If I Were King book cover

Cover via Open Library

Movie · 1938

Is If I Were King based on a book?

Quick answer

Yes. If I Were King is based on the book If I Were King by Justin Huntly McCarthy (1901).

The movie was released in 1938.

The book behind If I Were King

If I Were King cover

If I Were King

by Justin Huntly McCarthy · first published 1901

1901 novel by Justin Huntly McCarthy.

Common questions

Is If I Were King based on a book?

Yes. If I Were King is based on the book If I Were King by Justin Huntly McCarthy (1901).

Who wrote the book If I Were King is based on?

If I Were King was written by Justin Huntly McCarthy and first published in 1901.

Should I read the book before watching?

If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read If I Were King before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the movie.

Facts from Wikidata (CC0). See also Wikipedia.