When it’s gray outside, you might want to curl up with a good book, drink some tea, and just hibernate. That’s why we talked to our resident story expert, Beowulf, about some of his favorite books. Here are his recommendations!

Who is your favorite author?

Jay McInerney’s the first author who taught me one can find salvation in craft. Proud to say I’m the one JMcI superfan who was never inspired to write something in the second person. Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway left an enormous impression on me, and to this day affects the way I teach storytelling (take my class to find out how!). Shoutout to Salinger’s “A Perfect Day For Bananafish” for being both a perfect short story AND the template for every great Belle & Sebastian song.

What’s the best book-to-film adaptation? 

Trainspotting was deemed unadaptable, so I admire how Boyle made something special from just focusing on a small portion of the universe.

I don’t know it’s the best book-to-film adaption, but it’s the only one where I love and admire both works on their own merit. (Fun Tip: if you need to learn a Scottish accent, buy a copy of Trainspotting; it’s written phonetically) Skylight or The Last Bookstore?

I will counter your question with a question: can anyone please buy this Chapman Stick for me off eBay? With shipping, it’s $1700, but there’s an option to pay $77/month for 24 months if that works out easier for you. 

Hmmm…. interesting proposition, Beowulf.  We’ll have to think on it. 

Well audience, any summertime books you’re excited to read? I’m looking forward to finally getting Nell Scovell’s new book. Have you read it yet? Hit us up on Twitter and let us know your thoughts and recommendations! #RubyBookClub