Celebrities, with their bustling lives in the limelight, often turn to books for solace, inspiration, and even escapism. Though they may lead lives far removed from our own, they may share our same sensibilities, motivations, and sometimes, our favorite books.
Here are five celebrities and the books that paved the way towards their renowned success:
Emma Watson - My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem
As an advocate for women's rights, Emma Watson's reading list often includes narratives of women's journeys towards equality. One of her cherished reads is "My Life on the Road" by bestselling author Gloria Steinem.
In this memoir, Steinem shares her experiences as a globetrotting activist, from engaging in social causes to co-founding Ms. magazine.
Natalie Portman - Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
The cinematic adaptation of "Cloud Atlas" owes its existence to Natalie Portman. Portman discovered this enthralling book by David Mitchell while working on a film, and she was immediately captivated. So much so that she recommended it to filmmaker Lana Wachowski, leading to a successful transition to the big screen.
The novel weaves together six interconnected stories, each narrated in a distinct style by the central character of the sixth tale, blending elements of metafiction, science fiction, and historical fiction. Her love for literature and prose led her to write her own work titled "Natalie Portman's Fables".
Gwyneth Paltrow - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
For Gwyneth Paltrow, "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte is a timeless classic and a source of comfort. This enduring novel is a staple in many celebrity book clubs. The narrative traces the life of Jane Eyre, a seemingly ordinary girl, as she confronts various challenges, including an unkind aunt, an austere mansion, and a forbidden love.
Tom Hanks - Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Tom Hanks, known for his wit and humor, unsurprisingly holds a fondness for Mark Twain's "Huckleberry Finn."
This novel, set in the antebellum South, is a cornerstone of American literature, although it has been critiqued for its portrayal of racial stereotypes. Hanks' appreciation for Twain's work is further underscored by his receipt of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2016.
Robin Williams - Foundation Trilogy by Isaac Asimov
Robin Williams, celebrated for his comedic genius, found intellectual stimulation in Isaac Asimov's "Foundation Trilogy."
This series revolves around a mathematician's development and utilization of "psychohistory," a blend of mathematics, sociology, and history, to predict the imminent collapse of the known universe.
These celebrities and their cherished reads offer a glimpse into the diverse literary tastes of some of the most renowned figures in entertainment. Their book choices not only reflect their personal interests but also shed light on the enduring power of storytelling to captivate minds across generations and walks of life.