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In Season 10 Episode 2 of The Birding Life Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with one of South Africa's most well-known authors, John van de Ruit. Many people know John for his bestselling *Spud* series, which was adapted into a film starring the legendary John Cleese. But there's a side of him that might surprise some—John is also an avid birder. In our conversation, we explored his journey as an author, his passion for birding, and how these two seemingly different worlds intersect.
From Theatre to Spud: A Journey into Writing
John describes his life as "unconventional," having never held a traditional job. After working as a sports and entertainment coordinator at a hotel, he transitioned into freelancing—acting, writing, and exploring creative endeavors. It wasn't long before he discovered that writing was where his true talent lay.
“I never intended to become an author,” John says. “I was passionate about acting, but at university, I realized I had a talent for writing. Eventually, it became clear that my abilities as a writer surpassed those I had as an actor.”
While touring with a comedy show in the early 2000s, he started working on a project that would change his life—Spud. “It was just an experiment,” he recalls. “When I got to the end, I felt like I had something, but I had no idea what it would become.” The book was picked up by a publisher, and after a modest print run of 3,000 copies, Spud took off, becoming a bestseller with sequels and film adaptations.
The Impact of Spud and Working with John Cleese
John reflects on the journey from writing Spud to seeing it become a cultural phenomenon. “It changed my life,” he says. “I had to quit my theater job and become a full-time author.”
He also shares a behind-the-scenes look at working with John Cleese on the film adaptations. “I couldn’t believe it when Cleese signed on,” John says. “We approached a few big names, but it was Cleese who took on the role. Walking around the set with him was surreal—this towering man who’s an absolute legend.”
Beyond his comedic genius, Cleese’s appreciation for nature stood out. “He loved South Africa, the landscape, and the wildlife. He even took a special interest in lemurs. It was fascinating to see that side of him,” John recalls.
A Lifelong Connection to Nature and Birding
Even as Spud brought fame, John never lost his connection to nature. “I’ve been a nature lover for as long as I can remember,” he says. “Through all the ups and downs of my career, my love for the outdoors has been the constant.”
John’s birding journey began with his father, a “nature maniac” who inspired his love for the natural world. “I remember telling my dad I wanted to see a Crimson-breasted Shrike. He took us to the Kalahari, where we had these incredible encounters with wildlife—experiences that fueled my love for nature.”
However, it wasn’t until 2018 that John became serious about birding. “There’s a difference between being a nature lover and becoming an avid birder,” he notes. “Now, I’m obsessed—I’m constantly chasing new species and building my list.”
The Thrill of Birding: Pursuit, Patience, and Lifers
For John, birding is as much about the pursuit as it is about the birds themselves. “If we got everything instantly, it wouldn’t be fun,” he muses. “It’s the pursuit that makes birding special—the feeling of spotting a bird you’ve been chasing for years.”
He recounts one such memorable experience: “I saw a Pels Fishing Owl while in Namibia. It popped up out of nowhere, soaring over the water in the last rays of the sun. It was magical. But for every moment like that, there are many where you just miss out.”
John also acknowledges the challenges that come with balancing birding with his creative work. “When I’m writing, I disappear from the birding scene—I’m all in,” he says. “But when the book is finished, I can get back out there and chase those sightings. It’s a balance between the solitude of writing and the thrill of being out in the field.”
Writing Spud – The Reunion and the Role of Birding in Creativity
John’s latest project, Spud – The Reunion, marks the return of the beloved character as he navigates a ten-year school reunion. Writing this new chapter meant stepping back into Spud’s world, a process that required focus and immersion. “I had to write in secrecy, keeping the project under wraps until it was ready to be announced,” he explains.
Yet, even in the intense solitude of writing, birding remained a source of inspiration. “It’s a way to clear my head. When you’re stuck in front of a screen for months, just getting outside, listening to bird calls, and immersing yourself in nature can be incredibly grounding.”
John imagines what Spud might be like as a birder. “I think he’d be the kind of birdwatcher who studies his garden and local patch, appreciating the birds close to home. He wouldn’t be a mad lister, but he’d find joy in the simple things—like a Red-capped Robin-Chat hopping past while he writes in his diary.”
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Spud and Birding
With Spud – The Reunion set for release on November 8th, John is excited to reconnect with readers and fans of the series. He also looks forward to continuing his birding journey. “If you walk into any bookstore after the eighth, you should see the new *Spud* on the shelves,” he says. “And if it’s not there, let me know—I’ll make sure it is!”
For those interested in birding, John has some advice: “Buy the book, then go birding. Birding isn’t just about the birds—it’s about the incredible places they take you and the experiences that come with them.”
As the conversation comes to a close, it’s clear that John van de Ruit’s story is one of passion—whether through the written word or the call of a rare bird. His life, much like his characters, is about embracing adventure and the unexpected moments that shape us.
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