Dame Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton Share Top 6 Book Recommendations
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Dame Julie Andrews, renowned for her iconic roles in classics like “The Sound of Music” and “Mary Poppins,” alongside her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton, have delved into sharing their top literary picks with fans. The celebrated mother-daughter duo, who recently collaborated on their new children’s book “The Great American Mousical,” released on October 21, have chosen to shine a spotlight on the books that have left a lasting impact on them.
In a recent interview with Page Six, Andrews, aged 90, expressed her love for diverse reading material, mentioning how she immerses herself in books that catch her interest wherever she is – be it in her garden, on an airplane, or nestled in her armchair. On the other hand, Hamilton, 62, described books as her constant company, acting as friends and advisors that inhabit every corner of her home.
While both Andrews and Hamilton share a fondness for captivating children’s literature, they also find solace and inspiration in memoirs and historical fiction. Let’s take a closer look at some of their top book recommendations that span across genres and eras.
Starting with “The Little Grey Men” by Denys Watkins-Pitchford, the enchanting tale of the last three gnomes in Britain resonated with Andrews from a young age. The classic 1942 children’s book, focusing on the adventures of Sneezewort, Baldmoney, and Dodder as they search for their missing brother Cloudberry, has been a significant influence on Andrews’ own writing journey.
Moving on to “The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman, a beloved fantasy novel that captivated readers upon its release in 1995. Hamilton declared this book as one of her all-time favorites, praising Pullman’s ability to craft a gripping adventure intertwined with profound reflections on the soul.
“The Once and Future King” by T. H. White, a modern retelling of the Arthurian legends penned by Thomas Malory in 1485, also holds a special place in Andrews’ heart. She highlighted how White’s work served as the foundation for the renowned musical “Camelot,” in which she had the privilege to participate during her youth.
Norton Juster’s “The Phantom Tollbooth,” a whimsical tale following the adventures of Milo, enthralled Hamilton in her childhood and played a pivotal role in sparking her love for reading. The book’s imaginative portrayal of a world where words possess sensory qualities continues to inspire Hamilton in her writing endeavours.
Moss Hart’s autobiography, “Act One,” offers a glimpse into the playwright’s challenging journey from a humble New York City upbringing to achieving success on Broadway. Andrews praised the book for its poignant depiction of an era and the theatrical realm, which she believes is unparalleled.
Lastly, Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” provides a source of comfort and rejuvenation for Hamilton in her creative pursuits. This 2015 publication delves into Gilbert’s quest for artistic inspiration amid a changing landscape, serving as a reminder of the enchanting and mysterious nature of the creative process.
As Andrews and Hamilton continue to enchant audiences with their literary creations, their shared love for storytelling and reading remains a cornerstone of their bond. By shining a light on these top book recommendations, the duo invites readers to embark on their own literary adventures and discover the transformative power of storytelling in its myriad forms.
In conclusion, the literary preferences of Dame Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton offer a glimpse into the worlds that have shaped their creative spirits and continue to ignite their passion for storytelling. From whimsical children’s tales to profound reflections on life and creativity, their book recommendations serve as a testament to the enduring magic woven through the pages of cherished stories.