“The book was better,” is what we say, right? Make sure you read these books before they hit the big screen as film adaptations this fall. And if you want to wear this sentiment to the show, pick up your very own “The Book Was Better” shirt at Peter White Public Library so everyone knows where you stand on the matter!

“All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven. Two teens serendipitously meet as they coincidentally plan to jump off a tower at the same time. They try to lead each other away from the ledge, but of course, it’s a rough road ahead for them both.

“A Million Little Pieces” by James Frey. You may remember this author being scolded on national television by Oprah Winfrey when it was revealed that the book wasn’t actually a memoir as classified. Many parts of the book were fabricated and other fictional liberties were enjoyed by the author, but it is still a compelling tale of man’s time spent in rehab and living as a recovering addict.

“Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” by T.S. Eliot. In 2019, nearly every American has heard of the Broadway musical “Cats.” Now it’s time to read the collection of poems upon which the play is based. This read is especially timely to complete before the movie remake of “Cats” featuring another American icon: Taylor Swift.

“The Good Liar” by Nicholas Searle. An elderly man decides to steal the life savings of a woman, who is revealed to be not as innocent as she seems. The past explores other facets of his life, leading to a surprising conclusion. However, the upcoming film may have some changes in the action so readers won’t be spoiled before viewing the film.

“Doctor Sleep” by Stephen King. This sequel to the classic “The Shining” takes place in the future with an adult Dan Torrance. After meeting a girl with similar powers, he attempts to protect her. The new film is be based on the book, but will also exist be set within the same universe as the original.

“Motherless Brooklyn” by Jonathan Lethem (Nov. 1). A private investigator living with Tourette’s syndrome finds himself on the case of his life as he attempts to find the murderer of his mentor and friend in 1950s New York. A large cast of colorful characters make this who-done-it all the more enjoyable.

“Caging Skies” by Christine Leunens. Caging Skies tells the story of young boy who’s part of the Hitler Youth in Europe. His world is forever changed when he finds the young Jewish girl hidden by his parents in their home. “Caging Skies” has been transformed into a satirical film, “JoJo Rabbit.”

By Heather Steltenpohl

Development Director