Culture Highlights – Books, Film & Stories
Welcome to the Culture hub where we cut through the noise and give you quick, useful takeaways on what’s happening in books, movies, and everyday storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of classic children’s authors or love a good foreign‑film thriller, you’ll find something worth your time here.
Jacqueline Wilson’s New Adventures
Jacqueline Wilson is back with a twist. Her beloved ‘Girls’ series, which first hit shelves in the 1990s, now gets an adult sequel called Think Again. The story follows Ellie, Nadine and Magda as they hit their late‑30s, dealing with work, relationships, and the kind of life choices most of us face. Wilson keeps her warm, empathetic voice, but adds a few themes that only make sense for grown‑ups. If you grew up reading her books, this is a chance to see those characters with a new lens.
She’s also announced another project, Picture Imperfect, set for August 2025. It’s a follow‑up to The Illustrated Mum, bringing back Dolphin and Star as adults. Expect the same mix of humor and heart, but with the added weight of adulthood.
Missing Q&A and Wilson’s Legacy
Fans recently searched for a lost Q&A with Wilson that appeared in the Big Issue North. While the interview itself is still elusive, her impact speaks for itself. Born in Bath in 1945, Wilson sold over 40 million books, creating iconic characters like Tracy Beaker. She even served as the UK Children’s Laureate, using her platform to talk about tough topics such as bullying and family break‑ups.
Even without the full interview, the buzz around her career reminds us why she matters. Her stories give kids a voice and help adults remember the power of honesty in storytelling.
Incendies – A Film That Uncovers Hidden Past
Switching from books to film, Incendies offers a gripping look at family secrets and the cost of hidden histories. The movie follows Canadian twins Simon and Jeanne as they travel to the Middle East to fulfill their mother’s final wishes. What they discover is a tangled web of war, betrayal, and a brother they never knew existed.
What makes Incendies stand out is how it blends personal trauma with larger historical conflict. The film doesn’t shy away from showing how past violence can shape the present, making it a powerful watch for anyone interested in how stories can bridge generations.
If you’re looking for a film that makes you think about your own family’s past, this one hits hard. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a reminder that the truth often lies beneath layers of silence.
These three pieces – Wilson’s new books and the legacy interview, plus the intense drama of Incendies – capture why culture matters. They show how authors and filmmakers use their craft to reflect real life, spark conversation, and sometimes, help us understand ourselves a little better.
Stay tuned for more updates, quick reviews, and easy‑to‑digest insights on everything cultural. We’ll keep the language simple and the info useful, so you can skim, share, or dive deeper whenever you want.
