I just finished re-watching the Exorcist (an old favorite and halloween tradition in my house) and I was wondering if it was worth reading the book.  Has anyone read the book and does it live up to the movie?

I have a book called Exorcist The Beginning (I've never read it).

From the back of the book

In the aftermath of World War II, Lankester Merrin finds himself in the remote Turkana region of Kenya. Haunted by memories of the war, he has taken a sabbatical from the priesthood and journeyed far from his native Holland. He has come to lead the archeaological excavation of a mysterious, Byzantine church, buried in pristine condition as if on the day it was completed. Directly underneath the church, Merrin discovers a much more ancient crypt-and finds himself face- to -face with unspeakable evil.

Madness descends on the local villagers and the contigent of British soldiers sent to guard the excavation. Merrin watches helplessly as the atrocities of war are repeated against another innocent village-atrocities he'd hoped never to see again. The blood of innocents flows freely on the East African plain, but the horror has only just begun...

It's on my shelf

Christa:)

It is very similar...It has been years upon years since I have read.  It is a good read

I highly enjoyed the book, probably more than the film, it really was a great read.

The book was far and away better than the film. More exploration of the crisis of faith theme, which really is the central plot. Also more creepy stuff. One part in particular still gives me the chills thinking about it.

Book is GREAT! It's spooky without the visuals LOVED it.

There is a sequel to it also. I forget the name now. check that out.