Ask Penguin Which Penguin books shocked society and became cultural icons? With Jack Edwards and Penguin Editor, Simon Prosser
Sep 3, 2025
Join Simon Prosser, a seasoned Penguin editor with over 25 years in the industry, and Jack Edwards, the dynamic 'internet's resident librarian,' as they dive into books that shocked and shaped society. They reflect on the evolving nature of literary shock, from classic titles to modern favorites, exploring how literature influences pop culture and public debate. Surprising hits like 'In Cold Blood' and the significance of works like '1984' are unpacked, along with the new voices reshaping contemporary reading.
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Books Create Cultural Ripples
- Books shape pop culture by spawning later works and phrases that enter everyday speech.
- Jack Edwards used examples like Pride and Prejudice > Bridget Jones and Lord of the Flies > Lost to show literary ripple effects.
Use Pop Culture To Introduce Books
- Meet readers where they already are by linking books to pop-culture touchpoints like music and TV.
- Jack Edwards recommends using those references to draw non-readers into books and reading communities.
Two Kinds Of Literary Shock
- Shock works in two ways: offending contemporary mores and revealing hidden truths.
- Simon Prosser contrasts Lady Chatterley's scandalous language with books like Hiroshima that exposed concealed realities.