At the 2024 Hay Festival, celebrated writers like Anne Enright, Rory Stewart, and Judy Murray divulged the profound impact that certain books had on their personal and professional journeys. From classics like ‘Through the Looking Glass’ to modern manuals like Nick Bollettieri’s ‘Tennis Handbook,’ these authors shared how literature influenced their perspectives and creative processes.
At the 2024 Hay Festival, several renowned writers shared the books that have profoundly impacted their lives and careers. Anne Enright expressed her fascination with “Through the Looking Glass, and What Alice Found There” by Lewis Carroll, which captured her imagination more than its more famous counterpart. Rory Stewart pointed to “Tristram Shandy” by Laurence Sterne as a significant influence, admiring its combination of wisdom and humor.
Judy Murray found invaluable guidance in Nick Bollettieri’s “Tennis Handbook,” crucial during her early coaching days. Caitlin Moran credited “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery with showing her that even small, everyday experiences could be compelling literary subjects. Hollie McNish was inspired by the freedom of expression in Roger McGough’s “Sky in the Pie,” and Adam Kay praised “The Phantom Tollbooth” by Norton Juster for its blend of humor and education.
Other writers, such as Kaliane Bradley, John Vaillant, Anthony Horowitz, Lisa Jewell, and Blindboy, also discussed books that shaped their perspectives and creative processes. These insights were shared as part of the festival’s activities that spanned from May 23 to June 2, highlighting the deep, personal connections writers have with the books that influenced them.
