Book-to-Screen Adaptations and Option Deals — 2026-10-22
This week, Netflix’s adaptation of *Frankenstein* and Colleen Hoover’s *Verity* continue to drive significant sales spikes, with *Verity* and *Kimi no Hoshi* drawing renewed reader interest as their screen adaptations progress. Meanwhile, NBC and Peacock are expanding their scripted portfolios with new pickups, including a potential *Dungeon Crawler Carl* series, while Netflix’s licensing deal with Disney brings major book-based franchises like *Percy Jackson* to the platform.
Book-to-Screen Adaptations and Option Deals — 2026-10-22
Top developments
Netflix’s Frankenstein and Verity Drive Sales Spikes
Netflix’s recent adaptations are proving to be powerful marketing tools for publishers. The film Frankenstein garnered over 88 million viewers and reached the top 10 movies in 93 countries, resulting in a 180% spike in sales for the movie tie-in edition of Mary Shelley’s novel. Similarly, Colleen Hoover’s thriller Verity and Yu Nagira’s romance Kimi no Hoshi are drawing new attention to the source novels as their adaptations move forward, highlighting the "read-after-watch" phenomenon.
NBC and Peacock Expand Scripted Portfolio with Dungeon Crawler Carl
NBC and Peacock President of Scripted Content Lisa Katz revealed new strategic moves, including a script order for Line of Fire and discussions regarding a Dungeon Crawler Carl adaptation. This signals a continued industry trend of acquiring high-concept genre novels for streaming series.
Netflix Secures Major Disney Licensing Deal for Percy Jackson and More
Netflix has struck a huge licensing deal with Disney, bringing established book-based franchises like Percy Jackson and network hits like Will Trent to the streamer over the next two years. This move significantly bolsters Netflix’s catalog of existing IP.
Local view
In South Korea, media outlets are highlighting how global bestsellers like Verity are impacting local reading habits as their screen adaptations progress. The Seoul Economic Daily note that these adaptations are "drawing new attention to the novels," reinforcing the global link between screen success and physical book sales.
Context & numbers
- Viewership: Netflix’s Frankenstein adaptation reached the top 10 in 93 countries with over 88 million viewers.
- Sales Impact: The Frankenstein movie tie-in edition saw a 180% sales increase post-release.
- Industry Trend: According to the Publishers Association, 12% of adult fiction purchases by occasional readers are triggered specifically by watching an adaptation.
- Netflix Catalog: Book adaptations now drive nearly 20% of all Netflix viewing hours globally.
On the radar
- Upcoming Releases: Project Hail Mary, People We Meet on Vacation, and East of Eden remain among the most anticipated 2026 adaptations still to come.
- Stephen King Slate: Following the Carrie remake, eight new Stephen King adaptations are in the works, including several for streaming platforms.
- October Streaming: Netflix’s October lineup includes the Josh Hartnett-led limited series Below and East of Eden.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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