The Kissing Booth: Book vs. Movie

College life is a whirlwind of lectures, assignments, and social activities, leaving little time for leisurely reading or movie nights. However, when it comes to finding a perfect blend of romance, drama, and teenage angst, “The Kissing Booth” manages to draw college students back into the world of teen fiction, either through the book or the movie adaptation. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the nuances, strengths, and weaknesses of both versions, helping you decide which one to dive into during your precious moments of relaxation. 

The Book: A Deeper Dive into Elle’s World

Beth Reekles’ “The Kissing Booth” was initially a Wattpad sensation before it became a published novel. For those who enjoy the immersive experience of a book, there’s much to savor within its pages.

Character Depth and Development 

One of the book’s most significant advantages is its ability to provide a more profound exploration of the characters’ inner lives. Elle, our protagonist, faces complex situations involving her friendship with Lee and her secret romance with his older brother, Noah. In the book, readers gain access to her inner thoughts, fears, and hopes, making her a well-rounded and relatable character. You get to understand her motivations, her struggles, and her personal growth more intimately. 

Subplots and Side Stories

Books inherently have more space to explore subplots and side stories. “The Kissing Booth” is no exception. It delves into Elle’s life beyond the titular kissing booth, introducing us to her family, her relationships outside of the central trio, and her personal struggles. These additional layers contribute to a richer narrative, offering readers a more immersive experience. 

Your Imagination as the Set Designer

One of the beauties of reading a book is that it allows you to create your own mental movie. You visualize the characters, settings, and events according to your imagination. This personal connection between the reader and the story can be incredibly rewarding, as it lets you craft your unique interpretation of the tale. 

The Movie: A Visual Spectacle

The transition from page to screen often brings a new set of dynamics into play. Vince Marcello’s movie adaptation of “The Kissing Booth” captures the essence of the story while adding its visual flair. 

Visual Storytelling

Movies have a knack for visual storytelling. Through cinematography, costumes, and set design, they create a captivating world that viewers can instantly step into. For college students seeking a more visually stimulating experience, the movie adaptation offers precisely that. 

The Essence of the Story 

While movies inevitably condense certain elements to fit within a typical runtime, “The Kissing Booth” manages to maintain the essence of the story. The central plot, the love triangle, and the challenges Elle faces are all present, albeit with some minor tweaks and omissions. In essence, the film remains faithful to the heart of the narrative. 

Book vs. Movie: What do you choose? 

For college students juggling classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities, accessibility and convenience play a pivotal role in choosing between a book and a movie. 

The Book: A Quiet Escape

Books are readily available in libraries and bookstores, and college students often have the option to borrow them for free from their institution’s library. Reading a book offers a quiet, introspective experience—a perfect escape during breaks between classes or for unwinding during late-night reading sessions. 

The Movie: Streamlined Entertainment

On the other hand, movies are just a click away, accessible through various streaming platforms. Their availability makes them a convenient choice for college students. Hosting a movie night with friends can be a fun way to relax and socialize after a hectic week of classes and assignments. 

The Verdict: A Matter of Preference 

Now that we’ve delved into the nuances of both versions of “The Kissing Booth,” it’s time to decide which one is right for you. 

Choose the Book If: 

ou crave in-depth character development. The book provides a more profound exploration of the characters’ inner lives and motivations. 

You enjoy a richer narrative with subplots and side stories. If you relish the extra layers of storytelling, the book has more to offer in this department. 

You want to be the director of your mental movie. Reading allows your imagination to take center stage, creating a personalized interpretation of the story. 

Choose the Movie If: 

You prefer visual storytelling. Movies excel at creating captivating visual worlds, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. 

You want a streamlined yet faithful adaptation. The film captures the essence of the story while maintaining its core elements. 

You seek convenient entertainment. Movies are easily accessible through streaming platforms, making them a hassle-free choice for busy college students. 

Conclusion: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds 

In the end, the choice between the book and the movie adaptation of “The Kissing Booth” comes down to your personal preferences. Some college students may even choose to enjoy both, appreciating the story in all its forms. So, whether you decide to lose yourself in the pages of the book or immerse yourself in the visual spectacle of the movie, “The Kissing Booth” promises a delightful escape into the world of teenage romance, friendship, and self-discovery. Whichever medium you choose, remember that the magic of storytelling can be a welcome break from the rigors of college life.