PERFORMING ARTS

But Have You Read the Book?: 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films

by Kristen Lopez
Running Pr. Mar. 2023. 240p. ISBN 9780762480975. $20. FILM
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“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.
Reviewed by Rosellen "Rosy" Brewer , Dec 01, 2022
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