Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

History

Kids

Mystery

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Soap

War & Politics

Western

Jeffrey Archer's 'Kane and Abel' offers a deeply engaging narrative that delves into the epic rivalry between two ambitious men from vastly different backgrounds. The book intricately explores themes of power, ambition, and revenge, all detailed through exquisite storytelling. Unlike the miniseries, the novel provides readers with a thorough understanding of the characters' internal battles and motivations, enriched with rich prose and intricate subplots that make the journey truly immersive.

Reading 'Kane and Abel' allows you to savor Jeffrey Archer's masterful development of character and plot, which might be condensed in the televised version. The novel captivates with its depth and complexity, offering layers to its characters and story that will keep you engaged page after page. By diving into the book, you gain access to Archer's broader vision and nuanced writing style, uncovering a literary experience that promises more detail and emotional depth than the screen adaptation can offer.

Kane & Abel is a television miniseries, based on the novel of the same name written by Jeffrey Archer, that aired on CBS in 1985. It stars Peter Strauss as Rosnovski and Sam Neill as Kane.

Kane and Abel

Kane & Abel

Elena Ferrante's novel 'The Lying Life of Adults' offers readers a chance to delve deeply into the intricate emotional world of a young girl navigating the turbulent transition from childhood to adulthood. The novel provides an intimate portrayal of Giovanna's quest for identity in a vividly depicted Naples, exploring themes of beauty, betrayal, and the elusive nature of truth. 
Reading the book allows you to experience Ferrante's masterful prose firsthand, feeling the rawness of emotions and the depth of her characterizations that may not fully translate on screen. It invites readers to be wholly absorbed in Giovanna's internal conflicts and the gripping transformations of her perceptions and relationships, making the reading experience profoundly personal and nuanced.

Young Giovanna navigates her passage from childhood into adolescence as she experiences the different sides of Naples during the 1990s. A girl in search of her true reflection in a divided Naples: the Naples of the heights, which assumes a mask of refinement, and the Naples of the depths, a place of excess and vulgarity.

The Lying Life of Adults

Dive into the intricate world of Thomas Hardy's "The Mayor of Casterbridge," a tale where prose paints a vivid picture of 19th-century England. This compelling narrative explores the weight of choices, the inexorable hand of fate, and the poignant path to redemption. Hardy’s masterful storytelling intricately weaves a complex tapestry of human emotion and consequence, offering depth and nuance that only the written word can truly convey.

While the television adaptation captures the surface drama, the novel provides a profound introspection into its characters' inner lives. Hardy’s poetic language and immersive descriptions allow readers to fully engage with the atmospheric setting and moral dilemmas faced by the enigmatic Michael Henchard. By engaging with the book, one gains a deeper appreciation for the themes of personal failure and resilience, experiencing the story as Hardy intended — with all its rich detail and emotional resonance.

Michael Henchard, an out-of-work hay-trusser, gets drunk at a fair and for five guineas sells his wife and child to a sailor. When the horror of his act finally sets in, Henchard swears he will not touch alcohol for twenty-one years. Through hard work and acumen, he becomes rich, respected, and eventually the mayor of Casterbridge. But eighteen years after his fateful oath, his wife and daughter, Elizabeth-Jane, return to Casterbridge, and his fortunes steadily decline.

The Mayor of Casterbridge

Discover the timeless charm of Frances Hodgson Burnett's "A Little Princess." This beloved novel invites readers into the world of young Sara Crewe, whose resilience and imagination shine through even the darkest circumstances. Set in a Victorian-era London boarding school, the book explores themes of kindness, friendship, and inner strength, capturing the essence of a world where fortunes can change but a noble heart remains steadfast.

By diving into the pages of "A Little Princess," readers can fully immerse themselves in Sara's poignant journey. The book offers rich descriptions and emotional depth, allowing for a more intimate connection with the characters and their trials. Reading the original novel invites one to experience firsthand the vivid landscapes of Sara's imagination, igniting a sense of wonder and empathy that surpasses any screen adaptation. Let the magic of Burnett's storytelling transport you into a world where hope prevails, and every little girl possesses the grace to be a princess, no matter her circumstances.

