Stronger

I was given a wooden sign that states, “Don’t judge a book by its movie.” I love it because most often movies don’t do justice to books. But recently I started watching a TV series that is better than the book series. I won’t name titles or author; however, I think the issues I discovered are good for writers to ponder.
 
First, the books. They are by an author I like. I probably have 15 of her books. I’ve reread the books a number of times. But, this one series, I didn’t like as well as the others, although I didn’t know why. I haven’t reread them in at least twenty years, and meanwhile, have learned a lot about writing.
 
Second, the TV series based on the book series. I started watching with only vague memories of the books. There were lots of interesting characters, beautiful setting, and most importantly, I cared about the main characters. The shows aren’t perfect, but I enjoyed them so much I binge watched. In fact, I reached the end that was available on Netflix.
 
I wanted more, so I decided to reread the books. They are short and therefore quick reads. I’ve only reread the first book, but was disappointed. The love story, perhaps the main point of the story, was too easy and too quick. She’s interested in him, but he’s not the marrying type. She can’t forget him. They are put in circumstances to see each other a few times and enjoy each other’s company. We barely see him doing anything—like his job. Then she is in danger and he helps her. He also kisses her. Next, the man lies by saying he has no feelings for her and so she plans to leave the area. He stops her and confesses his lie, tells her he does love her, and asks her to marry him. She says yes. Story over.
 
By contrast, in the TV series, we have the same “she’s interested in him, but he’s not the marrying type,” and she’s annoyed, but not a woman waiting for a man. In fact, she’s dedicated to her work and that’s more important to her. Yes, circumstances push them to deal with each other. They enjoy each other at some level. We see him doing his job. They actually work together for the good of the community. They have some arguments. When they eventually decide mutually that they are interested in each other, they agree to take it slow. We see them learning more about each other. They actually go on some dates. They have troubles and disagreements which they work out. He doesn’t ask her to marry him until sometime in the fourth season.
 
So, what do I think is the difference between the two? What makes the TV series stronger?
 
Character Depth
 
The TV series takes a much deeper look at the main characters. And secondary characters are there for more than the convenience of the main characters. They have lives and problems of their own and we see that.
 
Agency
 
In the show he helps her out, but less of a rescue “the damsel in distress” situation as in the book. Sometimes she helps him, too. She also accomplishes amazing things on her own. So does he. Both are strong in their own ways. Both take action.
 
Sense of Reality
 
The characters, circumstances, and problems feel more real and believable in the show versus the book. Their relationship is not too easy in the former. And it took time, like for most of us in real life.
 
Humor
 
The TV series has more humor. The two main characters get themselves in trouble by saying and doing awkward things. Especially with each other. And sometimes can’t figure out what he or she did wrong.
 
Will I reread the rest of the book series? No. Will I watch more of the series when it becomes available? Yes.
 
So, in our fiction writing, we need character depth, agency, a sense of reality, and a dash of humor for books readers will want to read again and again.

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