This summer, students can dive into the story that sparked a cultural phenomenon. Peter Benchley’s Jaws—a bestseller and the inspiration behind the legendary 1975 film that turned a simple shark tale into a defining piece of pop culture—was re-released last June in a special 50th Anniversary edition.
This commemorative edition is more than just a reprint; it offers a behind-the-scenes look at how a book became a global sensation. Included are a foreword by Benchley’s wife, an introduction by the author, the original typewritten title page with handwritten notes, and a letter to producer David Brown with feedback on the film adaptation. Readers will also find Benchley’s firsthand account of writing Jaws, selling it to Universal Studios, and working with a then up-and-coming Steven Spielberg—plus six never-before-seen photos from the movie set.
The novel follows a peaceful seaside town thrown into chaos by the appearance of a great white shark just offshore. With memorable characters and a tension-filled plot, Jaws remains a gripping and relevant read five decades after it first hit shelves.
To celebrate the film’s 50th anniversary, National Geographic and Amblin Entertainment have partnered to release Jaws@50: The Definitive Inside Story, an official documentary directed by longtime Steven Spielberg collaborator Laurent Bouzereau and authorized by Spielberg himself. The film features exclusive interviews with the original cast and crew, along with reflections from directors like Jordan Peele, James Cameron, Guillermo del Toro, and others on the film’s lasting legacy and influence.
Together, the book and documentary make a perfect summer project—especially for students curious about storytelling, filmmaking, or classic suspense. With beach season in full swing, there’s no better time to explore the shark story that continues to capture imaginations across generations.
Watch the Jaws@50: The Definitive Inside Story trailer here!
