Ask Penguin

Why I wanted to adapt Wuthering Heights with Emerald Fennell

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:01:00 GMT

Is Wuthering Heights the perfect novel or the perfect work of art? Why do we fall in love with villains? Is all love doomed? And if Emerald Fennell could adapt another book to film, what would she choose?

In this special episode of Ask Penguin, we speak to the director of Wuthering Heights' latest adaptation, Emerald Fennell, about her relationship to Emily Brontë's novel, how she went about interpreting such a complex classic, and what she wants audiences to take away from her vision.

Also joining us in the studio are authors Henry Eliott and Harriet Evans, as we deep-dive into the book, the film, and the life of the Brontës.

Discover more about this episode and all the books by clicking here

Watch Emerald Fennell's interview on YouTube

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What secrets does Jane Austen's house hold?

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:15:30 GMT

In this special bonus episode, and to mark Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, we step inside her home in Alton to uncover the life she lived there and the objects she treasured most. From first editions to her own annotated books which formed her personal library, we explore how her surroundings and daily routines shaped her writing - and how walking through her rooms brings her world vividly to life.

Discover all our episode transcripts and book recommendations at Penguin.co.uk

Love everything Jane Austen? Visit all our features and beautiful editions of all her works by clicking: Jane Austen

Follow in our footsteps and find out more aout her home and plan your visit by clicking: Jane Austen's House

Ask Penguin will be back in the New Year. Until then, Happy Reading!

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What were the best books of 2025?

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

What were our favourite books of the year and what are we most excited to read in 2026? Join the team behind the Ask Penguin podcast to look back at standout titles, memorable podcast moments, and the reading intentions we’re taking into the New Year.

Explore all the books mentioned on this episode: Click here

Ask Penguin will be back in 2026. Find us on Insatgram @PenguinUKBooks and follow our Broadcast channel for exclusive content, giveaways and your chance to put your questions to your favourite authors!

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What makes a setting feel so vivid it becomes a character? With Paula Hawkins

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Which novels are truly unputdownable and what should you read on a dark winter's night? We’re joined by best-selling author, Paula Hawkins, who discusses art, love and remote islands in her latest thriller, The Blue Hour. She also helps us tackle your listener questions with a stack of gripping recommendations to guide you to your next great read.

Explore all the books mentioned on this episode: Click here

Paula Hawkins worked as a journalist for fifteen years before writing her first novel. Born and brought up in Zimbabwe, she moved to London in 1989. Her first thriller The Girl on the Train became a global phenomenon, selling over 23 million copies. Published in over fifty languages, it was a No.1 bestseller around the world and a box-office-hit film starring Emily Blunt.

Paula's subsequent thrillers have all been instant Sunday Times bestsellers. In 2021 A Slow Fire Burning was nominated for Thriller of the Year at the British Book Awards, and in 2025 The Blue Hour was voted the Good Housekeeping Good Books winner.

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What is the best translated fiction to read? With Karl Ove Knausgaard

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

What are the best new books in Korean fiction? What is the process of translating a book into English? And how do you evoke a sense of place you haven't visited?

This week we sat down with award-winning and internationally best-selling author, Karl Ove Knausgaard to discuss his latest novel, The School of Night.

The School of Night is a Faustian-inspired meditation on art and creativity, the 4th novel in The Morning Star series, and the first in the sequence that can be read as a standalone novel.

Discover all the books mentioned on this episode: Click here

Karl Ove Knausgaard's My Struggle cycle has been heralded as a masterpiece all over the world. From A Death in the Family to The End, the novels move through childhood into adulthood and, together, form an enthralling portrait of human life. Knausgaard has been awarded the Norwegian Critics Prize for Literature, the Brage Prize and the Jerusalem Prize. His work, which also includes the Seasons Quartet and the Morning Star sequence (The Morning Star, The Wolves of Eternity, The Third Realm and The School of Night) is published in thirty-six languages.

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Why are generations at war with each other? With Zadie Smith

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Which multi-generational novels inspired White Teeth? Where does Zadie Smith turn for her next great read? And our Penguin team is back to solve your reading dilemmas - whether you're after fascinating memoirs, this year's pick of prize-winning books, or stories perfect for Autumn.

Discover all the books mentioned on this episode: Click here

Zadie Smtih is one of the most distinctive, exciting and widely loved writers of her generation: she’s the twice shortlisted, once winner of the Women's Prize, also shortlisted for the Booker and has been twice named among Granta’s Best Young British Novelists. Her debut, White Teeth, blazed onto the best-seller lists, and established her as a defining generational voice. Her follow-up work includes the critically and commercially acclaimed NW, On Beauty, and Swing Time. Zadie Smith’s latest work is Dead and Alive: the keenly awaited new collection of essays, in which she brings her unique skills and observations to bear across a dazzling range of subjects.

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Is never growing up the secret to great storytelling? With Philip Pullman

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:34:19 GMT

What was the inspiration behind Philip Pullman’s Northern Lights series? How does he want readers to feel on Lyra’s final adventure in The Rose Field? Has his demon changed now that he has got to the end of this writing journey, and how do you say goodbye to characters you love?

In this special edition of Ask Penguin, host Rhianna Dhillon visits Philip Pullman at his Oxford home, surrounded by books (and barking cockapoos), to mark thirty years since the world met Lyra Belacqua in Northern Lights. The two reflects on a lifetime of storytelling and returning to Lyra’s world one final time in the conclusion of The Book of Dust series, The Rose Field.

Discover all the books mentioned in this episode here: here

To put a question to future podcast guests, and for exclusive content and book giveaways, join our Broadcast channel on Instagram: @PenguinUKBooks

Philip Pullman is one of the most highly respected children's authors writing today. Winner of many prestigious awards, including the Carnegie of Carnegies and the Whitbread Award, Pullman’s epic fantasy trilogy His Dark Materials has been acclaimed as a modern classic. It has sold 17.5 million copies worldwide and been translated into 40 languages. In 2005 he was awarded the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. He lives in Oxford.

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Is Jane Austen's legacy more than just romantic love? With Andrew Hunter Murray and Gill Hornby

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Why do we still love Jane Austen’s novels 250 years later? What makes her stories continue to inspire readers and creators today? And if Jane were alive now, which book would you recommend she read?

In this special episode, recorded at Jane Austen’s family home in Alton, host Rhianna Dhillon is joined by Miss Austen author and president of the Jane Austen Society, Gill Hornby, alongside author and creator of the West End show Austentatious Andrew Hunter Murray, to explore Austen’s legacy and provide some regency-inspired book recommendations.

Discover all the books mentioned in this episode here: Jane Austen Episode

Visit Jane Austen’s home: janeaustens.house

To put a question to future podcast guests, and for exclusive content and book giveaways, join our Broadcast channel on Instagram: @PenguinUKBooks

Gill Hornby is a writer and journalist. Her novels Miss Austen and Godmersham Park were Sunday Times bestsellers, and Miss Austen was adapted into a four-part BBC drama starring Keely Hawes as Cassandra Austen. She is also the President of the Jane Austen Society.

Andrew Hunter Murray is a writer, broadcaster and comedian. His first novel, The Last Day, was a Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller, and one of the top 10 fiction debuts of 2020; his second, The Sanctuary, was a Waterstones Thriller of the Month; and his third, A Beginner’s Guide to Breaking and Entering, was shortlisted for the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for comic literature. in 2011, Murray was a founding member of the West End comedy show Austentatious.

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Why do we still laugh when times are hard? With Ocean Vuong

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 23:00:00 GMT

I'm looking for a novel that reads like poetry - where should I start? Can you recommend a queer love story with a happy conclusion? What are the best books that explore small-town life? We put your book dilemmas to bestselling author Ocean Vuong and Penguin Editor and award-winning poet Sarah Howe.

Joining Rhianna this week is Ocean Vuong, whose latest book The Emperor of Gladness has been dubbed the first 'millennial Great American Novel' – but what does that really mean, and which classic American novels have inspired him? The author and poet also reflects on the themes and inspirations behind the book, from small-town Connecticut to intergenerational friendships.

Discover all the books mentioned in this episode here

To ask a question and for exclusive content and giveaways join our Broadcast channel on Instagram: @PenguinUKBooks

Ocean Vuong is an award-winning poet, essayist and novelist. He is the winner of the T. S. Eliot Prize for his poetry collection Night Sky with Exit Wounds, and his debut novel On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous was a literary sensation, going on to sell more than a million copies. Amongst many other accolades, he was a recipient of the MacArthur ‘Genius Grant’ in 2019 and The Whiting Award in 2016.

The Emperor of Gladness, Vuong’s latest novel, explores themes of chosen family and the ways in which our lives can be changed by the most unexpected people.

Sarah Howe is Poetry Editor for Chatto & Windus an imprint of Penguin as well as an award-winning author. Sarah’s first collection, Loop of Jade won the T. S. Eliot Prize in 2015, and the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year award the same year. Her follow-up collection, Foretokens, continues to explore ideas and complications of belonging, identity and inheritance.

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Which Penguin books shocked society and became cultural icons? With Jack Edwards and Penguin Editor, Simon Prosser

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Outrageous, iconic and unforgettable - these are some of the books Penguin have been publishing over its 90-year history. As part of a special content series called 'The books that shaped us' on Penguin.co.uk, we invited readers from the world of publishing, comedy, and music to explore must-read titles across the decades. The Internet's resident librarian Jack Edwards and Penguin editor Simon Prosser discuss their curated reading lists, and explore the impact of the books that shocked society and became pop culture phenomena in this special episode, recorded live at Waterstones Picadilly

Find all the books mentioned in this episode and more by clicking this link: The Penguin Podcast Waterstones Special

Follow our dedicated Broadcast channel on Instagram for exclusive content and giveaways: @PenguinUKBooks

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Which book defined your generation? With Irvine Welsh and Derek Owusu

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:02:00 GMT

What would you recommend an inspiring writer to read? What is the best gateway book to get into reading? Who are the new and upcoming Scottish novelists working today to watch out for?

Recorded live at Latitude Festival, Irvine Welsh sits down with host Rhianna Dhillon to delve into his new novel Men in Love, the eagerly awaited sequel to Trainspotting, which explores the vibrant landscape of youth culture through the decades and the nuances of defining a generation through the arts. Plus, award-winning author and Penguin colleague Derek Owusu joins the panel, providing personalised book recommendations to audience members. We also speak to readers at the festival and ask them: what is the book that defined your youth?

Find all the books mentioned in this episode and more at by clicking this link: The Penguin Podcast: Latitude special

Follow our dedicated Broadcast channel on Instagram for exclusive content and giveaways: @PenguinUKBooks

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Irvine Welsh was born and raised in Edinburgh. His first novel, Trainspotting, has sold over one million copies in the UK and was adapted into an era-defining film. He has written fourteen further novels, including the number one Sunday Times bestseller Dead Men’s Trousers, four books of shorter fiction and numerous plays and screenplays. Irvine Welsh currently lives between London, Edinburgh and Miami.

Derek Owusu is a writer, poet and podcaster from north London. He discovered his passion for literature at the age of twenty-three while studying exercise science at university. Unable to afford a change of degree, Derek began reading voraciously and sneaking into English Literature lectures at the University of Manchester. Derek first book That Reminds Me, won the Desmond Elliott Prize 2020 and his new novel Recovery House will be published in 2026.

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How Penguin Books turned the UK into a nation of readers

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

From the paperback revolution to the obscenity trial that made Lady Chatterley’s Lover famous, we explore how Penguin turned the UK into a nation of readers as we celebrate our 90th birthday. Host Rhianna Dhillon speaks to Kate Mosse, international bestselling author, activist and Founder Director of the Women’s Prize for Fiction and Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction, and Zainab Juma, Penguin’s Head of Brand, about Penguin’s origin story, mission, and cultural influence over the past 90 years.

Explore the full list of books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: 90th Birthday special: How Penguin turned the UK into a nation of readers

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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What should you read this summer? With Anthony Horowitz

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT

What are the books that give you all the Summer feels? Can you recommend the perfect thrillers to take on holiday? And which books evoke the song Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Rey? We put your questions to our panel of Penguin experts and speak with Marble Hall Murders author Anthony Horowitz about his final book in the Magpie Murders series.

Explore the full list of books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 6: Summer Reads

Want to have your say on what's next for Ask Penguin? Click here!

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Bestselling author Anthony Horowitz has written two highly acclaimed Sherlock Holmes novels, The House of Silk and Moriarty; three James Bond novels, Trigger Mortis, Forever and a Day and With a Mind to Kill; the acclaimed bestselling mystery novels Magpie Murders, Moonflower Murders and Marble Hall Murders; and the Detective Hawthorne novels, The Word is Murder, The Sentence is Death, A Line To Kill, The Twist of a Knife and Close to Death.

He is also the author of the teen spy Alex Rider series, and ris esponsible for creating and writing some of the UK’s most loved and successful TV series, including Midsomer Murders and Foyle’s War. In January 2022 he was awarded a CBE for his services to literature.

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S2 E5: Queer Literature with Charlie Porter

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast we talk to writer, critic and curator Charlie Porter about his novel Nova Scotia House, discuss queer books and the importance of hearing queer voices in art. Plus we provide plenty of book recommendations for LGBTQ+ stories.

Explore the full list of books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 5: Queer Literature

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Charlie's Nova Scotia House playlist

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S2 E4: Book Club Books with Yrsa Daley-Ward

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Whether you are in a book club or fancy starting your own, we have the book recommendations and conversation starters to make it a success! Plus we talk to Merky books author Yrsa Daley-Ward about her first novel The Catch.

Explore the full list of books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 4: Book Club Books

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Yrsa's Substack: the utter

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S2 E3: Debut Books with Catherine Airey, William Rayfet Hunter and Fiza Saeed McLynn

Thu, 08 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

What is it like to write and publish your first ever novel? We find out by asking the authors William Rayfet Hunter (Sunstruck), Catherine Airey (Confessions), and Fiza Saeed McLynn (The Midnight Carousel). Speaking to host Rhianna Dhillon, they discuss their different experiences writing their debut books, where they found their inspiration, and personal book recommendations ranging from fantasy to working-class fiction.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 3: Debut Books

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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S2 E2: Love and Romance with Emily Henry

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author, and Queen of the Romantic comedy novel, Emily Henry joins us on this week's episode to discuss her brand new book, Great Big Beautiful Life, novels full of spice, and which fictional character makes the best book boyfriend. And as ever we solve your book dilemmas with a wide range of romantic fiction recommendations.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 2: Love and Romance

And you can download the audiobook here: Great Big Beautiful Life Audiobook

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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S2 E1: Children's Books with Greg James and Chris Smith

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast we jump into the exciting world of children's books and chat to Greg James and Chris Smith about their new book The Kid Who Fell Through Time. Plus we explore why there is a reading for pleasure crisis and the ways we can encourage kids to read, and we provide plenty of recommendations for children, whatever their age.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and read the transcript by visiting: Season 2, Episode 1: Children's Books

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

Follow our dedicated Broadcast channel on Instagram for exclusive content and giveaways: @PenguinUKBooks

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Ask Penguin Series 2 Trailer

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:00:00 GMT

The Penguin Podcast is back for another series of Ask Penguin. In each episode, we will take you inside Penguin Books to meet some of the incredible authors we publish, as well as the people who work here, to get answers to all of your book-related questions.

The new series launches on Thursday 10th April with a children’s books special and across the series we’ll be covering themes such as Romance, Book Club Books and must-reads for your summer holidays, with episodes featuring your favourite authors.

If you’re looking for a book recommendation, follow us on Instagram @penguinukbooks or send us your questions for a chance to be featured by emailing: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Don't forget to follow the show, so you never miss an episode!

