Will The Word Keepers Make It to the Big Screen? The Journey of Kate Gawi’s Independent Bestseller

NATIONWIDE - NOVEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) When you think of a bestselling book, it’s often associated with a major publishing house, large marketing budgets, and years of industry connections. However, Kate Gawi’s The Word Keepers challenges that notion, proving that stories told with heart, soul, and vivid backdrops can thrive without the heavy backing of traditional publishers. It’s a journey that highlights the potential of independent publishing and the impact of stories that defy commercial trends.

The Power of an Independent Bestseller

Kate Gawi, a Swedish-Australian writer, has always believed in the transformative power of art and storytelling. Through her novel The Word Keepers, Gawi explores the power of family secrets, class differences, and the healing potential of truth. Set against the post-war Newport and the modern-day French Riviera, the book combines cinematic qualities with deep emotional resonance.

Her journey as an independent author reflects the changing landscape of publishing, where success is no longer defined by affiliation with large houses. The Word Keepers is an example of how deeply personal and emotional narratives can find success outside of traditional publishing structures.

Breaking Through Without Big Publishers

The success of The Word Keepers as an independent novel is a testament to the power of storytelling over traditional marketing budgets. While many independent authors face significant challenges, Gawi’s novel has reached readers worldwide, earning recognition and achieving sales above the average for independently published books, both online and in independent bookstores.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support from readers,” Gawi shares. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s humbling to see my book resonating with so many.”

What sets The Word Keepers apart is its universal appeal. While it has often been compared to other beloved stories, such as The Notebook, the novel offers a unique perspective that captures the heart and complexity of its characters.

The Buzz Around a Movie Adaptation

As The Word Keepers continues to gain momentum, a question has emerged: Could the novel be adapted into a movie? Many readers have pointed to the book’s vivid settings and emotionally charged moments, which would translate beautifully to the big screen.

“The idea of a movie adaptation is exciting,” Gawi says. “Many readers have expressed that they can easily visualize the story as a film. The thought of seeing The Word Keepers on the big screen is thrilling, of course, and any writer’s dream.”

While the adaptation remains a dream for now, the growing recognition of independent books suggests that there is room for stories outside the traditional publishing world to gain the attention of the film industry.

The Importance of Independent Books

In a publishing landscape often dominated by trends and market-driven content, The Word Keepers is a reminder of the power of meaningful, emotional stories. She believes that stories with heart and substance are more than just commercial products, following trends. They have the power to connect with readers in ways that are often overlooked by mainstream publishers.

“I have read many independently published books that exceed the quality of traditionally published books. I have been blessed to read the works of my peers, and there are so many stories that deserve a wider audience,” Gawi says.

The publishing world is often focused on what's trending. “There is space for independent books,” she continues. ”I believe the landscape will change, but it can only do so if bookstores think outside the box and allow shelf space for indies,” Gawi says.

Through her journey as an independent author, Gawi has demonstrated that there is an audience hungry for stories that go beyond surface-level trends. The Word Keepers is proof that independent authors can find success and impact without the traditional routes.

Will The Word Keepers Make It to the Big Screen?

The question of whether independent books can make it to Hollywood is still being answered, but as the publishing world evolves, there is growing recognition of the potential of independent novels to find success in film and beyond. While it remains to be seen whether The Word Keepers will be adapted for the big screen, Kate Gawi is already proud of what the book has achieved and is hopeful that it will continue to inspire readers for years to come.

To learn more about Kate Gawi and her work, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram. You can also check out The Word Keepers on Goodreads.