5 Books You Need to Watch Onscreen @CraveTVCanada

Help me. I'm becoming a total TV addict. First it was Netflix. Now I'm hooked on CraveTV.

Fellow Canadians, I think this is such an awesome addition to your watching arsenal. There's so many good things to watch here ... can it get any better. Or worse (talk about spoilt for choice)?

As I'm scrolling around, I notice that so many of these series, whether mini or not, are based on books, oh-but-course! Here are my quick pickings:

(Note this post is NOT sponsored by Netflix or CraveTV. * denotes affiliate links)

Sex and the City

Based on the book Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell*: Based on the popular column from the New York Observer, an eye-opening chronicle of the mating habits and rituals of America's cultural elite offers a colorful look at sex clubs, suburban sexuality, celebrity affairs, and more.

I used to follow this on HBO when it was actually airing and now I'm rewatching everything. Or I'll try. I think a bingewatch is in order. Four girlfriends in New York with fabulous lives and fabulous shoes and man woes every which way ... it's chick lit to the extreme. And I love me some adorable Carrie Bradshaw as depicted by Sarah Jessica Parker.

My take: I've never read the book. But I have read some Candace Bushnell* and I kind of know what to expect that she always loves to depict women in all their messy glory - I just hope it's every bit as delish as the HBO series!

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

Based on the book Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke*: At the dawn of the nineteenth century, two very different magicians emerge to change England's history. In the year 1806, with the Napoleonic Wars raging on land and sea, most people believe magic to be long dead in England--until the reclusive Mr Norrell reveals his powers, and becomes a celebrity overnight. Soon, another practicing magician comes forth: the young, handsome, and daring Jonathan Strange. He becomes Norrell's student, and they join forces in the war against France. But Strange is increasingly drawn to the wildest, most perilous forms of magic, straining his partnership with Norrell, and putting at risk everything else he holds dear.

My take: I adored the book. In fact it's one of my all-time favourites and I simply could not spoil the felling by trying capture anything in a decent review (I copped out with a mini review here). I did a quick peek at the series on CraveTV and ... OMG, the whole ambiance, the actors and the pacing ... I think it is going to be every bit as good as the book! Now excuse me while I go turn the TV on again.

Olive Kitteridge

Based on the book Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout*: The Pulitzer prize-winning novel from the author of the Booker longlisted My Name is Lucy Barton*, Olive Kitteridge: indomitable, compassionate and often unpredictable. A retired schoolteacher in a small coastal town in Maine, as she grows older she struggles to make sense of the changes in her life. She is a woman who sees into the hearts of those around her, their triumphs and tragedies. We meet her stoic husband, bound to her in a marriage both broken and strong, and a young man who aches for the mother he lost - and whom Olive comforts by her mere presence, while her own son feels overwhelmed by her complex sensitivities. A penetrating, vibrant exploration of the human soul, the story of Olive Kitteridge will make you laugh, nod in recognition, wince in pain, and shed a tear or two.

My take: I remembered watching the Emmys and was impressed with the many wins of this mini series by HBO. I decided to watch this pretty much instantaneously upon discovering it cause the lead actor is the mind-blowing Frances MacDormand (remember Fargo?). I haven't yet had a chance to make a coherent review of the series, a sure sign that I loved it. Naturally the book is already on my TBR despite not having read anything yet by Elizabeth Strout. If you've read this or any of her books already, do tell me what you thought!

Partners in Crime

Based on books by Agatha Christie, first appeared in The Secret Adversary*: Tommy and Tuppence, two young people short of money and restless for excitement, embark on a daring business scheme - Young Adventurers Ltd. Their first assignment, for the sinister Mr Whittington, plunges the pair into danger. 