Find out more: https://www.penguin.co.uk/discover/podcast

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Jodi Picoult on the theory behind Shakespeare’s plays

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

In our final bonus episode from The Penguin Podcast, bestselling author Jodi Picoult shares her theory on the true author behind Shakespeare's plays that inspired her new novel, By Any Other Name.

Explore the full list of the books discussed in this bonus episode and read the transcript by visiting Bonus Episode 5

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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A day in the life of a Publicist with Alison Barrow

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

In this bonus episode we speak with Alison Barrow, Publicity Director at Penguin Books, to explore the fascinating world of book publicity. Alison shares insights into her role, offering a glimpse into her daily life as she works with authors and connects their books with readers.

Explore the full list of the books discussed in this bonus episode and read the transcript by visiting: Bonus Episode 4

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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The human experience and AI with Jeanette Winterson

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

In this bonus episode from The Penguin Podcast, Episode 11 - Winter Reads, Jeanette Winterson shares her fascinating perspective on our relationship with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the evolution of human consciousness.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this bonus episode and read the transcript by visiting: Bonus Episode 3

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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A day in the life of a Books Editor with Simon Prosser

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Ever wondered what the role of an Editor at Penguin Books involves? In our second bonus episode, Rhianna speaks with Publishing Director, Simon Prosser about what a typical day of an editor is like and when they ever get time to read! Simon is the editor of many award-winning authors such as Bernardine Evaristo, Zadie Smith, and Micheal Magee.

Explore the full list of the books discussed in this bonus episode and read the transcript by visiting: Bonus Episode 2

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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How to tackle reading the big Classics with Henry Eliot

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:01:00 GMT

In a special bonus episode taken from Episode 3: The Classics with Henry Eliot and Gill Hornby we share author and editor Henry Eliot's tips on tackling some of Classics' biggest tomes.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this bonus episode and read the transcript by visiting: Bonus Episode 1

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 12: Best books of the year

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 00:05:33 GMT

We round-up a year of reading with recommendations from Penguin colleagues of their favourite books of the year and a look at what they are most excited for you to read in 2025. Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and the transcript by visiting: Episode 12: Best books of the year.

Thank you for listening to The Penguin Podcast and our new show Ask Penguin. We would love to hear your feedback and if you have any questions for us. To get in contact with the team, send us a message via the email address below. We return in the Spring with a new series. Until then, Happy Reading!

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 11: Winter Reads with Jeanette Winterson

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:05:16 GMT

Joining us this week is award-winning author Jeanette Winterson, as we explore her captivating new collection of ghost stories, Night Side of the River, and provide listeners with reading recommendations based on their winter-themed questions. Plus, we’ll stroll through the office to gather the perfect list of festive reads from our Penguin colleagues for you to enjoy this Christmas.

Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and the transcript by visiting: Episode 11: Winter Reads

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 10: History Special with Al Murray, James Holland and Terry Deary

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:05:00 GMT

Joining us in the studio to provide reading inspiration from the Roman Empire to the Second World War are author and podcast duo of We Have Ways of Making You Talk, James Holland and Al Murray, plus creator of Horrible Histories, Terry Deary

For the full list of books plus transcript visit: Episode 6: History Special

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

Arnhem Black Tuesday by Al Murray

Casino ’44 by James Holland

A History of Britain in Ten Enemies by Terry Deary

The Cauldron by Zeno

Scoop by Evelyn Waugh

Mary Queen of Scots by Alison Weir

The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley

Swords of Honour by Evelyn Waugh

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 9: How to Get Published with Jennie Godfrey

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:05:16 GMT

This week we unpick the publishing process, answering all of your questions from how to find an agent to what it's like working with your editor and publicity team. Joining Rhianna in the studio is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The List of Suspicious Things, Jennie Godfrey, alongside Commissioning Editor Kaiya Shang and Director of Publicity and Media Relations, Charlotte Bush. Plus, we share details of the programmes offered by Penguin Books to help aspiring writers.

Books and authors mentioned in this episode

The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey

Sonny Boy by Al Pacino

Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner

For more information on how to get published visit: Getting Published

For the complete list of books mentioned in this episode and the transcript visit: Episode 9 - How to get published

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 8: Christmas gifting with William Hanson

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:05:57 GMT

As the Christmas season approaches, we’ve assembled an expert panel to help you navigate your gifting dilemmas and find the ideal presents for everyone on your list. Plus, how do you politely decline a festive party? And is bending the spine of a book the approved way to read it? We find out with etiquette expert, and Help I've S*xted my Boss podcaster, William Hanson as we discuss his new book Just Good Manners.

For the complete list of books mentioned in this episode and the transcript visit: Episode 8: Christmas gifting

Enjoy 20% off your order at Penguin Shop using the discount code PENGUINPODCAST. T&Cs apply

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 7: Historical Fiction with Jodi Picoult

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:15:17 GMT

Join us as we time-travel through our bookshelves as we recommend must-read historical fiction in answer to your reading requests. Plus, bestselling author Jodi Picoult shares her theory on the true author behind Shakespeare's plays that inspired her new novel, By Any Other Name.

Sign up to our Booksmarks panel

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

By Any Other Name by Jodie Picoult

The Warm Hands of Ghosts by Catherine Arden

The Glass Woman by Caroline Lee

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Firebrand by Elizabeth Freemantle

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

Act of Oblivion by Robert Harris

In Memoriam by Alice Winn

Maurice by E.M. Forster

My Policeman by Bethan Roberts

For the full list of books and the transcript visit: Episode 7: Historical Fiction

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 6: Books to Screen with Robert Harris

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 00:15:24 GMT

What do you usually prefer: the book or the film? Or do you enjoy both? In this episode, we delve into books that have successfully transitioned from page to screen. We'll also be chatting with best-selling author Robert Harris about his gripping thriller, Conclave, which has been adapted for the silver screen this November, starring Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and Stanley Tucci. So grab your books and your popcorn, and get ready for another book-filled episode.

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

Conclave by Robert Harris

Precipice by Robert Harris

Miss Austen by Gill Hornby

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

Atonement by Ian McEwan

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

For the full list of books and the transcript visit: Episode 6: Books to Screen

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 5: Crime and Mystery with Kate Atkinson

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:02:20 GMT

Join us as we dive into the world of crime, thrillers, and mysteries! We answer your listener questions with award-winning author Kate Atkinson and publicist Alison Barrow. Plus, Kate discusses her brand-new Jackson Brodie novel, Death at the Sign of the Rook. Get ready for some killer reads!

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

The Cloisters by Katie Hayes

Gone, Baby, Gone by Dennis Lehane

The Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman

The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins

Charles Paris series by Simon Brett

Yellow Face by Rebecca F.Kuang

Helen Fields

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett

For the full list of books and transcript visit: Episode 5: Crime and Mysteries

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 4: Spooky reads with Daisy Johnson

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 03:30:56 GMT

Looking for a book that will keep you up at night? If you enjoy that tingling sensation down your spine while reading something on the spookier side then you're in the right place. In this episode, we explore the best horror and ghost stories perfect for Halloween. Alongside filling your book pile with terrifying but page-turning recommendations, we sit down with Booker-shortlisted author, Daisy Johnson to talk about her new collection of ghost stories, The Hotel.

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

The Hotel by Daisy Johnson

Heads Will Roll by Josh Winning

The Night House by Jo Nesbo

The Terror by Dan Simmons

For the full list of books plus transcript visit: Episode 4: Scary reads

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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Episode 3: The Classics with Henry Eliot and Gill Hornby

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 23:05:15 GMT

What makes a book a classic? Who decided which books make it into the canon? And how long would it take to read the entire list? Join our exploration through our Classic bookshelves with author Henry Eliot who answers listener questions with reading recommendations from all eras. Plus, we delve into the world of Jane Austen with Gill Hornby, whose novel Miss Austen is being adapted into a four-part drama by the BBC.

Books and authors mentioned in this episode:

The Penguin Classics Book by Henry Eliot

The Penguin Modern Classics Book by Henry Eliot

Miss Austen by Gill Hornby

For the full list of recommended reads visit: Episode 3: Classics

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Follow Henry's substack by clicking here

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Episode 2: Black History Month with Zeinab Badawi

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 03:30:16 GMT

Joining us in our book-filled studio is broadcaster and author Zeinab Badawi, who shares her journey chronicling Africa's spectacular history through the voices of African historians, archaeologists, and local storytellers. Plus, we put your reading requests to award-winning author Derek Owusu to top up your reading pile with books by Black authors to celebrate Black History Month.

Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Explore all the books discussed and a transcript by visiting: Episode 2: Black History Month

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Books mentioned in this episode:

Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

That Reminds Me by Derek Owusu

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

An African History of Africa by Zainab Badawi

The Confessions of Franny Langton by Sara Collins

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon

Ghana Must Go by Teiye Selassie

The Terrible by Yrsa Daley-Ward

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What are some of the best prize-winning books to read? With Sara Collins

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:19:43 GMT

What is it like to judge the world's most prestigious book prize? How do judges manage to read 150 submissions in a matter of months? And how do publishers update the winning book jacket so swiftly?

In the first episode of our new series Ask Penguin, join our new host, Rhianna Dhillon as we delve into the world of literary prizes with this year's Booker Prize judge and award-winning author, Sara Collins. We also answer your Ask Penguin questions with plenty of book recommendations to inspire your next read.

If you would like to send us a message or a question, email penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Visit our website for more information about The Penguin Podcast: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

For more information about this episode including a full list of books discussed visit: Episode 1: Prize-winners

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Confessions of Frannie Langton by Sara Collins

The Safe Keep by Yael Van Der Wouden

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner

Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Mr Loverman by Bernardine Evaristo

The Emperor's Babe by Bernadine Evaristo

Gliff by Ali Smith

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Ask Penguin Trailer

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 13:22:29 GMT

The Penguin Podcast is returning with a brand-new series called Ask Penguin. In each episode, we will take you inside Penguin Books to meet some of the incredible authors we publish as well as the people who work here, to get answers to all of your book-related questions.

Need help finding your next page-turning read? Are you curious to know what a day in the life of an editor is like? Or perhaps why a small, aquatic, flightless bird became the iconic emblem that adorns Penguin books worldwide?

The new series launches on Thursday 3rd October, where we'll be discussing prize-winning novels with award-winning author, and this year's Booker Prize judge, Sara Collins, and provide you with plenty of book recommendations with Publishing Director Simon Prosser.

Send us your questions for a chance to be featured by emailing: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.

Don't forget to follow the show, so you never miss an episode!

Find out more: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

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The Best Of the Penguin Podcast 2023

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 04:00:17 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast we're recapping the year with a selection of the brilliant guests we've welcomed onto the show. We hear from Jane Fallon, Chris van Tulleken, Julian Barnes, David Mitchell and more. We thank you for tuning in, and we'll see you in 2024. Happy holidays.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Sebastian Faulks with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 04:00:53 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by national treasure and bestselling author, Sebastian Faulks.

Together they they discuss the tweet that helped inspire his latest book, The Seventh Son, his thoughts on imposter Syndrome and humility, the influence of George Orwell on his political outlook, and a magical riverbank he discovered in France.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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C Pam Zhang with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 04:00:57 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by Booker Longlisted author, C Pam Zhang.

Together they discuss Zhang's latest novel, The Land of Milk and Honey, as well as the effects of extreme wealth on the human psyche, the place of pleasure and joy in human existence, the many expectations still placed upon women, and the literary benefits of being a marginalised writer.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Peter Singer with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 04:00:19 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by one of our time's most important moral philosophers and animal rights activists, Peter Singer.

In this episode, they discuss Singer's experience of animal rights in the 70s compared to now, what inspired him to begin campaigning for the rights of animals, the importance of suffering in determining rights, and his views on the rise of veganism.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Yanis Varoufakis with Nihal Arthanayake

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 09:30:15 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by the former Finance Minister of Greece and co-founder of the international grassroots movement DM25 as well as a Professor of economics at the University of Athens, Yanis Varoufakis. His latest book, Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism, explores how the owners of big tech have become the world's feudal overlords.

In this episode, Nihal and Yanis discuss the impact living through the digital age has on our lives, how commodities have more freedom of movement than people, and the objects that inspired the theories explored in his book.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Alain de Botton with Isy Suttie

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 23:12:09 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by bestselling author, public speaker, and founder of The School of Life, Alain de Botton. His latest book, A Therapeutic Journey, deals with mental ill-health and recuperation and has been described as both a source of companionship in our loneliest moments and a practical guide to finding reasons for hope.

In this episode, Isy and Alain discuss the theory behind why, as adults, we cry at happy things, the importance of listening to children, and the value of pursuing a 'good enough' life that prioritises emotional wellbeing.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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David Mitchell with Isy Suttie

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:08 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by comedian, writer and actor David Mitchell for a chat about Unruly, a thoughtful, funny exploration of the founding fathers and mothers of England and, subsequently, Britain.

They discuss the historical artefacts that inspired the book, why people in the Middle Ages had more confidence, and how a bout of food poisoning changed the course of English history forever.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don't forget to leave us a review – it really helps! To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Megan Nolan with Isy Suttie

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 03:00:14 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by journalist and award-winning writer, Megan Nolan.

Megan joins Isy for a chat about her latest novel, Ordinary Human Failings.

They also discuss the amorality of tabloid journalism, familiar narratives of where trauma can lead you, personal pain and the limitations of empathy, and the significance of owning an armchair you’ll rarely use.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review – it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts

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Rob Rinder with Isy Suttie

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 03:00:52 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by Barister, TV host and Novelist, Rob Rinder.

Rob joins Isy for a joyful conversation about his number one Sunday Times best-selling novel, The Trial.

Also on the podcast, we hear Rob's perspective on imposter syndrome and its benefits, how fear and justice intersect in court, that he believes your writing style is influenced by where you sit, and why a worn-out hair brush is so precious to him.

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Michael Magee with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 03:00:43 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by debut novelist Michael Magee.

Michael joins us to discuss his critically acclaimed novel, Close to Home, which has already been shortlisted for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize.

The two also discuss how Michael's novel started off as a letter-writing exercise, approaching masculinity on his own terms, working alter egos into fiction, and how bleakness in working-class fiction works best when there is added levity.

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Shaparak Khorsandi with Isy Suttie live from Latitude Festival

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 03:00:49 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, we bring you a special episode: Shaparak Khorsandi in conversation with Isy Suttie live from Lattitude Festival.

Shaparak joined us to discuss her latest book, Scatter Brain: How I finally got off the ADHD rollercoaster and became the owner of a very tidy sock drawer.

The two also discuss the subtle distinctions between shame and embarrassment, memories of climbing a pear tree, the life-changing power of an ADHD diagnosis, and how being on I’m A Celebrity gave her a spiritual experience.

Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review – it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.

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Brandon Taylor with Isy Suttie

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 03:30:03 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by Booker shortlisted writer, Brandon Taylor.

Brandon joins us to discuss his new novel, The Late Americans.

The two also discuss the importance of material signifiers when writing characters, how reading contemporary fiction can influence the writing process, how learning expression through photography helped feed creativity, and what is the value of not writing during the act of writing.

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Isabella Hammad with Isy Suttie

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 03:30:53 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by another of Granta's Best of Young British novelists, award-winning novelist, Isabella Hammad.

Isabella Joins us to discuss her new novel, Enter Ghost.

Also in the episode the two discuss how observing the real world helps form fictional characters, how stories can evolve and eventually become part of a communal identity, the significance of a roof in Isabella’s childhood and the importance of the sea in her new novel.

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Tom Crewe with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 03:00:59 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal is joined by one of Granta's Best of Young British novelists and recent recipient of the Orwell Prize for political fiction, novelists Tom Crewe.

