Uzo Aduba launches Netflix book club series with Nella Larsen’s ‘Passing’ as its inaugural title

Netflix has come up with a “novel” idea.

The streaming giant is entering the book club business.

The Hollywood-headquartered company announced Wednesday the launch of a new Netflix series focused on literary offerings it helped propel into “pop culture phenomena.”

Already home to widely watched adaptations of literary heavy hitters such as Julia Quinn’s “Bridgerton,” Caroline Kepnes’ “You,” Walter Telvis’ “Queen’s Gambit” and Sheryl Woods’ “Sweet Magnolias,” the streamer is building on that success with a social media-savvy series catering to all lovers of literature.

“Netflix loves bringing books to life on screen and creating conversation with passionate readers and fans,” Netflix marketing boss Bozoma Saint John said with Wednesday’s announcement.

Three-time Emmy Award winner Uzo Aduba has been tapped as the inaugural host of the series — titled “But Have You Read the Book?” — and will hold discussions about the selected book and the adaptation process with authors, cast members and creators over coffee at different Starbucks locations.

“Coffee brings us together for a shared experience with loved ones, friends, and even strangers, and …the new relationship we’ve formed with Netflix for ‘But Have You Read the Book?’ is an exciting way to bring these conversations from the third place to our customers, wherever they are,” Starbucks marketing chief Brady Brewer said.

First on the list is Nella Larsen’s novel “Passing,” which centers on the reunion of two Black childhood friends and one’s attempt to pass as white for her husband.

Netflix is releasing Rebecca Hall’s eagerly anticipated film adaptation of the 1929 book starring Tessa Thompson and Oscar nominee Ruth Negga on Nov. 10.

The streamer’s new book club initiative is designed to encourage fans to watch the Netflix adaptation of the book and join Aduba in the discussion.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve asked friends, ‘But have you read the book?’ So I’m excited to host Netflix Book Club and bring together loyal book fans, TV and movie obsessives and the creators behind their favorite stories. I can’t wait to dive deep into the creative process and what it takes to bring a book to life,” the “Orange is the New Black” star said in a statement.

“But Have You Read the Book?” will premiere on Nov. 16 on the Still Watching Netflix channel on YouTube and Netflix’s Facebook page.