Let's do something a little different for a Father’s Day post. I’ve picked a book with a good paternal relationship that I think would be an ideal candidate to be adapted for the big screen. The twist? This book has a strong bond between a teenager and a man who is definitely not his father.
Drumroll… My choice is Gavin Extence’s 2013 debut, The Universe versus Alex Woods. Why would I pick this? Well, let me explain.
Alex has never been “normal”. When he was a child, a meteorite crashed through his roof and hit him on the head. After surviving such a monumental event, Alex becomes a minor celebrity and a point of interest for the scientific community. You’d think all of these unique events would endear him to his peers, but instead he is targeted by the school bullies relentlessly. He lives with his single mother, the local clairvoyant, which only seeks to enhance his reputation as a weirdo, further isolating him. However, it’s because of the bullies that Alex becomes acquainted with elderly Mr Peterson, a grumpy, reclusive widow, changing both of their lives forever. Welcome to Alex’s life story!
How does this remotely relate to Father’s Day? Alex’s biological father isn’t on the scene and he has a distinct lack of male role models. What he does have, however, is Mr Peterson. I wanted to select an example which shows that genetics don’t always play a role within a strong father-son relationship.
Alex's bond with Mr Peterson is the cornerstone for the entire story and it feels exceptionally real and special to read. Two very lost and lonely characters find meaning in their own lives by opening themselves up to each other. This is one of those occasions where the story is intensely emotive, thought-provoking and made me weep, yet was also powerfully uplifting and made me realize the tenacity, capability and strength of humans and the relationships that we nurture.
An adaptation of The Universe versus Alex Woods would be a good opportunity to show that films don’t have to be filled to the brim with CGI, explosions and an action-packed story; that the rapport between two characters can provide a sturdy foundation and easily propel a film along just as well as a computer enhanced fantasy fight sequence. Mr Peterson and Alex both become a lifeline for one another. Mr Peterson provides Alex with advice, support, a mentor, encouragement, reality checks and bravery, allowing Alex to grow and change as a person. All things that any “regular” father should provide really.
Sometimes, friendship and a father figure can come from the most unlikely source. Happy Father’s Day to everyone out there, no matter what form a “father” may take.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.