Sara Crewe is the pampered daughter of an army colonel in a Victorian London girls' school. But when her father dies, penniless, Sara becomes a skivvy in Miss Michin's school, befriended only by the scullery maid, Becky, her friends Ermengarde and Lottie, a little monkey, a lascar, and the mysterious man next door. Based upon the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

A Little Princess

While the TV adaptation of 'The Last Immortal' captures the essence of Jonathan Everett's intriguing world, the original Chronicles delve much deeper into the intricate tapestry of its universe. The novels offer a rich, immersive experience with detailed world-building and complex character development that the screen simply cannot match. Printed words give a voice to characters' inner thoughts and motivations, drawing readers into their emotional landscapes and moral dilemmas.

Embarking on the literary journey of 'The Last Immortal Chronicles' is like holding a compass that points directly to the heart of the narrative's vibrant themes. As you turn each page, you'll embrace the profound philosophical questions posed by immortality and personal identity, which are sometimes glossed over on-screen for the sake of pacing. Allow your imagination to paint every vivid scenery and moment of tension as you explore timeless narratives that can truly only be given justice through the soulful prose of Everett's writing.

Yin, a hardworking Shuining Beast, and Gu Jin, the son of the true God whose magic has been sealed, meet by chance and embark on a quest to find Feng Yin's Immortal Essence. Alongside their companions, Hong Yi of the Fox Clan and Yan Shuang of the Eagle Clan, they face numerous challenges to collect the essence. Battling the villain Qing Lin and his followers, they overcome obstacles and, in the end, not only fulfill their mission to restore peace but also find love, friendship, and family.

The Last Immortal Chronicles

The Last Immortal

Dive into 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy to experience a masterpiece that effortlessly blends history, philosophy, and a deep exploration of human nature. Each character is drawn with remarkable depth as Tolstoy meticulously portrays the intricacies of Russian society against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. This literary classic goes beyond mere storytelling, offering readers a profound commentary on the human condition and the chaos of warfare.

Reading Tolstoy's 'War and Peace' allows you to engage intimately with the protagonists’ inner lives and follow their transformations in ways that no screen adaptation can replicate. The novel's rich prose and philosophical undertones provide an immersive experience, letting you ponder the grand themes of fate, free will, and morality. With every turn of the page, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where the past comes alive with visceral tension, romance, and unrivaled complexity.

The classic BBC dramatisation of Tolstoy's epic story of love and loss set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. Anthony Hopkins heads the cast as Pierre Bezuhov (a role for which he won the 1972 Best Actor BAFTA); Morag Hood is the impulsive and beautiful Natasha Rostova; Alan Dobie is the dour but heroic Andrei Bolkonsky; and David Swift is Napoleon, whose decision to invade Russia in 1812 has far-reaching consequences for Pierre and the Rostov and Bolkonsky families. The twenty-part serial was the vision of producer David Conroy whose principle aim was to transfer the rich characterisation and incident from Tolstoy's greatest novel to a television drama. Scripted by Jack Pulman and directed by John Davies, Conroy's War And Peace boasts superb acting, award-winning design (1972 Best Design BAFTA) and breathtaking battle sequences which were filmed in former Yugoslavia.

War and Peace

War & Peace

Reading 'The Crossover' by Kwame Alexander offers an intimate and poetic journey into the lives of two brothers and the complex world of basketball. Unlike the TV series, the novel immerses you in the lyrical style of Kwame Alexander, pulling you deeper into the characters' emotions and thoughts. Each verse captures the rhythm and energy of the court and the heartbeats of young athletes navigating both triumphs and challenges.

The unique poetic form invites readers to experience the story in a vividly personal way, engaging the imagination to visualize each scene in a manner that television might not. By reading the book, you not only follow Josh and Jordan's story but become a part of their world, exploring themes of family, friendship, and ambition with a clarity and depth that only Alexander’s writing can provide. Dive into a reading experience that echoes the cadence of a basketball game, with all its intensity and poignancy.

