Jay Ellis Shares His 6 Favourite Books That Changed His Perspective on Reading
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Jay Ellis, the well-known actor and author, recently revealed that his love for books had a surprising origin – it actually started as pure hatred. Despite initially despising reading as a child due to having to complete book reports before being allowed to play outside, Ellis eventually developed a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and writing. Today, books have become an integral part of his daily life, serving as a source of knowledge, entertainment, self-reflection, and imagination.
In a recent interview with Page Six, Ellis expressed his evolved view on reading, stating, “[Books] are knowledge, they are entertainment, they are a vehicle for self-reflection and a playground for the imagination.” He candidly admitted that his love for books had remarkably transformed from disdain to admiration over the years. This revelation coincided with the release of his new memoir, titled “Did Everyone Have an Imaginary Friend (Or Just Me)?”, which came out in paperback on September 16.
The actor, now 43, has curated a diverse selection of reading material that encompasses both nonfiction and fiction genres. He shared his top six favourite books, each of which has resonated with him on a personal level. From memoirs that delve into the complexities of identity and family dynamics to captivating short story collections that offer social commentary, Ellis’s literary choices reflect his eclectic taste and profound appreciation for the written word.
Among his top picks is “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” by Rick Rubin, a book that inspired Ellis to embrace creativity and artistic expression without overthinking. He described Rubin’s work as a liberating exploration of the creative process, urging readers to allow magic to unfold naturally. Another standout selection is “Eat a Peach” by David Chang, a memoir that impressed Ellis with its boldness, honesty, and playful narrative style, mirroring the renowned chef’s culinary approach.
Kiese Laymon’s “Heavy” also left a lasting impact on Ellis, with its candid portrayal of Blackness and family relationships that seamlessly blend humour and raw honesty. Similarly, Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah’s “Friday Black” captivated Ellis with its thought-provoking tales that offer a unique perspective on societal issues, reminiscent of the intensity and depth found in the TV series “Black Mirror.”
In addition to memoirs and short stories, Ellis highlighted his admiration for Kobe Bryant’s “The Mamba Mentality,” which encapsulates the basketball legend’s pursuit of greatness with unwavering dedication. He also praised Ta-Nehisi Coates’ “Between the World and Me” for its poignant exploration of race, history, and identity, noting the profound impact it had on his own understanding of these complex themes.
As Jay Ellis continues to explore the diverse landscape of literature, his journey from a reluctant reader to a passionate book enthusiast serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Through his endorsement of these six favourite reads, he invites others to embark on their own literary adventures, encouraging a deeper connection with the written word and the endless possibilities it offers for growth and enlightenment.