This month I am chilling with one author. Having spent quite a few weeks of not feeling the best I looked to television to help pass the time. Of course, worse than usual (if that is possible), everything on television these days seems to be about repeats and not good ones either most of the time.
Some were so bad I doubted the sanity of the Gods of Viewing Choices but then again when it comes to those in charge in any area, doubting sanity goes with their territory. In this case, they have some nefarious reasoning that torturing us with repeats of repeats of repeats, is what we want or is what we deserve. Anyway, just as I had decided it might easier to find something to read, an old favourite came on and I was hooked.
Some things are definitely worth repeating. And yes, I am aware that I am being subjective, but I figure if I can give a good reason you might listen. The film, Paying it Forward, is based on a book by Catherine Ryan Hyde, an author that I have become addicted to for some time now, well, since I first watched this film. Reading a book after seeing the film is always risky. The film either ruins the book with its interpretation or is much better than the book. But I loved the film, and I took the risk and read the book. It paid off.
To be both sad and uplifting is not easy. No spoilers because I hope you do get a chance to see and/or read this wonderful story. Neither medium disappointed. There is no clutter either on the screen or the page to distract us from the focus – a simple one, we can make a difference, we have to choose to do it and believe the individual matters.
Character driven is a strong element in both film and book. We are stunned to see how one little boy can make the world better with his beliefs. Led by gentle prodding, one minute we are watching/reading and the next we have a pull so hard on our heartstrings we may not survive. I enjoyed the film so much that I have used it for posts previous to this, one on random acts of kindness and another on the difficulties of paying it forward.
It wasn’t because I preferred the film but it suited my blog posts better at the time, to refer to the film. Today I am choosing the book. In the current climate unselfish acts are more important than ever and Catherine Ryan Hyde talks about unselfish acts in all her books, unselfish acts and painful issues. Her use of simple language and focus on clarity for the reader leaves us reflecting and inspired to be better. Read Have you seen Luis Velez? for simplicity and emotion. I want a Luiz in my life.
Again, it is a subjective reaction, but the way irrelevant bits are moved aside to allow the essence of the problem to make itself known, helps the reader believe solutions are possible, and that is not subjective. The resulting emotional response stays with you long after you close the book. It’s what most authors long for in their work.
You will note I have peppered book covers throughout the post. These are ones I have read and enjoyed. The rest are on my tbr (to be read) list and I intend to savour them. The latest one is called My Name is Anton and comes out December 1st, 2020. As for the film, watch it and if you don’t shed a tear or two at the end, let me know. If you read any of her books and disagree then let me know that as well. I would love to exchange ideas so feel free to talk to me.
Ci vediamo alla prossima,
Barb
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I watched “Pay It Forward” several years ago and it was one of the best movies I had ever seen. I didn’t know it was based on a book, so I haven’t read it. I always hate to watch a movie before reading the book on which it was based.
I don’t know which can backfire the most, book first or film first. I’ve been burnt a few times. Thanks for stopping by.