The coming-of-age story of basketball prodigy twins Filthy (aka Josh) and JB who learn that even though they have so much that binds them together growing up is all about discovering what makes us unique.

The Crossover

In 1914, on the eve of war, a fugitive prince and a girl in disguise meet aboard a bioengineered airship, the HMS Leviathan, and change the course of history.

Leviathan

Dive into a captivating world crafted by Francis Durbridge in his gripping novel, 'Melissa.' While the TV series offers a dramatic adaptation, the book provides an unrivaled depth of insight into its characters and their intricate relationships. Durbridge's mastery of suspense and his ability to weave complex, absorbing plots will keep you turning pages in a way that no screen can replicate.

The novel immerses readers in a haunting atmosphere filled with mystery and intrigue. Experiencing the story through Durbridge's narrative allows for a personal exploration of the characters' inner thoughts and hidden motives, something television adaptations merely suggest. The rich detail and atmospheric tension in the book far exceed the visual interpretation, providing a thrilling journey through the mind of a master storyteller.

Extract more from 'Melissa' than what meets the eye on TV. The book invites you to untangle its secrets at your own pace while savoring the elegance and intelligence of Durbridge's writing. For those who cherish psychological thrillers and expertly spun narratives, the original 'Melissa' is an essential read that promises a deeply rewarding escape into its world.

Award-winning war correspondent Guy Foster, distraught after the loss of his first wife, joins a cruise to Cape Town, where he meets beautiful and mysterious Melissa. A sophisticated blonde PR girl, Melissa is travelling with an exuberant group of media friends. Guy falls desperately in love with the exotic Melissa and she suggests they marry. But while they celebrate, dark events begin to take place. An elderly widower is ‘accidentally’ lost overboard. The bodies of a middle-aged couple are discovered in Cape Town. Then one of Melissa’s friends is brutally killed. The finger of suspicion falls on Guy – and when Melissa herself is killed, he is found bending over her bloodied corpse.

Melissa

The novel 'Be With You' by Takuji Ichikawa offers a beautifully woven tale that dives deep into the emotional nuances of love and loss, capturing the essence of human relationships with such delicacy and depth. Reading the book allows you to fully immerse yourself into the characters' inner worlds, offering insights and perspectives that a visual medium might only skim over. Furthermore, Ichikawa's writing style brings a meditative quality to the story, allowing readers to ponder over every word and emotion at their own pace, making the journey of the characters feel even more personal and profound.

A young cartoonist intentionally gets near Ji Yan Xin, a cold and arrogant professor. Qi Nian, a girl with a straightforward personality hopes that interacting with Ji Yan Xin would give her inspiration and creative materials for her comic plot. Coincidentally Ji Yan Xin’s younger brother Ji Si Qi becomes Qi Nian’s assistant and a catalyst for their relationship to progress and blossom.

Be With You

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Joseon-era Korea by delving into Kim Jung-hwa's 'The Twin's Love Story,' the compelling inspiration behind the television series 'The Secret Romantic Guesthouse.' This enchanting novel will captivate your imagination far beyond the constraints of the small screen. Kim Jung-hwa intricately weaves a narrative that touches the heart through its vivid characters and intoxicating blend of romance and mystery.

The power of the written word in 'The Twin's Love Story' lies in its ability to paint vibrant images that transport you into a world of cultural richness and deep emotional connections. Each page promises to reveal new layers to the characters' complexity and the secrets they conceal. It is an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a narrative pace and depth that television adaptations often have to abbreviate. Reading this book allows you to experience the heartbeat of each moment, explore subtle nuances, and appreciate the slow burn of a thoughtfully crafted story.

The series is about an incident that takes place when the owners of the boarding house called 'Guest Summer Palace', which breaks stereotypes, and boarders with secrets gather to find Lee Seol who disappeared 13 years ago.

The Twin's Love Story

The Secret Romantic Guesthouse

Immerse yourself in the intricate world of 'Qing Yu Nian' by Mao Ni, where the prose vividly brings to life the tapestry of a time-travel journey. The novel masterfully combines elements of historical settings and speculative fantasy, allowing readers to explore the complex dynamics of power, emotions, and intrigue through the protagonist's eyes.

