Transform into Your Favorite Literary Character
By Rebecca Ruiz on April 16, 2026
A new feature from the AI entertainment platform Character.AI now lets users role-play in over 20 classic books, such as “Hamlet,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Pride and Prejudice,” and “The Great Gatsby.” The “Books” feature offers open-ended chats, allowing users to participate as a character from the book or one they’ve crafted.
Users can stick to original storylines or create new scenarios, including “alternate universe” versions like Gatsby in space. These alternate takes can be shared with others in the Character.AI community.
While some may worry this might replace reading, Character.AI assures that the feature encourages readers to pick up the originals, not ignore them. Free trial turns are available, while subscribers can access the full library. The feature is for users 18 and older, following a policy shift last fall after settling lawsuits related to teen harm claims.
Character.AI will moderate to prevent content violating its terms, including graphic violence, hate speech, and sexual content. The feature remains subject to both automated and human reviews to ensure compliance.