The last few years have undoubtedly been a big year for book-to-film adaptation lovers, and 2026 will be no exception. From “The Odyssey,” to “Remarkably Bright Creatures," "Sunrise on the Reaping" and more, pages from fan-favorite books will or have already come to life on the big screen. Many like to get ahead of the curve and try to read the book before the movie releases, which can create waits for popular titles. So, while you’re on stand by, we put together a list of previously released book and DVD companions you can check out from Omaha Public Library (OPL) in the meantime.
"The Green Mile" by Stephen King - DVD
Set within the somber walls of a Depression-era death row, “The Green Mile” follows a compassionate prison guard whose life is forever altered by the arrival of John Coffey, a giant of a man possessing a mysterious and miraculous gift. This haunting blend of supernatural wonder and human tragedy was also masterfully adapted into an Academy Award-nominated film starring Tom Hanks, capturing the book’s profound exploration of empathy and injustice.
"Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer - DVD
Jon Krakauer’s “Into the Wild” explores the true story of Christopher McCandless, an intelligent graduate who abandons his privileged life and burns his money to embark on an uncompromising solo quest for truth in the Alaskan wilderness. This hauntingly beautiful narrative was brought to life in Sean Penn's acclaimed film adaptation, which captures the raw power of the landscape and the profound spirit of a young man seeking to live entirely off the grid.
"A Room with a View" by E. M. Forster - DVD
Set against the lush backdrops of Edwardian-era Florence and the English countryside, E.M. Forster’s “A Room with a View" is a sparkling social comedy that follows young Lucy Honeychurch as she struggles to choose between the stifling expectations of high society and the unconventional, passionate man who awakened her heart. This timeless exploration of love and personal liberation was beautifully captured in the iconic 1985 film adaptation, which remains a gold standard for period dramas thanks to its lush cinematography and stellar performances.
"The Neverending Story" by Michael Ende - DVD
Michael Ende’s “The Neverending Story” follows a lonely boy named Bastian Balthazar Bux who discovers a magical book that pulls him into the crumbling world of Fantastica, where he becomes a central figure in the quest to save it from a consuming force called the Nothing. This enchanting tale of imagination and self-discovery was brought to the screen in a beloved 1984 film adaptation, which famously introduced audiences to the iconic luckdragon Falkor and the ethereal beauty of a land where dreams literally come to life.
"Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson - DVD
In his powerful memoir “Just Mercy,” Bryan Stevenson recounts his early years as an idealistic young lawyer fighting to defend the poor and wrongly condemned in the deep South, centered on the gripping case of a man sentenced to death for a murder he didn't commit. This stirring true story of the fight against systemic injustice was adapted into a major motion picture starring Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx, which brings to life the heart-wrenching human cost of a legal system in desperate need of compassion.
"Solaris" by Stanisław Lem - DVD
In Stanisław Lem’s “Solaris,” a psychologist sent to a remote space station discovers that the planet’s sentient, oceanic surface is projecting physical manifestations of his most painful repressed memories. This chilling masterpiece of philosophical science fiction was famously adapted into a landmark film by Andrei Tarkovsky, a uniquely immersive and long-form cinematic experience that invites deep concentration and rewards the viewer with a profound reflection on the human soul.
Whether you’re a “book-was-better” purist or someone who loves seeing a favorite character come to life on-screen, there is a special joy in experiencing a story through two different lenses. The best part? You don't have to wait months for these titles to hit the new releases shelf. They are waiting for you right now, tucked away in our stacks and DVD aisles. We invite you to stop by OPL this week, grab a copy of the book and its film counterpart, and settle in for a double feature of your own making.
About Omaha Public Library
Omaha Public Library (OPL) strengthens our communities by connecting people with ideas, information, and innovative services, acting as an essential catalyst, collaborator, and connector. Learn about OPL's collections, facilities, services, programs and more at omahalibrary.org.
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