This month, we asked staff from across our libraries to answer a question related to the January reading challenge theme. Read on to find out what we asked and how they responded!
What book was significantly better than its film adaptation?
Sally from Burgess Hill Library:
The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily Danforth
“This was one of my favourite books as a teenager. I loved the character development of the titular Cameron, and the deft way the author handled sensitive issues. The movie version released last year sadly didn’t live up to my expectations. It seemed rushed and less involved – I think that translating the kind of character study Danforth created in her novel to the silver screen is a very difficult thing to do, particularly in 90 minutes.”
Alan from Hurstpierpoint Library:
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
“I used to teach this book, and the students always found the film a disappointment after all the bits that had been omitted from the book (especially ‘The Zoo of Death’ segment). And film is already great.”
Sam from Bibliographic Services:
Eragon by Christopher Paolini
“It’s a great start to a fun fantasy series that the film did not do justice to.”
James from Burgess Hill Library:
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
“As I lover of the book, I was really looking forward to the film version. It’s probably my favourite book. But sometimes it’s better to keep the story in your imagination and not be influenced by someone else’s interpretation. It isn’t a terrible film by any means; it’s just that the book has so many beautiful, funny and moving layers. You get so involved in their lives of the family and by physically holding a book, by reading every single page, you’re taking a journey just like Cassandra the main character does. You really feel like you’re holding the characters in your heart.”
Rose from East Grinstead Library:
The Last Wish (The Witcher series) by Andrzej Sapkoski
“Anyone who loves fantasy, monsters and a brooding antihero will love this! Packed full of fast paced battles and wild characters, it’s well worth a read of anyone who loves the Netflix series.”
Kirsty, Books Reading & Engagement Librarian for the Mid Sussex area:
Angus, Thongs & Full-Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison
“The film wasn’t bad at all – but the books are so hilarious that any film would find it hard to compete. A great light read for teenagers or fun-loving adults!”
Or controversially, try a film that was better than the book!
Katie, Principal Librarian for Books Reading & Engagement:
The Hours by Michael Cunningham
“I found it hard to think of a film that I like better than the book, but I absolutely love the film adaptation of The Hours and think it is even better than moving Michael Cunningham novel on which it is based.”
So, what do you think? Do you agree with any of the opinions above? Or can you think of another book that was significantly better than the film? Alternatively, can you think of a film that was better than the book? Let us know!
Reserve any of the books above by visiting our library catalogue.
Mid Sussex Reading Challenge 2020 