Actor Jessie Buckley is set to lend her voice to a new audiobook adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, Hamnet. The audiobook is scheduled to be released on May 8, 2025, coinciding with a significant milestone for the author.

In celebration of Maggie O’Farrell’s 25 years in publishing, Tinder Press will also release new jacket designs for her backlist on March 27, 2025.

Film Adaptation and Performance

Jessie Buckley’s involvement with Hamnet extends beyond the audiobook; she is also featured in the film adaptation. This version is co-written by O’Farrell and directed by Chloé Zhao, with fellow actor Paul Mescal starring alongside Buckley.

Reacting to her role in the audiobook project, Buckley expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “It was so nice when I was asked to read this edition of the audiobook. I’d had so many incredible experiences with these characters. I could not put Hamnet down when I first read the book. And then to move through the story with them in filming, and then to be asked to come back and return to all those memories in reading the audiobook, I was like: ‘Absolutely, 100 percent!’ Every time I read Hamnet I feel so moved and compelled to just turn the page, not wanting it to end.”

Author’s Praise and Reception

Maggie O’Farrell has praised Buckley’s portrayal of Hamnet’s leading character, Agnes. The author remarked: “In the film of Hamnet, Jessie gives a stunning and career-defining performance, encapsulating both Agnes’ resilience and vulnerability. Jessie lights up the screen, breaking and remaking your heart with every passing moment. You simply cannot take your eyes off her. I can’t wait for everyone to see her in the film. I’m so happy that she was kind enough to record the audiobook: she knows the story inside out and has always been my dream Agnes.”

Awards and Recognition

The novel Hamnet has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction and the title of Waterstones Book of the Year. The release of the audiobook and the anniversary editions of the author’s works further highlight the enduring impact of O’Farrell’s storytelling.