Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

History

Kids

Mystery

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Soap

War & Politics

Western

Dive into the intricacies of Atsuko Asano's world with the 'No. 6' novels, where the narrative unfolds with greater depth and complexity than in its anime adaptation. The books provide elaborate backstories, nuanced character development, and profound philosophical themes that are often compressed or simplified on screen.

The novel series invites readers to truly immerse themselves in the dystopian setting of the City No. 6, exploring societal issues and personal dilemmas that resonate deeply. You’ll find yourself with a richer understanding of the motivations and transformations of characters like Shion and Nezumi, all while savoring Asano’s exquisite writing that paints a vivid and unsettling portrait of a controlled society.

In the near future, most of mankind now lives in a handful of city states. There, for the privileged elite, life should be perfect. But for young Sion, life has become a nightmare since letting a strange boy spend the night in his apartment. Banished to the outskirts of the city, Sion now finds himself in worse danger as his inquiry into a new series of mysterious deaths results in his being arrested on suspicion of murder! Now, on the run, the two young men have only one chance at survival.

No. 6

Discover the rich tapestry of Iain Banks' 'The Crow Road' through the depth and intrigue that only the novel can offer. The book invites you into a world that transcends its TV portrayal, immersing you in a multi-layered journey filled with complex characters and intricate plots. Banks' masterful narration allows readers to dive deeply into the protagonist Prentice McHoan's personal exploration, uncovering family mysteries interspersed with philosophical musings about life and death.

In reading 'The Crow Road', you are not merely consuming a story, but engaging in an experience where the interplay of past and present is meticulously crafted. The novel's rich and vivid prose provides the reader with a cinematic interior vision that the screen adaptation can only partially capture. You will savor every moment spent within the yellowed pages, unveiling the secrets hidden within the McHoan and Urvill family histories, and relishing the book's contemplative and darkly humorous tone in a way that only a literary work can present.

History student Prentice returns home to attend his grandmother’s funeral. As the McHoan family gathers together to mark the solemn occasion, old disagreements continue to fester and old acquaintances are renewed. Following the unexpected death of another close relative, Prentice begins to question the past: why did his Uncle Rory suddenly disappear and where did he go? Reading his Uncle Rory’s unpublished novel may provide the answers he is seeking but it also unearths some dark family secrets he didn’t bargain for.

The Crow Road

Dive into the gripping narrative of 'Blind Faith' by Joe McGinniss, where the depths of a real-life courtroom drama unfold with unmatched depth and nuance. This true-crime masterpiece reveals the harrowing story behind the headlines, delving into the complex layers of murder, betrayal, and the search for truth. Through McGinniss's compelling prose, readers are drawn into the intricate dance of legal battles, the emotional turmoil of a family torn apart, and the indomitable spirit of those seeking justice.

Joe McGinniss's 'Blind Faith' offers a comprehensive exploration of the events that inspired the TV mini-series, providing readers with vivid details and behind-the-scenes insights that television adaptations can only briefly touch upon. The book unravels the psychological intricacies and moral dilemmas faced by its characters, inviting readers to ponder over the haunting question of what truly transpired. By engaging with the book, one gains not only the facts but also a profound understanding of the motivations and emotions driving this real-life tragedy.

Successful insurance salesman Rob Marshall, his bright and devoted wife Maria, and their three sons are the perfect American family. Then the nightmare begins. One night, Rob is attacked and Maria is shot dead. At first, Rob seems the a grieving widower. But, as incriminating secrets come out, he must prove his innocence before the judicial system-- and the horrified suspicions of his sons.

Blind Faith

Reading novels like 'The Wings of the Dove' by Henry James offers a deeper dive into the intricacies of human relationships and societal challenges. James' writing provides a richly detailed world, exploring themes with a depth and nuance that are often pared down in visual adaptations. The intricate, immersive world he builds in his text invites a contemplative journey into the human psyche, offering insights that linger long after the final page.

