Books
12 Books to Read Before They Hit the Big Screen
You're probably working on your New Year's resolutions right about now, yes? Well, make a resolution to spend more time with your nose buried in a book, because you're going to have a lot of reading to do. Not only are there tons of books you'll want to get your hands on this coming year, but lots of your favorite reads are getting movie adaptations in 2015, too. And, of course, it's always fun to be that girl who goes to the theater having already read the title — and who can say with confidence, "Yes, the book was much better." (Oh, that smug face looks so good on you.)
This year has been a stellar one for movies — particularly book adaptations — and 2015 is jam-packed with a seriously great roster, as well. There are first installments, sequels, and final chapters. There are true stories, loose interpretations, and outrageously brilliant fictional tales. And there will be two, possibly three movies starring Jennifer Lawrence, so we have that to look forward to, as well. I sense some ass-kicking and red carpet tripping in our future, friends.
Here are 12 the books you should read before the movie adaptations hit the big screen in 2015. Ready your TBR pile:
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
This is the story of a successful woman who slowly starts experiencing the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. As she navigates through the memory loss and moments of confusion, she learns how to make the most of her time while she can. Starring the always incredible Julianne Moore, the movie hits to theaters Jan. 16.
Don't Point That Thing at Me in The Mortdecai Trilogy by Kyril Bonfiglioli
This is the first book in a trilogy about art dealer Charlie Mortdecai and his blurred line between right and wrong, sane and kooky, and good and evil. The film stars Johnny Depp as Charlie Mortdecai, alongside Olivia Munn, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Ewan McGregor. Coming to theaters Jan. 23.
Fifty Shades of Grey by E. L. James
Oh, yeah. This one is really almost here. No need to judge it for anything other than its level of hotness. Starring Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. Coming to theaters Feb. 14.
In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick
The incredible novel about the tragic sinking of the Essex, and the ship's destructive encounter with an angry sperm whale that lead to its demise. The movie stars Chris Hemsworth and Cillian Murphy. Coming to theaters March 13.
Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Book Two in the thrilling trilogy that follows Tris Prior and her unshakable bravery in her attempt to take down an entire government body in order to restore peace. Starring Shailene Woodley and Theo James, and coming to theaters March 20.
Serena by Ron Rash
Just when you thought Jennifer Lawrence couldn't get any cooler, she snags the lead role in Serena, a story about a newlywed couple set on building a timber empire in the North Carolina woodlands. Serena is fiercely devoted to her husband and her feathers are never ruffled, even when she needs to save his life in the wilderness or hunt rattlesnakes. Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper are gloriously reunited for this heart-stopping adventure. Coming to theaters March 26.
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks
Well, nobody does love quite like Nicholas Sparks, amirite? This is a cowboy love story with an intersecting tale of a 91-year-old WWII veteran who is dealing with the deep pain of losing his beloved wife nine years earlier. The movie stars Scott Eastwood, Britt Robertson, and Alan Alda. Coming to theaters April 10.
Far From the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
A book written in the 1800s that has timeless, enthralling appeal? Yes, please. This is about a serious boss lady named Bathsheba, who ends up having three men fall in love with her and the secrets that are revealed when she chooses one of them. Starring Carey Mulligan, Michael Sheen, and Tom Sturridge. Coming to theaters May 1.
Paper Towns by John Green
Oh, you know this story. Boy meets girl. Boy falls in love with girl. Girl dresses as a ninja and enlists boy in helping her with an elaborate revenge scheme. Then girl vanishes one morning and leaves several clues for boy to find her. That old tale? John Green is just a literary genius regarding to love stories that are equal parts quirky and adorable. Starring Carla Delevingne and Nat Wolff, and coming to theaters June 5.
Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
The next installment of the Maze Runner trilogy takes us out of the maze and into a whole new set of obstacles for the Gladers. The stakes are just as high, maybe higher, and all bets are off. Things are about to get CRAY. Starring Dylan O'Brien, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, and Kaya Scodelario. Coming to theaters Sept. 18.
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
We left our Mockingjay in a very scary and turbulent time in her life. Peeta just attacked her, and the fight against the capital is far from over. There's still so much more to tell! Even if you've read it before (even 100 times), give yourself a refresher before this incredible film franchise comes to an end. Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Woody Harrelson. Coming to theaters Nov. 20.
The Martian by Andy Weir
Man has finally landed on Mars. But things aren't going so well and Mark Watney might also become the first man to die on Mars after a dust storm forces his crew to evacuate and leave him stranded there. This is an amazing story of survival and the movie seems like it'll be just as rad. Starring Matt Damon, Kate Mara, Kristen Wiig, and Jessica Chastain. Coming to theaters Nov. 25.
Image: Serena/2929 Productions
