Top 5 books that have been turned into movies

With many classic books being turned into movies ever so often, there is always the big debate as to whether the movies based on books, are ever as good as the books themselves. 

Despite the debates, many book lovers flock to the cinema’s to watch their favourite books come to life on the big screen. 

This list of the top five books that were turned into movies contains some of the most popular bestsellers and blockbusters.

1. The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games is a 2008 science fiction novel by the American writer Suzanne Collins. It is written in the voice of 16 year old Katniss Everdeen who lives in the dystopian, post-apocalyptic nation of Panem in North America. Since its release, The Hunger Games has been translated into 26 languages, and is the first in the Hunger Games trilogy. The film adaption released in 2012, was met with critical acclaim.

2. Harry Potter

Harry Potter is a series of seven fantasy novels written by British author J. K. Rowling. The books chronicle the life and adventures of the main character, a wizard named Harry Potter and his friends Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger, all of whom are students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Since the release of the first novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, on 30 June 1997, the books have gained immense popularity, critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. The last four books consecutively set records as the fastest-selling books in history.

3. Twilight

A series of four vampire-themed, fantasy romance novels by American author Stephenie Meyer. It charts a period in the life of Isabella "Bella" Swan, a teenage girl who moves to Forks, Washington, and falls in love with a 104-year-old vampire named Edward Cullen. Since the release of the first novel, Twilight, in 2005, the books have gained immense popularity and commercial success around the world. The series is most popular among young adults; and the four books have won multiple awards.

4. The Hobbit  

A fantasy novel and children's book by English author J. R. R. Tolkien. It was published on 21 September 1937 to wide critical acclaim. The Hobbit came to life and was made into a film in 2012. The Hobbit follows the quest of home-loving hobbit Bilbo Baggins to win a share of the treasure guarded by the dragon, Smaug. Bilbo's journey takes him from light-hearted, rural surroundings into more sinister territory.

5. The Chronicles of Narnia

A series of seven high fantasy novels by author C.S. Lewis. It is considered a classic of children's literature and is the author's best-known work, having sold over 100 million copies in 47 languages. Set in the fictional realm of Narnia, a fantasy world of magic, mythical beasts, and talking animals, the series narrates the adventures of various children who play central roles in the unfolding history of that world. The movie was also met with critical claim when it was adapted into a film.

Source: Wikipedia

Written by: Thulisile Khumalo

What is the difference between fiction and non-fiction?

Fiction

This refers to a book or piece of literature that is created from imagination. These are books that are made up by the author, and are not true.

This type of literature or book may involve science fiction; fantasy; mysteries; romance and crime thrillers. The fiction storyline is made up by the author, and can be based on a certain time period and event in that period, but the characters and the sub storyline of the characters are made up. 

Such examples of fiction include JK Rowling’s popular Harry Potter books, which the author created from her imagination - as none of it was based on anything true. Another example is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, as the characters and storyline were also made up.

Although fiction describes a major branch of literary work, it may also refer to theatrical, cinematic or musical work.

Non-fiction

While fiction describes work of the imagination, non-fiction contrasts this. Non-fiction refers to books or literature based on facts - literature about real things, people, events and places.

Therefore, non-fiction books are factual books that deliver details or information about specific things or events. They are stories based on real facts and information.

Such examples of non-fiction work include memoirs, biographies, historic facts and other works that are factual.

Written by: Thulisile Khumalo

Why is reading so important?

For many people, there seems to be so many other things to do with one’s time than pick up a book to read. However reading is important for a variety of reasons. 

Let’s take a look at some of the fundamental reasons why reading is important:

1. Reading develops the mind 

The mind is a powerful human tool that needs exercise. Reading and understanding written words is one way the mind grows in its ability. Reading also helps young children develop their language skills. Through reading your ability to listen is enhanced, as it helps you focus on what someone else is communicating.

2. Improve understanding

Through reading, you begin to improve your understanding of a variety of topics. The more you read, the more you understand the world more. Therefore, through reading, you create a structured path towards a better understanding and better actions to take in the future.

3. You discover new things

Through reading you are able to expose yourself to new things, new information and new ways to solve problems. A person who knows how to read can educate themselves in any area of life they are interested in. Exploration begins from reading and understanding.

4. Enhance communication skills

Communication is the most important tool which can be transmitted through reading. When you read, you understand more and thus you can communicate better with people. You are able to connect and share information with people. Reading connects you with the world.

5. Boost imagination and creativity

Reading develops the creative side of people – it exposes people to a world of imagination, showing them that nothing is impossible in this world. When you read you are able to travel, without moving. As André Maurois says “The art of reading is in great part that of acquiring a better understanding of life, from one’s encounter with it in a book.”

There you have it, the reasons why reading is important - now there is no reason for not picking up a book and exploring it. 

Written by: Thulisile Khumalo