### Booked For The Week: An Exploration of Literature with Industry Insights

**Introduction**

“Booked For The Week” is a revered column that showcases the literary favorites of individuals in the gaming industry. This unique feature allows readers to glimpse into the personal libraries of game developers and industry personalities, revealing what fuels their creativity and insight. Although the original creator, Nic Reuben, has stepped away from full-time contributions, the column continues to flourish, maintaining its charm and focus on the intersection of literature and gaming.

**Current Reading: Eureka Street by McLiam Wilson**

Pietro Righi Riva, co-founder of Santa Ragione, is currently engrossed in *Eureka Street*, a profound novel set against the backdrop of Belfast in the 1990s. The story unfolds through the lives of a group of friends grappling with the realities of life in a region plagued by conflict. Riva reflects on the impact the historical context of the IRA and the depictions in popular culture, particularly through the show *Derry Girls*, have had on his understanding of this period. This exploration not only deepens his engagement with the narrative but also prompts him to reflect on the importance of historical narratives and witness accounts.

**Recent Read: A Man’s Place by Annie Ernaux**

In his last literary venture, Riva read *A Man’s Place*, a poignant memoir by Annie Ernaux. Through a precise narrative, Ernaux captures her relationship with her father while delving into themes of class and social mobility, all delivered in an emotionally charged yet restrained tone. Riva connects these themes to his own creative work, particularly in *Saturnalia*, where paternal relationships significantly influence character arcs. This reflection highlights the personal connections that literature can evoke, influencing both personal growth and creative expression.

**Upcoming Read: Incubus by Giuseppe Berto**

Looking ahead, Riva plans to read *Incubus*, an Italian novel known for its intricate stream of consciousness style. Deliberately avoiding preconceptions about the book, Riva is eager to dive into Berto’s exploration of neurosis. This anticipation hints at a broader engagement with literature as a means to explore complex psychological states.

**Memorable Quote: King Kong Theory by Virginie Despentes**

A striking quote from *King Kong Theory* by Virginie Despentes lingers in Riva’s mind:
*”Men love talking about women. At least then they don’t have to talk about themselves…”*
This thought-provoking excerpt challenges societal norms regarding masculinity and reflection, sparking discussions on the authenticity of male perspectives. Such powerful reflections underscore the role literature plays in prompting critical discourse around identity and experience.

**Persuasive Recommendation: Permutation City by Greg Egan**

Riva frequently advocates for *Permutation City* by Greg Egan, a captivating exploration of simulated consciousness and reality’s flexibility. He expresses frustration over its scarcity in Italian editions, wanting to share its profound ideas with friends. The book’s themes resonate deeply with him, considering reality as potentially an elaborate construct of imagination, a notion he finds worth discussing with peers.

**Adaptation Wish: My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh**

Riva envisions a gaming adaptation of *My Year of Rest and Relaxation* by Ottessa Moshfegh, where the protagonist’s year-long retreat from life through sleep and medication could be ingeniously transformed into an interactive experience. He imagines mechanics reminiscent of *Assassin’s Creed*, blending mundane elements with surreal explorations of existence and consciousness.

**Conclusion**

“Booked For The Week” continues to provide a portal into the myriad ways literature influences the thoughts and actions of those in the gaming industry. As the column evolves, it promises to remain a treasure trove for readers curious about the literary minds shaping the digital worlds they explore. Engaging with books—whether through current reads or nostalgic recommendations—reshapes perspectives, making the intersection of literature and gaming a dynamic and enriching dialogue.