TV series · 1977 · American Broadcasting Company
Is Roots based on a book?
Quick answer
Yes. Roots is based on the book Roots: The Saga of an American Family by Alex Haley (1976).
The TV series premiered in 1977 on American Broadcasting Company.
The book behind Roots
Roots: The Saga of an American Family
by Alex Haley · first published 1976 · autobiography, historical fiction, family saga novel
1976 novel by Alex Haley.
Other adaptations of Roots: The Saga of an American Family
- Roots (TV, 2016)
Common questions
Is Roots based on a book?
Yes. Roots is based on the book Roots: The Saga of an American Family by Alex Haley (1976).
Who wrote the book Roots is based on?
Roots: The Saga of an American Family was written by Alex Haley and first published in 1976.
Should I read the book before watching?
If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read Roots: The Saga of an American Family before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the TV series.