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Summer Picks From Beyond The Page

A good story doesn’t always stop at the final chapter. From page-to-screen favourites to podcasts and audiobooks, these are the picks that stayed with us this summer.

🎬 Book To Film Adaptations

Book to film adaptations

  • The Unbearable Lightness of Being — began as Milan Kundera’s 1984 novel before becoming a 1988 film that captured its philosophical romance and political tension.
  • Whale Rider Witi Ihimaera’s astonishing 1987 novel was adapted for the screen in 2002, transforming its lyrical exploration of Māori identity, tradition and leadership into an internationally acclaimed film.
  • Fight ClubChuck Palahniuk’s novel (1996) was adapted for the screen in 1999, sharpening its critique of masculinity and consumer culture into a cult classic.
  • The Princess Bride — a rare joy in which author William Goldman adapted his own 1973 novel for the 1987 film, preserving its wit, warmth and fairy-tale charm.

🎧 Audio Books Worth Your Time

Audiobooks

  • The SistersJonas Hassen Khemiri’s audiobook (2023) is deeply immersive and feels far too short despite its length.
  • The Book of GuiltAn excellent audio adaptation of Catherine Chidgey’s latest novel, and a quietly gripping listen.
  • The Creative ActRick Rubin’s (2023), read by the author, is a calm and generous meditation on creativity.
  • Madam BadobedahSophie Dahl’s audiobook (2021) is charming, playful, and a delightful introduction to storytelling for kids.

🎙️ Podcasts For Book Lovers

Podcasts

  • Backlisted (2014) — celebrates brilliant books that may have slipped from view but deserve to be rediscovered.
  • Better off Read (2021) — The marvelous Pip Adam’s podcast about writing, reading and creativity.
  • A Good Read (2012) — BBC Radio 4’s show now widely enjoyed as a podcast, delivering lively book chat and generous recommendations.
  • Always Take Notes (2021) — offers frank conversations with writers about craft, routines, money and the realities of a writing life.

From festival updates and ticket announcements to curated reading ideas, exclusive offers and the occasional surprise, we’ll keep you well supplied with bookish goodness throughout the year.

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