Blindness - by Jose Saramago. An amazing book about a city struck by a plague of white blindness. A lone woman retains her sight and she leads a group of people through the, basically, post-apocalyptic city.
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrel - by Sussana Clark. One of the best fantasy novels I've ever read. Filled with inventive and powerful visuals. Plus, opportunities for a stellar cast. I think this is already in the early stages of production, which is a shame because I really want to direct this one.
Love in the Time of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Favorite book from my favorite author tells an unconventional and touching love story filled with quirky characters and touches of magic.
Inferno - Dante. With today's technology this classic could be the most visually astounding movie ever.
You Shall Know Our Velocity - Dave Eggers. Two friends travel the world for a week giving away money after the death of a good friend of theirs. The big turn in the book would be very hard to do on film, but I think it could be done, or at least something similar.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close - Jonathan Safron Foer. The most heartbreaking thing I've ever read. Find the right kid for the lead and this would be amazing.