Veteran Actress Shares Love for Books
The seasoned actress, known for her roles in various films, spent her formative years immersed in literature.
“For a good chunk of my childhood, we didn’t really have a TV, so I mostly relied on the radio and books to keep myself entertained,” she reflected in a recent conversation. The actress, celebrated for her role in “Matilda,” mentioned her growing affinity for memoirs as she matured.
She shared her enthusiasm for upcoming work, specifically her directorial and scriptwriting debut, titled Don’t “Let’s go to the dog tonight.” This film is set to hit theaters on July 11th. Alongside this, she offered a list of six essential reads that have influenced her life and career.
Book Recommendations from the Actress
One of her favorites is a novel that left a mark on her during her English studies in college. “The text is quite dense, but honestly, the rewards upon finishing are immense. It’ll definitely stick with you,” she explained.
She also highlighted Gabriel Byrne’s memoirs, which she finds beautifully crafted, filled with stories from his childhood, and delightful anecdotes about well-known actors. “I mean, he’s got that classic Irish storytelling knack,” she added, clearly admiring his work.
Another recommendation is a book she regards as profound. It delves into the complexities of childhood in Africa, showcasing the harsh realities around racism and its impact on families.
She also mentioned Alice Munro’s collection. “Each story is like a gem; they hit hard at the end. You can never predict where they’re going to go, and her writing is just razor-sharp,” she noted with enthusiasm.
On the topic of Arundhati Roy’s celebrated novel, she reminisced about how it resonated with her. “I find myself revisiting it occasionally, drawn in by the captivating storytelling. It’s a sweeping narrative, and the writing is simply stunning,” she mused, reflecting on its lasting effect.
Finally, she spoke about Michael Ondaatje’s memoir, describing it as a rich tapestry of his upbringing in Sri Lanka. “It’s vivid—you can almost smell the Ceylon tea and feel the warmth of the setting. He blends humor with sadness beautifully, making it a heartfelt tribute to family and home,” she concluded.
