Actress Sarah Jessica Parker has recently shared her remarkable commitment to reading, revealing that she currently devotes time to finishing up to two books a day as a judge for the prestigious Booker Prize. During her attendance at the PEN America Literary Gala on May 15, Parker discussed the challenges and volume of books she is required to tackle, emphasizing the intensity of her role.
Describing her judging position as both an “honor” and a “privilege,” the 60-year-old actress expressed her eagerness to embrace this opportunity, which she initially considered last year but had to postpone due to shooting commitments for her series, “And Just Like That…”. After watching an Instagram video of the judges discussing their reading experiences, she was inspired to participate, noting, “Oh let me try!!!!” in her response.
Alongside her acting career, Parker also established her own publishing imprint, SJP Lit, in 2022, in collaboration with Zando, an independent publisher. The imprint focuses on publishing diverse and thought-provoking literary works, providing a platform for underrepresented voices.
Parker’s passion for literature has roots in her childhood, thanks to her mother, who instilled the love of reading in her and her siblings. She fondly recalled how her mother would read while driving, turning any brief moment into an opportunity to get lost in a book. “Any opportunity to read, even if it’s for two minutes, I’ll take it,” Parker remarked, highlighting her lifelong devotion to literature.
This revelation not only showcases Parker’s dedication to her role as a Booker Prize judge but also reinforces the idea that literature continues to play a vital role in her life. Her journey emphasizes the power of reading and its ability to shape lives and careers.