“Daisy Jones & The Six” is one of those rare stories where I loved the TV series just as much as the book. This is my favorite novel by Taylor Jenkins Reid, even though “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” seems to be more popular. I really liked that book too, but “Daisy Jones & The Six” has a special place in my heart. I’ve read it twice and recently listened to the audiobook. The series? I’ve watched it several times and am rewatching it now. The 70s LA setting, a fictional rock band, and a love that can never be—all of it just draws me in.
(This blog post contains spoilers.)
Daisy Jones & The Six: The Book
The Good
The book is written as an interview with different band members, and Reid does a great job making each voice unique. The story is easy to follow and full of emotions—it’s funny, sad, and cool all at once. The attraction between Billy and Daisy feels real and believable. The band’s journey and the internal tensions are really interesting. Reid’s portrayal of addiction and the rock star life in the 70s adds a lot of depth.
The Less Good
It can be frustrating that Billy and Daisy never really express their love for each other or get together physically (at least, we can’t be sure they did). But this also adds to the book’s charm. I didn’t like that so much time passes without them seeing each other. Even with Camila’s blessing, they’re older now, and whatever they could have had won’t be the same. The ending also felt a bit abrupt to me.
Daisy Jones & The Six: The TV Series
The Good
I love Sam Claflin in anything, and he was great as Billy. Riley Keough was an amazing Daisy, really capturing the character well. The rest of the cast was good too. It’s impressive that they learned to play instruments and sing, almost becoming a real band. Some of the songs, especially “The River,” are really good. The chemistry between Billy and Daisy is strong, and their kisses, which weren’t in the book, add to the story.
The Less Good
Claflin looks a bit too old to play someone in his early to mid-20s. On the other hand, the actors in the interview scenes don’t look like they’re in their 40s. The makeup and hair changes don’t quite work. The album in the show is good, but it doesn’t feel like it would make them a world-famous band. Some of the costumes don’t fit the era well—Karen is too fancy, and Daisy isn’t wild enough. Camila Morrone is good as Camila, but she’s not quite what I pictured from the book. The show makes her look weaker than she is in the novel.
Would I watch a second season? Definitely. Should they make one? Probably not. I’ll keep rereading and rewatching this story instead!
