The message is clear: libraries matter. Their solid presence at the heart of our towns sends the proud signal that everyone - whoever they are, whatever their educational background, whatever their age or their needs - is welcome.

I am not a fan of historical fiction that is sloppy in its research or is dishonest about the real history.

Free and fair access to books - to reading - is a right and one we should fight for.

The message is clear: libraries matter. Their solid presence at the heart of our towns sends the proud signal that everyone - whoever they are, whatever their educational background, whatever their age or their needs - is welcome.

I really like people and I keep friendships. I have people from all parts of my life.

All prizes have a role, if they are run with integrity and with a clear focus on reading and quality writing. I don't think any of them is necessary, but they all play an incredibly important role in building a body of literature, in introducing new authors to new readers, and extending reading.

There's no black and no white, just shades of grey...But the small betrayals lead to bigger ones, morality is eroded.