Ruth Ennis chooses books for younger readers that have been adapted for film & television
Adaptations are such an exciting opportunity for young readers. Film and television are accessible forms of storytelling that appeals to wide audiences. When these productions are the adaptations of a book, I think it’s important to maintain an open approach to introducing them to young readers. It’s not important if a child reads a book before or after they watch the show or film, really. If an adaptation is the reason a child explores a new book, that’s all that matters. Today I’m excited to share four books that you can find adapted into other mediums.
If an adaptation is the reason a child explores a new book, that’s all that matters
First up is The Wild Robot by Peter Brown (Templar Publishing). The first in a trilogy, the story follows Roz, a clever robot that has been marooned on a remote island after her ship sank. Roz initially struggles to cope with life in the wild, with the unforgiving environment and harsh treatment from the animals. But when Roz adopts an orphaned goose, she learns how to adapt to the wilderness and connect with its creatures.
This book is made for animal lovers, it is an ode to the natural world
This book is made for animal lovers, it is an ode to the natural world. Filled with immersive illustrations and swift, short chapters, this is an engaging book that young readers will fly through. Roz is a fascinating protagonist, inviting readers to discover a new world with fresh eyes and a curious mind that is always eager to learn. Brown has created a rich world built on compassion and community. At the end of the story, you will also get a look at the artistic process to the illustrations in the book. You can watch a film adaptation of the same name, produced by DreamWorks Animations. A wonderful story, suitable for ages 8+ years.
Next is a classic on this list, Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono, translated by Emily Balistrieri, and illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton (Puffin). Kiki is a witch who has recently come of age and, following tradition, is ready to leave home and begin a new life as a town’s local, helpful witch. She settles into the seaside town of Koriko, eager to assist her new neighbours. But the townspeople are cold towards her, and Kiki realises she will have to work hard to win them over. With help from some friends, her sidekick cat Jiji, and utilising her talent with a flying broomstick, she establishes herself as a very handy delivery service in the community.
This is a lovely, sweet story with an endearing protagonist going on a small adventure.
This is a lovely, sweet story with an endearing protagonist going on a small adventure. This is a book best suited who like stories with a great friendships and little bit of magic. Originally publishing in 1985, this newer edition comes to life with stunning illustrations that will catch the eye of any contemporary reader. The book was adapted into a gorgeous animated film of the same name, produced by Studio Ghibli. A must read, suitable for 9+ years.
The most recent instalment in an expansive series, Hilda and Twig Hide from The Rain is a graphic novel by Luke Pearson (Flying Eye Books). The series includes seven standalone graphic novels and nine novel tie-ins. Set in the late 20th century, Hilda is a young girl living remotely in the mountains with her mother and Twig (her pet deerfox: half deer, half fox). Her adventures lead her to meet a range of mythological creatures. In this book, Twig takes centre stage for most of the story. While out exploring, the two get caught in a storm and seek shelter in an inconspicuous cave. But Twig soon realises that this is the home of a terrifying, giant, white snake and vows to keep Hilda safe from it. Before long, Twig begins to form a bond with an unlikely friend.
This is a fun, energetic comic with bright and dynamic illustrations
This is a fun, energetic comic with bright and dynamic illustrations. It is easy to grow very fond of Hilda and Twig as a charming duo, always looking out for each other. Perfect for readers looking for a little bit of adventure led by a lot of courage. This series was adapted into a television series and also a film called Hilda and the Mountain King by Silvergate Media and Mercury Filmworks. Well worth checking out this and other books in the series, suitable for 7+ years.
Lastly is A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll (Knights Of). Addie is eleven years old. She loves learning all about sharks. She loves her sisters Nina and especially Keedie. Addie is also autistic. While on a school trip, she learns a dark history of her small town outside Edinburgh – that women were accused of witchcraft and murdered for their differences. This discovery lights a fire in Addie and she makes it her mission to convince the town to make a memorial for these witches. In the midst of her campaign, she navigates various challenges; her best friend isn’t talking to her and has teamed up with Addie’s bully. With support from a new friend and her family, Addie learns to embrace how her brain works and to be unapologetically her passionate self.
It is a seriously impressive debut, with a brilliantly fleshed out cast of characters and remarkably distinct voice
This is a breathtaking book. It is a seriously impressive debut, with a brilliantly fleshed out cast of characters and remarkably distinct voice. Addie will stay in the hearts and minds of any readers, and will especially resonate with neurodivergent readers. This book was made into a two series television show produced by 9 Story Media Group and Brown Bag Films. Easily one of my top reads this year, it is suitable for 10+ years.
Now that you’re equipped with some recommendations, you get to decide if you will find a copy of the books first, or watch the film and TV adaptions of these books. No matter how the young reader in your life uncovers these stories, it’s worth it as long as they are reading.
