Edna Ferbert’s Giant, published in 1952, captured the minds of not only readers but also film studios eager to give this book the big-screen treatment. In 1956, a film by the same title would bring Ferber’s story to life with an array of tour de force performances.

Julie Gilbert’s Giant Love tells the story of Ferber’s inspiration for the story in addition to the creation of her novel. In addition to highlighting the author’s work on the initial and published text, Gilbert details the successes and challenges of producing the film, now hailed as an American classic. Gilbert’s book also includes interesting photographs that supplement her research and examination of this classic film.

Giant Love is available for purchase via Penguin Random House in December 2024.