The book is better than the movie, or so the saying goes. And why not? Books take longer to finish and, therefore, create a longer period of enjoyment, allowing readers to connect with the characters and immerse themselves in the story. They have more details and often more complexity. Books have been enjoyed for more than 2000 years, whereas movies are only a recent phenomenon, over in a flash.

Enter “Daisy Jones & The Six,” a novel written by author Taylor Jenkins Reid and also a newly released series from Amazon Prime Video.

In the world Reid creates, a band called “Daisy Jones & The Six” rose to fame in the 1970s. Their songs were played on every radio, their shows were sold out from coast to coast, their music was known by all. But suddenly, in July of 1979, the band split. When interviewed, every member of the band remembered it differently, the line between music and feelings blurred. This is a story that explores topics like the consequences of fame and the dangers of addiction, while also uplifting and empowering women. 

The novel is set up in the format of an interview, and that is perhaps the most fatal trait of the book. Readers have a disadvantage here. “Daisy Jones & The Six” is first and foremost a story of different voices – seven contrasting, distinct voices – and is not best communicated through ink on paper. 

Amazon Prime seems to have recognized this about the book. The new show is set up as a fictional documentary, the same way the book is set up, but it is more engaging. Viewers are able to watch the emotions and movements of the characters interviewed and feel more immersed than would be possible when reading the book. The show also develops many characters’ backstories to the extent that their lives and later choices seem more genuine and plausible, including one of the main characters, Daisy Jones, and her struggle with addiction. 

The show not only utilizes its special format of storytelling to its fullest extent but also does an incredible job capturing the sights and sounds of the envisioned 1970s, inspired by the rock band Fleetwood Mac. The music, which is essential and arguably also one of the most important aspects the book lacks, comes to life in the show. Viewers of the show can physically hear the songs that caused all the drama, sing along and feel as if they were living the story of “Daisy Jones & The Six.” 

Sometimes, the movie is just better than the book.