This year there are numerous books represented at the Oscars for various awards. Some are true stories and some are fiction. Children's movies were not overlooked in the nominations.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Based on the story by Roald Dahl (1916-1990) published in 1964. Charlie Bucket and four other children, all with one unique overpowering character trait, win a day with Willy Wonka at his chocolate factory which has been closed to the public for over a decade. The children each won their chance via a "golden ticket" found beneath the wrapper of a Wonka bar. A magical world of chocolate, candy and... judgement awaits each child. Unbeknownst to them only one child will win Wonka's ultimate prize. Written for ages 9-12, Charlie's adventure has delighted children of all ages for decades. This colourful film is only nominated for its costume design.

Purchase Charlie and the Chocolate Factory book from Amazon.com.
Purchase Charlie and the Chocolate Factory movie from Amazon.com.

Official website for movie Charlie & the Chocolate Factory.

Harry Potter, Goblet of Fire - The forth book in J. K. Rowling's (www.jkrowling.com) series on the young wizard. An orphan witch living between the worlds of mortals and magic continues to meet new characters, adversities and have grand adventures as he grows to become a hero among wizards. Science fiction doesn't seem to get much recognition at the Oscars, being nominated for art direction.

Purchase Harry Potter, Goblet of Fire book from Amazon.com.
Purchase Harry Potter, Goblet of Fire movie from Amazon.com.

Official website for the movie Harry Potter, Goblet of Fire.

The Chronicles of Narnia - A timely classic by author C. S. Lewis (1898 - 1963). If you've read any of the Narnia books you know although The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe was published first, it is actually second in sequence in the series of stories on Narnia. The series was originally published throughout the 1950s. During World War II, four children are shipped off to a distant relative for their own safety. In their new abode with dark corners and cold drafts they are left to their own devices finding secret places never thought imaginable. Lucy the youngest is the first to find the magical world of Narnia via a special entrance through an antique wardrobe closet. Her brothers and sisters later follow on an adventure to stay connected and protect both worlds from a bitter danger known as the White Witch. Sadly Narnia is only nominated for visual effects and sound.

Update: The Chronicles of Narnia won an Oscar for makeup.

Purchase The Complete Chronicles of Narnia book from Amazon.com.
Purchase Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe movie from Amazon.com.

Official website for movie The Chronicles of Narnia.

Books at the Oscars:
~ Action
~ Drama

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M. E. Wood lives in Eastern Ontario, Canada. If you are going to find this eclectic reader and writer anywhere it is probably at her computer. For more information visit her official website.