One more thing about books and movies

After my post yesterday, I started wondering why I believe it is so important to read the book before I see the movie.  As I considered it, I realized it is because I love details and a beautifully crafted phrase.  As I mentioned, my son didn't read the Hunger Games, and still hasn't, but he kept coming to me, so that I could fill in the gaps left by the film.  After we covered the more complex themes, I finally told him, "If you want details, you need to read the books yourself."

The well written lines of a novel give me an opportunity to participate with the author in crafting the story.  I get to create the images in my mind and step into the world the author has created.  I bring my own experiences to bear and the story comes to life in a unique way.  When I see a movie, most of the decisions are made, down to the swelling music that hopes to dictate my mood.

I mentioned a few movie adaptations that I loved yesterday.  Off the top of my head, I can quickly think of three books for children whose adapted movies don't do the novels justice:

The Waterhorse by Dick King-Smith
The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

Do an experiment as a family.  Read the Books. Watch the Movies. Then, let  me know if I was right or wrong.  Happy reading and watching!