Disclosure: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. And in some cases, Amazon.
Alright, let’s dive in by acknowledging we weren’t quite ready for the rollercoaster of emotions served up in Netflix’s rendition of David Nicholls’ One Day. This 14-part series chronicles the journey of friends-turned-lovers Dex (played by Leo Woodall) and Emma (portrayed by Ambika Mod) across nearly two decades. And for die-hard book enthusiasts, rest assured, the adaptation stays remarkably faithful to the source material. From the meticulous set design to snippets of dialogue and wardrobe choices, it’s a faithful homage.
Yet, in the Netflix adaptation, a few tweaks steer the narrative in slightly different directions than the original book. But fear not, these alterations don’t detract from the overall charm of the series; if anything, they enhance it, adding a fresh perspective to the beloved tale.
Dex & Emma’s story
Following their fateful encounter at Edinburgh University on July 15, 1988 (aptly, St Swithin’s Day), Dex and Emma embark on separate paths, intermittently crossing each other’s lives while maintaining friendship, and a lingering romantic bond.
Spanning 14 episodes, the series gracefully navigates through their evolving lives, culminating in a poignant finale set in 2005. Each era is beautifully punctuated by nostalgic music and fashion, offering a captivating glimpse into the changing times.
I must say I initially struggled with the series as I’d already read the novel and had a image of Dex and Emma. I especially found it hard to separate Leo Woodall from his performance as Jack in season 2 of The White Lotus. However after only a couple of episodes he’d won me over and I was fully invested.
Based on David Nicholls’ 2009 novel of the same name, the series is a faithful adaptation that will leave you yearning for more. For those enamoured with the show and eager to delve into the original tale or simply prefer to read the book first, here’s how to get your hands on the bestselling novel.
‘One Day’ by David Nicholls – £7.49 Amazon
Book or Series, Who Wins?
In the ultimate showdown between book and series, there’s no denying the allure of Netflix’s faithful adaptation of David Nicholls’ “One Day.” It’s a visual feast that brings the characters and their journey to life in breathtaking detail. Yet, as captivating as the series may be, there’s a unique magic to immersing oneself in the pages of the original novel. Through Nicholls’ prose, you forge a deeper connection with Dex, Emma, and their intertwining lives, experiencing their triumphs and tribulations firsthand.
So, if you find yourself yearning for a more intimate and immersive experience, why not pick up a copy of the bestselling book? Dive into the pages of “One Day” and embark on an emotional rollercoaster that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
