5 Books to Read Before You See Them on the Big Screen

I’m a big believer that in order for a movie to be seen, the book has to be read first. So much so, that if you don't comply with this rule, I’ll gasp and threaten to throw you out of the theater. I’m only slightly joking.

The following are the books that are the driving force behind all of these Oscar hopefuls and sure-to-be blockbuster hits.

1. Left for Dead, by Beck Weathers

What It’s About: This biography tells the story of a 1966 climbing team who after reaching the summit of Mount Everest, struggled to descend during a treacherous snow storm.

Who’s Starring: (In the film adaptation titled Everest) Jake Gyllenhaal, Keira Knightley, Jason Clarke

Release Date: Now Playing

2. The Martian, by Andy Weir

What It’s About: In this sci-fi novel, astronaut Mark Watney becomes stranded on Mars on a mission gone-wrong. Alone, he must depend on his ingenuity to survive until NASA can figure out a way to bring him home.

Who’s Starring: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig

Release Date: October 2

3. Room, by Emma Donoghue

What It’s About: To five-year-old Jack, the room where he and his Ma eat and sleep and play, is the only world he knows. But to Ma, Room is a prison where she has been held captive for seven years. As her anxiety and Jack’s curiosity builds, she knows Room won’t be able to contain them much longer.

Who’s Starring: Brie Larson, Joan Allen

Release Date: October 16

4. Brooklyn, by Colm Tóibín

What It’s About: Eilis Lacey leaves Ireland to start a new life in New York in the 1950s. Just as she begins to fall in love with Tony, an Italian and devoted Dodgers fan, devastating news from Ireland threatens her promising future.

Who’s Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen

Release Date: November 6

5. Mockingjay, by Suzanne Collins

What It’s About: In the final installment of The Hunger Games trilogy, Katniss fights against the Capitol as the Mockingjay, a symbol of hope and rebellion for the districts of Panem.

Who’s Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson

Release Date: November 20

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