Tom Joins us to discuss his incredible new novel, The New Life.

The two also discuss why the novel took over 10 years to write, what Tom admired most about a particular Victorian age, the candour and insights gained from the collected testimonies in the ground-breaking and inspirational book, Sexual Inversion, and also how his novel unconsciously reflects the times he has lived through.

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Maxine Mei-Fung Chung with Isy Suttie

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 03:00:03 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie talks to author and psychoanalytic psychotherapist, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung. Maxine joins us to discuss her latest book, What Women Want, an intimate examination of female desire.

The two also discuss the importance of making time for yourself, the impulse to keep busy for fear we may break down, why many of our coping mechanisms are developed in childhood, and why eye contact is essential when sharing intimate information.

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Sophie Mackintosh with Isy Suttie

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:49:28 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by Booker and Woman's Prize longlisted author and one of Granta's Best Young British Novelists, Sophie Mackintosh.

Sophie joins us to discuss her latest novel, Cursed Bread.

Also discussed is how Welsh and its poetry have influenced Sophie's writing, where she found the inspiration for her third novel, the importance of the sea in her life and work, and why she never deletes what she cuts from her works in progress.

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Chris van Tulleken with Isy Suttie

Wed, 17 May 2023 03:00:28 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by medical doctor, academic and science populariser and presenter, Chris van Tulleken.

Chris joins us to discuss his latest book, Ultra Processed People: Why Do We All Eat Stuff That Isn't Food… and Why Can't We Stop?

This thoughtful conversation also includes insightful details about the addictive nature of ultra-processed foods, the human desire to consume what we know is bad for us, what the food companies are really up to, and why we believe exercise helps burn extra calories.

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Jyoti Patel with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 03 May 2023 03:00:07 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by the second winner of Stormzy's Merky Books Prize, and she was also one of the Observer's best new novelists, it's Jyoti Patel.

Jyoti joins us to discuss her debut novel, The Things That We Lost, a story of family, loss and how far we go to protect those we love.

Also discussed on the podcast is the experience of mixing British and Gujarati cultures, the privilege of studying the arts, the importance of being your authentic self, the idea of the perfect sentence, and where it is that Jyoti feels the writer's life most intensely.

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Jonathan Kennedy with Isy Suttie

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 03:00:28 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by professor and writer, Jonathan Kennedy.

Jonathan joins us to discuss his debut work of non-fiction, Pathogenesis, a look at the latest science of infectious diseases and bacteria, and how it has shaped human evolution.

Isy and Jonathan also discuss the Stone Henge, his love for cycling scenery, how some bacteria have given us abilities we wouldn't otherwise have, and the importance of South Africa and Pata Pata by Miriam Makeba.

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Diana Evans with Isy Suttie

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 03:00:09 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by award-winning author, Diana Evans

Diana joins us to discuss her latest novel, A House for Alice, the follow-up to the best-selling and critically acclaimed, Ordinary People.

Isy and Diana also discuss home and belonging, the idea of letting go, taking risks in writing and reading, and the importance of music and a treasured guitar.

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Sarah Bakewell with Isy Suttie

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:00:27 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by award-winning author and professor, Sarah Bakewell.

Sarah joins us to discuss her latest work of nonfiction, Humanly Possible: seven hundred years of humanist freethinking, inquiry, and hope

Isy and Sarah also discuss Humanism and religion, finding beauty in the complexity of the world, a brief history of human dissection, and the writing of Michel de Montaigne.

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Carlo Rovelli with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 04:00:52 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal is joined by writer, science populariser and theoretical, Carlo Rovelli.

He joins us to talk about the new English translation of his first book, Anaximander.

They all also discuss the singular genius of the philosophers of the past, the importance of questioning our reality, the significance of a typewriter in his writing career, and his admiration for the theoretical physicist John Wheeler.

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Julian Barnes with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 04:00:38 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by English writer and national treasure, Julian Barnes.

He joins us to discuss the paperback publication of his most recent novel, Elizabeth Finch.

Nihal and Julian also discuss his 'controlled' friendship with novelist Anita Brookner, how his worldview has been shaped by his french perspective, why Olympic women rowers move him to tears, and why the British need to honestly address their imperial history.

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Paul Harding with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 04:00:42 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, Paul Harding.

Paul joins us to discuss his brand new novel, This Other Eden.

We also hear how the pressure of winning a prize affects the writing process, why Paul prefers to keep his personal politics side-lined in his fiction, what success means to him, and why he sometimes sits to read the Oxford English Dictionary

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Nadiya Hussein with Isy Suttie

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 04:00:52 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie talks to author, TV presenter, Sunday Times bestseller and beloved chef, Nadiya Hussian. They discuss her new cookbook, Nadiya's Everyday Baking.

They also delve into the effectiveness of cooking to deal with grief, how food connects us with our memories, how Nadiya picked up her cooking skills, and the relevance of a set of false teeth in her family.

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Jane Fallon with with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 04:00:47 GMT

Happy New Year!

Our first episode of the year features best-selling author, Jane Fallon, talking to Nihal Arthanayake about her brand-new novel, Just Got Real.

Two also discuss the joys of editing a first draft, the pressure of achieving a best seller, Jane's fascination with the theme of revenge, and the importance of 'believability' in her novels.

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The Year in Review 2022 (Part 2) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 04:00:06 GMT

As we approach the new year, we're revisiting some of our favourite moments on the Penguin Podcast with part two of our Best of the Penguin Podcast.

We're joined by Jarvis Cocker, Asma Khan, Lisa Jewell, Hanif Abdurraqib, and Ian McEwan.

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The Year in Review 2022 (Part 1) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 04:00:43 GMT

As we approach the end of 2022, we're revisiting some of our favourite moments on the Penguin Podcast this year.

In part one, we're joined by Alison Hammond, Claire Fuller, Michael Rosen, Sinead Moriarty, and Damon Galgut live from this year's Hay Festival.

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Malorie Blackman with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:45:49 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal is joined by Malorie Blackman, author of the critically acclaimed and internationally renowned Noughts and Crosses series.

She joins us to talk about her new memoir, Just Sayin': My Life In Words.

Malorie also discusses her approach to, and the challenges of writing a memoir, having a positive attitude toward failure, how institutional racism affects health care, her experience of being asked for a ticket at her own event, and the importance of writing your truth.

Don't forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode, and do leave us a review as it really does help. To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html.

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Ian McEwan with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 04:00:55 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal is joined by author, screenwriter, booker winner and one of Britain's best-loved writers, Ian McEwan.

He joins us to talk about his brand new novel, Lessons.

Ian also discusses the delight of discovery when writing, the experience of total emersion while creating, the challenge and bliss of writing a long novel like Lessons, why a larval rock is important to him, and the special relevance of a mountain goat.

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Live Event - Greta Thunberg in Conversation with Samira Ahmed

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, from the Southbank Centre we bring you the live launch event of Greta Thunberg's The Climate Book.

'The Climate Book brings together an unprecedented collective of over 100 experts, activists and witnesses to tell the biggest story in the world: how and why our planet is changing.'

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Special episode - Demystifying Publishing

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 04:00:43 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, we break down the publishing process.

Host Leena Norms is joined by Penguin author, Derek Owusu, his agent Crystal Mahey-Morgan and editor Tom Avery.

With Derek's debut novel as the anchor, they break down the process of finding an agent, acquiring a book, editing, and everything in between.

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Salley Vickers with Isy Suttie

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 03:00:22 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie talks to best-selling author, Salley Vickers.

Salley joins us to talk about her latest novel, The Gardener.

Isy and Salley also discuss psychoanalysis and its benefits, her affection towards children and their curiosity towards the mysteries of life, the power and different layers of silence, and how gardening during lockdown helped with the writing of her latest book.

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Yomi Sode with Derek Owusu

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 03:00:55 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Derek Owusu talks to playwright and poet, Yomi Sode.

Yomi joins us to discuss his debut poetry collection, Manorism.

Derek and Yomi also discuss the influence of Caravaggio and the double standards of celebrating the art and the artist, the power of stillness to create reflection, how pop culture influences poetry, and cultural appropriation and the ways in which we perpetuate and endorse it.

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Gabrielle Zevin with Athena Kugblenu

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:00:07 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, our new host Athena Kugblenu talks to bestselling author and screenwriter, Gabrielle Zevin.

Gabrielle joins us to discuss her latest novel, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow.

They also discuss literature and gaming, why we need to merge our online selves with our real-life selves, the importance of love in friendships, how our identities shift depending on where we are and who we're talking to, and the importance of failure when it comes to creativity.

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Robert Harris with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 03:00:40 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake talks to former journalist and best-selling novelist, Robert Harris.

Robert joins us to discuss his latest work of epic historical fiction, Act of Oblivion, out now in hardback.

He also discusses his observations on the static nature of history and humanity, how journalism informs his ability to write fiction, the potential of a simple idea to inform an entire novel, the irrationality of politics, and the UK’s shifting perspectives on the monarchy.

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Lisa Jewell with Isy Suttie

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 03:30:57 GMT

This week on the penguin podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by bestselling author, Lisa Jewell.

Lisa joins the Penguin Podcast to discuss her latest novel, The Family Remains, the long-awaited sequel to her New York Times best-seller, The Family Upstairs.

They also discuss Lisa’s development from writing relationship novels to psychological thrillers, why a nameplate from outside her childhood bedroom is so important, her experiences in an abusive relationship, and how liberation helped her decide to be a writer.

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Nadifa Mohamed with Derek Owusu

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 03:00:03 GMT

This week on the penguin podcast, Derek Owusu is joined by Booker and Costa shortlisted novelist, Nadifa Mohamed.

Nadifa joins us to discuss her latest novel, The Fortune Men, a fictional account of the life of Mahmood Hussein Mattan, who was wrongly convicted and executed in 1952.

They also discuss Nadifa's love for travelling, her interest in cars and which model she gifted herself, how fact informs her fiction and the importance of including flaws in characters.

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Darren McGarvey with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 03:00:40 GMT

This week, we bring you the live-streamed episode of the Penguin Podcast, featuring Nihal Arthanayake talking to writer, rapper and campaigner, Darren McGarvey about his most recent work, The Socal Distance Between Us.

Clear and insightful, together they discuss the roles of anger and optimism in positive social change, the power of emotional range in persuasiveness, how beneficial real life conversation is for cooperative dialogue, the class and equality issues in the U.K, and the distance that tone and inflections of speech can create.

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Jarvis Cocker with Isy Suttie

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 03:30:14 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by author, radio presenter and pop legend, Jarvis Cocker.

Jarvis talks to Issy about his first memoir, 'Good Pop, Bad Pop'.

He also discusses why outer space and The Beetles were so influential to him, why he thinks everyone is creative, what he needs for his creativity, and what he wanted for Pulp as a revolutionary force.

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Sinead Moriarty with Isy Suttie

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 03:00:08 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie joined by Irish book award winner and best-selling author, Sinead Moriarty.

Sinead talks to Issy about her latest novel, Your, Mind, Ours, a novel about what it takes to create a 'blended' family.

They also discuss why families are the primary focus within her novels, the importance of the first draft, the special note she has pinned above her work desk, and her inability to throw away her fluffy socks.

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Damon Galgut with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 03:00:43 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by Booker Prize-winning novelist and playwright, Damon Galgut.

Recording from the legendary literary festival at Hay, Nihal talks to Damon about his latest novel, The Promise, which was awarded the 2021 Booker Prize.

As well as the intricacies of his novel, they also discuss how the rhythms of Jazz connect with Damon's internal and writing rhythm, his veneration of Bob Dylan, the legacy of South African apartheid, how a beach in Goa fuels his creativity, and the importance of a parker pen given to him at drama school.

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Alison Hammond with Derek Owusu

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 03:00:50 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Derek Owusu is joined by presenter, TV personality, actress and children's author, Alison Hammond.

Alison speaks to Derek about her brand new children's book, Black in Time: The Most Awesome Black Britons from Yesterday to Today.

As well as Black British history, Alison and Derek also discuss Alison's profound love for bandanas, her recreating the atmosphere of Jamaica for wellbeing, the transporting power of Terry's Chocolate Orange, and the importance of inherited style.

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Benjamin Zephaniah with Derek Owusu

Wed, 18 May 2022 03:00:11 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, new host Derek Owusu is joined by Poet, activist, musician, actor, presenter and children's author, Benjamin Zephaniah!

Benjamin speaks to Derek about his journey into poetry and spoken word, the excitement at receiving a letter from Bob Marley, the life of his mother when she first came to England, existential fear and human mortality, and the importance of meditation and controlled breathing.

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Asma Khan with Isy Suttie

Wed, 04 May 2022 03:30:26 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by restaurateur and author, Asma Khan.

Asma speaks to Isy about her most recent work, her cookbook/memoir, Ammu. They also discuss food and its connection to memory, how revelatory the writing process was for her, how a pair of blue jeans changed her life, and the gentle expressions of love through cooking.

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Hanif Abdurraqib with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 03:30:29 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by award-winning writer and poet, Hanif Abdurraqib

Hanif speaks to Nihal about his most recent work of nonfiction, A little Devil in America, which won the 2021 Gorden Burn Prize. They also discuss how Hanif manages to write 25000 words a month, how important Soul Train was to Black American culture, his reasons for disliking the Academy Award-winning film, Green Book, and also what he feels went wrong with The Chapelle Show.

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Bonnie Garmus with Isy Suttie

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 03:30:19 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by debut novelist Bonnie Garmus.

She speaks to Isy about her debut novel, Lessons in Chemistry, and also discusses her reluctance to change any keyboard she's grown used to, often still using it when the key have come loose, her passion for swimming, what she learnt as a copywriter, the usefulness of lies in society, and how she wrote her first short story when she was five years old.

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Michael Rosen with Isy Suttie

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 04:30:19 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by national treasure, poet and children’s author, Michael Rosen.

He speaks to Isy about his experiences before and after contracting Covid, how to create more impactful life writing, what he now knows about death, and his yearning to understand the meanings of naughty words in Yiddish.

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Michio Kaku with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 04:30:05 GMT

This week on the penguin podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by theoretical physicist, futurist, and popularizer of science, Michio Kaku. Together they discuss string theory, the unifying threads of different religious beliefs, human curiosity and the barriers to scientific thinking.

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Pankaj Mishra with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by renowned essayist and novelist, Pankaj Mishra, to discuss his new novel, Run and Hide. Together they discuss the meaning of art and the novel, the Tibetan landscape and the Himalayas, nostalgia, and wood-panelled train compartments.

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Claire Fuller with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 09:00:14 GMT

Claire Fuller, who recently won the Costa Novel of the Year for her latest book, Unsettled Ground, joins Nihal Arthanayake on the podcast this week. Together they discuss the importance of music in her creative process, what she doesn't like about being a novelist and how a book by Miranda July might just have kickstarted her writing career.

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New Non-Fiction Writers to Look Out For in 2022 with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 04:00:32 GMT

Last time we brought you some of the most exciting debut novelists to look out for in 2022, so this week we're introducing you to some of the best new non-fiction writers to add to your reading list this year. It's a veritable treasure chest of books, from a comic memoir to ornithology, mental health, family and cultural history, and an exploration of how the Earth, as we know it, came to be.

In this episode, we hear from:

CJ Hauser, author of The Crane Wife,
Mya-Rose Craig, author of Birdgirl,
Teresa Lim, author of The Interpreter's Daughter,
Thomas Halliday, author of Otherlands

Don't forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review as it really does help. To find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html.

