8 Best Selling Books That Should Get An On-Screen Adaptation ASAP!

What does Maxton Hall and Bridgerton have in common? Both of these shows are based on best selling books and have performed immensely well on their platforms. At this point, we feel that major OTT platforms have cracked the code to cater to the new generation. Turning books into movies or series is now a sure-shot formula of ranking at the top, though it’s not really something new on the film radar. We have classic examples of the Harry Potter or more recently, the Dune series. There’s a long list of factors that makes it easier for the platforms to say yes to these stories.

Whether it’s the books having a dedicated fan base that’s eager to see its favourite stories brought to life on screen or the storyline which isn’t very limited in terms of vision and narration because most of the writers didn’t start a book with the thought of it becoming an onscreen adaption. Reimagining a popular book can attract these existing fans and potentially introduce the story to a new audience.

Looking back at the 2024 OTT round up till now, we have an array of titles like Lady Jane on Prime Video or My Life With the Walter Boys on Netflix and many more which have given fans what they wanted. The list is surely going strong as August is set to drop two of the most popular book to movies/series adaptions of Collen Hoover’s It Ends With Us and Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder.

This phenomenon also welcomes folks who aren’t into reading to give the books a try after witnessing the character on the screens. A lot of the viewers also enter this whole community to check what’s the actual hype about the shows fans have created on the internet.

As we’re on board with books getting an on-screen adaptation, we have curated a list of some of the most popular novels that should be turned into shows or movies as soon as possible.

1. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

There has been a lot of news about this book turning into a series but there hasn’t been any update so if the makers are reading the article, this is your sign to hurry up. The book is a gripping young adult mystery novel about Avery Grambs, who unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune from billionaire Tobias Hawthorne. To claim her inheritance, Avery must unravel puzzles and navigate the intrigue of Hawthorne’s eccentric family, all while uncovering dark secrets about Hawthorne himself. Full of twists and suspense, the novel explores themes of wealth, privilege, and the complexities of family relationships in a thrilling and captivating story.

2. Marriage for One by Ella Maise

This is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Jack and Rose. Jack Hawthorne, a wealthy businessman in need of a wife to fulfill a stipulation in his late grandmother’s will, proposes a marriage of convenience to Rose Walsh, a struggling artist. Despite their differences, they agree to the arrangement, but soon find themselves developing unexpected feelings for each other. As they navigate the complexities of their fake marriage, secrets from both of their pasts threaten to derail their growing relationship. The novel explores themes of love, trust, and second chances as Jack and Rose discover what truly matters in life and in love.

3. I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki by Baek Se-hee

The book delves into the life of its protagonist, who faces the daily struggles of depression and finding meaning in life. The title itself reflects the conflicting emotions—desire for death juxtaposed with the simple pleasure of eating tteokbokki, a popular Korean dish. Through introspection and encounters with others, the protagonist navigates their inner turmoil and searches for reasons to keep living. The novel sensitively explores themes of mental health, loneliness, and the small joys that can provide moments of solace in a challenging world.

4. Throttled by Lauren Asher

This book follows the story of Noah Slade and Maya Alatorre. Noah is the son of an F1 legend, and is pathing his own legacy in the sport, winning championship after championship. As a driver for Bandini racing team, he’s expected to be the best. Noah’s competitive spirit drives his success, and two years after a crash with Santiago Alatorre, the rivalry only increases when they become teammates. Working alongside Santi for the new season provides Noah with his biggest challenge yet – but the threat is off the track and to his heart.

5. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

This is a retelling of the epic Trojan War story through the perspective of Patroclus, Achilles’ companion and lover. The novel explores their deep bond from childhood through to the battlefield of Troy, highlighting their love, friendship, and the sacrifices they make for each other. Set against the backdrop of Greek mythology, the story captures the complexities of honor, destiny, and the tragic consequences of war. It’s a poignant narrative that blends history, myth, and romance to reimagine the timeless tale of Achilles and Patroclus.

6. Better than the Movies by Lynn Painter