What books are coming to the big screen in 2018? Make sure to read the following titles before they’re released in theaters!

ADULT

Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews

In this espionage thriller, Russian state intelligence officer Dominika Egorova is drafted against her will to become a “Sparrow,” or trained seductress. The film version starring Jennifer Lawrence and Joel Edgerton is set to be released on March 2.

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

This sci-fi novel features a geeky kid named Wade Watts who gets caught up in a worldwide virtual utopia called the OASIS. The highly anticipated movie adaptation comes out March 30.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer

Guernsey, an island in the English Channel, was the inspiration for this New York Times bestseller. Set in the aftermath of WWII, a writer travels to the island looking for her next book idea. Fans of Downton Abbey will want to check out the film as it stars Jessica Brown Findlay and Lily James.

TEEN

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

This coming-of-age, coming-out story features 16-year-old Simon Spier, who is not-so-openly gay and averse to change. He has to find a way to step out of his comfort zone and let his friends and family know who he really is. The movie, called Love, Simon, will be released on March 16.

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Yet another dystopian tale for young adults, this one is set in a future where most of America’s children were killed by a mysterious disease and the others now possess frightening abilities they cannot control. Catch the film starring Amandla Stenberg (Rue from The Hunger Games) on September 14.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Another film starring Amandla Stenberg! This was undoubtedly the most talked about young adult novel of 2017 due to its themes of police violence and racism. Starr’s world is turned upside down after she witnesses her friend Kahlil’s death at the hands of a police officer.

CHILDRENS

Mary Poppins by P. L. Travers

The long-awaited remake of the classic Disney film starring Emily Blunt is finally (almost) here! Pick up the 1964 book for the original story of the magical British nanny before the film is released on Christmas Day.

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle

One of the most beloved children’s books of all time, this sci-fi classic from 1962 explores time travel as Meg Murray, her little brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin search through space for Meg and Charles Wallace’s father. The movie opens March 9 and stars Reese Witherspoon, Oprah Winfrey, and Mindy Kaling as Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Which, and Mrs. Who.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

Over 100 years old, this story still delights audiences today! Peter is a very naughty rabbit who won’t stop stealing vegetables from Mr. McGregor’s garden, despite his mother’s warnings. The live-action animated film opens on February 9.

You can find every one of these books on the shelves of Polk County Public Libraries! Come see us and explore all the library has to offer.

Jen Pace Dickenson is the Youth Services Librarian for Polk County Public Libraries. For information about the library’s resources, programs, and other services, visit www.polklibrary.org or call 828-894-8721.