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Debut Novelists to Look Out For in 2022 with Isy Suttie

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 04:00:15 GMT

A new year = new books, and there are plenty of brilliant new stories to look out for this year. To get your 2022 reading list started, we've brought together five of this year's most exciting debut novelists. Speaking to Isy Suttie, they introduce us to themselves and their books, and give us some insight into their inspirations and aspirations. From a darkly comic dystopia to sumptuous historical fiction to a subversive take on modern womanhood and more – there's something for everyone amongst our pick of 2022's must-read debuts.

In this episode, we hear from:

Jessamine Chan, author of The School for Good Mothers,
Nikki May, author of Wahala,
Susan Stokes-Chapman, author of Pandora,
Claire Alexander, author of Meredith, Alone,
Ayanna Lloyd Banwo, author of When We Were Birds

Don't forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review as it really does help. Finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.

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The Year in Review (Part 2) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:00:14 GMT

As we approach the end of 2021, we're revisiting some of the most memorable moments on the Penguin Podcast this year.

Conn Iggulden takes his writing research extremely (and we mean, *extremely*) seriously, Emma Dabiri gives us a tour of her bookshelves, Owen Jones tells us exactly which Keir he named his feline friend after, Hafsa Zayyan's shares why her grandfather sends her letters back to her, Gyles Brandreth reveals his enduring fondness for teddy bears and Ali Smith treasures advice from a favourite writer.

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The Year in Review (Part 1) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 04:00:13 GMT

As we approach the end of 2021, we're revisiting some of our favourite moments on the Penguin Podcast this year.

Zadie Smith and Nick Laird tell us about the unexpectedly colourful spectrum of noise that helps them work, Adam Kay reveals the best way to avoid being distracted by social media while trying to write a book, Ashley Audrain discusses the song that had a huge influence on her debut novel, former director of the British Museum Neil MacGregor shows us what a rhino doesn't actually look like, Shon Faye explains how a shared culture can bring us together, and Barack Obama tells Marcus Rashford about rummaging through a bin for books at a jumble sale.

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Richard Powers with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 04:00:41 GMT

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Powers joins Nihal Arthanayake to discuss his thirteenth novel, ‘Bewilderment’.

Using objects like Bach’s Goldberg Variation 18, an unsmoked hickory nut, and a petrified piece of redwood, Powers transport us to his home in the Great Smoky Mountains, musing on the importance of sense as an entranceway to curiosity, writing as a resistance of habituation, and the centrifugal feeling that connects the work of the artist and the scientist; that of bewilderment.

‘Bewilderment’ is available to order on audiobook now: https://apple.co/3cFCDYf

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Stanley Tucci Live at The London Palladium with Dolly Alderton

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 05:00:37 GMT

In this special live recording at The London Palladium, Dolly Alderton speaks to award-winning actor and writer Stanley Tucci to discuss his new food memoir, Taste: My Life Through Food.

Stanley speaks passionately about food, and shares with Dolly the ways in which it’s been inextricably intertwined with his life. He recalls early memories of TV chefs, tells us some favourite recipes, and explains how surviving throat cancer has renewed his appreciation for the simple joy of taste. #PenguinPodcast

The audiobook version of Taste: My Life through Food is available here: https://apple.co/3oeQfze

The paperback of Dolly Alderton’s latest novel, Ghosts, is out now: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/316664/ghosts/9780241988688.html

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Elizabeth Strout with Isy Suttie

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 03:00:00 GMT

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author Elizabeth Strout joins Isy Suttie to discuss the third book in her Lucy Barton series, ‘Oh, William!’.

Using objects like a ring gifted to her by a great aunt and a postcard of the writer F. Scott Fitzgerald as a starting point, Strout muses on the almost mystical process that allows her to inhabit the characters she creates, her preoccupation with class and the shame that so often sits alongside it, and the epiphany that came to her on the comedy stage. #PenguinPodcast

‘Oh, William!’ is available to order on audiobook now: https://apple.co/3EbDgV6

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Jade LB with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 03:00:31 GMT

The writer that penned an early-noughties viral phenomenon aged just 13, Jade LB, speaks to Nihal Arthanayake about ‘Keisha The Sket’. Having lived on the phones and websites of fans for the past two decades, it’s now been formally published for the first time with additional content from the author and essays from esteemed contemporary writers like Candice Carty-Williams and Caleb Femi.

Using the notion of Black-British girlhood and an old diary, Jade dissects her own life growing up in a world where material wealth and sex are equated to power. She reflects on the need for a community or tribe, and how a lack of intersectionality too often leaves Black, working class women behind. #PenguinPodcast

'Keisha The Sket' is available to pre-order now: https://bit.ly/3v333LU

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Shon Faye with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 03:00:36 GMT

The author, podcaster and stand-up comedian Shon Faye joins Nihal Arthanayake to discuss her first book, The Transgender Issue: An Argument for Justice.

Using iconic queer artefacts like the film ‘The Wizard of Oz’, starring Judy Garland, alongside Lady Gaga’s ‘Chromatica’ album as a gateway, Shon shares with Nihal the experiences that lead to her writing The Transgender Issue: the internalised homophobia, street harassment, and urgency to set the terms of the conversation around Trans liberation right. #PenguinPodcast

The Transgender Issue: An Argument for Justice is available to order on audiobook now: https://apple.co/3F1D6Rq

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Gyles Brandreth with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 03:00:26 GMT

Author, broadcaster, entertainer and former politician Gyles Brandreth talks to Nihal Arthanayake about his upcoming memoir, Odd Boy Out.

In this episode, Gyles Brandreth considers how delving into his own childhood has challenged his usual aversion to being introspective, and how breaking the mirror of self-indulgence can truly enrich your life. Using a teddy bear, a green carnation and some words of wisdom from a war commander, he shows us that the sunshine of his childhood still shines bright.

The audiobook of Odd Boy Out is available to pre-order now: https://apple.co/3nsz4vb

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Derren Brown with Isy Suttie

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 03:00:00 GMT

“Time is just the medium through which life unfolds.” This week, mentalist, illusionist, painter and author Derren Brown talks to Isy Suttie about his latest book, ‘A Book of Secrets: Finding Solace in a Stubborn World’.

In this episode, Derren and Isy delve into the questions at the heart of the way we live our lives. Using objects like a camera and a paintbrush, Derren shares the small ways in which he is able to make peace with the universe. #PenguinPodcast

‘A Book of Secrets: Finding Solace in a Stubborn World’ is available to order on audiobook now: https://apple.co/3jwerMo

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Paula Hawkins with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 03:00:59 GMT

World-renowned author Paula Hawkins talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her latest thriller, A Slow Fire Burning.

In this episode, Paula Hawkins reflects on the disparity between commercial success and her confidence as a writer, particularly in the face of criticism. Is it possible to strike the perfect balance between prosperity and critical acclaim? Using a postcard and a well-worn jumper, she shares her fondness for the keepsakes which remind us of who we are. #PenguinPodcast

The audiobook version of A Slow Fire Burning is available to pre-order now: https://apple.co/3m8wKsu

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Conn Iggulden with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 03:00:37 GMT

Bestselling historical fiction author Conn Iggulden talks to Nihal Arthanayake about Protector, the latest book in his Athenian series.

In this episode, Conn Iggulden recalls the wondrous stories which ignited his imagination as a child and inspired him to begin writing. Armed with a Roman sword and a silver pen, he reveals his methods for understanding the reality of physical combat and tells us about his growing sentimentality in adulthood. #PenguinPodcast

Protector is available to buy as an audiobook now: apple.co/3yoe638

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Alexander McCall Smith with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 03:00:15 GMT

Prolific author Alexander McCall Smith joins Nihal Arthanayake to share tales from behind his impressive body of work.

In this episode, the ever-curious Alexander McCall Smith tells of his affection for Botswana, and its important role as the backdrop to his much-loved series, The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency, gives due respect to the surprises of an author’s subconscious mind, and waxes lyrical about the Celtic art that inspired the story behind one of the fascinating objects he’s brought with him. #PenguinPodcast

The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency is available on audiobook here: https://www.audiobooks.co.uk/audiobook/no-1-ladies-detective-agency-bbc-radio-casebook-vol-1-eight-bbc-radio-4-full-cast-dramatisations/324032

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The Penguin Podcast's Best of the Booker Prize

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 03:00:00 GMT

To celebrate this year’s upcoming Booker Prize nominations, we've delved back into the archives and cherry-picked highlights from eight very special interviews. Hear about the inspirations, frustrations, and secrets behind the winners of the most prestigious prize in literature.

What’s in a name? What is the worst question you can ask an author? Who has a squirrel skull hidden under their bed? All these questions are answered, alongside discussions of African Temporality, the importance of mischief and protest on social media. #PenguinPodcast

Original interviews, from the archives:

Bernardine Evaristo with Nihal Arthanayake: https://apple.co/2VcpL6B
Anne Enright with Nihal Arthanayake: https://apple.co/2SNVs5c
Salman Rushdie with David Olusoga: https://apple.co/3ytvy68
Howard Jacobson with Nihal Arthanayake: https://apple.co/3Auas9s
Ian McEwan with Katy Brand: https://apple.co/3hjyJYf
Marlon James with Nihal Arthanayake: https://apple.co/2SNTZvK
Pat Barker with Katy Brand: https://apple.co/3AvTmYM
Arundhati Roy with Kirsty Lang: https://apple.co/3AwU5Jh

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Avni Doshi with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 03:00:00 GMT

“There’s a way in which memory can press up against the present”: this week, American author Avni Doshi talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her wildly successful debut novel, ’Burnt Sugar’, which was shortlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize.

In this episode, Avni and Nihal discuss the problematic deification of motherhood in South Asian communities, using humour to explore dark subject matter, and using her nomadic experiences to develop her writing style. #PenguinPodcast

'Burnt Sugar' is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3gyj7jg

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Ed Miliband with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 03:00:00 GMT

Labour MP, podcast host and now author Ed Miliband talks to Nihal Arthanayake about his debut book, ‘Go Big: How To Fix Our World’.

Using a scene from ’The West Wing’ and a Robert Kennedy speech as jump off points, Ed and Nihal meditate on Ed's time as Leader of the Opposition, reconciling a partisan political climate, and being an idealist in a world of pragmatists. #PenguinPodcast

Robert Kennedy’s Day of Affirmation speech can be found here - https://bit.ly/2T7Gff9

The ‘Let Bartlet be Bartlet’ episode of ’The West Wing’ can be found here - https://bit.ly/3zdUQGi

’Go Big: How To Fix Our World’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3w60AQB

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Barack Obama and Marcus Rashford in conversation

Fri, 28 May 2021 13:00:14 GMT

Tune in to an exclusive conversation between President Barack Obama and England and Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford as they meet for the first time.

In this special bonus episode of the #PenguinPodcast, moderated by June Sarpong, Barack Obama and Marcus Rashford discuss the power that young people have to make change, the positive impact that reading can have and the importance of giving back to your local community.

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Taylor Jenkins Reid with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 26 May 2021 03:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Taylor Jenkins Reid talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her latest book, ’Malibu Rising’.

Much of Taylor’s fiction focuses on the world of celebrity and fame - she talks to Nihal about why a cultural fascination with celebrities exists, the insidious, seductive nature of fame, and how the accessibility of stars today has changed fame forever. They also discuss her writing process (which involves a lot of iced tea!) and the joys of immersing yourself in another time period. #PenguinPodcast

The audiobook version of ‘Malibu Rising’ is available to pre-order now - https://adbl.co/3oO6F19.

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Emma Dabiri with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 12 May 2021 03:00:00 GMT

Author, social historian and broadcaster Emma Dabiri talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her latest book, 'What White People Can Do Next: From Allyship to Coalition’.

Emma picks objects, including a bookshelf and an incense holder, which instigate a fascinating conversation about the changing landscape of online activism, the books she continues to return to for inspiration, and the importance of interrogating our current world order. #PenguinPodcast

'What White People Can Do Next: From Allyship to Coalition’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/33yV7Fy

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Zadie Smith and Nick Laird with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 03:00:08 GMT

Literary power couple Zadie Smith and Nick Laird chat to Nihal Arthanayake about their collaborative project, ‘Weirdo’, a children’s book about the quiet power of being different, featuring exquisite illustrations from Magenta Fox.

In this episode, Zadie and Nick discuss the joy of removing words from their work, the virtues of rawness in writing, and the inspiration they take from the internal life of their aging pug, Maud. #PenguinPodcast

‘Weirdo’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3eC4wkr

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Yaa Gyasi with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 03:00:00 GMT

Ghanaian-American novelist Yaa Gyasi talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her second novel, ’Transcendent Kingdom’.

Using objects like a photo of a mouse and a SZA song, the author of the award-winning ‘Homegoing’ chats to Nihal about her Ghanaian heritage, liking your own characters, and discussing mental illness in African cultures. #PenguinPodcast

’Transcendent Kingdom’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3e0h7Oa

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Ashley Audrain with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 03:00:00 GMT

Author and ex-publicity director Ashley Audrain talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her wildly successful debut novel, ’The Push’.

Using objects like a popular Canadian children’s book and a Brandi Carlile song, Ashley chats to Nihal about the contradictions of motherhood, the catharsis of exploring our deepest fears on a page, and how parenting and writing co-exist. #PenguinPodcast

’The Push’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2QFIHIv

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Kehinde Andrews with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Professor of Black Studies and author Kehinde Andrews talks to Nihal Arthanayake about his latest book, ’The New Age of Empire’. Using objects like his dad’s British passport, a keyring, and an iconic hip-hop album, they chat about embracing Black culture as a teenager, reckoning with the concept of ‘Britishness’ and the commercialisation of Black music. #PenguinPodcast’

'The New Age of Empire’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3eJ5OvH

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Adam Kay with Isy Suttie

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Coinciding with World Book Day, writer and former junior doctor Adam Kay chats to Isy Suttie about his first children’s book, ‘Kay’s Anatomy’.

Using objects like a letter from Alan Bennett and a Victorian bone cutting saw as a springboard, they discuss writing as a coping mechanism, relearning the piano and his undying love of Pulp. #PenguinPodcast

‘Kay’s Anatomy’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3uP4n4q

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Neil MacGregor with Nihal Arthanayake

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 04:00:00 GMT

British Art Historian and former Director of the British Museum Neil MacGregor chats to Nihal about the new audiobook of ‘A History of the World in 100 Objects’.

Neil has chosen 4 of those objects plus an entirely new one (object 101!) including a Jade Axe and an Akan Drum. He chats to Nihal about how their meaning can change over time #PenguinPodcast

‘A History of the World in 100 objects’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3dfSbUb

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Ali Smith with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Author and playwright Ali Smith chats to Nihal about her 2014 multi award-winning novel ‘How to be Both’, which has just been released as an audiobook.

In this episode, Ali reveals how she takes herself out of her comfort zone, why we should give books a chance when reading them and her love of silent film. #PenguinPodcast

'How to be Both' will be available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2Z6TNaz

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Hafsa Zayyan with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Hafsa Zayyan, co-winner of Stormzy’s #Merky Books New Writer’s Prize, chats to Nihal about her debut novel ‘We Are All Birds Of Uganda’.

