There are two kinds of book people in this world:
- the ones who get excited about adaptations
- the ones who immediately start sharpening their critique knives
Personally, I am both.
Quick hat tip to LitHub, this list was inspired by their 01/12/2026 newsletter.
So if you’re in the mood to watch books come to life (or get wildly reimagined, sometimes against our will), here are a few screen adaptations already out, plus some upcoming ones I’m definitely side-eyeing with anticipation.
Already available (aka you can start immediately)
Run Away by Harlan Coben (Netflix)
Yes, another Harlan Coben adaptation. Yes, I will probably watch it. Minnie Driver is involved, so my interest is officially activated.
His & Hers by Alice Feeney (Netflix)
This is on my “click play and regret nothing” list. Feeney stories tend to have that twisty psychological energy that makes you whisper “EXCUSE ME??” at the TV.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry (Netflix)
Is it going to be cute? Obviously. Will I be emotionally manipulated by beautiful people having feelings? Probably. Do I object? Not really.
Bookish (PBS)
The title alone is like a direct attack on my personality. If you see me quietly losing hours to this, no you didn’t.
Coming soon (aka the chaos is scheduled)
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (HBO), Jan 18
I am extremely excited about this. Give me the Game of Thrones universe without the overwhelming dread, please and thank you.
H is for Hawk, theaters, Jan 23
This one has potential to be absolutely gorgeous and quietly devastating. I’m already emotionally pre-tired.
Bridgerton Season 4, Jan 29
HELLS yes. January 29. That’s all I needed to hear. I will be seated, snacks prepared, dignity unavailable.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, in theaters, Mar 20
Ryan Gosling. Space. Science. My husband read it and liked it. I haven’t read it yet, but I love a good “human in peril, science saves the day” situation. So I’m very curious how this translates to screen. And honestly, who would complain about watching Ryan Gosling be pretty? Not I!
Let’s discuss: Are you an adaptation purist or an adaptation chaos goblin? Also, which one of these is at the top of your watch list?