In an interview for a Teaching Resource (see Additional Resources), author Craig Silvey was asked whether any books or films influenced his writing of Runt. He replied:
Task 4: Creative Influences
“I tend to avoid reading other books while I’m writing, because I’m very protective of the voice of my novel. I do watch a lot of films though, and while I was writing Runt, I found Paddington, Amelie, Babe, Isle of Dogs, Best in Show and The Castle to be wonderful companions.”
After sharing this quote with the class, have students ‘turn and talk’ to a partner about the influences named by Craig Silvey. Reflecting on the films they are familiar with, ask students to discuss aspects of the narrative, characters, settings or mood that may have resonated for the story of Runt.
The class could revisit this conversation after viewing the film, identifying any similarities with the films listed by Craig Silvey.