Ask Penguin
Ask Penguin is a podcast where listeners' book-related questions are answered. Hosted by Rhianna Dhillon, it features bestselling authors and Penguin insiders discussing favorite books and introducing new ones. The show aims to help readers find their next great read.
Episodes
Which books help us reconnect with nature? with Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris
Why do baby puffins prefer to be alone? Why don’t Cuckoo birds raise their own children? Has the decline of birds taken away the music of our landscapes? And what is the simplest way back if we feel disconnected from nature? In this episode of Ask Penguin, Rhianna is joined by visionary creative duo, Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris to discuss their latest collaboration, The Bo
What's wrong with reading to look smart? with Abir Mukherjee
Has modern forensics taken away the power of the murder mystery genre? How does a career in corporate finance prepare you to write about a killer? Is narrative voice more important than plot? And is there really such a thing as a reliable narrator? In this episode of Ask Penguin, Rihanna Dillon sits down with bestselling author and crime fiction favourite Abir Mukherjee to discuss
Which debut novels should you be reading in 2026?
What are the best books get you out of a reading slump? How did Snakes on a Plane inspire a literary sensation? What did James Joyce and Pakistani rap teach one of our debut novelists? And does a writer need to be completely delusional to finish writing a novel? This week on Ask Penguin we sit down with three breakout debut authors, Angela Tomaski, Sufiyaan Salam, and Madeline Cash, to
Which books emotionally wrecked you? With Dawn French
How does artist Kae Tempest inspire Dawn French? Do editors always know best? What is the impact of grief on those we love most? And what really happened when Dawn French came face to face with a hippo while filming Harry Potter? In this episode of Ask Penguin, Rhianna Dhillon sits down with bestselling author and comedy legend Dawn French to discuss her moving new novel Enough, alongside bri
What are the best novels about infidelity? With Sophie Mackintosh
What’s the difference between flash fiction and the short story? Why are we drawn to literature’s most flawed characters? And what would be the ideal fictional world for adulterers? Hosted by Rhianna Dhillon, on this episode of Ask Penguin, we’re answering your questions with our be
What is a must-read book to make me laugh? With Bryony Gordon
How did Marian Keyes inspire Bryony Gordon’s writing? How do you write about family without falling into stereotypes? Which books capture the messy reality of life? And what is your favourite habit to fit reading into your life? The Ask Penguin team returns with a shelf-load of must-read book recommendations -&nb
Why I wanted to adapt Wuthering Heights with Emerald Fennell
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
What secrets does Jane Austen's house hold?
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.D
What were the best books of 2025?
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 hereAsk Penguin will be back in 2026. Find us on Insatgram @PenguinUKBooks and follow our Broa
What makes a setting feel so vivid it becomes a character? With Paula Hawkins
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: C
What is the best translated fiction to read? With Karl Ove Knausgaard
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 nov
Why are generations at war with each other? With Zadie Smith
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 hereZadie Smtih is one of the most distinctive, exciting
Is never growing up the secret to great storytelling? With Philip Pullman
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 book
Is Jane Austen's legacy more than just romantic love? With Andrew Hunter Murray and Gill Hornby
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 autho
Why do we still laugh when times are hard? With Ocean Vuong
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
Which Penguin books shocked society and became cultural icons? With Jack Edwards and Penguin Editor, Simon Prosser
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 Simo
Which book defined your generation? With Irvine Welsh and Derek Owusu
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 landsca
How Penguin Books turned the UK into a nation of readers
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-Fi
What should you read this summer? With Anthony Horowitz
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
S2 E5: Queer Literature with Charlie Porter
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 LiteratureSend us a q
S2 E4: Book Club Books with Yrsa Daley-Ward
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 BooksSend us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrando
S2 E3: Debut Books with Catherine Airey, William Rayfet Hunter and Fiza Saeed McLynn
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
S2 E2: Love and Romance with Emily Henry
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 a
S2 E1: Children's Books with Greg James and Chris Smith
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
Ask Penguin Series 2 Trailer
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
Jodi Picoult on the theory behind Shakespeare’s plays
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 5Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.Websit
A day in the life of a Publicist with Alison Barrow
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
The human experience and AI with Jeanette Winterson
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 3Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.
