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Dive into the world of the Water Margin through its original novels and experience the epic saga in its most authentic form. Unlike the TV adaptation, the books offer a rich tapestry of the Song Dynasty's historical and cultural backdrop. Written by Shi Nai'an and later expanded by Luo Guanzhong, the novel captures the essence of the legendary band of outlaws with unparalleled depth and character development, providing a more nuanced exploration of themes like justice, loyalty, and rebellion.

In the pages of the Water Margin, you will journey alongside 108 formidable heroes, each with unique stories and motivations. The novel's intricate plot and vivid portrayal of medieval China offer an immersive experience that no screen adaptation can fully replicate. Embrace the compelling narrative and timeless wisdom embedded in the text to witness the full grandeur of one of China's four great classical novels. Discover the legendary tales as they were meant to be, with all the intricate details and rich storytelling that makes the Water Margin a masterpiece of world literature.

The Water Margin is a Japanese television series based on Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature.  The novel details the trials and tribulations of 108 outlaws during the Song Dynasty. This adaptation follows Lin Chung and his clashes with the local government official Kao Chiu.

The Water Margin is famous for its, sometimes obscure, but memorable philosophical quotes, such as "Do not despise the snake for having no horns,for who is to say it will not become a dragon?""

Water Margin

The Water Margin

Dive into Ira Ishida's 'Ikebukuro West Gate Park' to experience the narrative in its raw, original form. The series of novels offers a deeper exploration of the vibrant and gritty world of Ikebukuro, bringing the characters and their stories to life with a richness not always captured on screen. Ishida's nuanced depiction of the urban landscape and the challenges faced by its youth paints a compelling picture that engages and provokes thought. 

Reading the 'Ikebukuro West Gate Park' novels allows you to delve more intimately into the psyche of the characters, affording an understanding and empathy that television adaptation sometimes cannot. Through Ishida's vivid prose, readers gain full access to the intricacies of the storyline, reflecting the broader themes of society and individual struggles. Discover the undercurrents of suspense and the heartfelt emotions that resonate within each chapter, offering an enriching experience that transcends what's seen on the TV screen.

Living in an area known for its juvenile crime, 21-year-old Makoto has become a member of a youth gang called the G-Boys. Known for his cool head and ability to get things done, Makoto becomes a key troubleshooter for the gang by diffusing tense situations and keeping his friends out of harm's way. However, the death of his girlfriend and an escalating turf war with a rival gang threaten to be more than Makoto can handle.

Ikebukuro West Gate Park

Dive into the source novels of 'Best Choice Ever' to explore the depths of the characters' lives, which the series can only touch upon. Each page brims with rich detail, providing a richer emotional landscape that enhances your understanding of their choices.

By reading these captivating books, you'll uncover the layers of conflict, growth, and relationships that make the story truly resonate. The novels offer an immersive experience filled with insight, wit, and profound moments, allowing you to connect deeply with the characters and their journeys.

Mai Chenghuan, a post-95 girl born into an ordinary family in Shanghai, agrees to marry her boyfriend, Xin Jialiang, under her mother’s urging. However, the economic gap between them creates an imbalance in their relationship, ultimately leading to its end. Mai Chenghuan then gains her grandmother's approval and is entrusted with the heavy responsibility of managing a hotel. Through cooperation, Mai Chenghuan and the professional hotel manager Yao Zhiming become working partners and go hand in hand. Mai Chenghuan transitions from being under her family's control to achieving self-fulfillment, forging her own path.

Life's Choices

The Path We Take

Best Choice Ever

Delve into the enchanting world of E. Nesbit's 'The Phoenix and the Carpet,' where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, offering a timeless adventure that no TV series can fully capture. The novel invites readers into the magical lives of the young protagonists, who discover a mysterious carpet and a mythical phoenix. As they voyage through realms of imaginative wonder, readers experience the joy of boundless creativity and enchanting storytelling.

Reading the novel allows for an intimate journey with the characters, offering insights into their thoughts and emotions that television adaptations often gloss over. E. Nesbit's evocative prose and rich descriptions transport you to a world where every page turns with the possibility of new adventures. Experience the original tales and subtle humor firsthand, savoring the depth and nuance that only a classic literary work can provide.

Adaptation of E Nesbit’s story about an Edwardian family in London, who experience a series of extraordinary and magical events.

The Phoenix and the Carpet

Delve into the captivating world of Gu Long's 'Juedai Shuangjiao', a classic wuxia novel that explores the intricate lives and destinies of two brothers separated at birth. Every page is infused with the brilliance of martial arts duels, colorful characters, and profound philosophical reflections that transport readers into ancient China. The carefully woven plot is rich with twists and the tension between good and evil, filling every chapter with suspense and intrigue.