Charlotte Brontë's 'Jane Eyre' packs a punch with its vivid descriptions and introspective prose that draw readers into Jane's resilient and fervent journey. Experiencing Brontë’s original narrative allows readers to relish in her powerful language and complex characterizations, which transform this coming-of-age story into a timeless exploration of identity and self-worth beyond cinematic portrayal.

With 'Wuthering Heights', Emily Brontë crafts a hauntingly passionate tale set on the dark, stormy moors of England. Reading the novel provides an unfiltered conduit to the raw emotions and gothic atmosphere that adaptations strive, yet often struggle, to encapsulate. Brontë’s command of language and narrative delivers an unforgettable experience, distinct in its compelling tension and wild romance, best appreciated in the literary form.

Robert Montgomery Presents is an American dramatic television series which was produced by NBC from January 30, 1950 until June 24, 1957. The live show had several sponsors during its seven-year run, and the title was altered to feature the sponsor, usually Lucky Strike cigarettes, for example, Robert Montgomery Presents Your Lucky Strike Theater, ....The Johnson's Wax Program, and so on.

Jane Eyre

The Wings of the Dove

Wuthering Heights

Robert Montgomery Presents

Dive into the gritty underbelly of 1980s Sydney with Robert G. Barrett's colorful and engaging novels. The Les Norton series brings to life the quirky and often dangerous escapades of a likable larrikin with a knack for finding adventure—or trouble—at every turn. Barrett's writing style marries humor and action masterfully, providing a vivid and authentic portrayal of the era and its characters. 

In contrast to the screen adaptation, the books delve deeper into the psyche of Norton and his entourage, offering rich backstories and a more immersive experience. As you turn the pages, Barrett's vibrant storytelling and rich dialogue paint a more nuanced picture of Norton’s world, enabling readers to fully explore the landscape of crime and camaraderie in a way that only literature can offer. Escape into a bygone time with these timeless tales that continue to resonate thanks to Barrett's wit and insight.

Set in 1985, the series will follow the exploits of a country bloke from outback Queensland. On the run from a troubled past, he blows into Sydney where he lands a job as a bouncer at an illegal casino. A classic fish out of water who is desperate to get home, he soon finds himself seduced by the city’s illicit charms and dragged into a web of underground criminality.

The Godson

The Real Thing

You Wouldn't Be Dead for Quids

Les Norton

Step away from the screen and dive into the richly woven tapestry of Clara Sutherland's 'Wisdom's Blood and Earth's Memories'. While the TV series captures fleeting glimpses of its world, reading the book offers an immersive journey into the nuanced landscapes and intricate character development that can only emerge from the author's detailed prose. Each page envelops you in historical and emotional depth, creating an intimate bond with the characters' struggles and triumphs.

Unlike the visual constraints of television, the novel invites readers to envision the timeless beauty and the haunting darkness of its world through their own imagination. Sutherland's command of language and ability to evoke atmosphere turns every reading session into an exploration of both the fictional universe and the thematic complexities that underpin it. Experience the joy of noticing subtle connections, uncovering layers of meaning, and relishing the written word as only a novel can offer.

1557, The Wars of Religion threaten France. Behind the ramparts of the castle of Mespech, surrounded by a dangerous, hostile and intolerant world, the Siorac family fights for its survival and its convictions.

Wisdom's Blood and Earth's Memories

Land of Blood and Wisdom

Qian Fei, an investment bank employee, was originally immersed in the happiness of planning her future life, but unexpectedly, her fiance Wang Ruohai chose not to walk with her anymore. From then on, Qian Fei was forced to embark on the arduous journey of re-planning her life and career. Rich second-generation heir Li Yifei wanted to make a career, and only regarded love as a kind of icing on the cake. His girlfriend Gui Lili couldn't live a life without money and left him. Under the teasing of fate, Qian Fei and Li Yifei, who have completely different outlooks on life and love, gradually come to an intersection. In order to repay the mortgage, Qian Fei rented out a room Li Yifei, and since then started a shared life with him. Faced with Li Yifei, who is completely opposite to her, Qian Fei, with the help of friends, family, and colleagues, bravely faces difficulties and contradictions with an uncompromising and aggressive heart, and grows quickly.

