It is certainly a wonderful time to be a book lover, as so many popular and extraordinary books are being made into films and television series this year. A lot of these novels are either being released during this set year or are in the early stages of development. Still, these novels are ones that should be highly anticipated releases and will most likely provide an amazing visual adaptation of the literature they belong to:
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Based on the telling of a fictional '70s band, this book was written in the form of a documentary dialogue transcript, making it perfect for our television screens. Praised for its unique style, heavy inspirations and astounding storytelling, it was picked up rather quickly by Amazon.
A 13-episode series was put in place, with filming starting back in September 2021. The series will star Riley Keough, granddaughter of rock and roll legend Elvis Presley, and Sam Claflin, known primarily for his work in The Hunger Game series. The estimated release date of the mini-series is to be determined but will most likely come in late 2022.
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is the second book by best-selling author Jenkins Reid to be picked up for a TV adaptation, this time being picked up for a series on Hulu. The novel centers on the three children of an infamous rock star who throw a party gone wrong, as secrets start to unravel and relationships are tested. Liz Tigelaar, creator of Little Fires Everywhere, is set to be the executive producer of the series. As of now, the series is still in its early development stages.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Yet another novel is being picked up by Taylor Jenkins Reid, with Netflix making this one a feature film. Keeping up with her consistency, this novel has a distinctive format, embarking on the fictional life story of old Hollywood actress Evelyn Hugo. The film will be written by Liz Tigelaar, putting her hands on two Jenkins Reid projects now. From all the success and popularity this book has gotten in the past few years, it will definitely be a highly anticipated release with a lot of expectations.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
This popular murder mystery novel from 2018 is being released on the big screen rather soon. It’s a novel about a young, lonely girl struggling to find a place in her community. After finding herself situated with two men in the town, she becomes the center of attention when one of them is murdered. The film is set to have Normal People actress Daisy Edgar-Jones in the main role. It is set to hit theaters July 15, featuring a song written by Taylor Swift.
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
It’s unsurprising that this romance novel, one of the most popular books on TikTok, is getting a feature film of its own. The story follows a young woman going through a relationship involving domestic abuse, and it’s fairly suitable for a feature film, especially with its heartbreaking plot and its lovable characters. Jane the Virgin star Justin Baldoni took on the adaptation with his own entertainment company. So far, the film is in the early development stages, having only a script in place.
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
This 2017 novel has been in the works for quite some time but has increased its pace in the current year. It tells the story of a middle-aged woman who struggles with social anxiety and consistently avoids stepping out of her comfort zone. Actress Reese Witherspoon is producing the movie with her new production company, Hello Sunshine. Her involvement for this film is considerably big, with her possibly starring in the lead role.
Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney
Backing off the popularity of another one of her novels hitting television screens, author Sally Rooney’s Conversations with Friends is next for adaptation on Hulu. The novel tells a coming-of-age story with complex relationships evolving between two best friends and an older married couple. A 12-part limited series is to be released May 15, starring Joe Alwyn and newcomer Alison Oliver.
Persuasion by Jane Austen
An older novel is getting an on screen adaptation, this one being Jane Austen’s Persuasion. Several other Austen novels have been made into films, so it's not a surprise that yet another is in production. Fifty Shades of Grey star Dakota Johnson will fill the role as the main heroine. Crazy Rich Asians actor Henry Golding will also play a pivotal role. There is not a set release date yet, but it will be making its debut on Netflix.
Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
Dolly Alderton’s self-proclaimed memoir is easily one of the most beloved, moving memoirs in recent years. It follows one woman’s touching journey through heartbreak, friendships and enduring life choices. A TV adaptation is set to have seven episodes on BBC One. The show will not just revolve around Dolly and her story, but her friends will also be heavily included and adapted on screen, as well. Filming wrapped in December of 2021, so the release of the show is to come any time this year.