She chats to Nihal about completing the book in six months and why a sense of belonging and home is so important no matter where you live. Hafsa also brings along some of the objects which inspire her, including letters from her late Nigerian grandfather #PenguinPodcast

‘We Are All Birds Of Uganda' is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/39MMI3S

WIN a year’s supply of audiobooks! To be in with a chance to win, tap the link and tell us what you think about the Penguin Podcast. https://bit.ly/PodcastSurvey2020

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Owen Jones with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Owen Jones, Guardian columnist and Labour party activist chats to Nihal about the tumultuous rise and fall of Corbynism via his new book ‘This Land’. Owen explains why he doesn’t like writing and brings objects that help him get past that, including music from The Boxer Rebellion and his cats Kier and Rickman. #PenguinPodcast

‘This Land: The Story of a Movement’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/38pSVSy

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Best Of 2020 (Part 2) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 04:00:00 GMT

In the second part of this special edition Nihal Arthanayake chooses some more clips from a selection of his favourite episodes. This includes why Nigella Lawson has to travel with tea bags, how Jonathan Coe became a warm-up act on a cruise ship, and why Andrew Hunter Murray was inspired by a dog at Slough Railway Station.#PenguinPodcast

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Alex Wheatle with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Author Alex Wheatle MBE, aka the 'Brixton Bard', has just been the subject of one of Steve McQueen's 'Small Axe' films on BBC1. In this episode, he chats to Nihal about his latest YA book ‘Cane Warriors’, based on the true story of Tacky, a slave who led an uprising on the plantations of Jamaica in the 18th Century.

Alex also talks to Nihal about his experiences growing up in a children’s home, how a prison cell-mate encouraged him to write and how reggae music, amongst other things, inspires him. #PenguinPodcast

'Cane Warriors' is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3miQ8iT

WIN a year’s supply of audiobooks! To be in with a chance to win, tap the link and tell us what you think about the Penguin Podcast. https://bit.ly/PodcastSurvey2020

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Best Of 2020 (Part 1) with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 15:00:00 GMT

In this special edition, Nihal Arthanayake chooses some of his favourite bits from previous episodes which include the likes of Sir Paul McCartney on doubting his own talent, a surprising music choice from Elif Shafak and how Howard Jacobson was insulted by Kylie Minogue. #PenguinPodcast

WIN a year’s supply of audiobooks! To be in with a chance to win, tap the link and tell us what you think about the Penguin Podcast. https://bit.ly/PodcastSurvey2020

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Bananarama with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Iconic 80’s pop band Bananarama join Nihal Arthanayake to chat about their memoir ‘Really Saying Something’.

They chat about the pressures of the band, how they ended up living in the Sex Pistols' old rehearsal room and discuss some of the objects that have inspired them creatively, including a Moomins book. #PenguinPodcast

‘Really Saying Something’ is available to buy as an audiobook now: https://apple.co/2KcwGHs

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Dolly Alderton with Sue Perkins

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Dolly Alderton, author, journalist and co-host of The High Low podcast chats to Sue Perkins about her first novel, ‘Ghosts’.

Both Sue and Dolly open up about relationships and Dolly reveals the objects that have inspired her work, including a lukewarm glass of white wine and a song by George Michael. #PenguinPodcast

‘Ghosts’ is now available to buy as an audiobook: https://apple.co/325yw2J

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Richard Dawkins with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Richard Dawkins - British evolutionary biologist and populist science writer - chats to Nihal about his latest book ‘Outgrowing God’

He also talks about objects which have inspired him creatively which include a framed photo of Prince Phillip and the Flounder fish.

‘Outgrowing God’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3obexsT

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Richard Osman with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 03:00:00 GMT

TV presenter and co-creator of the TV quiz show ‘Pointless’, Richard Osman chats to Nihal about his debut novel ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ - a story about four friends living in a retirement village who become amateur detectives.

He chats to Nihal about some objects that have inspired him which include the dating app Tinder and candles. Richard also reveals why he didn’t tell anyone he was writing a novel. #Penguinpodcast

‘The Thursday Murder Club’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3llVb2f

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Ben Macintyre with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Author and historian Ben Macintyre talks to Nihal about his new book ‘Agent Sonya’ - the story of the greatest female spy of the 20th Century.

Ben chats to Nihal about how ‘Sonya’s’ gender helped her stay under deep cover for so many years. Ben’s inspirational objects include a jar of chutney given to him from M15 and the jaw-dropping story of his great uncle’s pocketbook (which literally saved his life). #PenguinPodcast

‘Agent Sonya’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/32NX94J

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Ruth Jones with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 03:00:00 GMT

‘Gavin and Stacey’ co-creator and actor Ruth Jones chats to Nihal about her second novel ‘Us Three’ - a story about enduring female friendships.

She talks about objects that have inspired her including a pair of pink trainers and Wales (the country). Plus why she never ever wants to return to Glastonbury #PenguinPodcast

‘Us Three’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3i9x6u9

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Anthony Horowitz with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Anthony Horowitz, author of the bestselling teen Spy series, Alex Rider, talks to Nihal about his creative process, how he’d like to write a Dickens novel and bonds with Nihal over the rapper Dave.

Anthony, who has sold well in excess of 20 million books and has written two James Bond and two Sherlock Holmes novels, chats about his latest novel ‘Moonflower Murders’ and chooses objects that inspire his work including magic tricks and an unusual sculpture. #Penguinpodcast

'Moonflower Murders' is available to buy as an audiobook now -

https://apple.co/3j7zLoj

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Kevin Kwan with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 03:00:00 GMT

‘Crazy Rich Asians’ author Kevin Kwan chats to Nihal about his new book ‘Sex and Vanity’ - the story of a young woman who finds herself torn between two men.

Kevin discusses some objects which have inspired him and chats to Nihal about why the island of Capri is so important to him, and how he used to make best dressed lists #PenguinPodcast

‘Sex and Vanity’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/33UuhbY

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Nick Hornby with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Nick Hornby joins Nihal to talk about how he gets inspired, bringing along a collection of objects that help him including a jigsaw puzzle and an LP.

The ‘About a Boy’ and ‘High Fidelity’ author chats to Nihal about his new novel ‘Just Like You’, why he is still full of doubt, and how the characters he creates have a personal effect on his life. #PenguinPodcast

'Just Like You' is available to buy as an audiobook on 17/09/2020

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Lily Cole with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Lily Cole joins Nihal to talk about her latest book ‘Who Cares Wins’ - where she interviews the likes of Elon Musk, Stella McCartney and the Extinction Rebellion co-founders about issues relating to the climate crisis.

Lily, who is an actress, model and businesswoman chose a selection of objects which have inspired her work and why optimism is so important when it comes to activism. #PenguinPodcast

‘Who Cares Wins’ is available to buy as an audiobook on 30/07 - https://apple.co/2EqWL2C

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Pandora Sykes with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Journalist and podcast host Pandora Sykes chats to Nihal about her debut book ‘How Do We Know We’re Doing It Right? - a collection of essays which question the perceived wisdom of modern life.

Pandora chooses objects which inspire her and talks to Nihal about her life-long love of books, why it is so important to shop less and she reads out some of her favourite quotes from when she was a teenager. #PenguinPodcast

‘How Do We Know We’re Doing It Right?’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2E1LmGg

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Jenni Murray with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Broadcaster and journalist Dame Jenni Murray talks to Nihal about her new book ‘Fat Cow, Fat Chance’ - what it’s like to be labelled fat when society dictates skinny as the norm.

Jenni chooses objects that have inspired her, telling Nihal how liberated she felt by her favourite leather skirt, when she first realised she was a feminist, and why we need to look at the science behind obesity. #PenguinPodcast

‘Fat Cow, Fat Chance’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3h446D9

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Jackie Morris with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Illustrator and author Jackie Morris, who has collaborated with the likes of Ted Hughes and written over 40 books, talks to Nihal about how she gets creative and the objects that inspire her such as a gold hare with a fascinating backstory. They also chat about her award-winning book 'The Lost Words' (written by Robert Macfarlane), which won The Most Beautiful Book award and in audiobook form has been narrated by Benjamin Zephaniah, Guy Garvey, Cerys Matthews and Edith Bowman with nature sounds by Chris Watson (who has worked with David Attenborough). 'The Lost Words' audiobook is available to download here: https://apple.co/3gFbnt3 #PenguinPodcast

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BONUS EPISODE – Penguin Perspectives

Sat, 04 Jul 2020 03:00:00 GMT

In this special bonus episode of the Penguin Podcast we bring you Penguin Perspectives.

Penguin Perspectives is a collection of essays by twenty Penguin authors, written as a direct response to the Covid-19 crisis. These authors have recorded their essays from their homes during lockdown, and these recordings are collected together here. #PenguinPodcast

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Caroline Criado Perez with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Activist and author Caroline Criado Perez joins Nihal to talk about her book ‘Invisible Women’ - which exposes the gender data gap found in society.

She chats to Nihal about the problems with PPE (one size does not fit all), how to deal with trolls, and why women need more pockets. #PenguinPodcast

‘Invisible Women’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3iinhdI / https://adbl.co/3f0D66A

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Amor Towles with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Author Amor Towles joins Nihal from Manhattan to discuss his 2016 best-selling book ‘A Gentleman in Moscow’ - the story of a man who is ordered to spend the rest of his life in a luxury hotel.

Amor chats to Nihal about and why he starts everyday with the New York Times crossword puzzle and finishes the day with a cocktail.

#Penguinpodcast

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Malcolm Gladwell with Sue Perkins

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Malcolm Gladwell (author of bestsellers such as ‘Blink’ and ‘Outliers’; staff writer for the New Yorker and podcaster) joins Sue Perkins to discuss his latest book ‘Talking to Strangers’ - which is bookended by the story of Sandra Bland, who tragically died in police custody and is one of many names in the #BlackLivesMatter movement. Malcolm explains that Sandra’s story is part of wider problem in how we all misjudge the wants and needs of people we don’t know. Malcolm’s inspirational objects include the Janelle Monáe song ‘Hell You Talmbout’ and the ‘Friends’ theme-tune. #PenguinPodcast

'Talking to Strangers' is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/3e5iqdC / https://adbl.co/2UkIVUk

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Stuart Russell with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Stuart Russell - Professor of Computer Science at the University of California, Berkeley joins Nihal to discuss his latest book ‘Human Compatible: Artificial Intelligence and the Problem of Control.’ They chat about how Hollywood has clouded our perception of AI, why we don’t need robots in human form and how the best jobs in the future will be ones that involve empathy. #Penguinpodcast

‘Human Compatible’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2UpZPkK / https://adbl.co/2W2muEY

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John Niven with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Scottish author John Niven joins Nihal to discuss his latest book ‘The F*ck-it List’ - the story of a man who after receiving a terminal diagnosis compiles a list of the people he wants to kill.

John chats to Nihal about why he hates reading his first draft back, how Donald Trump blocked him on twitter and how a motivational quote keeps him going. #PenguinPodcast

‘The F*ck-it List’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2yVWUbW / https://adbl.co/2Wns5Vj

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Noam Chomsky with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 27 May 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Considered the Founder of Modern Linguistics and voted the World’s Top Public Intellectual, Noam joins Nihal to discuss his prescient 2017 book ‘Optimism Over Despair’, which has just been made into an audiobook. It takes the form of a series of interviews, addressing many issues still relevant today. Noam imparts his wisdom to Nihal (down the line from Arizona) about topics ranging from US politics to the climate crisis and also reveals one of the things he realises that he got wrong in his past #PenguinPodcast

‘Optimism Over Despair’ is available to buy here - https://apple.co/2zamyKd

And will be available as an audiobook from June 4th - https://adbl.co/3fidtyW

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Curtis Sittenfeld with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 20 May 2020 03:00:00 GMT

American author Curtis Sittenfeld joins Nihal to discuss her latest book ‘Rodham’ which explores what would have happened if Hillary hadn’t married Bill Clinton.

Curtis chats to Nihal (down the line from Minnesota) about how she went viral (it involves wearing a wedding dress in lockdown) and objects that inspire her including a special birthday card and a Margaret Atwood wooden badge. #PenguinPodcast

‘Rodham’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2ZgucgE / https://adbl.co/3c3BLe3

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Brian Greene with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 13 May 2020 03:00:00 GMT

World renowned physicist Brian Greene joins Nihal to discuss his latest book ‘Until The End of Time’ – which provides us with a clearer sense of how we came to be, a picture of where we are now, and a firmer understanding of where we are headed. Brian speaks to Nihal from his cabin in the Catskills (upstate New York) on why a piano piece by his father, and a First Edition of the ‘Myth of Sisyphus’ by Albert Camus inspire his work. #Penguin Podcast

‘Until The End of Time – Mind, Matter and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2WTdL70/ https://adbl.co/2xwhxdV

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David Harewood with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 06 May 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Actor David Harewood joins Nihal to discuss narrating the Penguin classic ‘The War Of The Worlds’ by H.G. Wells.

David has played major roles such as the CIA’s David Estes in Homeland and Captain Poison in Blood Diamond.

David tells Nihal about the challenges (and fun) he had narrating ‘The War Of The Worlds’ and discusses the objects which have inspired his work, including YouTube (for accents) and a ties (for auditions). #Penguin Podcast

‘The War of the Worlds’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2V7yOSw / https://adbl.co/3deksal

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Mark Gatiss with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Actor, comedian, and author Mark Gatiss joins Nihal Arthanayake to discuss narrating the brand new audiobook of Bram Stokers’ ‘Dracula’ and the BBC Radio dramatisation of M.R. James’ ‘Ghost Stories’.

Mark has written and acted in the likes of Dr. Who, Sherlock and Dracula and is part of the team who created The League of Gentlemen. His chosen inspirational objects include fossils and an easel #PenguinPodcast

‘

The M. R. James BBC Radio Collection’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/34hyJ2O

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George Monbiot with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 03:00:59 GMT

Are you missing the outdoors? Rewild your inner life with George Monbiot as he discusses Feral – the now-classic book that launched the rewilding movement. A respected environmental campaigner, investigative journalist and self-confessed professional troublemaker, George has won the UN Global 500 award for outstanding environmental achievement, collaborated with Extinction Rebellion and Greta Thunberg, and been celebrated for his “dazzling command of science and relentless faith in people” (Naomi Klein). He chats to Nihal about why he actually dislikes objects - and how he’s stirred into action by items he finds problematic such as flamethrowers and fences. #PenguinPodcast

‘Feral’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2yKKp2B

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Denise Mina with Katy Brand

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Denise Mina’s latest novel ‘Conviction’ was selected by Reese Witherspoon’s book club and won the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Book of the Year 2019. She chats to Katy about her sources of inspiration, why she adores podcasts and what it’s like to be part of a group labelled ‘Tartan Noir’. Her inspirational objects include her writing desk and a very special pencil #PenguinPodcast

‘Conviction’ is available to buy as an audiobook now - https://apple.co/2JClWhK

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Bernardine Evaristo with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT

Bernardine won the Booker prize last year with her novel ‘Girl, Woman, Other’, one of Barack Obama’s top books of 2019 and hailed 'book of the decade' by The Sunday Times and The Guardian. Bernardine brings objects into the studio that have inspired her creatively, including a song from Hamilton the musical and a photo of her paternal grandmother (who she dedicates every single book to) #PenguinPodcast

To buy the audiobook:

https://apple.co/2UBqkmv

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Anne Enright with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT

Booker prize winner, Anne Enright chats to Nihal about her new novel ‘Actress’ - the story of a legendary theatre star seen through the eyes of her daughter. Anne, who was the first Laureate for Irish fiction, tells Nihal how she sometimes spends hours and hours choosing the right word for her novels (and other times it just flows). Anne's objects of inspiration include a photo of Carrie Fisher and a magazine piece where Joan Crawford describes her best dinner party (everything has vodka added). #PenguinPodcast

For the audiobook of ‘Actress’ by Anne Enright: http://bit.ly/PPAnne

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William Gibson with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 06:00:00 GMT

William Gibson, author of the seminal speculative fiction novel 'Neuromancer', chats to Nihal about why his work has never predicted the future, why punk was the last pre-digital counterculture and on spending the afternoon with Mick Jagger (who is a huge fan of his work). His chosen inspiring objects include a pair of AI glasses which are a character is his new novel 'Agency'. #PenguinPodcast

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Andrew Hunter Murray with Katy Brand

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 03:00:00 GMT

Andrew Hunter Murray, writer for the BBC’s QI programme and co-host of the hugely successful ‘No Such Thing as a Fish’ podcast, chats to Katy Brand about his new thriller set in 2059.

