This post is sponsored by Johnson County Library.
There’s nothing quite like finding your next favorite read—especially when it feels like a perfect match for a beloved TV show or movie. Whether you’re drawn to thrilling mysteries, heartfelt comedies, or epic Sci-Fi adventures, the right book can transport you to a world that feels both familiar and excitingly new. We’ve paired some of today’s most popular shows and films with must-read books that capture similar vibes, themes, or emotions. Dive in and discover your next binge-worthy story—on the page!
Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story + Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey
Love and football take center stage in both this movie and Bailey’s playful rom-com. While the Chiefs fanbase provides the perfect backdrop for a romance in Holiday Touchdown, Fangirl Down delivers a sizzling story of a down-on-his-luck golfer who enlists the help of his biggest fan to get his mojo back. Both explore the charm of fandoms—whether for a team or a person—and the way passion connects people.
Wicked + Weyward by Emilia Hart
If you were mesmerized by Wicked’s untold stories of powerful women, Weyward offers a
similarly spellbinding tale. This book interweaves the lives of three generations of women, each with ties to nature and a touch of magic. Both delve into the misunderstood and the hidden forces that shape their protagonists’ lives but Weyward leans into historical and feminist themes.
Only Murders in the Building + The Thursday Murder Club Series by Richard Osman
Fans of amateur sleuths and quirky characters will adore both Only Murders in the Building and Osman’s mystery series. While the show focuses on a trio unraveling crimes in their apartment building, The Thursday Murder Club follows retirees cracking cold cases in their community. Both mix humor and suspense, but Osman’s books come with a delightful British twist.
Abbott Elementary + The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Mathieu
The hilarious and heartfelt chaos of public schools in Abbott Elementary finds its literary match in The Faculty Lounge. This collection of anecdotes captures the highs, lows, and unfiltered truths of life as a teacher. Both explore the humanity and humor of educators who persevere in the face of absurdity.
Yellowstone + Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon
If you’re drawn to Yellowstone’s rugged landscapes and complex relationships, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Harmon’s Where the Lost Wander. Set on the Oregon Trail, this historical romance explores themes of survival, love, and the unforgiving wilderness. While Yellowstone focuses on family drama, Harmon’s novel adds a poignant layer of historical depth.
RuPaul’s Drag Race + The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul
Glam, grit, and self-discovery connect RuPaul’s Drag Race and RuPaul’s The House of Hidden Meanings. The book accompanies the show’s celebration of individuality, offering readers wisdom and humor alongside RuPaul’s iconic flair. Both are a vibrant exploration of identity and resilience.
Saturday Night Live + Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones
The comedic chaos of Saturday Night Live is brought to life in Leslie Jones’s memoir. Her sharp wit and behind-the-scenes stories give readers an insider’s look at the world of sketch comedy. Both celebrate the energy and creativity of live performance, with Jones’s book adding a deeply personal and inspiring edge. (Editor’s note: listening to the audiobook will take you twice as long but can be compared to listening to a 17-hour-long stand-up comedy routine. Highly recommended!)
Baby Reindeer + There is No Ethan by Anna Akbari.
If you were captivated by Baby Reindeer’s raw emotional intensity and disturbing digital relationships, There is No Ethan delivers a similarly gripping narrative. Akbari’s exploration of an unsettling online relationship blurs the line between obsession, connection, and possession. Both are provocative, thought-provoking, and impossible to forget.
Dune + The Dark Matter Series by Blake Crouch
Fans of Dune’s sprawling Sci-Fi epic will appreciate the mind-bending twists of Blake
Crouch’s Dark Matter series. Both explore parallel worlds and the power of choice, but
while Dune focuses on intergalactic politics and destiny, Dark Matter zooms in on personal
identity and love across dimensions.
Child Star + One in a Millennial by Kate Kennedy
The documentary Child Star, hosted by Demi Lovato, offers an intimate look into the unique
challenges and triumphs of growing up in the spotlight, featuring interviews with iconic child stars like Drew Barrymore, Raven-Symoné, and Kenan Thompson. Similarly, Kate Kennedy’s essay collection One in a Millennial dives into the pop culture moments of the early 2000s that defined a generation. Both explore the impact of fame, nostalgia, and identity, blending humor and heart to reflect on the awkward, transformative experiences that shape us.
Ready to keep the storytelling magic alive? These pairings are just the beginning of what’s
waiting for you on the shelves of your local library. If you’re looking for personalized
recommendations or have questions about what to read next, the friendly librarians at Johnson County Library are always more than willing to help. Happy reading!
