10 Must-Read Books That Became Blockbuster Movies

Books turned into movies are stories that you want to watch over and over again, and then read to experience the original. Or perhaps you prefer to read the book first and then compare it to the film adaptation. This selection is perfect for both book lovers and movie enthusiasts.

1. “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert’s travel memoir is a book that is often quoted. It delves into traumatic events, life changes, rebirth, and the courage to take control of your life. Amidst delicious food and routine pleasures, the protagonist Liz finds herself, explores new facets of her soul, and discovers the culture of another country.

2. “1984” by George Orwell

In a dystopian world where Big Brother is always watching, the Ministry of Truth spreads lies, and the Party is above all, thoughts and beliefs are punishable, and love is a crime. Winston Smith, the protagonist, has always harbored doubts about the social order but has never attempted to change it until he falls in love with Julia and becomes an enemy of the system.

3. “American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer” by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin

Robert Oppenheimer became one of the world’s most renowned physicists, but at what cost? Did he truly desire fame? The creator of the hydrogen bomb grappled with these contradictions throughout his life. While he was happy to make significant discoveries, he was essentially working on a weapon for the government. Due to his public profile, Oppenheimer faced numerous accusations related to his scientific work and personal life.

4. “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie

Hercule Poirot finds himself on a train trapped in snowdrifts, where the body of Mr. Ratchett is discovered one morning. Traditionally, all passengers and staff become suspects. Why do strangers so fervently defend each other? How is it that they all come from different countries? None of these people are on the train by coincidence.

5. “The Queen’s Gambit” by Walter Tevis

Beth Harmon is an orphan with a passion for chess. Over time, she becomes a better and better player, winning tournaments and transforming into a phenomenal grandmaster. However, alcohol and drugs threaten to ruin her career and life. Beth loses touch with reality and doesn’t want to return. Soon, she will compete against the world champion. Any wrong move, glance, or step could destroy her future, and Beth struggles to get a grip on herself.

6. “Schindler’s List” by Thomas Keneally

Oskar Schindler is a millionaire who loves fast cars, gambling, races, and various adventures. However, the world knows his name not because of his luxurious lifestyle. At the beginning of World War II, the German entrepreneur Oskar Schindler opened a factory in Krakow producing enamelware. He employed Jews from the ghetto, and for them, this was a fortunate rescue. But when the sadist Amon Goeth arrived in the city and sentenced tens of thousands of Jews to death, Schindler dedicated himself to saving his 1,300 workers and gave up all his wealth. For what are money worth when human lives are at stake?

7. “11/22/63” by Stephen King

On November 22, 1963, three shots changed the fate of the world: John F. Kennedy was assassinated. In the book, a modern time traveler, young teacher Jake Epping, goes back in time to investigate the life of Kennedy’s assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald. This mission was entrusted to him by his acquaintance, diner owner Al Templeton, before his death. Who would have thought that behind the door in the pantry lies a portal to 1958! However, time travelers leave their mark, and the past does not tolerate interference. And are these changes necessary? What would the world be like if Kennedy had survived?

8. “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr

The darkest night is just before the dawn, and one must believe and dream, for dawn must come eventually! During World War II, in a small town in France, a young girl Marie-Laure and a German boy Werner Pfennig meet. Marie lost her sight in childhood, and the boy is also blind, seeing nothing but German propaganda. Their meeting seems not coincidental and helps both of them see the invisible light that darkness cannot swallow.

9. “The Devil’s Advocate” by Andrew Neiderman

Young lawyer Kevin Taylor wins all his court cases in favor of his clients. His successes and skills lead him to the prestigious law firm of John Milton. Kevin continues to win cases, has a lot of money, and rides in a limousine with a personal driver. But he works for pure evil and defends criminals who truly belong behind bars. What will Kevin choose: money, fame, or honesty? Can one “fix” their soul when their boss is the devil?

10. “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng

Mia and her daughter Pearl arrive in the town of Shaker Heights. It seems perfect: beautiful, neat houses, ideal smiling families with children, an excellent school. The single mother rents a house from the wealthy Richardson family and becomes their housekeeper. The mistress of the house, Elena, initially treats Mia kindly, but drop by drop, a conflict arises between them due to their different views on motherhood and life. Fires break out all over the town, cleansing its inhabitants of their hidden secrets.

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