A Little Life
cast roles
about the project and casting
A Little Life is a novel by American author Hanya Yanagihara, first published on March 10, 2015, by Doubleday in the United States. The book follows the lives of four friends in New York City over several decades, with a particular focus on the character of Jude St. Francis. The novel received widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth, complex characters, and its exploration of themes such as trauma, friendship, and the search for meaning in life. It was shortlisted for the 2015 Booker Prize and the 2015 National Book Award for Fiction.
Plot Summary
The novel centers around four college friends who move to New York City to pursue their careers. Willem Ragnarsson is a kind-hearted aspiring actor; JB Marion is a talented but troubled artist; Malcolm Irvine is a successful architect; and Jude St. Francis is a brilliant but enigmatic litigator with a mysterious past. As their lives unfold, the story delves deeply into Jude’s traumatic history and its lasting impact on his life and relationships.
Jude’s past is revealed through a series of flashbacks, depicting a childhood marked by severe abuse and exploitation. Despite his successful career and the unwavering support of his friends, Jude struggles with physical and emotional scars, leading to self-destructive behavior. The novel’s exploration of his pain and the efforts of his friends to support him forms the emotional core of the story.
Adaptations
As of 2023, A Little Life has been adapted into a stage play, premiered in the Netherlands, directed by Ivo van Hove. The play has been well-received, translating the novel’s emotional intensity to the stage.
