Novelize: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'novel,' which is a long story meant to be read, paired with the suffix 'ize,' which means to make or do.
• The first known use of 'novelize' dates back to the early 20th century during the rise of adaptations from film to literature.

Literature

• Famous authors like Stephen King have novelized their own screenplays, adding depth to characters and settings.
• The novelization of movies often provides insights that aren't visible on screen, such as inner thoughts of characters.

Film and Television

• Many blockbuster films, like 'Star Wars' and 'Jurassic Park', have been novelized, allowing fans to experience the story in a new way.
• Novelizations can help expand a film’s universe, adding backstory and side plots that enrich the original narrative.

Cultural Impact

• In pop culture, novelizations sometimes receive mixed reviews, with readers either loving the expanded universe or preferring the original film.
• Some novelizations have achieved great success, overshadowing their cinematic counterparts by becoming bestsellers.

Psychology

• Novelizing can engage readers' imaginations as they visualize scenes differently compared to watching a film.
• Readers often connect more deeply with written narratives, which allows them to explore their emotions and thoughts relating to the story.