10 books to read before they turn into movies in 2018

Anticipation is building. 2018 is surely going to be a monumental year for film with a range of bestselling books being adapted for the big screen. Whether it be an autobiography or a romantic novel, there is undoubtedly something special about seeing literary characters spring to life before your eyes.

They say the book is always better than the film. We agree, which is why we want you to dive into these books before you head to the movie theatres. Here is our list of the ten most gripping reads that will soon be released as movies in 2018!

Annihilation — Jeff Vandermeer

A group of women are sent on an expedition to find a missing biologist in a quarantined area called “Area X”. Shrouded in mystery, a series of abnormal activities begin to unfold.

As haunting as it is compelling, ‘Annihilation’ keeps you on the edge of your seat. Starring Natalie Portman, the film may just reach the levels of the well-received publication.

Love, Simon — Becky Albertall

‘Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda’ is an acclaimed contemporary novel to be released under the film name ‘Love, Simon’.

This book takes us on an emotional journey as ‘Simon’, our teenage protagonist, grapples with his sexuality while being blackmailed by his peers. The novelist evokes powerful human sentiments which we can all relate to.

Relevant and timely, this book is a definite must-read.

A Wrinkle in Time — Madeleine L’engle

Movie enthusiasts have waited half a century for this one. Winner of the 1963 Newbery medal, novelist Madeleine L’Engle’s classic tale has finally been adapted into a Disney motion picture.

Sending out an empowering message of bravery and individuality, A Wrinkle in Time is an exciting and inspirational read for all those who have ever felt lost or alone.

Be prepared to add a new favourite book to your collection.

Red Sparrow — Jason Matthews

‘

Red Sparrow’ is a spy thriller written by author and former CIA operative Jason Matthews.

A dangerous spy game plays out between the CIA and Russian intelligence. Written by an insider, this pacey read takes us deep into a secretive world previously known only by a select few.

This insightful novel has all the ingredients of a thrilling movie.

12 Strong: The Declassified True Story of Horse Soldiers — Doug Stanton

An action-packed ride, ’12 Strong’ is based on a covert operation of American special forces sent into Afghanistan on war horses to defeat the Taliban following the horrors of 9/11.

This moving story of bravery is set to be a major motion picture starring Chris Hemsworth.

Where’d you go, Bernadette — Maria Semple

Bee is just 15 years old when her mother, Bernadette, disappears without a trace. We follow our precocious protagonist as she unravels clues and embarks on a winding mission to find her mother.

The plot thickens and suspense rises as the reader is taken on an emotional yet humorous tale.

This smart but easy to read novel will be transformed into a comedy/drama later this year starring Cate Blanchett as Bernadette.

Crazy Rich Asians — Kevin Kwan

A Chinese-American woman travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend’s family and friends only to realise she’s dating the heir to one of the richest families in Asia. Invited as a guest to the wedding of the century, the drama begins to unfold amidst the families with outrageous gossip and scheming antics.

This entertaining best selling novel makes for compulsive reading. A romantic comedy with an all asian cast, “Crazy Rich Asians’ is sure to be a hit.

Ready Player One — Ernest Cline

Set in 2045, a teenager gets sucked into a virtual world, devoting his life to pop culture puzzles. Solving puzzles in this world means ultimate power and fortune, and there are others who would kill to have that.

This best selling cult classic will come to cinemas this year in a Steven Spielberg movie.

The Darkest Minds — Alexandra Bracken

A futuristic novel whereby governments suppress people, especially children that possess special abilities. Most children are killed by a mysterious disease, but other children like Ruby are persecuted and contained. Sticking together to face insurmountable obstacles brings some solace, but things may not be what they seem.

Scary, heartbreaking and brilliant in its own way, this novel won the hearts of the movie makers and will be premiered this year.

Meg — Steve Alten

Meg short for Megalodon is a thriller about a top secret diving expedition in the South Pacific ocean. Haunted by what he saw, with no other survivor alive to tell the tale, Jonas Taylor wanted to prove to the world that the Megalodon shark, the ancestor of the great white shark thought to be extinct, still lives.

It is a fun and action-packed read filled with adrenaline and one giant monster.

Have you decided which or all of these books you are most excited to read? Better hurry before the movies come out! All these books and more can be found at Agenda bookshop, so head on down to your closest outlet!