There’s something incredibly magical about stories told through letters, diaries, and/or interviews—it feels so personal, like you’re spying into someone’s world. Whether you love classic literature, rom-coms, or classic horror, there’s an epistolary novel (and its film adaptation!) for every mood.
Epistolary novels pull you in with that intimacy, making you feel like you’re right there with them, writing or reading the letter. And when these stories make their way to the screen, it’s always fascinating to see how films bring them to life—sometimes staying true to the format, other times completely reimagining the way the story unfolds.
Here’s a book & movie pairing for each month of the year to match the vibe of the season.
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12 Epistolary Novels For The Year
January: Frankenstein
Author: Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Film Adaptation Date: 1931 (iconic adaptation
This gothic classic unfolds through letters, revealing Victor Frankenstein’s obsession with creating life—and the absolute horror that follows. The 1931 film adaptation may take some liberties, but it still delivers on the eerie atmosphere and existential dread.
Why January? Cold, dark nights? Check. Themes of isolation and playing God? Also check. Perfect for a winter read that chills in more ways than one.
February: The Princess Diaries
Author: Meg Cabot
Film Adaptation Date: 2001
Mia Thermopolis goes from awkward teen to royal princess, all while chronicling her journey in her diary. The 2001 adaptation with Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews is pure feel-good perfection.
Why February? It’s the month of love, fresh starts, and feel-good transformations—just like Mia’s journey.
March: The Color Purple
Author: Alice Walker
Film Adaptation Date: 1985
Told through letters, this powerful novel explores Celie’s resilience, love, and self-discovery. The film adaptation brings the emotions to life beautifully.
Why March? It’s Women’s History Month, and this story of strength and sisterhood deserves the spotlight.
April: Lady Susan
Author: Jane Austen
Film Adaptation Date: 2016 (Love & Friendship)
Austen’s sharp-witted Lady Susan schemes her way through high society, revealed through deliciously manipulative letters. The Love & Friendship adaptation makes it even funnier.
Why April? Spring is for fresh beginnings and social shenanigans, and no one does those better than Lady Susan.
May: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Author: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Film Adaptation Date: 2018
Through heartfelt letters, this novel explores WWII’s aftermath, the power of literature, and unexpected love. The adaptation is charming and warm—like a literal cozy cup of tea.
Why May? Spring is all about renewal, and this story is a beautiful reminder of resilience and rebuilding.
June: Bridget Jones’s Diary
Author: Helen Fielding
Film Adaptation Date: 2001
Bridget’s diary is a hilarious, messy, and all-too-relatable account of dating, self-improvement, and general chaos. The film adaptation? Iconic.
Why June? The start of summer calls for lighthearted, laugh-out-loud fun, and Bridget delivers.
July: Dracula
Author: Bram Stoker
Film Adaptation Date: 1992
Told through diary entries and letters, Dracula is gothic horror at its finest. The 1992 film by Coppola is a visually stunning, eerie take on the classic.
Why July? Because reading Dracula on a warm summer night with a candle flickering is a whole vibe.
August: Daisy Jones & The Six
Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
Film Adaptation Date: 2023 (TV series)
A ‘70s rock band’s rise and fall, told through interviews. The adaptation brings the era’s music and drama to life in a way that feels like watching history unfold.
Why August? Long, hot days call for a sizzling rock ‘n’ roll drama.
September: 84, Charing Cross Road
Author: Helene Hanff
Film Adaptation Date: 1987
A delightful true story told through letters between a New York writer and a London bookseller. The film adaptation captures the warmth of their literary friendship.
Why September? It gives off cozy You’ve Got Mail vibes—perfect for back-to-school season and crisp autumn days.
October: Carrie
Author: Stephen King
Film Adaptation Date: 1976
Told through letters and news clippings, Carrie is a slow-burn horror story with an unforgettable finale. It’s a horror classic.
Why October? It’s spooky season, and Carrie’s prom night is as chilling as it gets.
November: Go Ask Alice
Author: Anonymous
Film Adaptation Date: 1973
A haunting (and controversial) diary of a teenager’s descent into addiction. The adaptation captures the raw, unsettling reality of the story.
Why November? As the days grow darker, this introspective and heavy read fits the Autumn mood.
December: The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Author: Stephen Chbosky
Film Adaptation Date: 2012
Charlie’s letters document his struggles, friendships, and coming-of-age moments. The film, directed by the author, captures all the emotions beautifully.
Why December? A story about belonging, friendship, and finding your place in the world—perfect for the holiday season.
There you have it—12 epistolary novels and their film adaptations to read and watch throughout the year! These stories prove that letters (even in our insanely digital age — although I guess we could count emails?) still hold incredible power.
