25 modern book-to-screen adaptations that didn’t let us down

A Wrinkle in Time

Madeleine L’Engle’s children’s book A Wrinkle in Time was originally published all the way back in 1962, but it was only recently turned into a film — one that surprisingly had critics up in arms about its quality. Of course, while some of the complaints were valid, it’s worth noting that many of those questioning the film’s value aren’t part of the audience it was intended for. And both children and readers who read the book as children seem content with the adaptation, even in spite of its flaws.

The story of A Wrinkle in Time takes readers and viewers on a journey with three children — Meg Murray, Charles Wallace, and Calvin O’Keefe — as they venture to a dangerous planet Meg’s father discovered and disappeared to. They receive help from astral travelers along the way, but the kids go on quite an adventure getting to this new planet. And the film version of the story captures the whimsical nature of the book while keeping it modern enough that children today can relate to it.

The movie has also been praised for its diversity, both in terms of cast members and due to the fact that Ava DuVernay was the filmmaker behind the project. Not only did the adaptation feature people of color at its forefront — something that’s sadly still missing from many modern films these days — but it focused on themes of empowering young women. With those things in mind, this movie took L’Engle’s story and made it more relatable for all children heading to theaters to see it. And in many ways, that makes this film adaptation even better than the book.