My take: I love Agatha Christie* and I've come across this young couple many a time in her books. They're young, restless, spunky and uber cute and cool in that vintage way. It's interesting that this series features two actors I'm already familiar with -- Jessica Raine who I enjoyed in Call the Midwife (my review, a book and series I just couldn't enough of) and David Walliams (who I unfortunately know only because of Britain Got Talent but love to bits because he really makes me laugh). Obviously, I am making a point of watching this series.

True Blood

Based on the books The True Blood Novels by Charlaine Harris (also known as the Sookie Stackhouse Novels)*: Sookie Stackhouse is a cocktail waitress in a little bar in Bon Temps, a small town deep in Louisiana. She's funny and pretty and well-mannered, but she doesn't have that many close friends - mind you, that's not so surprising when you consider how few people can appreciate her abilities as a mind-reader. It's not a quality that has the guys beating down her door - well, unless they're vampires or werewolves or the like ...but they're not just supernatural freaks, some of them are friends, even family ...

My take: So I never did hop on this bandwagon (the last time I read a vampire book was Twilight, and that was just not my thing. I'm still an Anne Rice gal). I have heard many good thing about this series and while I'll likely never watch or read this, this is a heads up for my bloggy friends who loved this!

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Books mentioned in this post:

• Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell*
• Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke*
• Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout*
• The Secret Adversary Agatha Christie*
• The True Blood Novels by Charlaine Harris*

Which book/s have you read? Which series have you watched? Do you have any recommendations for me?

5 Books To Read Before They Hit The Big Screen

5 Books To Read Before They Hit The Big Screen
{Guest post by Caroline}

Book adaptions are a controversial subject. While occasionally these on-screen releases give an extra dimension to our favorite literary franchises, there’s always a risk that a bad adaption can destroy the imaginary world you created in your head during your initial reading.

Due to this, getting stuck into a good book before a film is released is an essential practice! If the motion picture is going to be a total flop, it’s best to have already absorbed the story before you see it. These five books are incredible works that you should definitely check out before they are released to cinemas later this year.

*Affiliate link

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

Based on a set of photos, the true impact of this story is found when it’s read with these impacting visual aids set with the words. When young Jacob finds the bewildering snapshots in the home of his estranged Grandfather, he could never imagine the significance of his discovery. After many unexplained disappearances, Grandpa Ade is mysteriously killed. As the family visits a remote island to come to terms with the loss, Jacob discovers a whole new reality that he is sure is the secret to the murder.

This story hops between worlds, has weird and wonderful characters, and contains an evil underground plot. The action, drama and potential for special effects mean that this could be a fantastic film. However, if dealt with badly, it could also be a lackluster event. To avoid disappointment, get reading now and enjoy this story in its original format before its cinema release in late September.

• Read Guiltless Reading's Review!
• Get this on Book Depository*.
  

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by J.K. Rowling

The Harry Potter series was a story that wove its way across the screen just as successfully as it did on the page, but will this new story from Rowling’s much-loved magical universe fare equally well? The book itself is a reproduction of a textbook that is mentioned in the original story, with a foreword provided by Albus Dumbledore. Rowling produced the work under the alias of Newt Scamander, who the book was originally accredited to in the original Harry Potter series.

The film is not a straight adaption (that would be quite difficult), but instead is based around the life of this now-famed fictional author. So, while there’s no chance of the book being ruined for fans, it is an essential bit of background reading for those excited about finally having a new Harry Potter movie to look forward to.

• Get this on Book Depository*.
• Did you know? Guiltless Reading is a huge Harry Potter fan. Check out other Harry Potter-related posts. 

Inferno by Dan Brown

Dan Brown is an author whose books cause as much speculation as their film counterparts. With mystery, real-life conspiracy theories and a historical commentary that seems so completely feasible, the Angels and Demons series, of which “Inferno” is the fourth installment, has sparked discussion and debate worldwide.

After a Harvard professor wakes up half across the globe with a head injury and no memory, the tone is immediately set. Alongside associates that he meets along the way, he is catapulted into a long line of clues that uncover some terrible secrets and fracture his band of detectives.