Love Has Fireworks

Step into the world of Detective Inspector Irene Huss through the rich, detailed novels by Helene Tursten—an experience far deeper than the television adaptation can provide. In these brilliant crime novels, every page immerses you in the atmospheric settings of Gothenburg, crafting a vivid tapestry of suspense and intrigue that engages both the intellect and the imagination. The novels offer a thorough exploration of Irene Huss's character, providing insights into her life as a dedicated detective and a mother, bridging professional challenges with personal growth in a way that unfolds slowly, drawing readers into her world.

Beyond the narrative seen on screen, Tursten's storytelling provides a layered understanding of each case, interlacing complex plots with unexpected twists that draw on cultural and societal nuances intrinsic to Swedish life. This nuanced portrayal allows readers to experience the meticulously crafted cases firsthand, cultivating a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of criminal investigation. By reading the novels, you gain access to the nuances of each character and scene, absorbing subtleties and motivations often lost in televised adaptation.

Furthermore, Helene Tursten's prose invites readers to step into the shoes of Irene Huss, offering a first-person perspective on the ethical dilemmas and moral conundrums faced within the Swedish police force. It transforms each mystery into a personal journey, fostering a connection between reader and protagonist that extends beyond mere observation. Choose the novels over the series to fully engage with Tursten's intricate plots and masterfully developed characters, ensuring a rewarding experience that stimulates both heart and mind.

Police investigator Irene Huss lives in Gothenburg, Sweden, and tries to balance between murder investigations and family life.

Night Rounds

The Glass Devil

Detective Inspector Huss

The Golden Calf

The Fire Dance

The Torso

Detective Inspector Irene Huss

Delve into the world of 19th-century Brazil by reading 'The Slave Isaura' by Bernardo Guimarães. This novel provides a rich literary experience that offers insights into the cultural and historical backdrop of the time, something that a visual adaptation might not capture in depth. 

Reading the book allows you to explore the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters more intimately. Guimarães's prose paints a vivid picture of Isaura's struggles and dreams, making her journey toward freedom all the more compelling. Through the written word, you can appreciate the nuanced portrayal of social injustices and personal resilience.

While the TV series offers a dramatic visualization, the novel provides the original narrative and themes as intended by the author. Engaging with the text opens a window to the past, showcasing the societal dynamics and moral dilemmas that shape the characters' fates. Experience the full depth of Isaura's story as it was meant to be experienced in its original form.

The difficulties faced by a young, sweet-hearted white slave targeted by the obsession of her lord in the Brazilian colonial time period.

The Slave Isaura

Escrava Isaura

Han Li, an ordinary, poor boy from a mountain village, joins a small martial arts sect by chance. Despite his mediocre talent, he eventually cultivates himself into an immortal through hard work and careful planning.

The Immortal Ascension

Reading Charles Dickens' 'David Copperfield' offers a profound connection to the author's rich, original narrative voice, unmatched by any adaptation. Through the novel, readers experience the intricacies of Victorian society and vibrant characterizations that only Dickens' masterful prose captures. Delve into the source of timeless characters and elaborate storytelling to fully grasp the intricacies and depth that television, despite its merits, often streamlines.

A miniseries adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, following David Copperfield's life starting from his idyllic childhood and continuing through to adulthood.

David Copperfield

Step into the thrilling world of the original Raffles stories, where every word is crafted by E. W. Hornung to bring alive the charismatic gentleman thief, A.J. Raffles. Rather than watching the screen adaptation, immerse yourself in the elegant prose and intricate plots of Hornung's novels. Raffles and Bunny pursue their discreet art of burglary with daring escapades that are both morally nuanced and improbable bedazzlements. 

Within the pages of 'The Amateur Cracksman', 'The Black Mask', 'A Thief in the Night', and 'Mr. Justice Raffles', you will experience the tension and adventure as intended by Hornung himself. Discover the cunning intellect of Raffles, his reflections on justice and society, and the loyal companionship of his friend Bunny, whose narrative voice provides a vivid window into their capers. The books offer a richness of detail and a depth of character far beyond what a television screen can depict.

