Read First or Watch First?

I am Number Four
By Pittacus Lore

This week I did something I normally never do. I watched the movie of I Am Number Four before reading the book. Although I enjoyed both, I would have to say, I preferred the book.

I Am Number Four Is about one of nine aliens with extraordinary gifts, from a planet called Lorien, sent to earth to fully develop their powers, so that they may one day return to Lorien and save their planet. However, not everyone thinks this is such a great idea. Mogadorians, the bad aliens, are hunting down each gifted child, in number order.

This story follows, as the title suggests, the fourth of these aliens, and the Mogadorians’ next target, as he moves to Paradise, Ohio, and tries, again, to have a “normal” life.

There are only a few major differences between the book and the movie, for example, the death of a certain character happens later on in the book than in the movie, and the first time you see the Mogadorians (or Mogs) in the book is the final battle, whereas in the movie, they appear throughout. Then in the category of minor differences, there are details like who goes where when, that are to be expected.

I liked the book over the movie for a number of reasons. One is that Sarah, the love interest, is more feisty in the book. Not that she isn't a strong character in the movie, but does she stab a Mog in the film? No. I also don't think Alex Pettyfer fully carried off the grittiness of his character.(Might I just say, however, the token Aussie in the film is pretty awesome.)

I would recommend reading the book first, but have a look at the movie too, it's worth watching.

Feisty chick-o-meter: 7/10

Age rating: 13

Rating: 7/10

Stand alone or series: Series