But have you read the book? 52 literary gems that inspired our favorite films

Successful books have been fodder for filmmakers since movies began, and here Lopez compiles the best film adaptations in a sweet, compact volume. From Frankenstein (1931) to Dune and Passing (both 2021), entries are listed in chronological order by movie. Each entry begins with the title, date, director, author of the screenplay, the book the film was based on and the year it was published, and a famous quote from the movie. Each four-to-six page essay puts the film in historical context, provides analysis of directorial decisions, mentions how closely the movie hews to the book, and (warning) provides plot spoilers. Lopez's writing is lively, detailing the influence of the Hays Code and the Cold War and offering such insights as the reveal that Mickey Spillane didn't like the film Kiss Me Deadly (1955). The essays are sprinkled with text boxes that list fun facts, including character name changes, further adaptations for additional viewing, and illustrations by Jyotirmayee Patra. A good resource for book clubs and movie buffs alike.

"I liked the book better" is a comment often heard after viewing a film based on a book. Lopez has selected 52 classic books that inspired movies and summarizes the differences between the books and the film versions. In some cases, the feature film was mostly faithful to the book, such as No Country for Old Men and Call Me by Your Name. In others, the film incorporated scenes that were not in the book, such as The Talented Mr. Ripley and Clueless. Lopez clearly loves and knows her books. And she loves and knows her movies, too, adding all kinds of insider tidbits about the making of each film. Interestingly, the author never weighs in whether the book or movie was better. She just points out the differences to inspire readers to read the books or see the films, possibly again, and make their own judgments. VERDICT This well-researched book with its 10-page bibliography and addictive compendium will likely inspire movie buffs and literature mavens alike to take her advice.--Rosellen "Rosy" Brewer