Quick answer
That matters because a trilogy gives the world more room to develop. The books can spend time on the setting, the rules of the magic system, and the character relationships in a way a screen version usually cannot.
The source books, in order
If you want the original story, start here:
- La Resistencia
- Tríada
- Panteón
Read them in that order. The series is built to be experienced as a sequence, not as separate standalones.
If you are trying to buy or borrow the right editions, search for Memorias de Idhún and Laura Gallego García together. That is the clearest way to find the books, whether you want print, Kindle, or audio.
What the adaptation changes by nature
A screen adaptation has to make hard choices. Even when it stays loyal to the original story, it usually has to move faster than the books. That means some parts get condensed, some side threads are trimmed, and some explanations arrive in a simpler form.
For a fantasy series like this, that can be a real difference. The novels have more room for:
- slower world-building
- longer character arcs
- more detail around the story’s mythology
- a clearer sense of how the fantasy world fits together
So if you want the fullest version of the story, the books are the place to start. If you want the basic premise first and the extra detail later, the show can still be a good doorway into the world.
Who should start with the books
Reading first is the better choice if you:
- like fantasy series with a lot of lore
- want the story in its most complete form
- prefer following characters across multiple books
- enjoy seeing how an adaptation handles a larger source material
The trilogy format also helps if you do not want the story broken into a quick, simplified version. Books give you time to settle into the setting and understand the relationships before the plot moves ahead.
Who can start with the show
Watching first makes sense if you:
- want a faster introduction to the world
- are not sure whether the series style is for you
- prefer a visual version before committing to three books
- like using the adaptation as a preview, then going back to the source material
That is a perfectly good path. Some readers like to watch first, then read the trilogy for the fuller version and the details the show has to leave out.
Best format if you want to read it
If you decide to read the source material, the format you choose should match how you actually finish books:
- Print works well if you like seeing the trilogy as a physical set.
- Kindle is handy if you want quick search, notes, and easy travel reading.
- Audible is a strong choice if you prefer listening while commuting, cooking, or doing chores.
There is no single best format for everyone. The best choice is the one that gets you through the trilogy in order.
Should you skip it?
You probably should if you only want a short, self-contained story. This is a trilogy, so it asks for more time and attention than a single-book adaptation.
If you are mainly looking for a fast watch with no commitment afterward, the show alone may be enough. But if you care about seeing where the story started, the books are the better place to begin.
Bottom line
Yes, The Idhun Chronicles is based on a book series — specifically Memorias de Idhún by Laura Gallego García. It is not a standalone novel adaptation; it comes from a trilogy. Start with La Resistencia if you want the original story in order, then continue through Tríada and Panteón.
If you want the fullest experience, read the trilogy first. If you want a quicker entry point, watch the adaptation and return to the books after.
FAQ
Is The Idhun Chronicles based on a book?
Yes. It is based on Memorias de Idhún by Laura Gallego García.
Is it based on one book or several?
It is based on three books.
What is the first book?
The first book is La Resistencia.
Should I read the books before watching?
If you want the most complete version of the story, yes. If you want a quicker introduction, the show can come first.
Is the adaptation the same as the books?
Not exactly. It follows the same core story, but a screen version has to condense and streamline material.
What is the best way to start?
Begin with La Resistencia and read the trilogy in order.