Mao Ni’s storytelling invites readers to engage with rich character development and an immersive plot that provides a deeper understanding of this intriguing world. With its detailed narrative and thought-provoking themes, the novel offers an expansive experience that enriches the mind far beyond what the TV series can achieve. Dive into these pages for a rewarding literary adventure that captures the imagination and unveils layers of plot through nuanced writing.

Zhang Qing, a present-day college student in culture and history major wants to study in professor Ye's postgraduate class, so he decides to write a historical fiction to elaborate his perspective of analyzing ancient literature history with modern concept. In the fiction, Zhang himself acts as a young man Fan Xian with mysterious life who lives in a remote seaside town of Kingdom Qing in his childhood, under the help of a mysterious mentor and a blindfolded watchman. Fan goes to the capital when he grows up, where he experiences plenty of ordeal and temper. Fan persists in adhering the rule of justice and goodness and lives his own glorious life.

Qing Yu Nian

Joy of Life

Catherine Cookson's 'A Dinner of Herbs' offers readers a richly detailed world brimming with intricate characters and emotional depth far surpassing the condensation required for its TV adaptation. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of 19th-century Northumberland, the novel intricately weaves themes of love, ambition, and revenge through the lives of its protagonists, creating a narrative that captivates and resonates on a deeply personal level.

Reading the original novel allows one to immerse in Cookson's eloquent prose and fully appreciate the complex interplay of relationships and societal challenges faced by the characters. The author's deft storytelling brings out nuances and subplots that a visual medium can only hint at, making the novel an engaging and enriching experience. Whether you're drawn to its historical setting or the enduring human drama, 'A Dinner of Herbs' in its literary form offers a journey that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.

After taking his young son Roddy to a remote Northumberland village, Peter Greenbank meets a violent death, leaving the boy alone with no family to speak of. Roddy is adopted and raised by Kate Makepeace, a good friend of his father’s, and develops a close friendship with Hal and Mary Ellen. But their sibling bond is put to the test as they become adults. The hidden secrets of the past are painfully unearthed as their lives are intertwined by a tragic destiny.

A Dinner of Herbs

Dive into the world of 'My Stand-In' by Jenna Turner for a deeper exploration of the characters and their intricate relationships. The novel offers rich inner dialogues and vivid landscapes that a series can only hint at, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the emotional journey.

While the TV adaptation brings the story to life visually, the magic of Turner's writing captures the subtleties and nuances that make each moment profound. By choosing to read the book, you can experience the author’s unique voice and the unfiltered essence of the narrative, enriching your understanding of the story beyond what the screen can convey.

Joe, the stunt man of famous actor Tong, happened to meet Ming. Having developed a deep relationship, Joe didn't realise that Ming had always seen him as Tong's replacement. When the truth is revealed, Joe has to take work on a foreign set where an accident takes his life.

When he wakes, Joe's in the body of a young man likewise named Joe who'd met with an accident on the same day. With help, he's soon living the same life as he was before—with the same people—and he meets Ming once more. In this life, Ming wants Joe back at his side as before and Joe doesn't know why. Ming, who's kept all memories of the old Joe, tries to find the truth about Joe's continued life in order to return Joe to his side and give him the explanation he never had the chance to.

My Stand-In

Dive into the world of Adrian Mole directly from Sue Townsend's brilliant pages where his self-deprecating wit and unique perspective bring a rich texture to his trials and tribulations. The book paints a more vivid and intimate portrait of Britain's most beloved teenager, complete with all the hilarious and awkward moments that the screen adaptation may glide over.

Reading the novel allows you to engage with Adrian Mole’s interiority and wit on a deeper level than the TV series can capture. Sue Townsend's unrivaled literary style lets you savor every cringeworthy confession, every aspiration of a young intellectual, and every social gaffe with a keener sense of empathy and understanding. Experience the full depth of Adrian's adolescent angst and aspirations in its original, uncut form.

A British television series based on the book of the same name written by Sue Townsend.

Categories

TV Series by Year

TV Series