Susan Orlean is widely regarded as one of the great narrative non-fiction writers of her generation. Best known for The Orchid Thief – turned into the popular 2002 film Adaptation – and The Library Book, she has also spent decades as a beloved writer for The New Yorker. Guided by an insatiable curiosity, she has built a remarkable career finding extraordinary stories in unexpected places.

In Joyride, Orlean turns her keen eye towards her own life, reflecting on a body of work shaped by curiosity, observation and an enduring fascination with the people and world around her. Hailed by David Sedaris as ‘wise and exuberant’, the book is both a celebration of a life in writing and a testament to the wonder that comes from paying close attention.

Join Orlean in conversation with host Jaclyn Crupi as she reflects on the art of finding stories worth telling.  

Originally presented on Thursday 15 October 2026 by The Wheeler Centre.

Featured music is 'No One There' by Ava Low.

The official bookseller was Hill of Content.

Susan Orlean is widely regarded as one of the great narrative non-fiction writers of her generation. Best known for The Orchid Thief &ndash; turned into the popular 2002 film Adaptation &ndash; and The Library Book, she has also spent decades as a beloved writer for The New Yorker. Guided by an insatiable curiosity, she has built a remarkable career finding extraordinary stories in unexpected places. In Joyride, Orlean turns her keen eye towards her own life, reflecting on a body of work shaped by curiosity, observation and an enduring fascination with the people and world around her. Hailed by David Sedaris as &lsquo;wise and exuberant&rsquo;, the book is both a celebration of a life in writing and a testament to the wonder that comes from paying close attention. Join Orlean in conversation with host Jaclyn Crupi as she reflects on the art of finding stories worth telling.  Originally presented on Thursday 15 October 2026 by The Wheeler Centre. Featured music is 'No One There' by Ava Low. The official bookseller was Hill of Content.

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