Is the Book Better?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I finally sit down and compare The Wild Robot properly — the original book, the film, and the kids version — after reading the full story with my daughter.On the surface they’re all telling the same story… but they don’t feel the same at all.The book is slower, quieter, and builds its emotion over time. The film goes in the opposite direction — bigger, more immediate, and much more focused on the parent-child relationship. And the kids version? That’s more of a stripped-back entry point.So the question becomes:👉 which one actually works best?I get into:how the book handles themes like survival, nature, and belongingwhy the film leans so heavily into emotion and parentingwhat gets lost (and what improves) when the story is simplifiedThis isn’t just a “book vs film” debate — it’s more about how the same story changes depending on how you experience it.If you’ve watched the film, read the book, or you’re thinking about introducing it to your kids, this should help you figure out which version is worth your time.

Send us Fan MailSeason 2 is back 🎙️This week we’re getting into The Bridges of Madison County — the book by Robert James Waller vs the film with Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.And honestly… we’ve got questions.We’re told this is one of the greatest love stories ever — but it’s also a 4-day affair that somehow lives rent-free in her head for 20 years… so where do you land on that?We get into:Book vs film differences (and why the film hits harder)Whether we’re actually supposed to root for the adulterersKincaid being less “mysterious legend” and more… slightly desperateThe VERY long, very wet kissing scenesWhy Francesca might actually be the most sensible person in the whole storyAnd yeah… the oversharing with the kids — because some things you can keep to yourselfIf you’ve ever wondered:Is Bridges of Madison County romantic… or just a bit mad?We’ve got you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we’re diving into a full Project Hail Mary book vs movie comparison to answer the big question:Is the Project Hail Mary movie actually better than the book?Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary novel became a huge hit thanks to its mix of science, humour, and emotional storytelling, following Ryland Grace as he tries to save Earth from extinction. But how does the Project Hail Mary film adaptation starring Ryan Gosling compare?We break down the key differences between the Project Hail Mary book and movie, including what the film changes, what it simplifies, and whether losing some of the heavy science actually makes the story better.If you’re into book vs movie comparisons, sci-fi adaptations, Andy Weir books, or the Project Hail Mary film, this episode breaks down everything that works — and what doesn’t — in both versions.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we’re comparing the Hamnet book vs the Hamnet movie adaptation to see which version tells the story better.Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell became one of the most talked about historical novels of recent years, telling the story of Hamnet, the son of William Shakespeare, and the devastating impact his death had on the family. The novel is famous for its incredible atmosphere and emotional storytelling.But how does the Hamnet film adaptation directed by Chloé Zhao compare?In this episode we break down the key differences between the Hamnet book and movie, including what the film changes, what it keeps, and whether simplifying the story actually makes the adaptation stronger.I talk about:The incredible atmosphere in the Hamnet novelWhy the story isn’t really about Shakespeare at allHamnet’s inner monologue and why it makes the tragedy even more devastatingThe performances in the Hamnet movieThe emotional moments that completely ruined us (yes… the “my boy” scene)Why the film reaches Hamnet’s death much earlierAnd whether the movie or the book tells the story of Shakespeare’s family betterIf you’re interested in book vs movie comparisons, literary adaptations, Shakespeare history, or Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet, this episode breaks down everything that works — and what doesn’t — in both versions of the story.

