Has anyone on this message board actually read the book?

Rating: Null/10 (15 November 2004)

I am not typically a PC person who says "the film spoiled the book." However, in this case, I think this is largely true. Granted, I don't work in the film industry so maybe the $130 million effects were lost on me. Give me the $18.95 book anytime!! The simple language of a short book was spoiled by a 100-minute Hollywoodfied film. Take the page in the book describing the boy's hot cocoa. Rich imagery! However, in the film, it is turned into a major song and dance routine with less effect. The film is way too long, and the animation bizarre. The lead African-American character (a decent addition to the story in the book) looks peculiar. Braces on her teeth or no??
The book is magical for all ages with the mysterious illustrations. When attending the movie, everal 5-year old kids in our group were totally freaked out, and wanted to leave. Tom Hanks and the author of the book totally sold out in, my opinion!