Sarah Jessica Parker, renowned actress and star of the TV series “And Just Like That…”, recently shared insights on the selection process of books for the show, shedding light on the literary preferences of her iconic character, Carrie Bradshaw. In an interview for Bustle’s ‘One Nightstand’ series, Parker discussed the meticulous curation of books for the series, as well as her personal favourite reads.
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Parker revealed that the show’s team, led by property master Jo, actively seeks out books from independent publishers well in advance of shooting. This proactive approach ensures a diverse and interesting collection of books for the characters to engage with on-screen. Parker commended the efforts of Cassette, the onset prop person, and her team for seamlessly incorporating books into various scenes, enhancing the authenticity of the characters’ interactions.
“We’re very thoughtful about Carrie’s books versus anything that I might read, but there is overlap, of course,” Parker explained. Throughout the series, viewers have seen Carrie delving into titles like Crossroads by Jonathan Franzen and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. However, Parker expressed a particular fondness for a book she believes Carrie would adore – The Best of Everything by Rona Jaffe, noting its absence from the show thus far.
In addition to discussing Carrie’s literary tastes, Parker shared some of her own favourite books, including Lucy Caldwell’s These Days, published through her imprint SJP Lit. She also highlighted works such as Clear by Carys Davies, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones, A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza, and The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt, showcasing her eclectic reading interests.
Parker acknowledged the profound impact of The Bee Sting by Paul Murray, applauding the author’s portrayal of an Irish family navigating life post-Great Recession. The book’s exploration of themes such as dignity and resilience resonated deeply with Parker, who described the novel as “bravely devastating” and commended Murray’s ability to evoke powerful emotions in readers.
Having been shortlisted for the prestigious Booker Prize in 2023, The Bee Sting attests to the compelling narratives that captivate both readers and critics alike. Parker’s own immersion in the literary world extends to her upcoming role as a judge for the Booker Prize, where she anticipates evaluating close to 200 books alongside her panel, reflecting her commitment to celebrating outstanding literary achievements.
Embracing the opportunity to delve into a myriad of narratives beyond the confines of a TV set, Parker shared her dedicated approach to reading, emphasising the immersive experience of exploring diverse storytelling voices. Her involvement in the literary realm underscores her passion for literature and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and connect individuals through shared narratives.
As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season of “And Just Like That…”, Parker’s insights offer a glimpse into the enchanting world of books that shape the characters’ identities and experiences. Through her involvement in curating literary gems for the screen and engaging with a diverse range of narratives, Parker continues to underscore the enduring influence of storytelling in enriching our understanding of the human experience.