Used to researching unusual facts and writing comedy, Andrew explains what it was like writing fiction set in the near future. He brings objects to the studio that have inspired him including an iceberg (not the real thing) and a stuffed dog (which currently resides at Slough station). #PenguinPodcast

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Sophie Aldred with Katy Brand

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 14:54:07 GMT

The 13th Doctor meets classic Doctor Who companion Ace, in a novel written by Sophie Aldred (who played Ace alongside Sylvester McCoy in the BBC TV series). Sophie joins Katy in the studio to talk about writing 'Dr Who: A Childhood's End' and brings with her objects that inspired her including the famous bomber jacket that she wore in the TV series. Sophie reveals how she was cast in the role of Ace originally, what it was like filming the episodes and on meeting the current Dr. Who, Jodie Whittaker, in person. #PenguinPodcast

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RJ Palacio with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 03:00:00 GMT

‘Wonder’ has sold well over 15 million copies and was made into a major feature film starring Julia Roberts. Its author RJ Palacio has written and illustrated a new graphic novel ‘White Bird’ that sees a ‘Wonder’ character explore his family history. RJ brings a list of objects into the studio that have inspired her including a wooden bird and a sketchbook and also talks about the craft behind creating her graphic novel. #PenguinPodcast

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Paul McCartney with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 03:00:00 GMT

Sir Paul McCartney talks about his new children’s book ‘Hey Grandude’. In a special Christmas edition, the rock superstar tells Nihal about persuading John Lennon to believe in himself, the one famous person that even he feels nervous around and how being a grandad inspires him.

#PenguinPodcast

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Jonathan Safran Foer with Katy Brand

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Safran Foer is the American author of bestselling novels ‘Everything is Illuminated’ and ‘Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close’. His books have been made into major feature films starring the likes of Tom Hanks, with his latest work 'We are The Weather’ looking at what we can do about the climate crisis on a personal level. Jonathan tells Katy about the objects that inspire his writing, including a collection of framed blank sheets of paper from other famous authors. #PenguinPodcast

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Madness frontman Suggs with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Suggs chats to Nihal about Madness' new book 'Before We Was We', which charts the very funny and moving story of the band's early days. Madness, who've been together for 40 years, have played on top of Buckingham Palace, at the 2012 Olympics and had 17 UK top ten hits. Suggs brings in objects that tell the story of the band including a Prince Buster record, a pub sign and a plaster cast of some teeth #PenguinPodcast

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Philip Pullman LIVE with Sophie Dahl

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 10:49:19 GMT

‘His Dark Materials’ author Philip Pullman, talks to Sophie Dahl live from the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford. Philip has a new novel in The Book of Dust trilogy entitled ‘The Secret Commonwealth’, which continues the story of his protagonist Lyra, now aged 20. Philip brings objects that have inspired him including a ‘real’ alethiometer and he also reads an extract from his new book #PenguinPodcast

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Jacqueline Wilson with Katy Brand

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Jacqueline Wilson has a new Tracey Beaker book: ‘We Are the Beaker Girls’. The former children’s laureate, who has sold over 40 million books, talks to Katy Brand about how she gets inspired, bringing objects into the studio that help her create including a pair of swimming goggles and a trains timetable. #PenguinPodcast

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Emma Kennedy with Katy Brand

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Emma Kennedy, author, actress and TV writer talks to Katy Brand about her new book ‘The Things We Left Unsaid’. Emma’s previous books include ‘The Tent, The Bucket and Me’ which was adapted into The Kennedys for the BBC. She has also written children’s books and worked with the good and the great of British comedy (including Katy - so expect lots of laughter). Emma brought in objects that have inspired her including a tin of buttons and a discarded wedding bouquet #PenguinPodcast

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Rory Sutherland with Katy Brand

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Rory Sutherland, the charismatic Vice Chairman of advertising agency Ogilvy, tells Katy how thinking counterintuitively can lead to success. Using examples from his Ted Talks (viewed 6.5 million times), his new book ‘Alchemy’ and the objects he brought in - he explains how ‘psycho-logic’ sells #PenguinPodcast

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Malorie Blackman LIVE with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 05:00:00 GMT

In this special LIVE edition from the Lowry in Manchester, Malorie Blackman OBE talks about the long-awaited fifth book in her Noughts and Crosses Series: ‘Crossfire’. Malorie has written over 70 books, is a former Children’s Laureate and has artists such as Stormzy counting themselves as super-fans. Malorie's chosen inspirational objects include ‘The Colour Purple’ by Alice Walker and a CD by Marvin Gaye. #PenguinPodcast

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Jonathan Coe with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Coe, author of political satires ‘What a Carve Up!’ and ‘The Rotters’ Club’ chats to Nihal about his new novel ‘Middle England’. Jonathan brings with him objects that have inspired his work and reveals what it’s like to be an Elvis impersonator warm-up act. #PenguinPodcast

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Diana Evans with Katy Brand

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Diana Evans (‘26a’, ‘The Wonder’) is the perfect guest for this podcast. She tells Katy how objects are an integral part of her writing process and brings some along including a mini London telephone box and her trusty sketchbook. Diana also chats about her new award-winning novel ‘Ordinary People’ which was one of the New Yorker’s books of the year. #PenguinPodcast #InspirationalObjects

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Kit De Waal with Katy Brand

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 23:00:00 GMT

Kit De Waal, author of the critically acclaimed bestseller ‘My Name is Leon’ joins Katy in the studio. Kit talks about her latest book ‘The Trick to Time’ and brings objects that have inspired her including a track by Scott Matthews and a photo of Forlorn Point in Ireland.

#PenguinPodcast

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Howard Jacobson with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Howard Jacobson joins Nihal in the studio to chat about his new book ‘Live a Little’. Howard, who has written sixteen novels including Booker prize-winning ‘The Finkler Question’, brings objects that have inspired him including a playbill and a painting. He also tells the story of the time Kylie Minogue called him ‘a b**tard’ (in a good way). #PenguinPodcast

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Mark Haddon with Katy Brand

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Mark Haddon tells Katy Brand how art inspires him – choosing objects including an oil painting and a David Hockney print to explain. The award-winning ‘Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time’ author also talks about his new book ‘The Porpoise’ based partly on the legend of Antiochus, it also features tales of time travel, pirates and semi-naked wrestling. #PenguinPodcast

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Nigella Lawson with Katy Brand

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 05:00:15 GMT

Nigella talks about her first cookbook ‘How To Eat’, which is 20 years old and has now been made into an audiobook. She tells Katy why she thought this would the only book about food she would write, why some of her ideas have changed since writing and what her rider is when working abroad. Nigella beings in some objects that inspire her including a tea caddy and a photograph of her kitchen table.

#PenguinPodcast

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Elif Shafak with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Bestselling Turkish-British author Elif Shafak, chats to Nihal about the brilliant idea behind her new novel ’10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World’ (10:38 is the period of time a brain can still be active after death). Elif, who has also received standing ovations at Ted Talks and is an academic and journalist, explains how she finds it impossible to write without noise and brings with her objects that inspire her work including a pair of headphones and a wooden statue of Don Quixote.

#PenguinPodcast

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Philippa Perry with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 22 May 2019 05:00:00 GMT

'The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read’ by Philippa Perry recently topped the Sunday Times Bestseller List and has been called ‘a parenting book for people who don’t normally buy them’. Philippa, a psychotherapist and broadcaster, talks about not judging parents, how there is no 'good and bad' and what to do about screen time. Philippa’s objects that inspire her writing, include a tiny pair of walking boots and a TV remote control. We also hear an extract from the audiobook. #PenguinPodcast

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John Boyne with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 08 May 2019 05:00:00 GMT

John Boyne, bestselling author of ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’ chats to Nihal Arthanayake about harnessing ideas around his new YA book ‘My Brother’s Name is Jessica’. John brings objects into the studio that have inspired him including a football, a locked black box and reveals the reason behind his Kate Bush tattoo. #PenguinPodcast #KateBush #JohnIrving #JohnBoyne

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Ian McEwan with Katy Brand

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 02:00:00 GMT

Booker prize-winning author Ian McEwan visits the Penguin studio to talk about his new novel ‘Machines Like Me’ - set in an alternatives 1980’s in which synthetic humans are on sale. Ian and Katy talk about the ethics of AI, why drinking wine on the top of a mountain is good for your health and how being an A list Hollywood screenwriter can be ‘the ruin of many an English novelist’. Ian’s objects of inspiration include steel drinking cups and a drawing of a squirrel’s skull. #PenguinPodcast

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Matt Parker with Katy Brand

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 05:00:00 GMT

What happened when engineers fixed an aeroplane window with bolts ever so slightly too short (spoiler: the pilot did not stay seated). Mathematician and stand-up comedian (yes, he does both), Matt Parker, explains to Katy Brand how maths mistakes in everyday life can have BIG consequences. He brings with him the rogue aeroplane bolts to the studio as well as objects that have helped him write his latest book ‘Humble Pi: A Comedy of Maths Errors’. #PenguinPodcast

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Best Of (Part 2) with Katy Brand

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 03:00:00 GMT

In this special edition, Katy Brand selects highlights from past episodes featuring Stephen Fry, Salman Rushdie, Ruby Wax, Zadie Smith, Caitlin Moran, Romesh Ranganathan, Reggie Yates, Ian Rankin, Michael Palin, Pat Barker, Arundhati Roy, Michael Morpurgo and many more. #PenguinPodcast

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Marlon James with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Man Booker prize winner Marlon James tells Nihal why his new novel ‘Black Leopard, Red Wolf’ is a sort of African ‘Game of Thrones’. The Jamaican author of ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings’ talks about objects that inspire his creativity including comic books, superheroes and how he loves to draw maps. #PenguinPodcast

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Simon Amstell with Katy Brand

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Simon Amstell - comedian, presenter, director and writer talks to Katy Brand about his new book ‘Help’, a memoir interspersed with sections of his stand-up gigs. Simon brings with him objects that have helped him to write and create (including post-it notes and a voice recorder) and explains why people told him to stop being funny, and how taking Ayahuasca in the Amazon rainforest helped cure his depression. #PenguinPodcast

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Imogen Hermes Gowar with Katy Brand

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 08:00:00 GMT

‘The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock’ was nominated for the Women’s Prize for Fiction and was The Times Historical Fiction Book of the Year. Imogen Hermes Gowar talks to Katy Brand about the highs and lows of huge success as a first time author and brought in objects to the Penguin studio that inspire her creativity, including an old bottle of red ink and a packet of Jaffa Cakes. #PenguinPodcast

‘The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock' is available as an audiobook to download now.

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/audiobook/the-mermaid-and-mrs-hancock-unabridged/id1335672004

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Best Of (Part 1) with Katy Brand

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT

In this special edition, Katy Brand selects some of the best bits from past episodes featuring Johnny Marr, Romesh Ranganathan, Ruby Wax, Tim Peake, Zadie Smith, Sebastian Faulkes, William Boyd, Jeff Kinney, Michael Palin, Pat Barker and Caitlin Moran. #PenguinPodcast

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Romesh Ranganathan with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Comedian Romesh Ranganathan tells Nihal why he thinks Richard Pryor is the greatest stand-up of all time and how he practices his set in front of an imaginary audience in his garage. Romesh’s chosen inspirational objects include a Public Enemy CD, a microphone stand and a Trading Places poster. Expect lots and lots of laughter. #PenguinPodcast

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Michael Morpurgo with Katy Brand

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Michael Morpurgo has written a new version of ‘The Snowman’ inspired by the original story by Raymond Briggs which is now 40 years old. The author of 130 books including War Horse, Michael tells Katy why Christmas is so special. If you’re not feeling festive this will definitely get you in the mood with Michael’s special objects including a family Santa Claus decoration with an amazing history. #PenguinPodcast

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Marcus Zusak with Katy Brand

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Markus Zusak, author of ‘The Book Thief’ (which spent over 500 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller list) joins Katy Brand. He talks about his much anticipated new book ‘Bridge of Clay’ and why it took him over 13 years to write. Markus also explains why special objects are a big feature in his latest book and help unlock his creative process. He brings a surfboard fin, a pebble shaped like a Zippo lighter, postcards and a famous Australian racehorse into the studio! #PenguinPodcast

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Pat Barker with Katy Brand

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Pat Barker, bestselling author of the Regeneration trilogy and Booker Prize winner talks to Katy Brand about her latest book ‘Silence of the Girls’ based on the Trojan wars. Pat also brings in objects to the Penguin studio that have inspired her including a copy of Homer’s Iliad, a bronze age loom weight and a pile of dad rats (luckily just a photo). #PenguinPodcast

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Michael Palin with David Baddiel

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 08:00:00 GMT

A special live edition of the Penguin Podcast with comedian, actor, and writer Michael Palin is hosted by David Baddiel. Having been in Monty Python’s Flying Circus and made award-winning travel documentaries around the world, Palin talks about his latest book, ‘Erebus; The Story of a Ship’. He brings objects that have inspired him included an African stool, a piece of fuselage from Ernest Hemingway’s plane and a postcard written by Spike Milligan.

#PenguinPodcast

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Tim Peake with Katy Brand

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Could you make the grade as an astronaut? Katy Brand talks to Tim Peake about his new ‘Astronaut Selection Test Book’. Tim reveals what is was like hanging onto the outside of the International Space Station with one hand (whilst looking at the rest of The Universe over his right shoulder)…. and what is was like watching ‘Star Wars’ in space. Tim’s chosen inspirational objects include a flag from the back of his spacesuit. #PenguinPodcast

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Helena Kennedy with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Lawyer, broadcaster and author Helena Kennedy talks to Nihal Arthanayake about her latest novel, ‘Eve Was Shamed’. The book comes 25 years after her first book ‘Eve Was Framed’ which led to a number of key reforms for women. Her latest work sees how the British Justice system is still failing women. Helena brought along objects that inspire her including her father’s rosary and beach pebbles that help her come up with new ideas. #PenguinPodcast

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William Boyd with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author William Boyd tells Nihal Arthanayake about his writing methodology; years of research before he even sits down to write. Known for writing novels which span continents and timescales, commissioned by the Fleming Estate to write a James Bond novel and working with David Bowie, Boyd is something of a phenomenon. He’s in the studio to talk about his latest novel, Love Is Blind, and brings with him objects that have inspired him, including a piano tuning hammer and a pistol. #PenguinPodcast

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Colm Tóibín with Katy Brand

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Colm Tóibín tells Katy Brand why he returns to the theme of home again and again in his work and what it’s like writing about violence for the first time. Colm wrote ‘Brooklyn’, which was made into a feature film starring Saoirse Ronan, and has been nominated for the Booker three times. He brings objects into the Penguin studio that have inspired his new novel ‘House of Names’ including a Greek play and an opera CD. #PenguinPodcast

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Sebastian Faulks with Nihal Arthanayake

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:37:18 GMT

Bestselling author Sebastian Faulks tells Nihal Arthanayake how he creates characters, harnesses history to build stories and how he came up with ideas for his new novel ‘Paris Echo’. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Sebastian’s novel ‘Birdsong’ which has sold millions of copies and is taught as part of the National Curriculum. Sebastian also shares some objects that have inspired his writing including an original letter penned by Wordsworth.

