The trend of transforming books into movies or TV shows is not a new phenomenon. It also comes as no surprise that book sales receive a significant boost when these adaptations hit the screens.
However, Canadian book retailers are observing a surge in sales for book-to-screen adaptations like never before. Kobo, an online platform for e-books and audiobooks, has reported notable increases in the sales of books recently adapted for screen productions.
For instance, sales have soared for books like the hockey romance novel “Heated Rivalry” by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid, which inspired the popular Crave television series of the same name. Additionally, the upcoming movie adaptation of Emily Bronte’s classic gothic novel “Wuthering Heights,” starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, has also fueled sales.
Another example is Emily Henry’s romance novel “People We Meet on Vacation,” which was adapted into a Netflix movie featuring Emily Bader and Tom Blythe. Similarly, Julia Quinn’s period romance “An Offer From a Gentleman” served as the inspiration for a recent season of Netflix’s “Bridgerton” series.
Sales boost from these adaptations is driven by strong fandoms and community engagement. Social media platforms play a crucial role, with viral moments, BookTok and Bookstagram posts, and the emergence of related podcasts and group discussions amplifying interest in the book-to-screen adaptations.
“Heated Rivalry” stands out as a prime example of this phenomenon. The surge in sales for the e-book coincided with the show’s premiere, witnessing a remarkable increase. The book series by Rachel Reid has also experienced a significant sales uplift following the TV adaptation, becoming a top-seller on CBC’s bestseller list.
Anticipation for the movie adaptation of “Wuthering Heights” has also translated into a considerable spike in book sales well before the film’s release. The controversial casting choices and the on-screen chemistry of the main actors have further fueled interest in the upcoming movie.
Book-to-screen adaptations like “Heated Rivalry” are not only attracting existing fans but also drawing new readers to bookstores. The immersive experience provided by books often complements the visual storytelling of screen adaptations, appealing to a broader audience.
The future looks promising for book-to-screen adaptations, with anticipated releases like Suzanne Collins’ “Sunrise on the Reaping,” Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary,” and Marissa Stapley’s “Lucky” expected to drive significant sales. Additionally, upcoming adaptations like Carley Fortune’s “Every Summer After” are poised to captivate audiences, especially in Canada.
As predictions unfold, the perennial question remains: read the book first or wait for the adaptation? The evolving landscape of book-to-screen adaptations continues to shape the literary and visual storytelling realms, enticing audiences to delve into captivating narratives across different mediums.
