Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

History

Kids

Mystery

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Soap

War & Politics

Western

For those who want to delve deeper into the intricate world of Bantorra, reading Ishio Yamagata's novels offers a richer experience. While the TV series distills the plot into a single format, the source material provides more in-depth explorations of the characters and their motivations, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the philosophical and existential questions posed by the narrative.

The novels provide a more detailed backdrop of the fantastical setting, along with additional subplots that enhance the central themes. Fans of intricate storytelling will appreciate the depth and nuance found in the books, gaining insights into the lore and complexities that may have been truncated or altered for television audiences. Engage with the original works to appreciate the meticulous world-building and character development that sets The Book of Bantorra apart.

In a world where dead people turn into books and are stored in the Bantorra Library where anyone who reads a book can learn their past. Bantorra Library is maintained by Armed Librarians who wield psychic powers and their enemy is a religious society known as Sindeki Kyōdan.

The Book of Bantorra

Dive into the rich tapestry of Iljimae's world with Kojima Nobuo's compelling narrative. As much beloved as the TV adaptation may be, the original story allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the intricate plot and the nuanced character of Iljimae. Experience the depth of Joseon-era landscapes and social conflicts that are vividly painted in the written word, fostering a more personal connection to the events that unfold.

Reading the original book gives you a deeper appreciation for Iljimae’s motivations and inner struggles, which might sometimes be glossed over in the fast-paced drama of the television series. The novel delicately unfolds layers of Iljimae's journey, offering a more intimate look at his transformation from an ordinary man to a legendary figure. It’s an invitation to explore the subtleties of the character and gain insight into themes of justice, love, and identity that resonate beyond the screen.

Set during the Joseon Dynasty, Ryung acts as a useless gangster in the marketplace by day but at night he is a chivalrous robber who robs corrupt government officials to give to the poor. After each robbery he leaves behind a wooden branch from a plum tree at the site of the robbery to take responsibility for the robbery. The poor citizens only know him as Iljimae. Bong Soon is a hilarious girl with good martial art skills and lives as a swindler. She only loves Ryung and sacrifices her whole life for him. Eun Chae is a government official's daughter and is good in nature and usually helps miserable people. She meets Iljimae once by chance, and their sweet love story begins. However, her love puts Iljimae in a dangerous situation because an Imperial Guard also loves her.

Iljimae

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

Reading 'The Outcast' by Sadie Jones is a truly immersive experience that offers a profound depth not fully captured onscreen. Jones's detailed writing brings post-war England to life while exploring the nuanced emotions and psychological complexity of its protagonist. By delving into the pages of the novel, readers gain intimate access to the rich, inner world of Lewis Aldridge, witnessing his struggles with grief and societal expectations in a way that only literature can provide.

The novel offers a narrative that is both haunting and beautiful, with every sentence crafted to engage the reader's empathy and imagination. Sadie Jones's prose paints a vivid and poignant picture of a young man's journey through hardship and his quest for redemption. Choosing the novel over the television series allows for a deeper connection with the story's intricate layers and emotional subtleties, making it a profoundly rewarding reading experience.

Set in post-war Britain, ten year-old Lewis Aldridge is grief-stricken as he struggles to cope with the death of his beloved mother. Left under the care of his emotionally distant father Gilbert, whom he barely knows and who quickly remarries, Lewis is forced to bury his feelings.

The Outcast

When it comes to classics of the Gothic genre, Daphne du Maurier's 'Rebecca' stands out as a masterpiece that has captivated readers for generations. The novel paints the tale of the unnamed narrator's life at Manderley, overshadowed by the omnipresent memory of Rebecca, the first wife of her husband, Maxim de Winter. The suspenseful, atmospheric narrative weaves a rich tapestry of mystery and psychological insight, drawing readers into a world of intriguing characters and unexpected twists.

Choosing to read 'Rebecca' allows one to experience the intricate layers of du Maurier's storytelling in a way that a visual adaptation might not fully capture. The book's detailed exploration of themes such as identity, jealousy, and the haunting nature of memory offers a depth and complexity that are best appreciated through the written word. Delving into this novel provides the reader with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the psyche of the protagonist and the enigmatic allure of Manderley that only the original text can truly convey.

Adaptation of the Daphne du Maurier novel.

Rebecca

Reading 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien offers an unparalleled journey through Middle-earth, where every page is infused with enchanting details and imaginative landscapes that go beyond any visual adaptation. The rich prose and captivating world-building immerse readers deeply in the characters' thoughts, making the experience feel personal and adventurous in a way that a TV series can only hint at.

Furthermore, Tolkien's masterful use of language and descriptive storytelling provides layers of depth and nuance that even the best screen adaptations struggle to convey. From the witty dialogues between Bilbo and Smaug, to the complex cultures of elves, dwarves, and hobbits, every chapter of the novel enriches the reader's understanding, providing a fulfilling and thought-provoking exploration of themes and narratives best appreciated word by word.

Hobitit is a Finnish live action fantasy television miniseries originally broadcast in 1993 on Yle TV1. Produced by Olof Qvickström, it is based on the events of the books The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien.

The Hobbit

The Hobbits

Alan Garner's novel 'The Owl Service' transports readers to a world where ancient Welsh mythology collides with modern-day adolescence, a theme beautifully layered with mystery and enchantment. The richly detailed narrative invites readers to ponder the powerful influence of legend and place upon the human psyche. 

While the TV series captures some of the story’s essence, the book delves deeper into the characters’ thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more intimate connection. Garner’s evocative prose paints vivid pictures, urging readers to explore the enigmatic valley and conquer its hidden secrets, a journey more rewarding in its written form.