#PenguinPodcast

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Viv Groskop with Katy Brand

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Journalist and novelist Viv Groskop joins Katy Brand in the Penguin studio to talk about her

Book ‘The Anna Karenina Fix’, a very funny memoir and self-help book which explains how Russian literature has some valuable life lessons. As a young child Viv believed her surname was Russian, which led her to studying, living there and becoming editor at large for Russian Vogue. She later found out she’s not the slightest bit Russian, but recounts what she learnt along the way from the country and its literature. Viv brings in a hedgehog, a make-up compact and an album by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers which inspired her writing.

#PenguinPodcast

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Claire Tomalin with David Baddiel

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Biographer Claire Tomalin joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to chat about the art of writing about other people’s lives. She has written bestselling biographies including Mary Wollstonecraft, Charles Dickens and Jane Austen and has been called ‘one of the greatest biographers of our age’. Claire has now written about her own fascinating and surprising life and brings objects into the studio that inspired her including a plaster foot and a Samuel Pepys medal. #PenguinPodcast

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Jane Fallon with David Baddiel

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Jane Fallon joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about her new book ‘Faking Friends’. Jane is an award-winning TV producer behind shows such as This Life and EastEnders and has written eight books – selling over a million copies. She talks to David about some of the objects that have been part of her creative process including a Christmas tree covered in very unusual ornaments and the cover of her first book ‘Getting Rid of Matthew’. #PenguinPodcast

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Caitlin Moran with David Baddiel

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Caitlin Moran joins David Baddiel in the Penguin Studio. The critically acclaimed journalist and author penned her first book aged 13, has been writing for The Times since she was 18 and has had bestselling novels including ‘How to be a Woman’ and ‘How to Build a Girl’. She’s in to talk about her new book, ‘How to Be Famous’, and bringsobjects that have inspired her including: headphones; a Wolverhampton library ticket; a letter from Clive Anderson and a swimming costume (which she carries everywhere with her). #PenguinPodcast

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Gabourey Sidibe with Katy Brand

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Oscar nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe joins Katy Brand in the Penguin studio to talk about her hilarious and moving memoir ‘This Is Just My Face: Try Not to Stare’. Gabourey’s breakthrough role was as Precious in the feature film and she’s since starred in TV shows American Horror Story, The Big C and Empire. Gabourey talks about what her sources of inspiration including a collection of NSYNC dolls and her beloved cat Aaron. She also reveals her constant fear of dinosaurs! #PenguinPodcast

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Arundhati Roy with Kirsty Lang

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Arundhati Roy joins Kirsty Lang for a special live edition of the Penguin Podcast. Arundhati burst onto the international literary scene 20 years ago with her novel ‘The God of Small Things’. Since then she has written non-fiction books and essays on contemporary politics, culture, human rights and environmental issues. She returns to the fiction scene to talk about her second novel ‘The Ministry of Utmost Happiness’. With her she brings objects which have inspired her including a newspaper article of an abandoned baby, a shroud and a photograph of an Indian shrine. #PenguinPodcast

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Salman Rushdie with David Olusoga

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Author Salman Rushdie joins David Olusoga in the Penguin Studio. Salman’s 13 novels have won countless awards worldwide and his second novel ‘Midnight’s children’ won the Best of the Booker over its 40 year history. Salman talks about his latest novel, ’The Golden House’ bringing with him objects that inspired it, including a copy of The Satyricon by Petronius, and a photo of The Joker from Batman. #PenguinPodcast

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Simon Mayo and David Baddiel

Wed, 23 May 2018 07:00:52 GMT

Radio broadcaster and author Simon Mayo joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about his first adult novel 'Mad Blood Stirring'. Simon hosts Radio 2’s Drivetime show, the BBC’s flagship film review show Kermode and Mayo and has previously written 4 young adult books. He brings with him objects that have inspired his writing including a map, the periodic table and a Stephen King book. #PenguinPodcast

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Christie Watson with Paul Smith

Wed, 09 May 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Before she was a critically acclaimed author, Christie Watson was a nurse for 20 years, she joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about ‘The Language of Kindness’. It’s an extraordinary account of a profession that witnesses everything from birth to death and a lot in between. Christie brings objects which inspired her work into the studio, including a statue of Florence Nightingale, a fob watch, a mini book on nursing and a photo of a fishing boat. #PenguinPodcast

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Tracy Chevalier with Paul Smith

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 09:45:07 GMT

Much-loved author Tracy Chevalier has written nine novels, including ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ which sold 5 million copies worldwide and was made into a film starring Colin Firth and Scarlett Johansson. Tracy joins Paul Smith (Maximo Park) in the Penguin studio to talk about her latest work, ‘New Boy’, a retelling of Othello set in an American school in the 1970s. Tracy brings objects which inspired her work including a tiny music box, her notebook and a school photo. #PenguinPodcast

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Eoin Colfer with Paul Smith

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Author of the award winning 'Artemis Fowl’, Eoin Colfer, joins Maxïmo Park frontman, Paul Smith, in the Penguin studio. Eoin talks about his book ‘And Another Thing’, the sixth instalment of the 'Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ (commissioned by the Douglas Adams Estate), which has recently been made into a drama for BBC Radio 4 starring the original cast - 40 years after the first comedy series aired. Eoin chooses objects that inspired his writing include a shabby red-checked dressing gown and some David Bowie and Kate Bush cassette tapes. #PenguinPodcast

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Afua Hirsch with David Olusoga

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 11:52:18 GMT

Guardian Columnist and author Afua Hirsch joins historian and broadcaster David Olusoga in the Penguin studio. Afua talks about her bestselling book ‘BRIT (ish)’ which tackles questions of race, identity and belonging in the UK. She brings along objects that inspired her work including a hot water bottle, poetry she wrote when she was a child and an Alan Paton book. #PenguinPodcast

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Deborah Levy with David Baddiel

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 11:00:00 GMT

Playwright, novelist, poet and author Deborah Levy joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about her critically acclaimed novel ‘Hot Milk’, which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2016. Deborah has written 6 novels including ‘Swimming Home’ (another Man Booker finalist), has written extensively for the BBC and her work has been staged by the Royal Shakespeare Company. She tells David about her upcoming autobiography ‘The Cost of Living’ and brings along objects that have inspired her work, including a sketch given to her by the artist Rose Blake and a skein of bright blue thread. #PenguinPodcast

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Reggie Yates with David Baddiel

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 10:37:00 GMT

Radio 1 DJ, actor and television presenter Reggie Yates joins David Baddiel in the studio to talk about his new book. ‘Unseen’ explores how he made the transition from TV personality to documentary storyteller, covering difficult subjects such as far right groups in Russia to gun crime in Chicago. Reggie brings with him objects that inspired his writing, including DJ decks, a moleskin notebook and humbug mints. #PenguinPodcast

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Mohsin Hamid with Paul Smith

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 15:30:00 GMT

‘Exit West’ was chosen by Barack Obama as one of his favourite books of last year. The author Mohsin Hamid, joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio, and has chosen five objects that have inspired his book. They include a book by C.S. Lewis, a photograph of a bomb blast in Lahore taken by his sister and a CD by Gilberto Gil and Jorge Ben. Mohsin is a two time Booker prize nominee and his novel ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ was made into a major motion picture starring Riz Ahmed and Kate Hudson. #PenguinPodcast

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Jojo Moyes with Konnie Huq

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Jojo Moyes, author of the hugely successful novel ‘Me Before You’, joins us in the Penguin studio to talk about the final book in her Lou Clarke trilogy ‘Still Me’. Jojo’s books have sold more than 30 million copies and she’s one of the few authors to have had three novels on the New York Times bestseller list at the same time. ‘Me Before You’ was also adapted into a major feature film starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Clafin. Jojo introduces five objects that have been an inspiration - including a bumblebee necklace and a photo of Big Dog. #PenguinPodcast

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C.J. Tudor with Konnie Huq

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 08:00:00 GMT

The Chalk Man is one of this years most anticipated thrillers. Its author, C.J. Tudor, joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about writing her debut novel and how it became part of a furious bidding war. C.J. brings in five objects that have inspired her writing, including a Stephen King book and a glass dolphin. #PenguinPodcast

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Jeff Kinney with Konnie Huq

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Jeff Kinney, author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books, joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest in the series: The Getaway. Jeff’s books have sold more than 194 million copies, they’ve inspired four feature films and he’s been named as one of Time Magazine’s Most Influential People in the World. Jeff brings in some objects to the studio that have inspired his writing including: An Uncle Scrooge Comic, a boom box and an airplane sickness bag. #PenguinPodcast

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Ian Rankin with David Baddiel

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Author of the hugely successful Inspector Rebus novels, Ian Rankin, joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about his short story made for radio, The Deathwatch Journal. Ian is regarded at one of the most popular authors of the last 100 years, has won four Crime Writer’s Association Dagger Awards and has received an OBE for services to literature. A map of Edinburgh, Hawkwind single and Captain Scarlet toy car are among the objects Ian brings to the studio. #PenguinPodcast

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Nina Stibbe with Konnie Huq

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Author of 'Love, Nina’ (adapted for TV starring Helena Bonham Carter) and the critically acclaimed novels, 'Man at the Helm' and 'Paradise Lodge', Nina Stibbe joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio. Nina talks about her new book 'An Almost Perfect Christmas' and kicks off the festive season by bringing in objects including an unusual Christmas tree, a turkey on the loo and her mum. #PenguinPodcast

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No Such Thing as a Penguin Podcast

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Fact researchers, presenters of the hugely successful No Such Thing as a Fish podcast, TV show hosts and authors the QI Elves join Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about The Book of the Year. Dan Schreiber, Anna Ptaszynski, Andrew Hunter Murray and James Harkin bring in an object each which has inspired their book on the fascinating and funny facts of the year including an Oscar statuette, The Loch Ness Monster's dandruff and a pint of champagne. #PenguinPodcast

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Stephen Fry with David Baddiel

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Comedian, actor, broadcaster and writer Stephen Fry joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about his new book Mythos, which retells the Greek Myths. Stephen brings in words (instead of objects) that have inspired him and he and David discuss typewriters, AI teachers and of course the Greek gods. #PenguinPodcast

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Malcolm Gladwell with Paul Smith

Wed, 18 Oct 2017 05:00:00 GMT

The author of five New York Times bestsellers and one of the world's most successful non-fiction writers, Malcolm Gladwell speaks to Paul Smith down the line from LA. Malcolm talks about the themes behind Blink, Outliers, David & Goliath and on writing his new book. Plus he selects five objects that have inspired his chart-topping podcast Revisionist History. #PenguinPodcast (Photo: Bill Wadman)

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Rachel Botsman with Konnie Huq

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Award winning author Rachel Botsman is a world-renowned trust expert and her Ted Talks views are in the millions. She joins Konnie Huq in the studio to reveal how we are on the cusp of one of the biggest social transformations in human history. Rachel has brought with her some objects that have inspired her latest book Who Can You Trust, including her engagement ring and an Alexa bot. #PenguinPodcast

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Harlan Coben with Konnie Huq

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Author Harlan Coben has over 70 million books in print across the world and his last 10 novels all debuted at number one on the New York Times bestseller list. He joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest book Don't Let Go and he's brought in some objects that have inspired him as a writer, including a basketball and a signed script from the TV series Modern Family. #PenguinPodcast

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Anthony Horowitz with Konnie Huq

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author of the Alex Rider teen series Anthony Horowitz, joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest book. The Word is Murder is the first in his new series of crime novels. Anthony brings some objects that inspire his writing, including a human skull and a fountain pen with a real diamond in the lid. #PenguinPodcast

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Simon Sinek with Konnie Huq

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Author and motivational speaker Simon SInek joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his book Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't. Simon brings some objects that have inspired him, including a rare military coin and a photo of Victoria and Dennis Hopper. #PenguinPodcast

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Tim Weaver with Paul Smith

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Tim Weaver joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about the latest instalment in his David Raker series, I Am Missing. Tim bring along objects including a missing persons poster, his favourite Batman comic and a picture of Hallsands in Devon as he talks about why he wanted to do something different with this novel, and how he first fell in love with writing when his parents bought him a typewriter. #PenguinPodcast

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Naomi Klein with David Baddiel

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Award-winning journalist and author Naomi Klein joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about her new book No Is Not Enough. Naomi brings along objects including a stitch unpicker and a model of a woman blowing a shell as she talks about sounding the alarm on climate change, trashing the Trump megabrand and how to win the world we need. #PenguinPodcast

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Simon Sebag Montefiore with Paul Smith

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Historian and novelist Simon Sebag Montefiore joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about the final instalment in his Moscow trilogy, Red Sky At Noon. He chooses objects including a machete and a Russian doll as he talks about researching the role of the Russian cavalry in the Second World War, reveals why he loves writing about love, and explains why Donald Trump has a schoolboy crush on Vladimir Putin. #PenguinPodcast

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Helen Fielding with Konnie Huq

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Helen Fielding joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about her latest book Bridget Jones’s Baby. Helen chooses objects including her own diary and her favourite writing chair as she talks about how she first dreamt up the character of Bridget Jones, and why Bridget’s struggles as a thirty-something ‘singleton’ are even more relevant today. #PenguinPodcast

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Carlo Rovelli with Konnie Huq

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Physicist and bestselling author Carlo Rovelli joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his book Reality Is Not What It Seems: The Journey to Quantum Gravity. Carlo brings along objects including a photograph of himself as a student with his pet goat, and his trusty notebook as he talks about first falling in love with physics, and explains why all scientists are rebels. #PenguinPodcast

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Jane Corry with Paul Smith

Wed, 31 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Jane Corry joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about her new thriller, Blood Sisters. Jane brings along objects including a photograph of her grandmother and her wedding ring as she explains how teaching creative writing in prisons helped to inspire her books, and why she loves living, and writing, by the sea. #PenguinPodcast

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Jo Nesbo with Konnie Huq

Wed, 03 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Thriller writer Jo Nesbo joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his new novel The Thirst, the latest instalment in his bestselling Harry Hole series. Jo brings along objects including a photograph of his favourite coffee shop and rock climbing ropes as he tells Konnie about bringing Harry Hole out of retirement to track down a vampirist, and explains how he combines his writing career with singing in a chart-topping band. #PenguinPodcast

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Jon Culshaw with Meera Syal

Wed, 19 Apr 2017 12:21:53 GMT

Comedian and audiobook narrator Jon Culshaw joins Meera Syal in the Penguin studio in a special Doctor Who edition of the podcast. Jon brings along objects including his junior telescope and a cassette recorder as he talks about his lifelong love of astronomy, and about bringing the Doctor Who stories to life in audiobooks. #PenguinPodcast

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Brad Stone with David Baddiel

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Journalist and bestselling author Brad Stone joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about his new book, The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley are Changing the World. Brad brings along objects including a copy of Hokusai’s The Great Wave and a photograph of Airbnb founder Brian Chesky in a bodybuilding competition as he explains how companies like Uber and Airbnb have rewritten the traditional rules of business, and changed the way we live our lives. #PenguinPodcast

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Elan Mastai with David Baddiel

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Screenwriter Elan Mastai joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about his debut novel All Our Wrong Todays. Elan brings along objects including a bad avocado and his grandfather’s copy of Kurt Vonnegut’s Cat’s Cradle as he talks about his lifelong love of science fiction, and explains why his dog is his writing assistant. #PenguinPodcast

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David Hepworth with Paul Smith

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

David Hepworth joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest book 1971: Never A Dull Moment. David brings along objects including his copy of David Bowie’s Hunky Dory and a picture of himself aged twenty-one as he explains why 1971 was the golden year for rock music, and reminisces about collecting Ringo Starr’s bins. #PenguinPodcast