While the TV series offers a visual representation of Gu Long's work, the novel itself dives deeper into the characters' psyche, providing rich backstories, motivations, and themes often glossed over in adaptations. The text gives readers the opportunity to imagine and experience the world through the eloquent descriptions and unique literary style of one of the greatest wuxia authors. A journey through the book will captivate your imagination and provide an unparalleled narrative experience that the TV series can merely hint at.

Clashing martial arts twins face relentless villains, thorny romance and brotherly rivalry as their troubled pasts catch up to them.

Juedai Shuangjiao

Handsome Siblings

The Sherlock Holmes novels and stories by Arthur Conan Doyle are a timeless journey into the art of deduction, providing a depth and richness that often escapes television portrayals. With intricate plots and expertly fleshed-out characters, each book draws you into a complex world where logic and observation reign supreme. The narrative style lets you step into the shoes of Dr. Watson, experiencing the intrigue and unraveling mysteries alongside the legendary detective himself.

Reading these classic mysteries offers not just entertainment but an immersion into the cerebral challenges faced by Holmes. By delving into the original texts, you gain insight into the societal context of Victorian London, understanding the nuances of each case through Doyle's meticulous detail. Whether it's the fog-shrouded moors in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' or the intricate secrets unraveled in 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes,' the source material promises not only to captivate but to engage the mind far beyond what the screen can depict.

Sherlock Holmes is a series of Sherlock Holmes adaptations produced by British television company BBC between 1965 and 1968. This was the second screen adaption of Sherlock Holmes for BBC Television.

The Return of Sherlock Holmes

The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes

His Last Bow

The Sign of the Four

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes

The Valley of Fear

The Hound of the Baskervilles

A Study in Scarlet

Sherlock Holmes

If you're captivated by tales of espionage with a deep psychological undertone, plunging into the pages of David Morrell's 'The Brotherhood of the Rose' will be a thrilling experience. This novel, penned by the author of 'First Blood', offers a richly detailed narrative that delves deeply into the lives of its characters. Morrell's adept storytelling crafts a world of complex alliances and unexpected betrayals, far beyond what could be captured in a two-part TV adaptation. 

The book takes you on an immersive journey with compelling backstories and the intricate motivations that shape each character's decisions. Its vivid descriptions and intense inner dialogues provide a deeper understanding of the stakes at play, all of which are sometimes glossed over in the screen version. For those who cherish a well-woven tapestry of suspense and emotional depth, reading 'The Brotherhood of the Rose' is an opportunity to explore the full scope of Morrell's ingenious plot and character craftsmanship.

Romulus and Remus were picked up at an orphanage at a young age, raised together as brothers and trained to supersede every other CIA agents.

The Brotherhood of the Rose

Brotherhood of the Rose

Embark on a fantastical journey with E. Nesbit's classic novel, 'Five Children and It,' where young readers and adults alike are transported to a whimsical world of adventure and magic. This enchanting tale follows the lives of five siblings who discover a mysterious creature called a Psammead, capable of granting them one wish per day. However, as they come to realize, not all wishes turn out as expected, teaching them valuable lessons about desires and their consequences.

Reading 'Five Children and It' offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the charming characters and imaginative storylines crafted by Nesbit. Her rich, descriptive language and keen insight into the minds of children make the experience more engaging than any screen adaptation could fully capture. The novel presents a timeless exploration of childhood curiosity, the magic of discovery, and the unexpected outcomes that arise from seemingly simple desires, offering a more profound and lasting enjoyment than watching the series alone could provide.

A group of children discovers a mysterious creature in the local sand pit who agrees to grant them one wish each day.

Five Children and It

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

Step into a world of complex emotions and deep societal divides with Rieko Yoshihara's "Ai no Kusabi: The Space Between." This novel offers a richly detailed backdrop against which an intense, forbidden relationship unfolds, much more expansive and profound than what is captured in the 1992 TV adaptation. The book delves deeper into the societal structure and psychological intricacies of its characters than the series ever does, providing an immersive experience that evokes empathy and reflection.

The source novel is a masterclass in world-building and character development, conveying the depth and nuances of Iason and Riki's tumultuous connection with greater clarity and emotional impact. Reading "Ai no Kusabi: The Space Between" allows you to explore the original intentions and detailed descriptions that enrich the overarching narrative, making it an indispensable experience for fans of dystopian romance and intricate storytelling. Discover the depth and meaning behind every choice and interaction, thus elevating your understanding far beyond what the TV adaptation offers.