Send us Fan MailStephen King. Mike Flanagan. Existential apocalypse. And somehow… it’s cheesy?In this episode, we break down The Life of Chuck — comparing the Stephen King novella to Mike Flanagan’s film adaptation. Is the book profound or half-baked? Is the movie elevated cinema or just polished sentimentality?We talk:3 major similarities3 big differencesWhy the dance scene is less cringe on screenWhy King writing modern dialogue sounds weirdAnd whether this story should have been adapted at allHot take: The movie is better.Colder take: That’s not saying much.If you love Stephen King reviews, honest book vs movie debates, and slightly unhinged literary analysis — this one’s for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I’m comparing A Walk to Remember the book and the film adaptation and breaking down the full book vs movie differences. I’m talking about the original Nicholas Sparks novel and the 2002 A Walk to Remember movie starring Mandy Moore and Shane West, and looking at what stayed the same, what changed, and which version works better overall. This is a detailed A Walk to Remember book vs film comparison covering the main similarities, major differences, character development, themes of faith, love, redemption, and how Jamie’s illness is handled in both versions.I get into the 1950s setting in the Nicholas Sparks book versus the early 2000s setting in the film adaptation, how Landon’s character arc shifts from page to screen, how Jamie is portrayed differently in the novel compared to the movie, and how the ending changes the emotional impact. I also look at what the book got right in terms of depth, narration, and religious themes, and what the movie got right in terms of emotional delivery, performances, soundtrack, and modern audience appeal.If you’re searching for A Walk to Remember book review, A Walk to Remember movie review, differences between the book and movie, or trying to decide whether the book or the film is better, this episode covers all of it in one place. It’s a full romantic drama adaptation comparison and an honest discussion about which version of A Walk to Remember has the stronger emotional impact and why the story still connects with audiences.

Send us Fan MailNo video this week, sorry, blame my computer.I'm covering the Film adaptation of You and Me on Vacation, im wondering why it changed the name for the film and how long does it take for friends to fall in love? whether they do that at all (spoilers)I lose my mind a bit, but I think you all like that.Thanks again for joining me, Much Love,Jake

Send us Fan MailI've read the book, I've watched the film...which is better? I DECIDEFreida Mcfadden creates a page turning masterclass and of course it has become a film, but will the film hold up? Lets see...

Send us Fan MailThis week on the podcast I’m finally back after an accidental Christmas break (yes, I genuinely forgot it was Christmas). Apologies for missing last week.In this episode, I dive into the Christy Martin book and compare it to the film adaptation, looking at what worked, what didn’t, and how the story changes when it moves from page to screen. We talk truth vs dramatization, what the film captures brilliantly, and what the book does better — plus a bit of honest reflection on why this story hits so hard in both formats.Thanks for sticking with me — normal service resumes now.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Is the Book Better?, I take on The Revenant — comparing Michael Punke’s historical novel with Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s Oscar-winning film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. From brutal frontier survival to icy revenge, I break down what the book actually focuses on versus what the movie turns into an endurance test for both Leo and the audience.We dig into the true story of Hugh Glass, the differences between historical fact and cinematic spectacle, and why the book is more about obsession, survival, and the American frontier — while the movie leans hard into suffering, silence, and awards-season vibes. There’s talk of bear attacks, fur trappers, revenge narratives, and whether the film’s visual mastery makes up for what it leaves out from the source material.If you’re into book vs movie comparisons, film adaptations, historical fiction, or just enjoy arguing about whether the book is always better, this episode is for you.So strap on your snowshoes and join me as I decide once and for all: is The Revenant book better… though?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Is the Book Better, Though?, I compare Forrest Gump the novel by Winston Groom with the Oscar-winning Tom Hanks film that became a pop culture phenomenon. From shrimp boats to running across America, I break down what the book got right, what the movie left behind, and why the tone couldn’t be more different.We’re talking darker humor, weirder adventures, and a Forrest who’s a lot less sweet and a lot more chaotic than the film made him out to be. Plus, I dive into how Hollywood polished the rough edges to give us that feel-good classic — and whether it actually made the story better.Join me for a funny, thoughtful, and slightly baffled look at one of the strangest book-to-movie adaptations ever. Because life might be like a box of chocolates… but not every page tastes the same.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the podcast where we compare books vs movies every single week — diving deep into what each adaptation gets right, what it leaves behind, and which version tells the stronger story.If you love book-to-movie comparisons, story adaptation breakdowns, and fun, spoiler-filled chats, you’re in the right place.This week, we’re jumping into YA fiction with a full The Fault in Our Stars book and movie review. We explore the biggest differences between the book and film, the emotional moments that hit hardest, and how John Green’s bestselling YA novel transforms on screen. Whether you’re a fan of YA book podcasts, teen fiction discussions, or you’re searching for insights on Hazel and Gus, this episode delivers a detailed TFIOS adaptation deep dive.Perfect for book lovers, movie lovers, book club listeners, and anyone obsessed with young adult novels and films, film vs novel discussions, or pop culture and media analysis podcasts. Each episode helps you decide what to read next and what to watch next, with recommendations, insights, and plenty of humour.If you enjoy John Green books, YA movie adaptations, book recommendations, spoiler discussions, and film critique podcasts, make sure to follow — new episodes drop weekly with a different book-to-film matchup every time.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive headfirst into Moneyball, where spreadsheets meet home runs and Brad Pitt somehow makes baseball statistics look cool. I compare Michael Lewis’s groundbreaking book to its Hollywood adaptation, unpacking what got left on the cutting-room floor (and what Brad Pitt’s jawline may have added back in).We’re talking data, drama, and dingers — plus whether Jonah Hill’s character really does justice to the real-life numbers nerd behind the Oakland A’s revolution. So grab your peanuts, settle into the dugout, and let’s find out once and for all: is the book better, though?

