In this strange time, many of us are looking for an escape. We turn to streaming services to watch shows that allow us a bit of separation from the situation as it is. In doing so we get a bit of a reprieve. But where did the inspiration for these shows start? Many of them were in the form of a novel. In this time of holding why not further explore these worlds in greater detail though the novel. All of these titles, and many more, are available through the Overdrive app.
Have you enjoyed the high fantasy of The Witcher? The show centers around Geralt of Rivia and how he gains custody of Ciri, the orphaned granddaughter of Queen Calanthe of Cintra. But what about the details that the show might have missed? Check out “The Last Wish” by Andrezj Sapkowski, the beginning introduction to the land called The Continent. Geralt is a witcher, a hunter of monsters and a man for hire. And in his travels he comes to find that not all monsters come in expectant forms…
Maybe you are not in the mood for fantasy but prefer a sci fi noir tale? Been watching Altered Carbon? This one is also based on the novel with the same name by acclaimed science fiction writer Richard K Morgan. The first in the Takeshi Kovacs series, “Altered Carbon” features an expansive future where permanent death can be avoided if you have enough money. Mystery and intrigue lie at the heart of the story and asks the question if death is no longer an issue, what heights can humankind reach? What depths?
Looking for much darker fair? Watched the widely successful series Sharp Objects? Take the time to read the novel, written by Gillian Flynn. The novel centers on Camille, a reporter who has carried her childhood nightmares far into adulthood. Recovering from a stay in a mental hospital, Camille and her nightmares must make the journey back to her hometown, cover the murders and reconnect with a troubled mother and an enigmatic younger sister. Camille fights to uncover the truth behind the murders, as well as the truth within her own family.
Take a break from the shows and see how these novels, (and many others), compare. Missing physical books? The library is now offering a Books-to-Go program. Check out akspl.org or call (909) 798-7565.