Join Harbour Retreat’s Online Community
Fiction to Fork to Film is an online community located on Harbour Retreat’s Youtube Channel. Join us as we bring stories to life through food, reflection, and film. Each season, we dive into a carefully selected book, savour its flavours, and uncover the cinematic interpretation — all from the comfort of home.
Next season...
Step into a small French village where the air carries the scent of dark chocolate and something even more intoxicating — disruption. We’ll read weekly chapters from Chocolat by Joanne Harris and discover a story of quiet rebellion, longing, tradition…and sweetness that refuses to apologize for itself. Expect candlelit reflections and tasting moments inspired by the pages, thoughtful discussion of the novel’s layered characters, and an exploration of its film adaptation. This is an invitation to savour each chapter like a square of fine chocolate and notice what it stirs within you.
How it works...
1. Subscribe
The first thing you need to do subscribe to Harbour Retreat’s YouTube channel. Look for the Fiction to Fork to Film playlist and select a season…then start watching! The community is completely free and accessible to everyone.
2. Read Along
Each season spans 4 weeks with a book chosen by the community. We assign chapters to read slowly, giving everyone space to notice the details, characters, culinary mentions, and subtle themes.
3. Watch the Premiere
New seasons launch as Premieres on YouTube. Your host (the creator of Harbour Retreat, Wendy Hanlan) will be in the live chat to welcome you, guide discussion, and respond to reflections in real time. This is the most fun and social option.
4. Reflect & Participate
Share your thoughts by commenting, respond to someone else’s comment, or even come back later in the week and continue the discussion. Even if you’re watching months from now, the conversation is still open.
5. Fork to Film
To prepare for the final Premiere, the film adaptation of the book is watched independently. Members also pre-prepare a themed dinner inspired by the story, to be shared virtually during the Premiere. Reflections on the movie are discussed and ideas for the next book are gathered.
Why join?
Experience a cozy, immersive literary ritual that blends reading, tasting, and reflecting
Connect with a community of curious readers and film lovers
Participate in a shared conversation that enhances the story experience
