From page to screen—stories that captivated readers and audiences alike. Many of today’s most gripping films and must-watch series started in the pages of a novel. Whether it’s fantasy, thriller, or historical fiction, books have long been a goldmine for the film and television industry, transforming beloved stories into cinematic experiences that attract global audiences. Here are seven books that successfully made the leap—some instantly recognizable, and others you might have missed.
1. The Queen’s Gambit by Walter Tevis
Originally published in 1983, this novel follows chess prodigy Beth Harmon as she rises through the competitive chess world while battling addiction and emotional trauma.
Adaptation success: Netflix’s 2020 miniseries became a global sensation, driving renewed interest in chess and topping viewership charts. It won 11 Primetime Emmy Awards, and book sales surged decades after publication.
2. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
A slick blend of dark humor, social satire, and domestic suspense, this novel centers on three women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel into scandal and murder.
Behind the scenes: The HBO series, featuring an all-star cast, won eight Emmy Awards. Moriarty wrote new plotlines for Season 2, making her one of the few novelists to extend her story through TV collaboration.
3. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Tolkien’s legendary fantasy trilogy, filled with hobbits, wizards, and epic battles, reshaped the fantasy genre and became a cornerstone of modern storytelling.
Film legacy: Peter Jackson’s adaptation earned 17 Academy Awards, set box office records, and turned New Zealand into a fantasy travel destination.
4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This psychological thriller explores the complexities of marriage and media manipulation through the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne.
Adaptation highlight: Directed by David Fincher, the 2014 film became a box office hit. Flynn penned the screenplay herself, earning critical acclaim and a Writers Guild of America Award nomination.
5. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Gabaldon’s genre-defying novel mixes romance, time travel, and historical fiction, following WWII nurse Claire Randall as she’s transported to 18th-century Scotland.
Cultural impact: Starz’s adaptation built a passionate fan base and propelled the book series to bestseller status. Gabaldon’s ongoing collaboration with the showrunners helped maintain narrative authenticity.
6. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
The first installment of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, this intricate political fantasy set in the land of Westeros became one of the most influential TV adaptations in history.
Global phenomenon: HBO’s Game of Thrones broke viewership records and earned 59 Emmy Awards. Though the later seasons drew mixed reactions, the show elevated epic fantasy to mainstream prestige and revived interest in Martin’s book series.
7. The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick
In this alternate history novel, the Axis powers have won WWII, and the U.S. is divided under Nazi and Japanese rule. It’s a provocative exploration of identity, propaganda, and resistance.
Underrated adaptation: Amazon Prime Video turned it into a gripping four-season series praised for its production design and political themes. While less widely known, it remains a compelling example of speculative fiction brought to life.
