One thing that brings me joy is to see a favorite historical book come alive on the big (or small) screen. Oftentimes, though, the heart of the story changes to become more dramatic. The book is (almost!) always better, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the entertainment of the TV show or movie.
Here are a few of my favorite historical adaptations and a few on my to watch list!
Favorite Historical Book-to Screen List
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
STARZ TV show – last season just started!
My favorite historical time travel book series is a stunning show on STARZ. Seeing 18th century Scotland and colonial America come to life is so exciting. Note the show is not for sensitive watchers but the books are easier to digest. Be sure to visit the Yorktown American Revolution museum by May 18th to see costumes from the show!
This show makes the aerial war against the Nazis viscerally real. It is a must-see! I haven’t had the chance to read the book yet, but it’s on my TBR!
The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory
The Spanish Princess on STARZ
The deadly court of King Henry VIII is shown in sumptuous sets and elaborate costumes in this period drama. You can’t help but admire Katherine when seeing what she went through to become the Queen of England.
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Lincoln – stream on Amazon
The definitive book on President Lincoln, this historical masterpiece was turned into an unforgettable movie by Steven Spielberg. And it was filmed right here in Richmond using our own state capitol as a stand-in for the US Capitol!
Destiny of the Republic by Candace Millard
Death by Lightning – stream on Netflix
I loved this narrative nonfiction book about President Garfield’s short-lived presidency. The show has been a bit difficult to get through, but I am determined to continue. I love how First Lady Crete Garfield is a part of the show!
My To Watch List
The Union Spymistress by Libby McNamee
The Gray House – stream on Amazon
My dear friend’s amazing book about a Union spy in Richmond comes to life on-screen in this Amazon show produced by Kevin Costner. I know it’s a bit gritty and violent but hopefully I can make it through it. I plan to start watching it soon and can’t wait to see the streets of Richmond as they were during the Civil War.
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
One of my favorite books about WWII has been made into a TV miniseries. I know it will be heartfelt and sad, but it’s so important to watch and remember.
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
Gettysburg – stream on Amazon
An amazingly personal look at the Battle of Gettysburg, this novel is superb. It served as the inspiration for the movie which I haven’t seen! Now I just need to find four hours to watch it!
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
This delightful book about a count in a Moscow hotel over the course of a lifetime is sure to be poignant and lovely. And the count is portrayed by one of my favorite actors, Ewan McGregor!
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Article about coming movie release
One of my all-time favorite books is coming to the big screen next February with the novel’s sisters portrayed by real-life sisters, Dakota and Elle Fanning. I cannot wait!
To Read and Watch List
Wolf Hall by Hillary Mantel
The book series beginning with Wolf Hall has been on my TBR forever. I don’t want to watch the show until I read the books! Hopefully I can get to it this year.
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriott
I’ve heard such lovely things about these books and show! I need something to replace the Downton Abbey-sized hole in my life!
Looks like I have a lot to watch over the next few months! What’s your favorite historical book-to-screen adaptation?