If you haven’t had a chance to catch up with the rest of this series yet, there’s a fantastic documentary for American Netflix (if you’re outside the country, you can use software to access it) called “Cracking the Da Vinci Codes,” which provides a fantastic overview and in-depth exploration into the works of Dan Brown.

Get this on Book Depository*.

Nerve by Jeanne Ryan

This young adult thriller has taken the world by storm since its release in 2012. Likened to the box office smash hit “The Hunger Games,” we have high hopes for this film’s release in late July. The title refers to an online game of dares which is integral to the plot. When Vee is invited to play, it isn’t long before she realizes that this game knows way too much about her life. While at first this is exciting and novel, in time the true terror of this seemingly harmless pursuit is exposed.

Perfectly paced and highly suspenseful, the true success of this novel is in the writing. No amount of camera tricks or special effects could reproduce the gut-wrenching excitement of reading through the books tensest moments. Due to this, I highly recommend checking it out before it hits the screen.

Get it on Book Depository*.

Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts

Any adult remembers the turbulent years of their teenage life. This fantastic children’s book by James Patterson is sure to transport you back to a time of uncontrollable hormones, awkward relationships and feeling constantly uncomfortable in your own skin. Lead protagonist Rafe Khatchadorian decides to subvert his difficult middle school years by creating a game to rule all games. Rafe aims to break every rule in the school’s code of conduct along with his friends.

Needless to say, hilarity ensues. And with loveable characters and a poignant message, this little novel is an easy and quick read that packs a punch! The film version will be released in October, so you have plenty of time to whizz through before the adaption hits cinemas.

Get it on Book Depository*.

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Film release dates can be hard to keep track of. If you know of any more looming book adaptions that you want people to know about, be sure to leave a comment below. We’d love to hear your ideas!

About the Author

Caroline is an entertainment blogger and writer. She loves books and films, but can’t stand when a classic story is ruined on screen. She hopes fellow bookworms enjoy her recommendations!

Oscar-nominated movies based on books (2016)

Can it be, the Oscars is tomorrow? I'm always curious to find out what books become movies and it's especially a thrill to see books come to life in another form. Let's see what movies are based on books for this season. Pretty substantial this year!

The Big Short

Nominations (5): Best picture, Actor in a Supporting Role (Christian Bale), Directing, Writing (Adapted Screenplay), Film Editing

Based on the book: The Big Short: The Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis *

Why I want to watch it: Christian Bale, especially since he is nominated. Such an amazing actor.

Bridge of Spies

Nominations (6): Best picture, Actor in a Supporting Role (Mark Rylance), Music (Original Score), Production Design,Sound Mixing, Writing (Original Screenplay)

Based on the books: Bridge of Spies by Giles Whittell* and Strangers on a Bridge by James Donovan*

Why I want to watch it: Tom Hanks. I need to watch all Tom Hanks movies!

Brooklyn

Nominations (3): Best picture, Actress in a Leading Role (Saoirse Ronan), Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

Based on the book: Brooklyn by Colm Toibin *

Why I want to watch it: Not particularly, but I'm curious at Saoirse Ronan's return in a movie. I still remember her from Atonement!

The Martian

Nominations (7): Best picture, Actor in a Leading Role (Matt Damon), Visual Effects, Sound Editing, Writing (Adapted Screenplay), Sound Mixing, Production Design

Based on the book: The Martian by Andy Weir *

Why I want to watch it: I'll likely read the book first since so many book bloggers out there have raved about this so much. I'm always a little wary with sci-fi flicks - I generally have a bad run with them. (And Matt Damon is not one of my favourites.)