Three teenagers discover a mysterious set of owl and flower-patterned dinner plates in the attic and the magical ancient legend of the "Mabinogion" comes to life once again in their Welsh valley.

The Owl Service

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

Diving into the novel 'Bye Bye, Earth' by Kobo Abe offers a profound experience beyond the screen. Abe's intricate narrative style and in-depth exploration of the human condition invite readers to ponder philosophical questions and societal structures. Engaging with the source material allows for a comprehensive understanding of the world and characters that can often be condensed on screen. Unlike the pacing constraints of a television series, Abe’s prose enables readers to absorb the complexities and subtleties of the storyline at their own rhythm, offering a more personalized and intimate journey.

Belle Lablac doesn’t really fit in as the only human being in a world full of anthropomorphic animals. No fangs, no fur, no scales, no claws. Lonely and eager to discover where she comes from, Belle journeys to find answers to the questions of her heart. Carrying nothing but her giant sword, the Runding, she faces a world of possibilities and pitfalls in hopes of discovering the truth.

Bye Bye, Earth

For those who appreciate the depth and detail that only a novel can provide, reading 'Qin Empire' by Sun Haohui offers a more immersive experience into the fascinating world of ancient China. The narrative intricacies and historical context delved into by Sun Haohui allow readers to explore the motivations and emotions of each character on a much deeper level than the TV adaptation. Each page of the book showcases a myriad of details and perspectives that bring the Qin Dynasty alive, making the novel an enriching journey for history enthusiasts and storytellers alike.

During the late stages of the Warring States era of the Qin state, Ying Zheng, Lu Bu Wei, Li Si, Wang Jian and many formidable politicians work together to unite the six states under one rule.

Qin Empire

Qin Dynasty Epic

Delve into the captivating world of Novoland: Tears of Heaven by Xiao Ruse to experience the intricacies of character development, detailed world-building, and rich storylines that unfold throughout the novel. Unlike the condensed adaptation found in 'Novoland: Pearl Eclipse,' the novel allows readers to immerse themselves into the depths of each character's journey and the vast, fantastical universe surrounding them, lending a richer understanding and appreciation of the unfolding events. Exploring the source material offers unique insights and perspectives that can often be overlooked or simplified on-screen, granting a fuller, more engaging narrative experience.

Set in the Zheng dynasty of the fantasy world Novoland, the drama revolves around a young girl of the merfolk tribe Ye Haishi; and her love story with the current Emperor, Fang Zhu.

Tears of Heaven: Men of Great Shin

Novoland: Pearl Eclipse

Dive into the original novel 'Bad Kid' by Zijin Chen to experience the gripping storyline in its purest form. While the TV series provides a visual representation, the book offers intricate insights into the characters’ inner worlds and motivations that the screen adaptation merely hints at. Each page unravels the suspense with a pace that lets you savor every twist and turn, something the episodic series can’t capture.

Zijin Chen crafts an intricate world filled with moral ambiguities and thought-provoking dilemmas. His attention to detail and character development creates a deeply immersive experience, elevating the narrative beyond typical crime fiction. Reading the book allows you the freedom to imagine and interpret the nuanced scenarios at your own pace, offering a personalized and enriching exploration of the storyline.

Moreover, 'Bad Kid' presents a more expansive view of the societal and psychological themes that underpin the plot. The book paints a fuller picture of the socio-cultural landscape and a more profound glance into the complexities of human nature. Delve into Chen’s masterful prose to appreciate the levels of depth and meaning that only the source material can truly convey.

A story that follows three children from a coastal town who unintentionally film a murder scene. As the kids become involved with the suspect, it opens up a case that is far more complicated than it looks and entraps several families into an unpredictable outcome.

Bad Kid

The Bad Kids

Step into the world created by Danielle Steel in her captivating novel, 'Jewels'. In this book, Steel masterfully intertwines romance and historical drama to tell the story of Sarah Thompson, whose journey from a broken marriage in America to a life filled with passion and tumult in European high society is both riveting and profound. Every page offers a new insight into Sarah’s character and the dazzling world she navigates.

Unlike a television series that trims the complex narrative to fit a screen-friendly episodic format, the novel 'Jewels' provides a rich, expansive view into the lives of its characters. Readers can dive deeply into the inner thoughts and emotions of Sarah and how she evolves through the years amidst the ever-changing socio-political landscape of the 20th century. The novel's attention to historical detail helps paint a vivid picture that transports readers back in time.

Embrace the experience of reading 'Jewels', where every scene and character is crafted with depth and detail that a visual adaptation might miss. Danielle Steel’s storytelling invites readers to linger longer on meaningful moments and explore the nuances of love and ambition in a more fulfilling way. Skip the screen and savor the pages of 'Jewels' for a richer connection with the story.

Sarah Thompson, an American visiting England, meets and marries William Whitfield, the Duke of Whitfield. They settle in a chateau in France and begin a family. World War II interrupts their happiness and alters their future. After the war, the family helps war survivors by buying their jewelry and eventually opens a jewelry store, which rapidly becomes a success. But conflicts abound as new generations arise and forces from both outside and within threaten the store and the family.

Jewels

Xie Lian, the crown prince of Xian Le Kingdom, successfully ascends to Heaven during his third trial in spite of successive demotions. However, he accidentally breaks the Gold Palace of heavenly officials. With no human worshiping him, Xie Lian has to descend to the secular world to exorcise ghosts, which may help him sustain his divinity.

Eternal Faith

Shortly before his 20th birthday Ai starts to have prophetic dreams about Yu, his neighbor skilled in driving him crazy. And not just that the dreams seemingly come true, but also the more and more romantic nature of them leaves Ai confused on what the hell is going on. Because he doesn't want to believe that the man of his dream could really be the Yu he knows in real life.

Categories

TV Series by Year

TV Series