Read It Before You Stream It
Posted by Laura M on Apr 1st 2024
We have so many amazing shows to watch with our kids these days! From Netflix to Disney+, there are an abundance of movies and series based on books available on the streaming platforms. It can be very tempting to watch a story unfold on the big screen prior to reading a novel. However, skipping the book means that children will miss out on the richness of details and imagination that authors provide. Streaming can’t beat the connection and magic that can only be experienced by enjoying a book. Here is a list of Wunderland’s favorites that your child can read before streaming on their screen at home!
A Tale Dark & Grimm By Adam Gidwitz
Now Streaming on Netflix
In this spooky, adventurous novel, the author shows readers the dark side of our beloved fairy tales. This story of Hansel and Gretel is not the version that we are accustomed to, but instead has many twists and offers a unique point of view. Readers will follow the siblings as they encounter warlocks, dragons, and more dangerous foes as they try to create their own happily ever after. Due to the slightly dark nature of this book, we recommend this title for tweens and up. The TV series adaptation stays loyal to the novel’s storyline. Although this story might be wicked and scary, don’t worry parents, there is a happy ending on the horizon!
Now Streaming on Netflix
If your child enjoys mysteries, then they are sure to love this read! This brilliantly crafted graphic novel introduces us to the young sister of the famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Enola Holmes is depicted as an intelligent, independent character who breaks the traditional gender roles of her time. Readers will appreciate Blasco’s ability to combine humor, suspense, and historical elements. This is a must-read for the graphic novel enthusiast! We know you will equally love both thrilling movie adaptations that can be streamed on Netflix.
Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
Now Streaming on Disney+
This captivating novel will have you wanting more as you follow a young boy who stumbles across an abandoned orphanage that is not as it seems. Filled with children with strange powers and a collection of eerie, vintage-inspired photographs, this book perfectly blends fantasy and reality. Get ready to be taken on a haunting, yet magical journey through the book as well as in the movie directed by Tim Burton.
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Now Streaming on Hulu
A heartwarming, quirky read about self-acceptance and growing up in a small, conservative town. Simon, a highschooler afraid of telling others he is gay, is forced to come out after a blackmailer discovers emails written to a classmate he is falling for. Albertalli covers everything from friendship, sexuality, bullying and many more teen struggles. This novel is laugh-out-loud funny and is a must-read for anyone searching for a story that combines humor, romance, and a healthy dose of reality. The best part is that the film adaptation of the novel, “Love, Simon” definitely stays true to the original source.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Överlöde (Book 17) by Jeff Kinney
Now Streaming on Disney+
In this New York Times bestseller, Greg tags along with his brother’s band, Löded Diper. After late nights, fighting band members and money issues, Greg gets a first look into the rock ‘n’ roll life. Although this specific storyline from the famous series hasn’t made it to the big screen quite yet, you can find the movie “A Diary of a Wimpy Kid” on Disney+.
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Now Streaming on Disney+
A powerful read that sport fans will appreciate! It is a heartwarming tale of two brothers who love playing basketball and how their relationship is impacted when one finds a new love interest. This novel contains a lot of symbolism scattered throughout the book where Alexander compares basketball to life. The basketball action in the book provides great rhythm to this moving story, which readers will also appreciate in the film adaptation!
Escape From Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein
Now Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
A night filled with nonstop fun and adventure, when twelve kids find themselves invited to a library lock-in at the famous game maker’s home, Luigi Lemoncello. The characters have to unravel mysteries and follow book-related clues in order to escape to win an amazing prize from Mr. Lemoncello. Readers and movie viewers alike will love this modern day Willy Wonka story!
The Davenports by Krystal Marquis
Coming Soon to Amazon Prime Video
From historical elements to swoon-worthy romance, readers will find that this young adult fiction is inspired by the real-life story of the Patterson Family. Based in Chicago in 1910, the Davenports are one of the only Black families with wealth and status. The oldest daughter, Olivia, finds herself being pressured into finding the perfect matrimonial match by her loved ones. This novel was an instant New York Times bestseller and for good reason! It will soon make its way to the small screen as Amazon Prime has announced a future television series.
Don’t miss out on reading these eight amazing novels! By skipping over the books and going straight to the TV, children miss out on the opportunity to understand the characters and their motivations that the film adaptations simply can’t capture. Besides this, reading the books only enhances their movie-watching experience by providing them with a richer context and a deeper connection to the storyline. Next time before your child decides to stream, have them consider picking up the book first. They won’t regret it!