The Revenant 

Nominations (12): Best picture, Actor in a Leading Role (Leonardo DiCaprio), Cinematography, Directing, Actor in a Supporting Role (Tom Hardy), Costume Design,  Sound Editing, Film Editing, Sound Mixing, Production Design, Makeup and Hairstyling, Visual Effects

Based on the book: The Revenant by Michael Punke *

Why I want to watch it: I'm not sure I do want to watch this. Huge predictions that this Leo's year to win. And I've been hearing that this is pretty gruesome to watch. This was all shot in Canada and so I think I've been hearing more about it then I care to. If Leo does win, I know I'd just be too curious not to watch it!

Room

Nominations (4): Best picture, Actress in a Leading Role (Brie Larson), Directing, Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

Based on the book: Room by Emma Donoghue*

Why I want to watch it (or not): Eep. I was really affected by the book so this is another movie I may opt out not to watch. My book review is HERE if you want to read it.

Spotlight

Nominations (6): Best picture, Actor in a Supporting Role (Mark Ruffalo), Actress in a Supporting Role (Rachel McAdams), Directing, Film Editing, Writing (Original Screenplay)

Based on the book: Betrayal: The Crisis in the Catholic Church*

Why I want to watch it (or not): I'm on the fence on this one. I may watch it because it's based on an investigative piece by the Boston Globe about the Catholic Church, which I find quite fascinating.

Carol

Nominations (4): Best Actress in a Leading Role (Cate Blanchett), Best Writing (Adapted screenplay), Best Cinematography, Best Music (Original Score), Best Costume Design,

Based on the book: The Price of Salt: Or Carol by Patricia Highsmith*

Why I want to watch it: Cate Blanchett, oh but of course! However, the book sounds amazing, so I think watching and reading this is a must.

Ready for the Oscars tomorrow? Which movies and who are you rooting for?

Links:

• The Oscars
• Rotten Tomatoes: Oscars nominations 2016: The Revenant leads the race

Ooh, the mind games! {Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane} #readmyowndamnbooks

Ah, the mind. Agh, my mind!

About Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane: US Marshal Teddy Daniels has come to Shutter Island, home of Ashecliffe Hospital for the Criminally Insane, to find an escaped murderer named Rachel Solando. As a killer hurricane bears down on the island, the investigation deepens and the questions mount. How has a barefoot woman escaped from a locked room? Who is leaving them clues in the form of cryptic codes? And what really goes on in Ward C? The closer Teddy gets to the truth, the more elusive it becomes. And the more he begins to believe that he may never leave Shutter Island. Because someone is trying to drive him insane...

My two cents

How do I write this review without spoiling it for those of you who have never heard of this book? If you haven't watched the movie (which stars Leonardo DiCaprio if you didn't already know based on that cover), well and good ... you should read this. If you have, then you already know that this is story is not what is makes itself out to be as per that little blurb or the marketing spiels out there.  

This a novel that starts out as one thing and morphs into something totally different. 

At face value this is a little hunting mission for two US Marshals, Teddy and Chuck, for a murderer on the loose on an island that houses the criminally insane (so naturally the escapee is also insane). If that isn't exciting enough for you, there is a huge hurricane, power outages, the prospect of more escaped wards, and oh-but-of-course, a host of clues that are begging to be solved. 

But wait. There is more! There seems to be a conspiracy that's pretty insidious in its prospects. And there are also hints throughout the novel about Teddy Daniel's personal life, a haunted past that only makes the reader wonder who the heck this US Marshal really is. 

All throughout this excitement, something deeply unsettlingly lies in store for the willing victim err, reader. I loved that Lehane took me on a journey that can only be described as being "played." It's all an elaborate mind game, not only for the lead character, but for you and me as readers. I fell for it all, hook, line and sinker, and I loved it! Ah, to recapture that feeling when I first watched The Sixth Sense! 

P.S. Books like this come rarely for me as I usually can see through elaborate plotting. If you have any recommendations for surprisingly good books that eff up your mind, let me know!

Verdict 

A suspenseful conspiracy-mystery with a surprising twist ... for the reader. If you liked The Sixth Sense, love psychological thrillers, pick this up. Or watch the movie. Or both!

