Where to start withCity of Bones
2 versions · originally a book, 2008
Themes: Good vs Evil, Coming of Age, Supernatural, Hidden Worlds, Identity.
Start with City of Bones (Cassandra Clare, 2008) — the book. City of Bones exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a book in 2008; each is ranked below by what it does best.
City of Bones chronicles a teenager's sudden discovery of a hidden, supernatural world of half-angel warriors protecting humanity from evil.
✦ Most fans start here
City of Bones (2008)
The original novel
✦ Start hereCity of Bones
Cassandra Clare · Book · 2008
The 2008 book serves as the foundational urban fantasy text, offering the most comprehensive world-building and character development for readers who prefer immersive, long-form narratives over condensed cinematic adaptations.
2013 film
The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones
Harald Zwart · Film · 2013
The 2013 movie adaptation provides a fast-paced visual interpretation of the Shadowhunter universe, ideal for viewers seeking a summarized, action-oriented experience of Clary Fray's initial discovery of her heritage.
Common questions
Should I read the City of Bones book before watching the 2013 movie?
Reading the 2008 City of Bones book first provides the complete narrative context intended by the author. While the 2013 movie The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones adapts the source material, the book contains the full scope of the original story and character development.
Is the 2013 movie The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones based on the 2008 book?
Yes, the 2013 film titled The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones is a direct adaptation of the 2008 novel City of Bones. The film uses the book as its primary source material to portray the events and setting of the story.
What order should I consume the City of Bones media?
The recommended order is to start with the 2008 book City of Bones to experience the foundation of the series. After finishing the book, you can watch the 2013 movie The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones to see how the story was adapted for the screen.
How long has the City of Bones franchise existed?
The City of Bones franchise began with the release of the original book in 2008. Five years later, in 2013, the story was expanded through the release of the film adaptation titled The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones.