Book Nerds Across America

So, The Fifth Wave is our monthly read along for January on Book Nerds Across America. We chose it with the express goal of having the book read before the movie was released. I was successful and was also lucky enough to win tickets to a pre-screening of the movie on Wednesday night.

This was an interesting situation for me because I literally just finished the book a few days ago. Usually with these book to movie adaptations, it's been years since I've read the book. But I went into this movie with Rick Yancey's words very clear in my mind. And I can say that they did a very good job sticking to the story line in the book. There was one big thing that was missing and a few smaller events that were slightly altered, but for the most part it was spot on. Unfortunately, there was also some cheesy dialogue added that didn't need to be there. 

The movie moved along at a fast pace but not too fast. (Again, with book to movie adaptations, I often find myself thinking in the movie, "We're at this part already?!" I didn't do that with The 5th Wave.) As is almost always the case, we lost some of the depth that the book provided. I didn't feel like we got to spend much time with Cassie and Evan at the house or with Zombie's squad. So, unfortunately, when something big happened within Zombie's squad, it didn't have the effect that I felt in the book and that I felt it should have. 

Little thing I missed? Zombie trying to make Ringer smile. That was cute. I wish they'd kept that in there. The Scene of Realization (which is what I'll call it in hopes that I'm being non-spoilery, but those that have seen it will still understand what I mean) seemed too big and too out of nowhere to really ring true and inspire subsequent events to me.

But, overall, I was very entertained and I'm glad I saw the movie. I think book fans will not be disappointed. I'm curious about those who haven't read the book.

Please let me know your thoughts on the movie in the comments below!