Yes, I #readmyowndamnbooks! I got this from some random thrift sale. Or something. 

Book Depository

Movie: Norwegian Wood

Of youth lost and growing old. 

Summary of Norwegian Wood (2010) (IMDB): Toru recalls his life in the 1960s, when his friend Kizuki killed himself and he grew close to Naoko, Kizuki's girlfriend, and another woman, the outgoing, lively Midori.

My two cents

I don't do movie reviews very often. In fact I only have one other movie review on this blog! But sometimes I get the urge to share a good flick, and this is one of them.

If you've been following Guiltless Reading, you already know I am huge Haruki Murakami fan. Last year I finally reviewed Murakami's Norwegian Wood (read my review here) and lo and behold, the movie is on Netflix. Of course I had to watch it.

I know I`ll let this "review" sit again and not go posted if I overthink it, so here goes:

Loved it:

• It's pretty faithful to the novel, which is a relief. I hate it when a book is only inspiration and the movie takes a totally different track. Then I always end up thinking that movie makers should simply leave good books alone!
• The ambiance is totally melancholy and rather depressing, which is what I got from the book too. 
• The cinematography is quite stunning, especially with some vast landscapes. everything feels sparse and minimalist, with just beautiful beautiful imagery. Sigh.   
• I picked up on something totally different in the movie: the theme that youth comes only once in one's life and that eventually we must all grow old.

I was iffy about:

• One of the characters I fell in love with in the book was Reiko, Naoko's friend and roomie. Imagine my disappointment that she wasn't as fleshed out in the movie. A critical scene at the end really seemed off to me in the movie precisely because of the lack of Reiko's backstory! Oh well, I guess to accommodate everything else essential, something had to give. It's unfortunate that it had to be Reiko.
• How could the movie not have the critical scene of the eulogy at the end ... the song Norwegian Wood was prominently missing.

Verdict

While pretty faithful to the book, I'd highly recommend the movie. In of itself, it is a beautiful piece. However if you'd like to get the fulsome experience of Murakami's writing, definitely read the book in full. Enjoy both!

Check out the website for more about the movie.

Considering reading Norwegian Wood? Here's my review.

Oscar-nominated movies based on books (2015)

Last year, I did a quick round-up of some Oscar-nominated films that were based on books. Here's this year's edition, compiling trailers and their book links. Hope you enjoy tonight's Oscar festivities ... and happy reading!

The Theory of Everything

Nominations (5): Best Picture, Best Actor (Eddie Redmayne), Best Actress (Felicity Jones)

Based on the book: Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen by Jane Hawking

Why I want to watch it: Because Stephen Hawking is a brilliant and fascinating man. While familiar with his popular books, I'd love to learn more about his personal life

This movie reminds me of A Beautiful Mind, another movie that looks at the life of John Nash, a Nobel-winning economist and mathematician, who has schizophrenia. (By the way, this movie was also based on a book.) (I have a feeling this is going to make me cry.)

Watch it on: Amazon.com

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American Sniper

Nominations (6): Best Picture, Best Actor (Bradley Cooper)

Based on the book: American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in US Military History  by Chris Kyle

Why I want to watch it: I'm not sure I do but only because I have a hard time watching war movies because of the violence. I think this is well worth the time though, to get an understanding of how psychologically challenging being a sniper is. This is controversial for many reasons, I think it's a fascinating look into the psyche of a man who is compelled to do his job well. Besides, Bradley Cooper is a such a good actor!

