A number of great stories in print have already been adapted for small screen viewing pleasure. Some of these have become critically acclaimed hits, like George R.R. Martin's "Game of Thrones," so it's no surprise more books are being developed into TV shows.
Before these stories become TV's next big hits, it may be a good idea to enjoy them in printed form first. Here are the top five books you have to read before they become TV shows:
1. "American Gods" written by Neil Gaiman
HBO was said to have passed on the TV project, citing that they were challenged to recreate this book for television, according to Vulture. The project is pushing forward, however, and it will be airing on Starz. Gaiman is also tapped to write some of the episodes, according to Variety.
"American Gods" follows the story of a man from prison named Shadow, who is asked by a mysterious person to work as a bodyguard. Shadow eventually becomes exposed in a secret world filled with gods and other beings, living among people. The story delves on society's penchant for worshiping celebrities and technology.
2. "A Series of Unfortunate Events" written by Lemony Snicket (Daniel Handler)
Netflix announced it will be turning the book series into a TV show back in November, according to Deadline. "A Series of Unfortunate Events" follows the story of the Baudelaire children, who were orphaned and sent to live with Count Olaf, a relative. The count disguises himself as different characters in the plot to kill his kin for the inheritance. The story is funny but dark, but the book has become a favorite classic among bookworms.
A 2004 movie version featuring Jim Carrey as Count Olaf was completed, but the series of books had not finished until "The End" was released in 2006.
3. "Super Sad True Love Story" written by Gary Shteyngart
Ben Stiller is going to produce and star in the TV version, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The story centers on a middle-aged man who isn't in tune with technology, but develops a relationship with a young, complex and materialistic Korean-American woman. While exploring this unlikely romance, he must also deal with his charismatic boss's ever-growing demands, while his boss is facing pressures from the domineering American government, according to the Reporter.
4. "The Mortal Instruments" written by Cassandra Clare
The book was first intended to become a movie, but after failed attempts, the project is now headed to television, according to Deadline. The central character of "The Mortal Instruments" involves a girl who learns that she's part of a mystical world that can't be seen by normal people. She also learns that she has a destiny to fulfill. The book has six series, so there's plenty to catch up on and read before the ABC Family TV premiere.
5. "11-22-63" written by Stephen King
James Franco will lead the cast for the TV series, which will be airing on Hulu, according to Variety. This King novel is about a man who travels back in time to stop the JFK assassination. While he succeeds in doing so, he unintentionally sets in motion a nuclear war in the present day. He goes back in time to try to fix this, but he learns that he may not live long enough to correct the mistakes.
