There's something magical about seeing a beloved book come to life on the big screen. The first half of 2026 delivered some unforgettable adaptations, from the heartwarming sci-fi of Project Hail Mary to the swoon-worthy romance of The People We Meet on Vacation. But the second half of the year is packed with even more literary treasures making their cinematic debut. Here are five books you'll want to read before they hit theaters.
5. The Dog Stars by Peter Heller (August 28)
Peter Heller, a Colorado author known for his nature-driven thrillers, brings his 2012 bestseller The Dog Stars to the screen. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Josh Brolin, this post-apocalyptic tale follows survivors of a deadly plague in the Rocky Mountains. The story centers on Hig (Elordi), who, after losing his companion, sets out to find a voice he once heard on his radio—a journey that tests his humanity and hope. With Scott's visionary direction and a stellar cast, this is a must-watch, but the book's lyrical prose and emotional depth make it essential reading first.
4. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (September 23)
Ali Hazelwood, a former neuroscientist, has a knack for crafting smart, relatable heroines. Her debut novel, The Love Hypothesis, follows Ph.D. candidate Olive Smith (Lili Reinhart) as she fakes a relationship with her professor to convince her friend she's moved on. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly becomes something neither expected. This feminist take on the fake-dating trope is a delight, and seeing Olive's journey from page to screen promises to be a treat. If you love romance with a side of academia, this one's for you.
3. Verity by Colleen Hoover (October 2)
Colleen Hoover's dark psychological thriller Verity is finally getting the movie treatment, and it's not for the faint of heart. The story follows a struggling writer who uncovers a chilling manuscript by a bestselling author, revealing secrets that blur the lines between fiction and reality. With Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett leading the cast, this adaptation is sure to be as unsettling and gripping as the book. Fans of Hoover's other works—like It Ends With Us—will find this one a different, more disturbing beast.
2. Whalefall by Daniel Kraus (October 16)
Imagine being swallowed by a whale—that's the terrifying premise of Daniel Kraus's Whalefall. This survival thriller, praised for its scientific accuracy and relentless tension, follows a diver's fight for survival inside a whale. The movie adaptation promises jaw-dropping visuals, from giant squid battles to desperate escapes. But the book's exploration of grief and raw human endurance adds layers that will make you appreciate the film even more. Just be prepared to never look at whales the same way again.
1. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen (December 18)
Jane Austen's classic tale of the Dashwood sisters—navigating love, loss, and societal expectations—gets a fresh adaptation this holiday season. Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, this version of Sense and Sensibility promises to capture the wit and heart of the 1811 novel. While Austen's works have been adapted many times, this one has the potential to be the definitive take for a new generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Austen, reading the book before the film will enrich your experience.
These five adaptations are just a glimpse of the literary riches coming to screens this fall. For more on book-to-screen adaptations, check out our list of mystery novels becoming TV shows or explore authors whose works rarely make it to film. And if you're a fan of intense stories, you might enjoy our ranking of thrillers with the most mind-bending twists.
So, grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and dive into these books before they light up the silver screen. You'll be glad you did.
