TriStar Pictures is Adapting N.K. Jemisin’s Broken Earth Trilogy for Film
TriStar Pictures has won the rights to N.K. Jemisin’s Broken Earth Triology in a seven-figure deal, and Jemisin will write the film adaptations herself. The first novel in the trilogy, The Fifth Season, introduced readers to a world where periodic climate catastrophes (called “fifth seasons”) threaten the planet. Many details of the upcoming adaptation are still unknown. For instance, we don’t know if the series will be adapted into a full trilogy of films or more (or less). Details on casting and producing are also yet to be announced.
Emma van Straaten Wins the Inaugural Women’s Prize Trust Discoveries Writing Prize
Author Emma van Straaten has won the inaugural Women’s Prize Trust Discoveries writing prize for her written submission Heartstring. Judging panel chair Kate Mosse praised Straaten’s submission, calling it “suspenseful, disquieting, brave, and eloquent.” The new prize initiative launched this year in collaboration with NatWest and Curtis Brown, and its goal is to identify untapped female writing talent from across the UK and Ireland. Van Straaten said, “I am absolutely delighted and overwhelmed to have been awarded the first prize for Discoveries 2021… As a writer, I’m keen to explore the road ahead as I return to my manuscript under the expert guidance of Curtis Brown – I am thrilled to have accepted Lucy Morris’ offer of representation. As a reader, I’m excited by all the new female talent longlisted and shortlisted for this prize, and look forward to seeing where Discoveries takes them.” All 16 authors who were longlisted for the Discoveries prize will be offered mentorship packages from a Curtis Brown agent or industry expert.
Child-Friendly “Drag Story Time” Moved from Public Library to Private Venue
The children’s “Drag Story Time,” which was originally planned to take place at the Taylor Library in Derry, has been moved to a private venue after some backlash from the community. Dozens of children had already registered to attend the event, which will be hosted by drag performer Clara Divine. For “Drag Story Time” Divine will draw from their musical theater experience to read children’s stories and teach dances.
Amazon Announces Their Picks for the Best Books of 2021 So Far
Amazon has released their top 20 best books of the year so far. This Top 20 list includes some bestsellers and some books that might be flying under the radar.