Books have a vital place in our culture. They are the source of ideas, of stories that engage and stretch the imagination and most importantly, inspire.

We can learn so much looking outside our core field of expertise.

There is something particularly fascinating about seeing places you know in a piece of art - be that in a film, or a photograph or painting.

I'm not sure how much easier it is for a mother to balance her life now - have we simply swapped one set of restrictions for another?

As an historical novelist - there are few jobs more retrospective.

Books have a vital place in our culture. They are the source of ideas, of stories that engage and stretch the imagination and most importantly, inspire.

The law don't like jazz clubs. No one wants anything to do with that kind of trouble.