That the book is better than the movie is generally true, and in an increasingly sanitised and sensitive world, the book is often edgier, nastier, and a little more controversial than the Hollywood version. With that in mind, and inspired by Cork County Council’s library service, this week we’re taking a look at what’s coming up in 2026 so you can order the book now to read over Christmas.

A new adaptation of Wuthering Heights is due starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. It’s not an ‘easy’ read and parts involving the Yorkshire dialect passed this reader by, but nevertheless the Gothic romance endures and young fans of Stranger Things might enjoy the Kate Bush links.

Christopher Nolan is behind The Odyssey, an adaptation of the Greek classic with Matt Damon, while Daisy Edgar-Jones (she of Normal People) is tipped for an upcoming screen version of Sense and Sensibility. Not as funny as Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen’s more ‘serious’ novel is a true romantic indulgence.

For those that like the dark side, the chilling horror novel Incidents Around the House is coming to screen with Jessica Chastain in Other Mommy, while the psychological thriller The Housemaid, a rather dark novel, is to be released in 2026 with Sydney Sweeney in the starring role.

At the other, lighter end of the scale, People we Meet on Vacation is promising some light romance. There are two Colleen Hoover adaptations on the way next year too, Verity (with Anne Hathaway) and Maika Monroe in Reminders of Him.

As always, it’s free to join the library and books can be ordered through the app for delivery to your local branch or to the mobile library. There are no fines for late returns.