Book-to-screen adaptations are experiencing a surge in sales, catching the attention of Canadian booksellers. Kobo, a prominent online retailer for e-books and audiobooks, has observed significant sales growth for books recently adapted for television or film. Examples include Rachel Reid’s hockey romance novel “Heated Rivalry,” transformed into a successful Crave TV series, and Emily Bronte’s classic gothic tale “Wuthering Heights,” slated for release as a movie starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi on Feb. 13.
The rise in sales is partly attributed to the influence of social media fandoms, as stated by Deandra Lalonde, Kobo’s Content Sales Lead of North America. Platforms like BookTok and Bookstagrammers amplify the buzz around adaptations, fostering a sense of community through spinoff podcasts, group chats, and subreddits. This trend is exemplified by the overwhelming success of “Heated Rivalry,” which saw a remarkable surge in e-book sales following the television premiere.
Similarly, anticipation for the movie adaptation of “Wuthering Heights” has translated into a nearly 600% increase in book sales this year. The film’s casting choices and press coverage have sparked controversy and intrigue among fans, driving up interest in the book even before its cinematic debut.
The impact of book-to-screen adaptations extends beyond sales figures, attracting new readers like Lionel Zahrai, who turned to the source material after enjoying the televised version of “Heated Rivalry.” This phenomenon underscores the power of adaptations in expanding the audience for literary works and enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
Looking ahead, upcoming adaptations such as Suzanne Collins’ “Sunrise on the Reaping,” Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary,” and Marissa Stapley’s “Lucky” are poised to generate significant interest and sales. Notable mentions also include Carley Fortune’s “Every Summer After,” set to be adapted into an Amazon Prime series, promising to captivate audiences with its Canadian essence.
As the popularity of book-to-screen adaptations continues to soar, the eternal question remains: read the book first or watch the adaptation? Time will reveal the answer as these adaptations unfold and captivate audiences worldwide.