Sarah Jessica Parker Recalls How Her Mom Shaped Her Love of Reading — And When She Gives Up on a Book

Sarah Jessica Parker Opens Up About Her Passion for Reading

Sarah Jessica Parker, the renowned actress known for her leading role in the hit series “Sex and the City,” recently shared insights about her deep-rooted love for books during a special event at 92NY in New York. The event, which took place on September 29, featured Parker in conversation with author Victoria Redel and editor Adam Moss, providing a glimpse into her personal connection with literature that has shaped her life.

Reflecting on her early experiences with reading, Parker fondly recalled how her mother, Barbra Forste, instilled a passion for books in her from a young age. Forste, an avid reader herself, always had a book at hand, even picking up reads during brief stops at traffic lights. This exposure to literature at home, coupled with regular visits to their local public library, laid the foundation for Parker’s enduring love affair with books.

Growing up in a household without children’s books, Parker and her siblings turned to the local library to quench their thirst for stories. She reminisced, “We were at our local public library all the time. That’s our only way of having books. We didn’t buy books, we didn’t own books that were for our age. My parents owned books … We read just every great classic children’s book.”

Expanding beyond her personal passion for reading, Parker has delved into the world of publishing with her own imprint, SJP Lit, which was launched in partnership with Zando in 2022. Through SJP Lit, Parker aims to discover and promote compelling fiction, such as Redel’s novel set in the 1600s Netherlands, which captivated her with its unique storytelling.

Speaking about her role as a judge for the prestigious Booker Prize, Parker shared insights into her dedicated approach to reading. She emphasised the importance of immersing herself in each book, having read over 150 titles for Booker consideration since assuming the position in 2024. This commitment to literary exploration underscores her genuine appreciation for the power of storytelling.

During the event, Parker engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about the complexity of characters in literature. When asked whether a character needs to be likeable, she expressed a desire to be captivated by the protagonist, irrespective of their moral standing. Parker’s perspective challenges conventional notions of characterisation, highlighting the allure of narratives that push boundaries and challenge perceptions.

In her role as a storyteller on screen, Parker has embodied a diverse range of characters, each with their unique complexities. She emphasised the importance of evocative storytelling that transcends traditional norms, emphasising the impact of narratives that leave a lasting impression on readers. This steadfast belief in the transformative power of literature fuels Parker’s ongoing commitment to championing exceptional storytelling.

As the event concluded, Parker left attendees with a resonant message about the enduring allure of literature. She articulated, “The thing that is most arresting is all these books that feel like they could not have been written by anybody else.” Her profound appreciation for the craft of storytelling underscores her unwavering dedication to promoting diverse voices and narratives that resonate with readers.

In a world where storytelling holds the power to inspire, challenge, and transform, Sarah Jessica Parker’s unwavering passion for books serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of literature on our lives. Through her insights and experiences, she continues to champion the written word, fostering a love for reading that transcends boundaries and celebrates the boundless potential of storytelling.