If you are headed to the movie theater this holiday season, be sure to stop by the library or a bookstore first. Several of the new releases are based on novels.  I always say to read the book, and then see the movie, but if you don’t have time, see the movie, and then definitely check out the book!  Many fans of The Hunger Games will be heading to see Catching Fire.  Jennifer Lawrence reprises her role as Katniss Everdeen.  In this second part of the trilogy, Katniss and Peeta embark on a Victor’s Tour of the districts, and then learn that they must participate in the 75th Hunger Games. Katniss also discovers that a rebellion is underway to get rid of President Snow, and she has become a symbol of the rebellion. The events in Catching Fire pave the way for the next installment, Mockingjay.  I recently read that Mockingjay is going to be divided into two movies.  A lot does happen in the final book, but personally, I would rather see a longer movie than pay to see two movies. But, I am sure many fans will look forward to spending more times with some of their favorite characters from the books.

Another great book that is now on screen in The Book Thief.  If you haven’t read this book, you should!  The story takes place in Nazi Germany where Leisel lives with her foster parents.  Leisel loves to read, but books are scarce during the war.  She discovers that a man in town has a huge library, so she decides to start stealing books.  She shares the books with the Jewish man her parents are hiding in the basemement.  There is a lot of tense moments in the story. Will Leisel get caught?  Will the Nazis discover her family is hiding a Jew?  Will her foster father be forced to be in the army?  It is an exceptional book, and I am hoping the movie does it justice.

Science fiction fans should enjoy Ender’s Game based on the book by Orson Scott Card.  Once you read one book in the Ender series, you will want to read them all!   Andrew “Ender” Wiggins is a teen who is selected for the elite Battle School. The government is preparing a special military branch in preparation for an invasion from an alien race.  Ender is a brilliant soldier and soon finds himself in the Command School, and leads soldiers into a battle that will determine the future of earth.  This movie has gotten good reviews for the non-stop action and special effects.

So, enjoy some great books and their movie this holiday season!