"To read a novel" means to engage in the activity of looking at and understanding the words and story written in a book, specifically a long fictional story. Full definition
I've never read a novel in which I felt so many excellent opportunities were lost. (faith.org.uk)
I must confess that I did not read the novel before seeing the film and I think it was a real challenge because of that fact. (waytooindie.com)
The mood of the music, and the film setting, work together to deliver the effect of reading the novel as we watch the film. (moviereviewsfromthedark.com)