Books to Read Before They Hit the Big Screen

Every year several books make it to the big screen, and 2015 is no different. When books become movies, the words are magically brought to life, providing a visual depiction of the stories we’ve come to know and love. So let’s roll out the red carpet, because we’ve rounded up some of this year’s biggest book-to-movie adaptations with a sneak peek at what’s to come early next year. Get reading because everyone knows the book is always better than the movie!

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews (Grades 9-12, Lexile 820)

Senior Greg Gaines thinks he has high school all figured out. One, high school sucks. And two, it’s best to remain in the periphery at all times. His plan to stay aloof comes crashing down when his mother makes him befriend Rachel Kushner, a fellow student who is dying of leukemia. As Greg and Rachel’s friendship deepens, he and his friend Earl decide to make a film in honor of Rachel. Along the way he realizes that Rachel means more to him than anyone he’s ever known. Jesse Andrews will have you crying from both laughter and sadness, so be sure to have tissues close by. Release date: June 12, 2015

Paper Towns by John Green (Grades 9-12, Lexile 850)

In the middle of the night Quentin Jacobson is summoned by his enigmatic neighbor and classmate, Margo, to join her in her plot for revenge. But when day breaks, she mysteriously disappears, leaving behind clues only Quentin will understand. Follow Quentin and his friends on their epic adventure to find Margo, the girl he has spent a lifetime loving from afar. John Green was introduced to moviegoing audiences with the blockbuster film The Fault in Our Stars, and his trademark wit and heart-wrenching honesty are sure to capture their attention again in this intriguing story that earned him the Edgar Award for Best Young Adult Mystery. Release date: July 24, 2015

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner (Grades 7-12, Lexile HL720)

The Maze Runner series continues in this sequel to James Dashner’s heart-pounding dystopian tale. Thomas thought that solving the maze would lead him and his friends to freedom, but he was wrong, very wrong. Their journey has only begun, and now Thomas and his friends have to cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world. Everything is stacked against them. They either make it or they die. Friendships are going to be tested as the Wicked tries to defeat them at every turn. Watch as Thomas fights for his life again! Release date: September 18, 2015

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (Grades 8-12, Level Z)

The classic story of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and his monster has fascinated generations of readers. Experience the story again or for the very first time with this new film adaptation of the story that helped create an entire genre. Release date: October 2, 2015

Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie (Grades 4-9, Level X, Lexile 920)

Magic and mischief await the Darling children in Neverland where no one grows up and everyone can fly. Follow Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and the Darlings on a mystical journey filled with danger and adventure as they battle the evil Captain Hook. Enjoy this classic tale before the film Pan hits theaters. Release date: October 9, 2015

Goosebumps by R.L. Stine (Grades 3-6)

The monsters and creatures from R.L. Stine’s infamous series come to life in this live-action movie. The movie promises a mix of humor and edge-of-your-seat suspense, and will introduce a whole new generation of readers to Stine’s classic series. Jack Black stars as the author in the movie. Release date: October 15, 2015

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (Grades 7-12, Level Z, Lexile 800)

The final installment of The Hunger Games follows Katniss Everdeen leading the charge in the rebellion against Panem and becoming the Mockingjay, the living symbol of the revolution. Countless lives and the future of the city rest with Katniss as she tries to put aside her distrust and direct her anger toward the true enemy, The Capital. Release date: November 20, 2015

2016 Coming Attractions: