I've read the book countless times, and the series pales in comparison. I thought that the writers of the teleplay made more changes than were absolutely necessary (why change the family's name, for example?), and that some of the spirit of the book was missing.
I have always regarded this book as the story of a woman who comes of age both spiritually and emotionally. She has to decide what is important to her, and why. In the book, her struggle to make the best decisions for her future is played out more. We see more of her relationship with the other nuns, and we see how her leaving affects them. In the film, the only other nun we really get to see is Sister Dominic.
In the film, her reasons for leaving appeared to be more cut and dry. In the book there is a lot more nuance. I can't not recommend the film, but I can recommend that those who liked it read the book. It's beautiful.
