Similarly, Six of Crows, the gritty fantasy heist duology set in the Grishaverse
Five popular novels, including Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows and Madeline Miller's The Song of Achilles, remain without screen adaptations that fully honor their source material, according to a recent analysis by entertainment journalist Amanda M. Castro. Published in September 2026, the piece highlights how these critically acclaimed works continue to captivate readers while waiting for television or film treatments that preserve their core themes, character depth, and narrative complexity. Castro, a Network TV writer at Collider and associate editor at Newsweek, argues that streaming platforms and studios have overlooked these titles despite their proven audience appeal and cultural resonance. The Song of Achilles, Miller's retelling of the Iliad from Patroclus' perspective, has sold millions of copies worldwide and won the Orange Prize for Fiction, yet no adaptation has moved beyond early development talks.
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Ben Affleck's Gone Girl Remains a Benchmark in Modern Thriller CinemaSimilarly, Six of Crows, the gritty fantasy heist duology set in the Grishaverse, maintains a devoted fanbase eager to see Kaz Brekker's crew brought to life with the moral ambiguity and intricate plotting intact. Castro notes that both books rely heavily on internal monologue and subtle relationship dynamics, elements often lost in visual media when studios prioritize action over introspection. She cites the success of adaptations like Normal People and Shogun as proof that audiences reward fidelity to source material when handled with care. Why Faithfulness Matters More Than Ever Adaptations that stray too far from their literary origins risk alienating the very readers who made the books successful, Castro warns. She points to fan backlash against projects that altered key character motivations or erased queer subtexts, particularly in works like The Song of Achilles where the central romance is integral to the story's emotional power.
According to Castro, studios sometimes underestimate how much viewers value
According to Castro, studios sometimes underestimate how much viewers value authenticity, especially in genres like fantasy and literary fiction where world-building and psychological depth are paramount. She emphasizes that faithful does not mean literal, but rather a commitment to preserving the spirit, themes, and emotional truth of the original work. What Would a Successful Adaptation Look Like? Castro suggests that limited series formats offer the best chance for these novels, allowing sufficient time to develop complex arcs without rushing pivotal moments. For Six of Crows, she envisions a show that balances the high-stakes heist sequences with quieter scenes exploring the trauma and loyalty binding the Dregs. Regarding The Song of Achilles, she advocates for a restrained visual style that lets the language and intimacy of Miller's prose shine through, possibly using voiceover to retain Patroclus' reflective narration.
Both projects, she argues, would benefit from involving the authors as consultants and hiring directors known for character-driven storytelling. Frequently Asked Questions Why haven't these books been adapted yet despite their popularity? Castro explains that rights issues, perceived risks in adapting niche genres, and studios' preference for established franchises have delayed projects, though streaming demand for quality literary adaptations is growing. Could a faithful adaptation still attract mainstream audiences? Yes, Castro cites the global success of adaptations like The Lord of the Rings and Bridgerton as evidence that viewers embrace complex, character-rich stories when they are well-executed, regardless of genre. What role should authors play in the adaptation process? While not requiring creative control, Castro believes authors should be consulted to ensure key themes and character intentions are respected, especially in works with deeply personal or culturally significant elements.
