Film & TV Entertainment

What’s Different About the Alternate Version of ‘Home Alone 2’?

For many fans, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) isn’t just a sequel—it’s a cornerstone of holiday traditions. Directed by Chris Columbus and starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, the film offers a festive blend of laughter, heart, and action as Kevin navigates the streets of New York while fending off the ever-bumbling Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern). But if you think you’ve experienced all this sequel has to offer, think again—because the holiday favorite has been reimagined in a whole new medium.

Introducing “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York: The Classic Illustrated Storybook.” Perfect for families or fans looking for a fresh way to experience Kevin’s escapades, this adaptation brings the film’s charm to life in a colorful, whimsical format.

Published as part of the POP CLASSICS series—which has also adapted iconic stories like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Jaws, and Back to the Future—this storybook version of Home Alone 2 is a delightful way to relive Kevin’s adventures. Illustrated by Kim Smith, the book transforms the larger-than-life antics of the film into a beautifully crafted picture book designed to appeal to readers of all ages.

Kevin and the Wet Bandits in 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'
Credit: 20th Century Studios

The official synopsis promises a “lively, colorful picture book” that captures “iconic moments and characters of the original” while offering a fresh storytelling experience. In fact, the publisher humorously suggests that the movie itself might feel like an adaptation of this vibrant storybook, rather than the other way around.

From Kevin’s iconic run-in with the Pigeon Lady (Brenda Fricker) to his ingenious use of booby traps against the “Sticky Bandits,” the storybook distils these memorable moments into a format that’s accessible for younger audiences while retaining all the heart and humor of the film. It’s a perfect introduction for children too young to enjoy the movie’s slapstick violence, or for longtime fans who want to add a nostalgic keepsake to their collection.

Kevin and the Wet Bandits in 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'
Credit: 20th Century Studios

Related: Disney Unveils a Special ‘Home Alone’ Experience This Winter

Much like the movie, the storybook adaptation also captures the magic of Kevin’s holiday in New York City. From the majestic Plaza Hotel (with its hilariously eccentric staff, including Tim Curry’s Mr. Hector) to the heart-warming scenes at Mr. Duncan’s cozy toy store, every page is filled with nostalgia and holiday cheer.

The book also highlights Kevin’s emotional journey, particularly his touching friendship with the Pigeon Lady. Their connection serves as the emotional core of the story, reminding readers of the importance of kindness and understanding during the holiday season.

Where to Watch—and Read—Home Alone 2

If you’re eager to watch Home Alone 2: Lost in New York this Christmas, the movie is streaming on Disney+ alongside the entire Home Alone franchise. But for those who want to experience the story in a new way, the storybook adaptation is an excellent companion piece.

Whether you’re introducing a new generation to the magic of Kevin McCallister or simply revisiting a holiday favorite in a fresh format, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York: The Classic Illustrated Storybook” is a must-have. Its colorful illustrations and charming retelling of the film make it a delightful addition to any family’s holiday traditions.

Kevin McCallister in 'Home Alone'
Credit: 20th Century Studios

Related: If ‘Die Hard’ Isn’t a Christmas Movie, Neither Is ‘Home Alone’

“Kevin McCallister is in New York City with enough money to turn the Big Apple into his own playground!” the official Disney+ description reads. “But Kevin won’t be alone for long. The notorious Wet Bandits, Harry and Marv, still smarting from their last encounter with Kevin, are bound for New York too, plotting a huge holiday heist. Kevin’s ready to welcome them with a battery of booby traps the bumbling bandits will never forget!”

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York stars Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, Joe Pesci as Harry Lyme, Daniel Stern as Marv Murchins, Catherine O’Hara as Kate McCallister, John Heard as Peter McCallister, Devin Ratray as Buzz McCallister, Gerry Bamman as Uncle Frank McCallister, Tim Curry as Mr. Hector, Brenda Fricker as the Pigeon Lady, Eddie Bracken as Mr. Duncan, Dana Ivey as Hester Stone, and Rob Schneider as Cedric.

Are you a fan of Home Alone 2? Do you prefer it to the original? Let us know in the comments!

Daniel Roberts

Dan is a huge fan of Star Wars, Disney, Jurassic Park, Ghostbusters and Harry Potter, and has written for numerous entertainment websites.

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