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John Boyne with Paul Smith

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author John Boyne joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest novel The Heart’s Invisible Furies. John brings along objects including models of Tintin and Pinocchio, a picture of his home and a selection of his favourite books as he talks about setting his novel in his native country, attitudes towards same-sex marriage in Ireland, his lifelong stationery fetish and why you have to be a reader before you can be a writer. #PenguinPodcast

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Harriet Harman with Konnie Huq

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Harriet Harman joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about her book A Woman’s Work. Harriet brings along objects including her Labour rosette, her favourite apple crumble recipe and her lucky jacket (complete with very large shoulder pads). She talks about being pregnant when she joined the 97% male House of Commons in 1982, the rights that she has fought for over the course of her career, and the changes that she would like to see in the future. #PenguinPodcast

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Ruby Wax with David Baddiel

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Ruby Wax joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about her book A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled. Ruby brings along objects including her graduation gown, a pair of red knickers and a plastic pig as she explains why she is fascinated by how the brain works, and how mindfulness has changed her life. #PenguinPodcast

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Ali Land with Paul Smith

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 07:40:41 GMT

Ali Land joins Paul Smith in the Penguin studio to talk about her debut novel Good Me Bad Me. Ali brings along a selection of objects, including a scrapbook she made whilst working as a mental health nurse and a pair of sandals from Bondi Beach, as she explains why she is fascinated by the human psyche, and how travelling the world helped her to write her novel. #PenguinPodcast

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Tom Fletcher with Konnie Huq

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Singer-songwriter turned children’s author Tom Fletcher joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about his first novel The Christmasaurus. Tom discusses his lifelong obsession with Christmas and dinosaurs, and brings along a selection of objects including his miniature Christmas tree, which sits on his bedside table throughout the year, and his trusty red coffee mug. He reveals what Christmas was like in the McFly band house, and explains why writing books is a dream come true for him. #PenguinPodcast

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James Oswald with Konnie Huq

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 09:41:13 GMT

James Oswald joins Konnie Huq in the Penguin studio to talk about the latest book in his Detective Inspector Tony McLean mystery series, The Damage Done. James brings along a number of objects that helped shape the series, including his walking boots, his notebook and a picture of his tractor as he explains how he combines writing with running a farm, and why you shouldn’t get on the wrong side of a crime writer. #PenguinPodcast

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Zadie Smith with David Baddiel

Wed, 30 Nov 2016 08:06:29 GMT

Zadie Smith joins David Baddiel in the Penguin studio to talk about her latest novel, Swing Time. Zadie brings along objects including a carved wooden head, a sequinned glove and a book on Fred Astaire as she talks dancing, motherhood and the importance of knowing your roots. #PenguinPodcast

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Johnny Marr with David Baddiel

Wed, 16 Nov 2016 08:08:37 GMT

Musician, songwriter and singer Johnny Marr joins David Baddiel in the Penguin Studio to talk about his autobiography Set The Boy Free (and jam with David on the guitar). Johnny talks about first falling in love with the sound of the guitar listening to the Everly Brothers, reveals how he developed a passion for reading whilst bunking off school and explains how he handled huge fame as a teenager. He brings along a selection of treasured objects including The Complete Essays of Aldous Huxley, a Marc Bolan EP, and, of course, his signature model Fender Jaguar. #PenguinPodcast

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Alexandra Shulman with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 02 Nov 2016 09:56:04 GMT

Vogue editor-in-chief Alexandra Shulman joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin Studio to talk about her book Inside Vogue: A Diary of My 100th Year, which documents the style bible’s centenary celebrations. Alexandra talks about her own twenty four years at the helm of British Vogue, reveals how she managed to pull off a royal cover coup featuring the Duchess of Cambridge, and considers the impact of Brexit on the fashion industry. She brings along a number of objects that influenced Inside Vogue, including her watch, a (very large) suitcase, and her coffee maker as she calculates how many cups of coffee it takes to power one issue of the magazine. #PenguinPodcast

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The Football Ramble

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 09:00:42 GMT

The foursome behind the UK’s biggest independent sports podcast, The Football Ramble, take over the Penguin studio to talk about their debut book, also called The Football Ramble. Marcus, Luke, Pete and Jim discuss football’s early beginnings; dissect the ‘media machine’ behind the modern game; marvel at the gargantuan amounts of money at stake and conclude that grassroots football is perhaps ultimately more enjoyable than the professional game. They also bring in various mementos including a pair of old boots, a Soviet hat and a ticket stub (complete with pie stain). #PenguinPodcast

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Clare Balding with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 06:19:46 GMT

Clare Balding joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin Studio to talk about her first children’s book The Racehorse Who Wouldn’t Gallop. Clare brings along a number of objects that inspired her book, including her family jockey silks and her Olympic torch from the 2012 Games, as she explains why children love stories about ponies and why she was determined to write a book with a girl-power message. #PenguinPodcast

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Robert Harris with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 08:56:34 GMT

Author Robert Harris joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest novel, Conclave. Robert explains why the election of a new Pope is the perfect setting for a thriller and talks about being given an exclusive tour of the Vatican as part of his research. He brings along his first typewriter, which he bought for £10 when he was twelve years old, and explains why having a bust of Cicero sitting on his desk helps to focus his mind. #PenguinPodcast

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Highlights from the Penguin Podcast - Episode 2

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 09:27:35 GMT

The second of two special editions of the Penguin podcast, looking back at some of the standout moments from the past year courtesy of guests including Shami Chakrabarti, Louis de Bernieres and Paula Hawkins. With a rallying call to all would-be writers from Neil Gaiman, procrastination tips from John Finnemore and advice from Irvine Welsh on finding your voice, this podcast documents the highs and lows of an author’s career. It also reflects on some of the curious objects that guests have brought along to the Penguin studio, and which have influenced their writing, including hawk bells and a pebble. #PenguinPodcast

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Highlights from the Penguin Podcast - Episode 1

Wed, 17 Aug 2016 06:29:20 GMT

The first of two special editions of the Penguin podcast looking at some of the highlights from the past year. Featuring guests including Bill Bryson, Chris Packham and Pat Barker, a wide array of topics are covered, ranging from libraries all the way to labiaplasty. Various objects that have played an important part in shaping our guests' careers will also be discussed, including a cow, a gas mask and a fart in a jar. Yes, really. #PenguinPodcast

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Shappi Khorsandi with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 27 Jul 2016 09:03:16 GMT

Comedian Shappi Khorsandi joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about her debut novel, Nina is Not OK. Quite dark and very funny, it focuses on the teenage struggles of Nina, who absolutely does NOT have a drink problem. Shappi brings with her a number of objects that have shaped her career, ranging from Morph to Charlie Chaplin, and tells Richard how the pain of leaving her beloved homeland of Iran still brings her to tears. And Shappi makes it quite clear that she is not Nina - OK! #PenguinPodcast

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Emma Kennedy with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 06 Jul 2016 08:40:23 GMT

Writer and actress Emma Kennedy joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about her bestselling memoir The Tent, The Bucket and Me, which charts her disastrous family holidays. She brings along a number of objects that inspired her book, including a pink bucket, a Land Rover called Bessie and some questionable seafood. Emma reminisces about many memorable incidents, concluding that camping in the 1970s was essentially National Service for children. #PenguinPodcast

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John Finnemore with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 09:15:01 GMT

Comedian John Finnemore joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about his award-winning shows Cabin Pressure, Double Acts and John Finnemore’s Souvenir Programme. Renowned for his wordplay, John admits that writing doesn’t always come easily and confesses that he has a “heart-breaking” ability to procrastinate (often with tinfoil). John brings along a number of objects that have influenced his career, including his father’s airline hat and his bicycle, and observes how Benedict Cumberbatch single-handedly changed the demographic of Radio 4. #PenguinPodcast

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Irvine Welsh with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 25 May 2016 09:56:52 GMT

Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh joins Richard E. Grant down the line from Chicago to talk about bringing back the incendiary Francis Begbie in his latest novel The Blade Artist. Irvine talks about a number of objects that shaped and inspired the novel, including a copy of The Big Issue and a pair of white gym socks. Irvine muses on how art can transform lives, talks about writing ultra-violence and explains the difference between a psychopath and a sociopath (sociopaths go into banking or politics). #PenguinPodcast

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Chris Packham with Richard E. Grant

Thu, 05 May 2016 09:05:36 GMT

Writer and wildlife presenter Chris Packham joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about his memoir, Fingers In The Sparkle Jar. Chris brings along a number of objects that shaped his book, including a fox skull, a set of hawk bells and his first Clash ticket stub, as he explains why he has more honest relationships with animals than he does with people. Chris reminisces about badger watching in a pair of bondage trousers, talks about how children don’t explore the outdoors enough, and explains why it’s important to suck up every last drop of life. #PenguinPodcast

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Alain de Botton with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 10:16:48 GMT

Writer and philosopher Alain de Botton joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about his latest novel, The Course of Love. Alain brings along a number of objects that shaped his book, including his copy of Virginia Woolf’s essay The Docks of London and a recording of Bach’s Mass in B Minor, as he explains why he decided to turn his attention to what happens after happily ever after. Crushes and sulks come under Alain’s philosophical microscope as he explains why love is more dangerous than a nuclear power station and advocates schools for relationships. #PenguinPodcast

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Francesca Martinez with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Award-winning comedian Francesca Martinez joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about her memoir What the **** is Normal?! Francesca brings along a number of objects that shaped her book, including a photo of her beloved grandparents and a poem to her first boyfriend, as she talks about discarding the label of cerebral palsy. She reveals her careers advisor’s reaction to her acting ambitions, explains why stand-up comedy changed her life and discusses her dreams for a world where people aren’t defined by what they can’t do, but by what they can. #PenguinPodcast

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Shami Chakrabarti with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 11:10:15 GMT

Shami Chakrabarti joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about her book On Liberty. Shami brings along a number of objects that shaped the book, including a goldfish bowl and her mother’s pearls, as she tells the story behind her human rights journey. She reveals a dark secret from her childhood, talks about her second day at Liberty, on the 11th September 2001, and explains why our civil liberties matter more than ever. #PenguinPodcast

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Colm Tóibín with Richard E. Grant

Mon, 29 Feb 2016 12:28:49 GMT

Colm Tóibín joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about the novel behind the Oscar-nominated film Brooklyn. Colm brings along a number of objects that inspired the novel as he muses on the Irish immigrant experience, homesickness and life in 1950s New York. He reveals that the story of Brooklyn’s Eilis Lacey was inspired by a conversation that he overheard as a child, and explains how crucial it was for him that the big screen adaptation of Brooklyn was filmed in his hometown of Enniscorthy. #PenguinPodcast

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Howard Jacobson with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 23 Feb 2016 23:35:40 GMT

Howard Jacobson joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin studio to talk about his new novel Shylock Is My Name, a retelling of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. A self-proclaimed reverer of Shakespeare, Howard explains how he rose to the challenge of adapting one of the bard’s more controversial plays, and questions how much has really changed for Jews since Shakespeare first created the part of Shylock. Howard’s objects include a table tennis bat and a photograph of his grandmother, and he talks about his inspirational primary school teacher. #PenguinPodcast

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Louis de Bernières with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 23:29:56 GMT

The author of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin joins Richard E. Grant in the Penguin Studio to talk about his major new novel, The Dust That Falls From Dreams. Louis brings his great grandmother’s diaries and a handmade ‘guitar-lute’ into the Penguin studio and tells Richard how, for him, music wards off insanity.#PenguinPodcast

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Phil Redmond with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 12 Jan 2016 23:05:38 GMT

Phil Redmond, the creator of Brookside, Hollyoaks and Grange Hill, turns his hand from TV scripts to his first novel, Highbridge. Phil brings with him an assortment of objects that inspired the book, including an Army ration pack and a 'pay and throw’ phone and he discusses a variety of topics including how writing a novel differs from script writing, the impact of technology on society and the war on drugs.#PenguinPodcast

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Michael Acton Smith with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 29 Dec 2015 18:20:28 GMT

Michael Acton Smith, founder of Mind Candy who created Moshi Monsters demystifies mindfulness and talks to Richard about how it can be used to rewire our brains, change the way we see the world and help us unlock our true potential. Michael reveals what lead him to write ‘Calm’ and how mindfulness changed his life.

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Neil Gaiman with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 08 Dec 2015 23:29:22 GMT

Neil Gaiman discusses his friendship with the late Terry Pratchett and how they worked together to create Good Omens, a story of the impending apocalypse. Neil reveals how they relied on an answerphone to write the book and how Terry helped him with writers block.#PenguinPodcast

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Elvis Costello with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 23:35:28 GMT

Elvis Costello brings his first guitar, musical mementoes from his Dad and a referee’s whistle to the Penguin Studio as he talks about his memoir ‘Unfaithful Music and Disappearing Ink’. Some of the topics of conversation include his many and varied musical collaborations; the importance of being able to perform live; the art of the lyricist and how his mother had an argument about a record player with Orson Welles. #PenguinPodcast

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Bill Bryson with Richard E. Grant – Live

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 23:35:48 GMT

Bill Bryson discusses The Road to Little Dribbling, his follow up to Notes From A Small Island. To tell the story of his journey Bill brings along his passport, a walking stick, a cow, Stonehenge and an ordnance survey map. Recorded with Richard E. Grant in front of a live audience at the Cambridge Corn Exchange.#PenguinPodcast

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Paula Hawkins with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 22:50:17 GMT

Paula Hawkins brings a photo of her father, an Edward Hopper picture and a DVD of Rear Window to the Penguin Studio to talk about her bestselling book 'The Girl On The Train' with host Richard E Grant. Their discussion includes unreliable narrators, growing up in South Africa and the transition from business journalist to best selling author. Throughout the episode Richard plays excerpts from the audiobook, a multi cast production which is out now.

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Meera Syal with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:00:00 GMT

Meera Syal brings her copy of The Handmaid’s Tale, her Mother’s Indian passport and precious gold bangles given to her at her wedding to the Penguin Studio to talk about her latest book ’The House of Hidden Mothers’ with host Richard E Grant. Their discussion includes surrogacy, India’s fascination with babies and dowry payments as well as playing excerpts from the audiobook which is read by Meera and is available now.#PenguinPodcast

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Pat Barker with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 22:47:00 GMT

Pat Barker brings a child’s gas mask, a jar of water from a wishing well and a notebook to the Penguin Studio to talk about her latest book Noonday. Host Richard E. Grant and Pat discuss witchcraft, the impact of WW2 as well as her personal journey to becoming an award winning novelist. Noonday is available as an audiobook featuring Juliet Stevenson and Anne Reid, out now on iTunes.#PenguinPodcast

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Bridget Christie with Richard E. Grant

Tue, 04 Aug 2015 22:00:00 GMT

Comedian Bridget Christie brings a yoghurt, a ‘votes for women' sash given to her by Emmeline Pankhurst’s great-granddaughter and a piece of gammon to the Penguin Studio to talk about her latest book ‘A Book For Her’. Host Richard E. Grant and Bridget discuss a wide range of topics including FGM, labiaplasty, how a yoghurt advert perpetuates rape myths and how a unsavoury incident in a book shop inspired the book. #PenguinPodcast

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Kate Atkinson with Richard E. Grant

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 22:40:00 GMT

Kate Atkinson brings an antique silver hare, a Halifax Bomber and Beethoven’s 9th Symphony to the Penguin Studio to talk about her latest book ‘A God In Ruins’ with host Richard E Grant. The topics of conversation include the long-term effects of war on veterans, The Queen, how we age and the power of classical music to evoke an emotional response in us all. #PenguinPodcast

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