The books that CHANGED MY LIFE

David Thewlis Actor David Thewlis has recently published his second novel, Shooting Martha. Here, he shares the books that have made him laugh, cry and think…

THE LAST BOOK THAT MADE ME LAUGH

I Wanna Be Yours is the autobiography of the poet John Cooper Clarke. The story of his life is one of the most enjoyable books I’ve ever read: poetry, laughter and a wonderful life; what’s not to like?

THE LAST BOOK THAT MADE ME CRY

The Sea, The Sea by Iris Murdoch. It’s a tragi-comedy about lost love and missed chances. There is a line I love: ‘Why did she put the stone in the garden where I would be sure to see it? Were these, after all, hopeful signs?’ Obscure out of context, but when I arrive there, for some reason, it always brings a lump to my throat.

THE LAST BOOK THAT CHANGED THE WAY I THINK

Sum: Tales From The Afterlives is a book to be read out loud in company and discussed. After finishing it, you can’t resist adding to his remarkable ideas with a few

of your own.

THE BOOK THAT GOT ME THROUGH A DIFFICULT TIME

One book I always know will soothe me is To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. Once read, the looseness of its narrative means that it can be opened anywhere and enjoyed purely for its poetry. I read it like I imagine some people read the Bible.

THE BOOK I MOST OFTEN GIVE TO OTHERS

The Bridge Of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder and I’m forever grateful. Set in the early 18th century, it’s a beautiful, timeless novel about fate and faith. The first time I finished it, I returned to the first page and read it again in one sitting. I often buy new copies just to pass it on.