Send us Fan MailSorry this is long overdue, life got in the way a little bit. Also sorry for the sound quality, someone didn't press record on the sound deck! That someone was me...We had a lot of fun doing this and spoke for a couple of hours, we went off on about 50 more tangents that are in this episode. Also, this podcast will be renamed 'Was the book better, though?' from next release and I will be comparing books to their movies and seeing which one is worth your time, should you watch Forrest Gump or read the book? Suggest your ideas and who knows, I might do it. I already have 8 in the pipeline,Much love to all who listen to this, I'll see you in a couple of weeks.

Send us Fan Mailone trial done and a second one is this episode, Lucians life in the hands of an illiterate human, he's got to be annoyed.

Send us Fan MailThe first trial happens and will Feyre defeat the worm or will the next trial be impossible like maybe Feyre has to take someone's advice, something she has never done before. It's juicy, come on in.

Send us Fan MailFeyre returns home for 10 minutes, and then heads back to the fairy realm with two daggers and a dream. When will she learn?Read along, I'm having a great time with this Genre eventhough I am so late to the party.Like and subscribe, it's free and takes 1 second. Love you all

Send us Fan MailFeyre isn't listening and it's getting her into all sorts of trouble but the good times are there for a moment. Join me as I wade through the words looking for the smut on this weeks episode. It's a good time, better than Feyres time with Tamlin? Maybe.

Send us Fan MailIt continues, our theories get out of hand as ACOTAR needs the midway point. Is there human trafficking in the second half?Lets find out.

Send us Fan MailI have forced our guest to read this book by asking very nicely and we are both at the end of Chapter 23. We are half way and so we discuss what has happened so far and what we think is to come. We talked for so long that this is a gift of a two parter. Thank you all for listening.

Send us Fan MailWe are heading towards Smut Street but end up taking a left and crashing into the Sahara Desert, also known as Chaper 23. Join me for a read along of ACOTAR. Always a Pleasure. Please like and subscribe if you want me to keep doing this, you are my fuel.

Send us Fan MailChapters 14-18 get conquered here and its a blinder.

Send us Fan MailI have a run at 5 chapters and solidify my opinions on Nesta whilst doing a U-turn on Lucian,A big Plot twist ruins my day,Thank you for joining me.

Send us Fan MailChapters 4-8 takes us to Prithian which is just a resort with fairies. Lovely stuff. But is all as it seems? Will the food, fairies or wild life kill Feyre? Time will tell. Thanks for joining me 

Send us Fan MailLook, I’m a sleep-deprived dad of two who barely has time to read emails, let alone fantasy romance novels. But somehow, I found myself reading A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas — yes, that book TikTok keeps shouting about.In this first episode of my journey through the ACOTAR series, I will judge the book by its cover, and dive into chapters 1 through 3. Spoiler: there are wolves, lots of brooding, and annoying family members.If you're curious about ACOTAR but not sure it's your thing — or you're a fan who wants to hear a completely unfiltered, slightly confused take from someone who hasn’t ever read a fantasy book — this is the podcast for you.🛌 In this episode:What’s going on with this book cover? Is this YA or adult fantasy or… something else?First impressions of Feyre (and how you pronounce that name)Thoughts on the writing style, pacing, and overall vibeMy take on the world so far: bleak, snowy, and a bit stabbyHit play and join me as I try to figure out what all the hype is about — one chapter (and one cup of coffee) at a time.