David Corenswet, widely known for his role as Superman, has a fascinating family connection to the iconic ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ book series. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Corenswet revealed that his maternal grandfather, Edward Packard, is the mastermind behind the interactive book series that has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide.
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The concept of ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books arose from Packard’s bedtime stories for Corenswet’s mother, aunt, and uncle. Packard, a former lawyer, experienced a moment of inspiration during a train ride in 1969 when he realized he could craft a narrative that allowed readers to dictate the characters’ choices and outcomes. This innovative approach revolutionized the way readers engaged with storytelling.
Despite facing initial rejections from publishers who failed to grasp Packard’s vision, he persisted and eventually found a small publisher willing to take a chance on his manuscript, ‘The Adventures of You on Sugar Cane Island.’ The book’s success paved the way for a series of ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books that have sold millions of copies globally and been translated into numerous languages.
Corenswet fondly recalls his childhood fascination with the interactive books, emphasizing their unique appeal in a pre-digital era. He acknowledges the impact of his grandfather’s creation, noting that fans of the series hold a special reverence for the stories and the power of making choices within a narrative structure.
Drawing parallels between the books’ themes and his own life journey, Corenswet reflects on the importance of making choices based on personal values and principles rather than solely focusing on desired outcomes. He likens the unpredictable nature of decision-making in the books to the complexities of real-life choices, where the path taken may not always lead to the expected destination.
As Corenswet navigates his acting career, embodying the iconic role of Superman, he credits a sense of ‘luck’ alongside deliberate decision-making for his professional trajectory. He acknowledges the nuanced process of decision-making, where even seemingly correct choices may lead to unexpected results, mirroring the twists and turns found in ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ narratives.
The lessons gleaned from the interactive storytelling of ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books serve as a poignant reminder for Corenswet, reinforcing the idea that true success lies in aligning choices with personal values and convictions. As he continues to carve his path in the entertainment industry, Corenswet remains mindful of the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing the journey, regardless of the outcomes.
In a world where storytelling takes on various forms, from books to film and beyond, the enduring legacy of ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books resonates through generations, leaving a lasting imprint on readers and creators alike. Through his family connection to this beloved series, David Corenswet embodies the spirit of adventure and choice, both on-screen as Superman and in the narrative of his own life.