Watch it on Amazon.com ***

The Imitation Game

Nominations (8): Best Picture, Best Actor (Benedict Cumberbatch)
Based on the book: Alan Turing: The Enigma by Andrew Hodges
Why I want to watch it: Because I need to watch Sherlock, errr, I mean Benedict Cumberbatch! (sorry no apologies here) Watch it on Amazon.com ***

Still Alice

Based on the book: Still Alice by Lisa Genova
Nominations (1): Best Actress (Julianne Moore)
Why I want to watch it: I've heard many good things about this book, which traces one woman's journey with Alzheimer's. A tearjerker.  
Watch it on Amazon.com

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Gone Girl

Based on the book: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Nominations (1): Best Actress (Rosamunde Pike)
Why I want to watch it: Another book which has gotten rave reviews in the book blogging community, it'll be interesting to see how this makes it to film. The book's premise of a marriage gone very very wrong actually creeps me out. I may give this one a go (through closed eyes and behind my fingers!). Watch it on Amazon.com

Wild

Based on the book: Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found by Cheryl Strayed 
Nominations (1): Best Actress (Reese Witherspoon) Why I want to watch it: Hmmm, I'm not a huge fan of Reese so I may pass on this one. It reminds me slight of Eat Pray Love which I love-hate.   Watch it on Amazon.com

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Which movies have you watched? What books have you read? Which ones do you think I should definitely watch or read? 
See also: Oscar-nominated movies based on books (2014)

Three Oscar-nominated movies based on books (2014)

Twelve Years a Slave. I haven't yet watched this, it is based on Solomon Northup's book of the same name. I will though, though I know this is going to be a tough movie ... it looks like a very worthwhile watch and read. I also love the idea that Brad Pitt put his name behind this. 

Check out the BOOK.




The Wolf on Wall Street. I admit that this was a little too much for me visually and it's quite disturbing how crazed some characters are. All true, or so Jordan Belfort says. But maybe Leo will finally come home with a Oscar for his performance in this!

The Wolf on Wall Street is based on Jordan Belfort's Catching the Wolf of Wall Street: More Incredible True Stories of Fortunes, Schemes, Parties, and Prison.






Captain Phillips. Based on Richard Phillips memoir A Captain's Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea, Tom Hanks can do no wrong in my books. Another one I have not watched but look forward to!

Check out the BOOK.

The Fault in Our Stars hits theatres ... and your nails!

I only recently read The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (courtesy of a much-loved copy of the daughter) ... and felt like: why wasn't John Green part of my teenage years? This book is definitely stellar young adult literature, and with the following it has, of course it's becoming a movie!

John Green recently leaked 12 seconds of the movie which excited fans no end. Then of course, the trailer came out. More craziness!

I loved the book, am ambivalent about the movie, but am quite impressed by the fangirling nail art below! What about you? Have you read this? What are your feelings about the movie?

Celine Does Nails picks out some key things from the book. The "Okay" is cute but the lungs sort of freak me out.

A more subtle take on the cover by Moustache Manis.

Warm French Onion Soup's nail art is very wearable and just a little bit cryptic ... it's like code to fellow TFiOS fans!

Warm French Onion Soup .... this time with her first year anniversary edition in platinum!

Midnight's Children the movie

I read Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie in 2007 (check out my review here). Ages ago. I must re-read this before I watch the movie!

5 more books-to-movies this 2012

Movie time! Here's another round-up of movies that are based on books. With the exception of Anna Karenina, I have not read these books. Maybe I will.

 


The Woman in Black by Susan Hill:Already out since February, the trailer creeped me out (anything with big-eyed dolls and creepy music usually does it). Daniel Radcliffe actually looks decent in this one. Will probably watch just because I need to see Harry Potter in a different light.

Synopsis: First published in 1983, The Woman in Black is Susan Hill's best-loved novel, and the basis for the UK's second longest ever running stage play, and a major film starring Daniel Radcliffe. Arthur Kipps, a young lawyer, travels to a remote village to put the affairs of a recently deceased client, Alice Drablow in order. As he works alone in her isolated house, Kipps begins to uncover disturbing secrets - and his unease grows when he glimpses a mysterious woman dressed in black. The locals are strangely unwilling to talk about the unsettling occurrence, and Kipps is forced to uncover the true identity of the Woman in Black on his own, leading to a desperate race against time when he discovers her true intent...

