Children’s books have inspired studios to develop films and tv shows based on them for years. Like anything else, some are very well done, and others…aren’t. However, that doesn’t change the fact that these stories inspire directors to bring these stories to life.
Here’s a list of children’s books that turned into movies and/or tv shows.
Coraline
This children’s novel is by Neil Gaiman. Yes, the very same Neil Gaiman behind American Gods, Good Omens, The Sandman, as well as many other DC Comics. This novel became a stop-motion film in 2009 that gave children some nightmare fuel for years to come.
A Series of Unfortunate Events
This 13-novel saga by Lemony Snicket became a film starring Jim Carrey in 2004 and a Netflix series in 2017 starring Neil Patrick Harris as the main antagonist, Count Olaf. While the first film summarized the events of the first three books, the Netflix series adapted all 13 books.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
This 5-novel saga by Rick Riordan is a highly celebrated series to this day. In 2010 and 2013, films came out based on the novels; however, fans despised them. As a result, plans for future films vanished. However, now, a TV series is in the works. Fans hope this series will be given justice as Riordan is involved in the production. Percy Jackson and the Olympians will premiere in 2024 on Disney+.
Clifford the Big Red Dog
This collection of children’s books began publication in 1963 and ended in 2015 with the death of the author, Norman Bridwell, in 2014. Not only is Clifford the mascot for Scholastic, a publisher dedicated to children’s books, but this series has multiple films, tv series, and video games.
The Magic School Bus
This series began publication in 1986. However, most people remember the iconic 1994 TV show on PBS as Miss Frizzle inspired a generation of kids to take chances, make mistakes, and get messy. When Netflix announced that they would reboot the series, people were excited until they saw the designs for the characters. However, the show had two seasons and matched the original show in its passion for STEM, much like the original.
Multiple Dr.Suess Books
Dr. Suess’s books are a part of the cultural zeitgeist in the form of memes and overall internet chaos. The films The Cat in The Hat (2003), How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), and The Lorax (2012) are the three films that float around the internet for various reasons. However, there are many more lesser-known films and tv series based on his books.
Goosebumps
These books from R.L. Stine horrified a generation of kids and set up the foundations for children’s nightmares. With over 100 books, it is safe to say that Goosebumps is in a league of its own. This franchise has a tv series and multiple films, one even stars Jack Black. This series is still going strong as a new series will air on Disney+ in the near future.
Redwall
This series is a bit more niche. Redwall is a series that follows a group of anthropomorphic animals as they live in Redwall Abbey and defend it against outsiders. The books were published from 1986 to 2011. It had one TV adaptation that aired in 1999-2002 on PBS. There was news of a Redwall film for Netflix, but as of right now, the project is in limbo.
There’s no doubt we missed many great children’s books, so let us know your favorite tv shows and films based on children’s books in the comments!
Ah, “Children’s Books Turned TV Shows Or Films – The Game of Nerds,” a nostalgic journey that transcends time and transports us back to the enchanting worlds of our childhood imaginations. As I read through this captivating piece, I can’t help but reminisce about the treasured tales that shaped our young hearts and ignited our dreams.
The Game of Nerds, a trusted guide to all things geeky and wonderful, has outdone itself with this delightful compilation. Each sentence weaves a tapestry of cherished memories, reminding us of the moments spent nestled in bed with a book clutched tightly in our hands, as the pages came alive with magical creatures, brave heroes, and unforgettable adventures.
It’s truly remarkable to witness how these beloved children’s books have transcended the boundaries of paper and ink, leaping onto screens both big and small. The excitement of seeing our favorite characters dance before our eyes, vivid and tangible, is akin to meeting old friends after years apart.
From the whimsical charm of talking animals in the Hundred Acre Wood to the spellbinding wizardry of a certain bespectacled young wizard, each adaptation preserves the essence of the original tales while adding a fresh layer of cinematic brilliance.
Moreover, this article ignites a spark of curiosity and eagerness, prompting us to rediscover these timeless stories with a newfound appreciation as we delve into the creative process behind their transformation from page to screen.
As I scroll through each entry, I can’t help but feel grateful for the authors, screenwriters, and all the talented minds that have made these adaptations possible. They have gifted us with the ability to share these beloved stories with a new generation of young dreamers, continuing the legacy of wonder and imagination.
Thank you, Game of Nerds, for this heartwarming stroll down memory lane. Your words have kindled a fire of fondness for the stories that once filled our hearts, and for that, we are forever indebted. May the magic of these timeless tales continue to ignite the imaginations of generations to come!