Dive into the literary world of Natalie Portman, Actress.

Natalie Portman is an acclaimed actress and filmmaker with a career that highlights her versatility and commitment to challenging roles. Born in Jerusalem in 1981 and raised in the United States, Portman made her film debut in "Léon: The Professional" and gained further recognition as Padmé Amidala in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy. Her performance in "Black Swan" earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Portman is also known for her roles in "V for Vendetta," "Jackie," and "Annihilation," among others. Her choice of roles often reflects her interest in strong, complex characters and her desire to address important social and political themes.

I don't love studying. I hate studying. I like learning. Learning is beautiful.❞ — Natalie Portman

Education plays a significant role in Portman's life; she graduated from Harvard University with a degree in psychology. She is an avid reader, a trait that complements her academic pursuits and influences her approach to her roles and public engagements. Portman's interest in reading spans a wide range of subjects, including literature, science, and international affairs, reflecting her broad intellectual curiosity. This love for reading not only informs her understanding of the characters she portrays but also fuels her activism and her efforts to promote educational initiatives and gender equality in the entertainment industry.

Natalie Portman's Favorite Books

Last Updated: June 2024

Freedom: A Novel

Jonathan Franzen explores the story of the Berglund family, capturing the struggles and paradoxes of American life as they navigate personal freedoms, responsibilities, and the environmental and political issues shaping their times.
Also recommended by:
Oprah Winfrey 

Lost Children Archive: A novel

Luiselli's novel follows a family on a road trip from New York to the U.S.-Mexico border, interweaving their journey with stories of migrant children, exploring themes of displacement, identity, and the American immigration crisis.

Life Isn't Everything

This oral biography of the legendary director Mike Nichols compiles recollections from friends, family, and colleagues, offering an intimate portrait of his life, work, and enduring impact on American culture.

All About Love: New Visions

Hooks offers a profound exploration of the nature of love in contemporary society, addressing its many forms and advocating for a return to a love ethic that fosters mutual respect, compassion, and justice.

The MANIAC

A gripping thriller that follows the dark and twisted path of a brilliant mind turned dangerously unstable.
Also recommended by:
Barack Obama 

Just Kids

This memoir by musician and artist Patti Smith recounts her deep and enduring friendship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City's art scene in the 1960s and 70s.

When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir

Co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, Patrisse Cullors, shares her personal story of growing up Black and poor in Los Angeles, detailing her journey towards activism and the creation of a global movement for racial justice.

Cassandra at the Wedding

This novel follows Cassandra Edwards, a graduate student who returns home to California for her twin sister's wedding, exploring themes of identity, sibling rivalry, and psychological struggle with wit and poignancy.

Martyr!: A Novel

This debut novel from acclaimed poet Kaveh Akbar is a fictional exploration of faith, identity, and transformation, though it should be noted that this is a speculative description, as Akbar is primarily known for his poetry.

The Ministry of Special Cases

Set in 1970s Argentina during the Dirty War, this novel follows Kaddish Poznan and his wife, Lillian, as they navigate the terrifying landscape of political repression and their desperate search for their missing son.

Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion

In this collection of essays, Tolentino examines the complexities of contemporary culture, exploring themes like the internet, feminism, and the illusions we create about ourselves.

The Dry Heart

This concise and powerful novella begins with the protagonist's shocking confession of killing her husband and then unravels the emotional and psychological turmoil leading up to the act, reflecting on the complexities of love and betrayal.
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