By choosing the novels over the series, you will engage with the original vision of Hornung's stories, appreciating not only the thrilling plots but also the satirical undertones and the witty, gentlemanly repartee that characterizes Raffles’ world. Let the evocative descriptions and the psychological nuances captivate your imagination, offering a timeless entry into the fin-de-siècle London underworld.

Raffles was a 1977 television adaptation of the A. J. Raffles stories by Ernest William Hornung. The series was produced by Yorkshire Television and written by Philip Mackie. The episodes were largely faithful adaptations of the stories in the books, though occasionally two stories would be merged to create one episode such as "The Gold Cup" which featured elements from both "A Jubilee Present" and "The Criminologist's Club".

The Amateur Cracksman

A Thief in the Night

Mr. Justice Raffles

The Black Mask

Raffles

Dive into the exuberant world of Armistead Maupin's 'Further Tales of the City,' where the book provides a richer exploration of the quirky and endearing characters that populate this iconic series. While the TV adaptation offers a visual rendition, reading Maupin's work allows you to fully appreciate the nuances and inner thoughts that might be glossed over on screen. 

Maupin's writing is celebrated for its fluid storytelling and deep emotional resonance. The novel captures the intricacies of human relationships with wit and sensitivity, which creates a truly immersive experience for the reader. Unlike the condensed nature of television storytelling, the book unfolds at a pace that lets you savor every plot twist and character revelation.

Moreover, 'Further Tales of the City' reflects an authentic sense of time and place, capturing the spirit of 1980s San Francisco with vivid detail. Reading the book enables you to become truly intertwined with the vibrant culture and the affectionate community at Barbary Lane, making it a must-read for those who wish to experience a piece of literary history firsthand.

Residents of 28 Barbary Lane continue to navigate human life, flawed love, and blind hope in 1980's San Francisco.

Further Tales of the City

If you're a fan of complex emotions and rich historical settings, reading 'One Life, One Incarnation, Beautiful Bones' by Mo Bao Fei Bao may offer an experience far more immersive than watching the TV adaptation 'One and Only'. The novel provides intricate details and a deeper insight into the characters' inner worlds and emotions.

While TV series can bring visual splendor and immediate drama, the novel enriches the mind's eye with nuanced storytelling and satisfying depth. Through its carefully paced narrative and eloquent prose, the book allows readers to form their own interpretations and emotional connections, making it a truly unique journey through time and love.

Zhou Sheng Chen was raised by his brother, the Emperor, until the age of thirteen, when he set out to defend the border and establish himself as a loyal and accomplished general. Cui Shi Yi, the well-read daughter of an esteemed family, has been betrothed to the Crown Prince since birth. However, political scheming and tragic events result in Cui Shi Yi falling mute, her former fiance becoming a child Emperor, and Zhou Sheng Chen returning to the capital amidst a cloud of political turmoil.

One Life, One Incarnation, Beautiful Bones

One and Only

Dive into the richly woven narratives of Henry James by exploring his novels that transcend the limitations of television. While 'Affairs of the Heart' captures the essence of James’s storytelling, the original works delve deeper into the complexity and nuance of his vision, bringing to life the subtleties of character and setting with unmatched precision and flair. Reading these source novels allows one to experience James’s masterful command of language and his ability to dissect the human psyche.

Uncover the layers of meaning in James's prose and the intricate tapestry of his creations – something a televised adaptation can only hint at. Through his crafted stories, such as those found in 'The Aspern Papers and Other Stories' and 'The Beast in the Jungle,' readers are invited to fully immerse themselves in the worlds James built. His characters linger in the mind, challenging and engaging the reader in a way that no on-screen adaptation can fully replicate. Choose to read the original works and you're choosing the depth, complexity, and beauty that James intended.

Anthology series of one-hour love stories based on the short stories of Henry James.

Categories

TV Series by Year

TV Series