HBO, short for Home Box Office, is a premium cable television network that has become a household name in the entertainment industry. HBO is known for producing top-tier TV shows, documentaries, and movies. In recent years, the network has also entered the streaming world. Its HBO Max streaming service successfully competes against giants like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video.
One thing that sets HBO apart from its competitors is its commitment to producing high-quality original programming. Many HBO originals are based on books and have gone on to become some of the most popular and critically acclaimed TV series ever, not just on HBO.
This article will explore some of the best HBO originals that started as books.
Read these books before checking out these TV series on HBO Max
Some of the most popular HBO original series are based on books. By reading these books first, you can gain a deeper understanding of the story and the characters, enhancing your appreciation for the TV series adaptation.
Game of Thrones
As the most-watched TV show of all time, Game of Thrones requires little introduction. This cultural phenomenon is based on A Song of Ice and Fire, the best-selling epic fantasy book series by George R. R. Martin.
The series follows several noble families in the fictional continent of Westeros as they cunningly, ruthlessly, and often violently fight for power. The series is jam-packed with political intrigue, multifaceted characters, and shocking plot twists, making it a definite must-read.
Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies is a gripping novel by Liane Moriarty. The story revolves around the lives of three women, played by Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, and Reese Witherspoon in the HBO limited series adaptation. When Woodley’s character, a young woman named Jane, arrives in a seemingly idyllic small town, the carefully-crafted facade of perfection begins to crumble. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves suspenseful stories that keep you guessing until the very end.
Sharp Objects
Sharp Objects is a twisted yet thrilling psychological novel by Gillian Flynn. It follows the story of Camille Preaker, a troubled journalist played by Amy Adams in the HBO adaptation. Camille heads back to her hometown to explore a series of murders, forcing her to confront her demons and her family’s dark secrets.
The Leftovers
The Leftovers is a haunting novel written by Tom Perrotta. It explores the aftermath of a cataclysmic tragedy in which 2% of the world’s population mysteriously vanished. Delving into themes of loss, grief, and faith, this thought-provoking tale is perfect for readers looking for an insight into the meaning of life and death.
The first season of the HBO TV adaptation follows the source material closely. In contrast, the second season takes the story in an unexpected direction.
Boardwalk Empire
Boardwalk Empire by Nelson Johnson is a riveting historical account of Atlantic City’s heyday as a hub of gambling and corruption during Prohibition. Readers will be fascinated by the real-life stories of the colorful characters that shaped the course of American history.
Sex and the City
Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell is a humorous and honest portrayal of four now iconic characters: Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda. The story follows these complex women as they navigate their personal and professional lives in New York City, which is often considered the fifth character in the book.
True Blood
The True Blood book series by Charlaine Harris is a thrilling supernatural saga. It is set in a small town in Louisiana, where vampires, shapeshifters, and other supernatural creatures coexist with humans. Packed with action, suspense, and romance, this series is a must-read for fans of the paranormal genre.
Watchmen
Watchmen is a celebrated graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. It is set in an alternate version of America, where police officers are allowed to hide their identities behind masks after a racially motivated attack on the local police department. This gripping book and its miniseries adaptation explore the complex morality of superheroes, making them ideal for readers wanting to go beyond the traditional superhero depictions.
House of the Dragon
House of the Dragon is a highly anticipated prequel to Game of Thrones, often lauded as the best TV show of all time. It is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, which chronicles the tumultuous reign of the Targaryen family over the Seven Kingdoms, culminating in the bloody civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.
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FAQ
What is the most-watched HBO series of all time?
Game of Thrones is the most-watched HBO series of all time. The smash hit coming-of-age drama Euphoria, a relative newcomer, is in second place.
What Netflix show was from a book?
Multiple Netflix shows are based on a book, including Lockwood & Co., Bridgerton, and You. The current favorite is Firefly Lane, a tale following two best friends, Tully and Kate, from their childhood and high school years to adulthood.
Does HBO Max have Pride and Prejudice?
As of March 2023, Pride and Prejudice is available for streaming on HBO Max.
What is the newest HBO show based on a book?
House of the Dragon is the newest HBO show based on a book. The fantasy drama series premiered on August 21, 2022.
What is the newest HBO show?
The Last of Us is the newest HBO show. It premiered on January 15, 2023.
What is the best HBO show right now?
The best HBO shows right now include The Last of Us, White Lotus, and Succession.
What show has the most Emmy nominations?
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has the most Emmy nominations. This variety show has amassed 305 Emmy nominations over 47 seasons. Regarding HBO TV shows, Game of Thrones leads the race with 160 Emmy nominations over eight seasons.
Is The Last of Us based on a book?
No, The Last of Us isn’t based on a book. The Last of Us is based on an acclaimed 2013 PlayStation video game.
What is the best HBO Max movie based on a book?
Plenty of thrilling HBO Max movies are based on a book, including The English Patient. This Best Picture Oscar winner is a sweeping World War II epic set in the middle of a desert.
