In the first half of 2026, we’ve seen several stories leap successfully from the page to the big screen. From Emily Brontë’s timeless classic Wuthering Heights to new favorites like People We Meet on Vacation and The Housemaid, audiences continue to embrace stories that found their initial audiences as books, comics, and graphic novels. In the latter half of the year, there’s even more to look forward to! With upcoming releases like Heartstopper Forever, Sunrise on the Reaping, and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, film lovers are booked and busy! Make sure you stop by the library to pick up a copy of the book before you see each film– you never know what details the screen adaption will leave out (or add in) that will change your entire perception of the story!
Heartstopper Forever
Alice Oseman
Nick and Charlie’s love story continues as they face the realities of growing up, changing priorities, and the challenges of a long-distance relationship. With Nick preparing to leave for university and Charlie discovering new independence, their relationship faces its biggest test yet.
The film finale of the Heartstopper series brings the bestselling graphic novels by Alice Oseman to a heartfelt conclusion.
Release Date: July 17, 2026
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Stan Lee and Steve Ditko
Peter Parker returns for a thrilling new chapter as Spider-Man. Following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Peter is living a new life in a world that no longer remembers him. As he dedicates himself fully to protecting New York City, he faces powerful new challenges that will test the limits of his abilities.
Starring Tom Holland as Peter Parker, with Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, and Mark Ruffalo, this highly anticipated Marvel adventure swings into theaters in 2026.
Release Date: July 31, 2026
One Hundred Years of Solitude Part 2
Gabriel García Márquez
The story of Macondo continues as the Buendía family faces political unrest, personal struggles, and the arrival of forces that will forever change their legendary town.
As the railroad connects Macondo to the outside world, the rise of the banana industry brings both opportunity and destruction. This continuation of the acclaimed adaptation explores the magical realism, family legacy, and unforgettable characters of Gabriel García Márquez’s masterpiece.
Release Date: August 2026
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s timeless romance continues to capture hearts centuries after its first publication. Sharp-witted Elizabeth Bennet and proud Mr. Darcy must overcome misunderstandings and first impressions before discovering an unexpected love.
A new Netflix adaptation arrives as a six-part series starring Emma Corrin, Jack Lowden, and Olivia Colman. The series is written by Dolly Alderton, bestselling author of Good Material and Everything I Know About Love.
Release Date: Fall 2026
Practical Magic 2
Alice Hoffman
In this spellbinding New York Times bestseller, the Owens family has been haunted by a centuries-old curse — but three generations of women are determined to finally break it.
Fans of both the novel and the beloved Practical Magic films will be thrilled to return to this magical world, with a new sequel arriving on screen starring Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock.
Release Date: September 18, 2026
The Love Hypothesis
Ali Hazelwood
Olive Smith is a brilliant PhD candidate who has no time for romance — until she creates a fake relationship to convince her best friend she’s moved on. The plan becomes complicated when she kisses none other than Dr. Adam Carlsen, a famously intimidating professor.
What begins as a pretend arrangement soon turns into an unexpected experiment in love. Fans of romantic comedies won’t want to miss this beloved bestseller’s upcoming film adaptation.
Release Date: September 23, 2026
Verity
Colleen Hoover
Struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh receives the opportunity of a lifetime: completing a bestselling book series for author Verity Crawford, who is unable to communicate after a tragic accident.
While staying in the Crawford home, Lowen discovers Verity’s shocking unfinished autobiography — leaving her caught between revealing the truth and using it to her own advantage.
The film adaptation stars Anne Hathaway as Verity Crawford, Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford, and Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh.
Release Date: October 2, 2026
Remain
Nicholas Sparks & M. Night Shyamalan
Two acclaimed storytellers join forces for a gripping blend of romance, suspense, and the supernatural.
When grieving architect Tate Donovan meets the mysterious Wren during a summer on Cape Cod, their connection draws him into a world of family secrets, hidden dangers, and questions surrounding the fragile line between life and death.
The film adaptation stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Tate and Phoebe Dynevor as Wren.
Release Date: October 23, 2026
Click here to see Nicholas Sparks and M. Night Shyamalan join “CBS Mornings” to discuss the story.
Sunrise on the Reaping
Suzanne Collins
Return to the world of The Hunger Games in this explosive prequel centered on Haymitch Abernathy and the 50th Hunger Games.
During the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes are forced into the deadly arena. Torn from his loved ones in District 12, Haymitch must rely on courage, strategy, and unexpected alliances to survive while uncovering the forces working against him.
Release Date: November 20, 2026
Dune Part Three
Frank Herbert
The epic journey of Paul Atreides, also known as Muad’Dib, continues in this legendary science fiction classic. As Paul’s influence expands across the universe, he must protect his legacy while confronting powerful enemies determined to bring him down.
Timothée Chalamet returns as Paul Atreides in Dune: Part Three, directed by Denis Villeneuve.
Release Date: December 18, 2026
Guarding Stars
Katherine Center
Hannah Brooks has built a successful career as a protection agent for high-profile clients around the world. But guarding famous, reclusive actor Jack Stapleton takes an unexpected turn when Hannah finds herself relocating to his family’s Texas ranch — and adding “fake girlfriend” to her résumé.
Based on Katherine Center’s bestselling novel, the Netflix adaptation Guarding Stars stars Jared Padalecki and Leighton Meester.
Release Date: Late 2026
A Dog’s Perfect Christmas
Based on A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron
This heartwarming holiday story follows a family facing difficult times as a teenager, her grandfather, and a loyal basset hound work together to bring their household back together during Christmas.
Based on W. Bruce Cameron’s bestselling novel, the film celebrates family, hope, and the special bond between people and their pets.
Release Date: Late 2026
Click here to read more about the film from its production company, Fezziwig Studios.
The Magician’s Nephew
C. S. Lewis
Travel back to the beginning of the beloved Narnia universe in this enchanting prequel. Through the mysterious Wood between the Worlds, Digory and Polly discover countless realms — including the world where they awaken Queen Jadis and witness Aslan’s creation of Narnia.
Directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Emma Mackey and Daniel Craig, the film will arrive in theaters before moving to Netflix during the holiday season.
Release Date: February 12, 2027
Click here to read an article about the film’s release.
While you wait for these new releases, visit the library to check out our collection of thousands of Blu-Rays and DVDs waiting to be watched! If you don’t see what you’re searching for, you can place a hold on a film from another library by visiting the PrairieCat website on any device with wifi, downloading and logging into the user-friendly PrairieCat mobile app on your smart phone or tablet, or stopping by the Adult Reference desk! If none of the libraries in our consortium have the film you’re interested in, you can suggest a purchase by filling out the simple form at dkpl.org/suggest-a-purchase! As soon as you submit the form, one of our librarians will give your suggestion careful attention and let you know if we choose to make the purchase.
We invite you to come create, collaborate, and grow with us at DeKalb Public Library! If you have questions about our building, services, materials, or any suggestions, please reach out to us at [email protected] or 815-756-9568 ext. 2150, or stop by and see us during our open hours. Happy reading!