BolognaBookPlus catches up with some of its broad community, ranging from exhibitors to speakers and partners, for a quick interview in the time it takes to have an Espresso. Read their views on books, publishing, food, and more! Today we catch up with Sarah Lewis, Head of Contracts for the children’s division Farshore Books at HarperCollins UK.

 

 

 

 

What are you reading at the minute?

I’m currently reading The List by Yomi Adegoke. It’s really witty and fast paced with lots of twists and turns, and I can’t put it down. After that I have Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus to read, which I just bought on impulse at a train station after hearing great reviews from a friend.

 

What was your first job in the book world?

I’ve always known that I wanted to work with books, and I’ve been very lucky to have spent my whole career within the book industry. I’ve worked in publishing houses, literary agencies and bookshops, but my very first job was as a Saturday assistant in my local library. Which was fitting as I was usually in there anyway! 

 

Is your reading preference for physical books, audio, eBooks, and why?

I love print books; curling up with a book you can physically hide behind has always felt part of the escapism of reading. But I also love the convenience of eBooks, especially for commuting.

 

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

There was a television show when I was younger where the main character could stop time, and I’ve always wanted to be able to do that. Time is so precious and goes by so quickly, and I’d love a way to spend more time with friends and family. (And read more books!)

 

What is your favourite film based on a book?

The Virgin Suicides (originally written by Jeffrey Eugenides, film written and directed by Sofia Coppola). I’m a big fan of Sophia Coppola’s work, and she manages to perfectly capture the book’s delicate air of secrecy and melancholy throughout the escalating tragedy.

 

What has been your favourite book in translation, and who was the translator?

There are so many great books in translation, but my favourite has to be the classic Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, which has been translated into English several times. There have been many fantastic translations, but I love the quirkiness of the original translation by Katherine Woods.