The Runt novel was published before the film was released, but the story was always intended for the screen. 

“Runt began as a film project; I conceived of this as a cinematic vehicle to tell the story. So, I wrote a manuscript, and I wrote a draft of the screenplay. I wrote the two, essentially, at the same time: they were hand in hand. I guess it's helped to accelerate the film itself. Typically, you don't go into production a year after a book has come out,” explains Silvey. 

Director John Sheedy acknowledges the intricate task of transforming a beloved novel into a film, pointing out that not every aspect of a rich novel can make it to the screen. To stay as true to the book as possible, he concentrated on maintaining its core – the essence, wit, and pivotal scenes that fans hold dear. Sheedy credits Craig Silvey's regular presence on set during shooting as an invaluable touchstone for maintaining the book’s authenticity.  

After sharing the above information with students, facilitate a class discussion about page-to-screen adaptations. What have you learnt about the screen adaptation of Runt? Which other adaptations have students watched at school or home? What contributes to a good screen adaptation? (For example, strong characters, an engaging plot, visual potential and appealing themes.) 

Ask students to reflect on their favourite books then select one that would be an effective film adaptation. To apply their learning, have students write a short persuasive piece about why their selection is suitable for a page-to-screen adaptation. If time permits (or in a subsequent lesson), students could share their ideas with the wider class through an oral presentation.