On planet Amoi, a great society has developed, creating a computerized city called Tanagura, ruled by supercomputer Jupiter. The populace is almost entirely male and is based on hair color; silver and/or blonds are the elitist, ending with dark/black haired as the bottom of society, often known as "mongrels". Blondies keep "pets", young boys kept for a few years, especially made for performing sexual actions for the Blondie's voyeurism entertainment. Blondies aren't suppose to keep pets for long or interact sexually with pets, but one blondie named Iason Mink has kept a pet named Rikki, for years and is rumored to sleep with him. Iason refuses to let go of Rikki, even with Jupiter's disapproval. Rikki fights with his emotions and society problems, unable to decide what to do about his old friend/lover Gai (Guy) and their gang. Iason is obsessed with keeping Rikki, and Rikki doesn't know what to do; fight against him or surrender to him.

Ai no Kusabi: The Space Between

Ai no Kusabi

Delve into the original Sherlock Holmes stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to truly experience the enigmatic world of this legendary detective. The written tales offer a depth of character development and intellectual intrigue that screen adaptations can only begin to capture. With each turn of the page, readers can join Holmes and Watson on their thrilling adventures, piecing together the intricate puzzles that define their cases.

Exploring the pages of Doyle's works, one finds an unparalleled richness in the atmospheric settings of Victorian London, artfully evoked by the author’s masterful storytelling. The cerebral exploits of Sherlock Holmes are brought to life through Doyle’s vivid narrative and well-crafted dialogue, transporting readers directly into the mind of one of literature’s greatest detectives. Every story allows for personal imagination that no visual medium can replace, inviting readers to envision the landscapes, characters, and suspenseful plots.

Furthermore, Doyle's investment in the subtleties of human nature and the nuances of his characters' personalities make reading his books a unique intellectual journey. The process of reading allows one to savor every detail at a personal pace, leading to a more profound appreciation of Holmes' analytical prowess and Watson’s loyal companionship. Dive into the original books to unlock the full potential and charm of Doyle's writing that has captivated generations.

The first part of the Soviet series of television films based on the stories of Arthur Conan Doyle about Sherlock Holmes, filmed in 1979. The film consists of two parts and was filmed based on the story "The Speckled Band" (1st part "The Acquaintance") and the novella "A Study in Scarlet" (beginning of the 1st part and the 2nd part "Bloody Inscription").

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson

Embark on a captivating journey with 'Someone Who Looks Like You,' the novel by Jung So-hyeon, which delves deeper into the intricate lives of its characters than the TV adaptation. This literary masterpiece invites readers to explore complex emotions and motivations, offering a nuanced perspective that television might gloss over. Through vivid prose and detailed character development, the novel presents a richer, more immersive experience, providing insights and backstories that enhance the drama's intense narrative. For those who cherish deep dives into the psychological underpinnings of characters, the book offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the story on a more intimate level.

A thriving painter's enviable life begins to fray at the edges when a bright young woman she once befriended resurfaces as a shell of her former self.

Someone Who Looks Like You

Reflection of You

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

Discover the vivid world of 'Audacity: A Novel' by Jane Smith, where the intricate layers of societal norms are peeled back with precision and wit. Imagine engaging with stories that probe deeply into the essence of human relations, transcending mere entertainment to offer profound introspection. By choosing the source novels, you open the door to a literary journey that enriches the mind, offering subtleties and nuances that only the written word can provide.

Embrace the opportunity to delve into character explorations with greater depth and insight than a visual adaptation could provide. Jane Smith's masterful storytelling invites readers to reflect and engage actively, allowing imagination to paint the vivid sceneries and emotions that a screen might gloss over. The book promises a personal, immersive experience, as you interact with the narrative on an intellectual and emotional level.

Moreover, 'Audacity: A Novel' goes beyond entertainment to challenge and provoke thought, urging readers to question societal constructs and internalized beliefs. By reading the book, you gain a richer understanding of the themes explored, equipped to appreciate the author's full intent and creative genius. Opt for the source novels to experience an unfiltered, original narration filled with depth, detail, and complexity.

Yu Wanyin is teleported into a novel about palace struggles. The female protagonist of the novel is also teleported into it. To reverse her fate as a villain, Yu Wanyin chooses to join forces with a tyrant, who also turns out to be a modern man teleported in. Yu Wanyin hopes for the three modern people to put aside the palace struggles and just play cards and eat hotpot together peacefully. However, the female protagonist believes she is the chosen one, and still chooses to go against Yu Wanyin and the male protagonist King Duan’s team. Thus, Yu Wanyin has to carry out a series of actions in order to survive and help Xia dynasty prevent the drought crisis…

Audacity: A Novel

How Dare You!?

Khao Kang sells curry-over-rice (khao kaeng) at a boys' school. Moo is a grade twelve student who dreams of becoming an idol. He splits his time between hitting on Kang and training. He simultaneously wants love and to realise his dream, but it seems he cannot have it when debuting comes with the caveat that relationships are forbidden.

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