In an age where celebrity influence shapes cultural consumption, Dua Lipa is carving out a unique niche that transcends music. In June 2023, she launched the Service95 Book Club—a literary endeavor that is an extension of her global platform, Service95. This project encompasses not only a blog and a weekly newsletter but also a podcast titled “Dua Lipa: At Your Service.” This multifaceted platform aims to celebrate diverse narratives and perspectives while fostering a community of engaged readers.
Service95’s Book Club distinguishes itself by focusing on “diverse global voices,” striving to share “powerful stories” that include a mix of genres such as fiction, memoir, and non-fiction manifestos. Each book selection is carefully curated by Lipa, who provides readers with a unique opportunity to engage with authors through virtual Q&A sessions. This interactive approach not only deepens the reading experience but also underscores Lipa’s commitment to highlighting new literary talents alongside established bestsellers.
Rather than a traditional book selection for December, Lipa has chosen to share her personal gifting recommendations this holiday season, showcasing a thoughtful array of five specific titles. These choices exemplify her diverse literary taste and commitment to emotional storytelling. For instance, “Brightly Shining” by Ingvild Rishøi is noted for its poignant retelling of a classic tale, promising to evoke strong emotions in its readers, making it an ideal stocking stuffer.
Lipa further emphasizes the richness of narrative through Percival Everett’s “James,” a reimagining of the iconic “The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn” from an enslaved character’s perspective. This work not only reclaims a historical narrative but does so with a skillful execution that invites conversation about race and identity.
George Saunders’ “Tenth of December” is another standout on her list, a collection that encapsulates the essence of what makes Saunders a beloved author. Lipa’s admiration for stories like “The Semplica Girl Diaries” showcases her ability to appreciate complex, yet accessible literature.
Literature’s Broader Impact
Similarly, Hernan Diaz’s “In The Distance” highlights Lipa’s contemporary tastes with its strange yet evocative storytelling typical of the Western genre. This selection indicates her desire to engage readers in discussions about the narratives we often take for granted.
Finally, Lipa expresses her enthusiasm for Pedro Almodóvar’s “The Last Dream,” affirming her admiration for the filmmaker across different mediums. Translating Almodóvar’s creative essence into literature allows Lipa to advocate for storytelling that transcends genre boundaries.
Dua Lipa’s Service95 Book Club goes beyond mere entertainment; it champions meaningful conversations around literature, culture, and identity. As she continues to curate and share her literary favorites, Lipa enables her audience to connect with diverse authors and narratives, transforming her platform into an engaging hub for literary exploration. In doing so, she redefines what it means to be a modern cultural ambassador. Through these initiatives, the intersection of music and literature offers a refreshing lens through which fans can engage with the stories that shape our world.