Idris Elba To Produce ‘Teaching My Brother To Read’ Adaptation

Idris Elba is continually working on projects for his production company Green Door Pictures, as he gets ready to adapt “Teaching My Brother To Read” for film and television. The British actor has optioned Derek Owusu’s upcoming book for his next venture.

Deadline reported that Elba has secured the rights to the forthcoming title by the author. The “Luther” star expressed his excitement for the project, saying, "Derek’s book will be an inspiring exploration of brotherhood and how literature can influence and transform lives. We are genuinely excited about adapting this book as a work of fiction and non-fiction.”

The book is based on Owusu’s experience with his brother where he would offer him an equivalent of $64 for every book he reads to keep him out of trouble. Initially planned as a podcast, Owusu was formed into a book as part of a deal with Penguin Random House under artist Stormzy's #Merky Books imprint. The author also hosts a podcast called “Mostly Lit” and most recently wrote a novel “That Reminds Me,” which follows his childhood in foster care and mental breakdown. He has edited and contributed to the anthology book “Safe: Black British Men Reclaiming Space,” which explored the black men's experience in England.

Elba, known for his work in shows like “Luther” and “The Wire,” gained recognition for his roles in “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” and “Beasts of No Nation.” Besides acting, he has also performed as a DJ and an R&B singer. The British actor made his directorial debut in 2018 with an adaptation of the novel “Yardie.” He has produced a few projects under Green Door Pictures since it’s establishment in 2013. He has been involved with some scripted and non-scripted content including the Netflix comedy series “Turn Up Charlie” and Discovery’s “Idris Elba: Fighter.”

Before the film comes out, “Teaching My Brother To Read” will be published as a book in 2021.