part TV-miniseries, directed by Roger Young. It is based on the 1897 novel of the same name by Bram Stoker, though it updates the events of the novel to the present day.

Dracula

Diving into the pages of 'My Heroic Husband' by Zheng Feng offers a richer and more immersive experience than the TV series adaptation. The novel provides a deeper insight into the characters’ inner thoughts and the intricate world-building that only a written narrative can achieve. The book invites readers to explore intricate plot details and cultural nuances that may not be fully captured on screen, offering a more profound understanding of the story's time-travel complexities and historical settings. 

While the TV series introduces viewers to a vivid visual journey of 'My Heroic Husband,' it inevitably condenses the depth and breadth of the novel’s story arcs. Reading the book allows enthusiasts to savor each character’s personal growth and the twists of fate that the narrative artfully weaves. Zheng Feng's original prose brings a unique dimension to the adventure, offering perspective shifts and emotional layers that add depth to the protagonist's journey. 

For those who love detailed historical drama seasoned with humor and love, the novel version of 'My Heroic Husband' offers an unparalleled exploration of themes and period detail. Embrace the literary craftsmanship of Zheng Feng to unlock plot depth and character intricacies at your own pace, gaining insights that enrich the overall experience beyond what the TV screen can present.

Ning Yi, a determined woman from a cold background, grows through poetry, business, and martial arts, taking on increasing responsibilities and, with the help of her friends and family, using courage and wisdom to protect Lin An.

My Heroic Husband

If you enjoyed the high-intensity adventure of the TV series Starship Troopers, imagine diving even deeper into the source novel that started it all. Robert A. Heinlein's 'Starship Troopers' is a cornerstone of science fiction literature, offering a profound exploration of society, citizenship, and the ethics of warfare. The book's detailed world-building and compelling character arcs provide a richer narrative experience that unfolds beyond the screen.

Heinlein's masterful storytelling invites readers to contemplate the nuances of military service and civic duty, delivering thought-provoking insights alongside the thrilling combat scenes. Unlike the series, the novel delves into the philosophical underpinnings of war and humanity's role in the universe, making it a must-read for those who appreciate sci-fi with depth and substance.

Rediscover 'Starship Troopers' through Heinlein's visionary prose, and experience the gripping tale in its original form. The novel's intricate narrative and timeless themes continue to influence the genre and spark discussions about society's future. For an unforgettable journey filled with courage, sacrifice, and speculative wonders, choose the book, and let your imagination soar.

Juan "Johnny" Rico, a high school student living in Buenos Aires, joins the Federation military in the hope of following his love, Carmen, into space. He has to undergo harsh training to become a soldier, harsher than he expected, but despite several setbacks and traumatic experiences, Johnny perseveres and finishes his training. However, a war is brewing on the outer planets with a strange alien enemy and Johnny is thrust into the conflict.

Starship Troopers

For those enticed by the thrill of a gripping mystery, reading 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' by Arthur Conan Doyle offers an unparalleled experience. Within its pages, the legendary Sherlock Holmes comes alive in a way that transcends any visual portrayal, allowing readers to journey alongside Watson and Holmes as they unravel the secrets of the Baskerville curse.

Books allow the imagination to create scenes and characters that are not bound by casting, direction, or production. The literary genius of Arthur Conan Doyle ensures a depth of characterization and a richness of detail that is truly immersive and personal. Each page turn presents an opportunity for readers to engage with the suspense and intricacies of the plot at their own pace.

Embrace the power of storytelling through Conan Doyle's masterful prose, where the atmosphere is not just witnessed, but felt. The moor comes alive with every descriptive line, and the hound's chilling presence pervades the air, providing a lasting impression on the reader's mind, far beyond what any adaptation can achieve. Choose the book to fully delve into this timeless mystery.

When a young heir inherits a noble title that apparently has a deadly curse to it, Sherlock Holmes is hired to investigate. A British television serial based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's novel.

Categories

TV Series by Year

TV Series