5 Popular Children’s Books Adapted into Movies

The genre of Children’s Literature is loved by children and adults alike. People have grown up reading fictional characters taking part in heroic adventures, bright and joyful picnics and fantastic experiences. Stories were and are read at bedtime, on journeys, on occasions when the family goes out for trips, during vacations. There are stories children want to hear or read again and again. And then there are storybooks that are available in series, so kids never have to suffer at the end of one book. The number of authors specialising in children’s literature have been known to be in hundreds, many of them selling more copies than authors of other genres!

In this section, we present to you a list of popular Children’s Books of the 19th and 20st century, which have captured the interest of millions of kids across the globe and their popularity made them apt subjects for film adaptations as well.

1. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Alice in Wonderland):

This book was written by Lewis Carroll in the year 1965. The book tells the story of a girl who falls down a rabbit hole. The girl then meets several creatures, who are peculiar and each treats Alice differently. Attractions for children include the interesting Word Play displayed throughout its length, the fantasy-laden plot and the influential characters in the story. The book has gained the status of a classic and is enjoyed in abridged versions by children. Many of the characters of the original story have been included in adaptations and other inspired novels.

2. The Harry Potter series:

Written by the celebrated British novelist J.K. Rowling, the series is extremely popular and loved by children of all ages and adults too. The book has seven parts to it. The first novel of the series was completed in 1995 and released in 1998. Not only did the characters and plot become an instant hit among children in England and the United States, the author became the talk of the literary world for her work.

The book tells the story of a boy named Harry Potter, a wizard, and his friends, all of them attending the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The books travels back and forth in the real and fantasy world and shows the main character experiencing several adventures, revelations, joys and sorrows, throughout his tenure in the school. Harry Potter became a cult figure among children and has been adapted into an equally successful series of films.

3. The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe:

This book is a part of the series of seven high fantasy novels, The Chronicles of Narnia, written by C.S. Lewis in the years 1950-56. The story of this book, too, revolves around children unknowingly entering a fantasy land and getting to meet creatures that look like animals but talk with utmost perfection. The gradual and ultimate success and popularity of the book overshadowed the early criticism for it, if any. The book was followed by Prince Caspian. The book has been named as one of the ALL TIME 100 Novels by TIME magazine. Also, this book has been published in 47 languages.

4. Treasure Island:

A tad bit different from the books in this list, Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island is a tale of adventures at sea and deserted islands. The high end action and dramatic narration of the story captures the attention of the reader at the first go and holds it till the very end.

The plot comprises the traditional hunt for hidden riches, pursued by pirates and unruly fellows. The story tracks the life of Jim, who sets out as a mere boy and by the end of the novel, has done heroic deeds and ultimately proved his mettle by fighting pirates, saving lives, winning a reward for his efforts. Proving to be yet another trend setter, Treasure Hunt has influenced not just other books, but music, TV shows, theatre, radio and films as well.

5. Charlie and The Chocolate Factory:

In a most chocolaty tale with not-so-subtle hints at morality, good behaviour and sound values, British author Roald Dahl churns together mystery, humor, horror and of course the goodness of chocolates and candies. The story revolves around poor but well-brought up Charlie Bucket’s visit to the chocolate factory of Willy Wonka, a world renowned chocolatier, along with 4 other children. A tour around the factory is given by Willy Wonka in order to see who lasts it and is proved worth becoming his heir. The other kids are obnoxious and dislikeable due to their various behavioural flaws whereas Charlie is the ideal child, obeying others, being caring and considerate.

The tour ends with a show of poetic justice and an indirect lesson for all those who are watching. The book has been adapted in celluloid twice since it got published, the recent one starring famous Hollywood Actor Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka.

The list of Popular Children’s books can go on and on. There have been so many authors in the history of Children’s Literature that one can comfortably spend his or her years exploring the talent and magic penned down with effect. These authors have contributed significantly to shaping childhoods across the world and have, hence, been highly appreciated in the literary world.