A day in the life of a Books Editor with Simon Prosser
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 bo
How to tackle reading the big Classics with Henry Eliot
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 1Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.Website: www.penguin.co.uk/pod
Episode 12: Best books of the year
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
Episode 11: Winter Reads with Jeanette Winterson
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 t
Episode 10: History Special with Al Murray, James Holland and Terry Deary
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 DearyFor the full list of books plus transcript visit: Episode 6: History SpecialBooks and authors mentioned in this episode:Arnhem Black Tuesday by Al MurrayCasino
Episode 9: How to Get Published with Jennie Godfrey
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,
Episode 8: Christmas gifting with William Hanson
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 Ju
Episode 7: Historical Fiction with Jodi Picoult
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 panelBooks and authors mentioned in this episode:By Any Other Name by Jodie PicoultThe W
Episode 6: Books to Screen with Robert Harris
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 y
Episode 5: Crime and Mystery with Kate Atkinson
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 AtkinsonThe Secret H
Episode 4: Spooky reads with Daisy Johnson
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 J
Episode 3: The Classics with Henry Eliot and Gill Hornby
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
Episode 2: Black History Month with Zeinab Badawi
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
What are some of the best prize-winning books to read? With Sara Collins
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, S
Ask Penguin Trailer
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 w
The Best Of the Penguin Podcast 2023
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
Sebastian Faulks with Nihal Arthanayake
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
C Pam Zhang with Nihal Arthanayake
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 for
Peter Singer with Nihal Arthanayake
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
Yanis Varoufakis with Nihal Arthanayake
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 episo
Alain de Botton with Isy Suttie
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
David Mitchell with Isy Suttie
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
Megan Nolan with Isy Suttie
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. 
Rob Rinder with Isy Suttie
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
Michael Magee with Nihal Arthanayake
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
Shaparak Khorsandi with Isy Suttie live from Latitude Festival
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
Brandon Taylor with Isy Suttie
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 v
Isabella Hammad with Isy Suttie
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
Tom Crewe with Nihal Arthanayake
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
Maxine Mei-Fung Chung with Isy Suttie
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 childhoo
Sophie Mackintosh with Isy Suttie
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
Chris van Tulleken with Isy Suttie
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
Jyoti Patel with Nihal Arthanayake
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 Guja
Jonathan Kennedy with Isy Suttie
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
Diana Evans with Isy Suttie
This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by award-winning author, Diana EvansDiana 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. Don't for
Sarah Bakewell with Isy Suttie
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 writi
Carlo Rovelli with Nihal Arthanayake
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 t
Julian Barnes with Nihal Arthanayake
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
Paul Harding with Nihal Arthanayake
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 Eng
Nadiya Hussein with Isy Suttie
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. D
Jane Fallon with with Nihal Arthanayake
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. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an ep
The Year in Review 2022 (Part 2) with Nihal Arthanayake
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.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 #Peng
The Year in Review 2022 (Part 1) with Nihal Arthanayake
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. 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
Malorie Blackman with Nihal Arthanayake
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 ca
Ian McEwan with Nihal Arthanayake
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 h
Live Event - Greta Thunberg in Conversation with Samira Ahmed
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.'Copyright © Southbank Centre Don't forget to follow the show so you ne
Special episode - Demystifying Publishing
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.Don't forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode, and do leave u
Salley Vickers with Isy Suttie
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
Yomi Sode with Derek Owusu
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 a
Gabrielle Zevin with Athena Kugblenu
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 dep
Robert Harris with Nihal Arthanayake
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 s
Lisa Jewell with Isy Suttie
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 childhoo
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