While I've never read this book, I've heard numerous times from friends (who have different worldviews, attitudes toward literature, and perspectives on various topics) that this book, or Heart of Darkness, for example, is excellent. Several of these friends wondered if the book could be improved upon and, after some thought, decided that it couldn't be improved upon, because it's perfect.

I plan to watch the series, but I don't know what will come of it.