Book-to-movie adaptations have been around since the advent of cinema. They run the gamut from made-for-TV specials to feature films. For children and teens, these movies generate an interest in reading by bringing books to life in a different way. It’s also fun to see two different versions of a story and play a game of “spot the differences.” These movies are ones that everyone in the family can enjoy but that children and teens will find especially relatable.
The Cat in the Hat
The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss tells the story of The Cat and his two sidekicks, Thing 1 and Thing 2, who invade the home of two children, Sally and Conrad. They make a huge mess while the childrens’ mother is away. This classic book by Dr. Seuss has gone through a few adaptations. The most popular adaptation, the 1971 animated TV special by Bo Welch, uses the original illustration style and closely follows the book. The PG-rated 2003 live action adaptation is a fun movie, but the made-for-TV special, in this case, is a much more faithful version that received better reception by audiences and critics alike.
Where the Wild Things Are
In Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, a boy named Max puts on a wolf costume and runs away from home to an imaginary world with friendly giant monsters called Wild Things. Visually, the 2009 movie is a seamless adaptation of the book. In the movie, Max and the Wild Things have added depth and dimensions. The timeless book and the movie are both great for people of all ages, but imaginative children will especially enjoy the story.
Matilda
Roald Dahl wrote many great children’s books, and his 1988 book Matilda enjoyed great reception at the time that only improved with the release of the movie adaptation. The book and movie follow the story of a girl whose family doesn’t appreciate her intelligence and magical powers. Fortunately for Matilda, one of her teachers is looking out for her. The book is appropriate for children ages 8 and up, and the movie is rated PG due to a few scary and intense scenes.
The Chronicles of Narnia
The story of The Chronicles of Narnia follows four children who find that a magical land lies just beyond a wardrobe in the house they’re staying in. A lion named Aslan enlists them to help protect Narnia from evil, and they meet witches, princes and magical creatures along the way. In the 1950s, C. S. Lewis created this journey in a series of seven books, three of which have been adapted as movies. Out of the movies, the first one, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, based on the first book in the series, is widely thought to be the best.
Reading is fun, and movies can add a whole new dimension to the experience. North Tampa Christian Academy promotes leadership through Christian innovation. At our Tampa private school, students thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire every student. Contact us today to learn more.