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy: This is one of my all-time favourite books. While my friends complained about its intimidating length in uni class, I was just lapping up the scandal, the tragedy and the vivid descriptions of Russian aristocracy. The movie looks worthwhile if just to see the cinematography. Tongue-in-cheek about Kiera Knightly though, I don't know how I feel about her being in this role.

Synopsis: Anna Karenina is one of the most loved and memorable heroines of literature. Her overwhelming charm dominates a novel of unparalleled richness and density. Tolstoy considered this book to be his first real attempt at a novel form, and it addresses the very nature of society at all levels,- of destiny, death, human relationships and the irreconcilable contradictions of existence. It ends tragically, and there is much that evokes despair, yet set beside this is an abounding joy in life's many ephemeral pleasures, and a profusion of comic relief.



The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky: Did you like the movie Juno? Well this is made by the same bunch of people. A coming-of-age story, this also has Emma Watson. Looks like the Harry Potter cast is doing well!

Synopsis: Charlie is a freshman. And while he's not the biggest geek in the school, he is by no means popular. Shy, introspective, intelligent beyond his years yet socially awkward, he is a wallflower, caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it. Charlie is attempting to navigate his way through uncharted territory: the world of first dates and mixed tapes, family dramas and new friends; the world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite. But Charlie can't stay on the sideline forever. Standing on the fringes of life offers a unique perspective. But there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a deeply affecting coming-of-age story that will spirit you back to those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up.

Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand: While I liked Anna Karenina, for some reason I never touched this book in school despite the egging on of some philosophy buffs. Maybe the movie will help decide if I want to dive into this chunkster of existentialism.

Synopsis: The astounding story of a man who said that he would stop the motor of the world - and did. Tremendous in scope, breathtaking in its suspense, "Atlas Shrugged" is unlike any other book you have ever read. It is a mystery story, not about the murder of a man's body, but about the murder - and rebirth - of man's spirit. With this acclaimed work and its immortal query "Who is John Galt?" Ayn Rand found the perfect artistic form to express her vision of existence. This is the book that made her not only one of the most popular novelists of our century, but also one of its most influential thinkers.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Graham-Smith: When I first read about this oddball combination, I didn't know what to think of it. But so many people have raved about it that I may just buy into the hype. I prefer my vampires to be non-sparkly. I doubt they are in this one, because the movie looks amazing!

Synopsis: It's Indiana, 1818. Moonlight falls through the dense woods that surround a one-room cabin, where a nine-year-old Abraham Lincoln kneels at his suffering mother's bedside. She's been stricken with something the old-timers call 'Milk Sickness'. 'My baby boy...' she whispers before dying. Only later will the grieving Abe learn that his mother's fatal affliction was actually the work of a vampire. When the truth becomes known to young Lincoln, he writes in his journal, 'henceforth my life shall be one of rigorous study and devotion. I shall become a master of mind and body. And this mastery shall have but one purpose'. Gifted with his legendary height, strength, and skill with an axe, Abe sets out on a path of vengeance that will lead him all the way to the White House. While Abraham Lincoln is widely lauded for saving a Union and freeing millions of slaves, his valiant fight against the forces of the undead has remained in the shadows for hundreds of years. That is, until Seth Grahame-Smith stumbled upon "The Secret Journal of Abraham Lincoln", and became the first living person to lay eyes on it in more than 140 years. Using the journal as his guide and writing in the grand biographical style of Doris Kearns Goodwin and David McCullough, Seth has reconstructed the true life story of America's greatest president for the first time - all while revealing the hidden history behind the Civil War and uncovering the role vampires played in the birth, growth, and near-death of the nation.

Which ones are you thinking of watching and/or reading?

Don't forget to check out:

• 3 books-to-movies
• 2011 Oscar Winners - based on books!