Garrin Reiter

Books showcased in a movie theater.

It’s a struggle we all face: completing a movie or TV series and wishing it had never ended. Many times, the quest to find even a somewhat comparable replacement ends in disappointment as nothing seems to fill the void left by the first’s unmatched thrill. But, have you ever tried finding a book with similarities to chase that same high? These recommendations will hopefully capture the same spirit as the initial film and help you discover a new found love for a book or series.

“Gossip Girl” – “Magnolia Parks” by Jessa Hastings
Goodreads Rating: 3.69/5
If you loved the drama, luxury and pettiness found in “Gossip Girl,” I strongly recommend the “Magnolia Parks” series written by Jessa Hastings. “Magnolia Parks” follows the toxic love story between Magnolia Parks and BJ Ballentine, set in London, England. They’re destined for each other, but the two can’t seem to quit their toxic love cycle. She dates other guys to keep him away, while he sleeps with other girls to get back at her for it. After all is said and done, the two always end up crawling back to each other. But their dysfunctional relationship is finally catching up with them, which is ruining their friendships and livelihood. This book definitely has a similar feel to “Gossip Girl,” but adds a few nuances to make the story feel fresh and new.

“Avatar: The Last Airbender” – “The Sword of Kaigen” by M.L. Wang
Goodreads Rating: 4.47/5
If you loved the elemental magic-bending system and political intrigue from “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” I definitely recommend trying out “The Sword of Kaigen” written by M.L. Wang. “The Sword of Kaigen” tells the story of the Matsuda family who lives on the edge of the Kaigenese Empire. The people of this region have some of the most powerful fighters in the world, powerful enough to create blades of ice that can cut through steel and capable of raising the sea. For centuries, these fighters have held any potential enemies at bay, giving this land the name ‘The Sword of Kaigen.” Mamoru Matsuda fights to live up to his family name, practicing day and night to meet his father’s expectations. Misaki Matsuda, the mother of Mamoru and his brothers, has long since given up her fighting spirit after marrying into the Matsuda household. But after many threats of invasions, Mamoru must put his fighting abilities to the test and Misaki finds herself having to pick up her hidden sword once again in order to protect her family. This story can be somewhat confusing at times as it is an adult fantasy novel, but with the help of the character list and index found in the back of the book, this is a one-of-a-kind book I would recommend to anyone.

“Up” – “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman
Goodreads Rating: 4.38/5
“A Man Called Ove” written by Fredrik Backman, has many similarities to the acclaimed Pixar movie “Up,” other than the flying balloon house. Both stories tell the tale of a grumpy old man who gives everyone a hard time, but secretly harbors a dark backstory. “A Man Called Ove” follows the main character Ove, who is commonly referred to as “the bitter neighbor from hell.” Everyone avoids him to stay far away from his stubborn personality and short-fused anger until one day, a family moves in next door with two chatty young girls, who accidentally flatten Ove’s mailbox. This one event spirals into a tale about love, family, friendship, grief, loss and is one of my personal favorites. I truly recommend it to anyone looking for a life-changing book that will change your perspective on life and human behavior.

“Criminal Minds” – “The Naturals” by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Goodreads Rating: 4.21/5
If you love the chilling ambience of “Criminal Minds” with all of its clues and murders, then you’ll love “The Naturals” series by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. “The Naturals” follows seventeen-year-old Cassie, who is a natural at reading people. Just from subtle cues, Cassie can completely pinpoint someone’s personal life and personality. Suddenly, she is contacted by the FBI and is offered a position on a classified program full of exceptional teenagers whose job is to solve cold cases. Along with Cassie and her unmistakable people-reading abilities is the charming Micheal the brooding Dean who works under the same mission. When a new killer strikes, the Naturals can’t seem to stay away from the scene and are thrust into a cat and mouse game with the killer. “The Naturals” series consists of four books and a novella and is under the YA category, which means it is accessible for anyone to pick up and enjoy.

“Grey’s Anatomy” – “Yours Truly” by Abby Jimenez
Goodreads Rating: 4.31/5
“Grey’s Anatomy” drew in viewers with its mind-boggling injuries and crazy patient drama, but most of all, people enjoyed the sizzling romance. “Yours Truly” delivers that same hospital setting people know and love, while also giving a brand new and compelling love story. “Yours Truly” follows Dr. Briana Ortiz, who’s life is in shambles: she is finalizing her divorce with her ex-husband, she is working day and night for her promotion and her brother is slowly dying and in desperate need of a kidney donation. Until one day, Dr. Jacob Maddox sends her a letter, and even though she hates him, it’s a letter that changes everything. The two continue to send letters back and forth with each other, slowly building affection and love for each other. But when Maddox decides to give her brother a kidney transplant, she wonders how much longer she can resist him. This book will definitely satisfy any lover of second-chance romances and hilarious banter.
Whether you are looking to expand your literary palette or just want to relive the magic of your beloved movie or TV show, reading any book, whether YA or adult, is beneficial to your brain and mental health. Reading is something that people of all ages enjoy, and can allow you to understand and evaluate other’s point of view, leading to you to become a more open-minded and caring individual. If you didn’t find any of your favorite films or series, I recommend going on either YouTube or TikTok as it can give you a variety of recommendations based on your interests. Happy reading!