Ask Penguin

What are the best books of the year? (2024)

<p>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: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/12/the-penguin-podcast-episode-12-the-best-books-of-the-year?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode12&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 12: Best books of the year</a>.</p><br><p>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! </p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

What are the best Winter reads? with Jeanette Winterson

<p>Joining us this week is award-winning author <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/165166/jeanette-winterson?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode11&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jeanette Winterson</a>, as we explore her captivating new collection of ghost stories,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/451954/night-side-of-the-river-by-winterson-jeanette/9781529922912?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode11&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Night Side of the River</em></a>, 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.</p><br><p>Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and the transcript by visiting:<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/12/episode-11-the-penguin-podcast-winter-reads?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode11&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Episode 11: Winter Reads</a></p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How do we best preserve the history of World Wars? With Al James, Terry Deary and James Holland

<p><br></p><p>Joining us in the studio to provide reading inspiration from the Roman Empire to the Second World War are author and podcast duo of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/34VlAepHmeloDD76RX4jtc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>We Have Ways of Making You Talk</em></a>, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/43111/james-holland?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">James Holland </a>and <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/305659/al-murray?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Al Murray</a>, plus creator of Horrible Histories, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/304506/terry-deary?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Terry Deary</a></p><br><p>For the full list of books plus transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/12/episode-10-the-penguin-podcast-history-speical?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 6: History Special</a></p><br><p>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/463563/arnhem-black-tuesday-by-murray-al/9780857506566?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Arnhem Black Tuesday</em> by Al Murray</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/460347/cassino-44-by-holland-james/9780857505538?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Casino ’44</em> by James Holland</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/462484/a-history-of-britain-in-ten-enemies-by-deary-terry/9780857506351?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>A History of Britain in Ten Enemies</em> by Terry Deary</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/468655/the-cauldron-by-zeno/9781804996621?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Cauldron</em> by Zeno</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1010/scoop-by-evelyn-waugh/9780141907178?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Scoop</em> by Evelyn Waugh</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1010/scoop-by-evelyn-waugh/9780141907178?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Mary Queen of Scots</em> by Alison Weir</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/57119/the-go-between-by-hartley-l-p/9780141187785?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Go-Between</em> by L.P. Hartley</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/57239/sword-of-honour-by-waugh-evelyn/9780141184975?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode10&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Swords of Honour</em> by Evelyn Waugh</a></p><br><p><br></p><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How do you become a published author, anyway? with Jennie Godfrey

<p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/454971/the-list-of-suspicious-things-by-godfrey-jennie/9781804942949?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The List of Suspicious Things</em></a>, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/296111/jennie-godfrey/9781529912623?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jennie Godfrey</a>, 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.</p><br><p><strong>Books and authors mentioned in this episode</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/454971/the-list-of-suspicious-things-by-godfrey-jennie/9781804942949?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The List of Suspicious Things</em> by Jennie Godfrey</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/456324/sonny-boy-by-pacino-al/9781529912623?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Sonny Boy</em> by Al Pacino</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/439602/creation-lake-by-kushner-rachel/9781787331747?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Creation Lake</em> by Rachel Kushner</a></p><br><p>For more information on how to get published visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/company/work-with-us/getting-published?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Getting Published</a></p><p>For the complete list of books mentioned in this episode and the transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/11/the-penguin-podcast-episode-9-how-to-get-published?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 9 - How to get published</a></p><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="www.penguin.co.uk?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode9&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

What are the best books to gift at Christmas? with William Hanson

<p>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 <em>Help I've S*xted my Boss</em> podcaster, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/298600/william-hanson?tab=penguin-books?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode8&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">William Hanson </a>as we discuss his new book <a href=" https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/464160/just-good-manners-by-hanson-william/9781529939958?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode8&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Just Good Manners</em>.&nbsp;</a></p><br><p>For the complete list of books mentioned in this episode and the transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/11/the-penguin-podcast-episode-8-christmas-gifting?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode8&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 8: Christmas gifting</a></p><br><p>Enjoy 20% off your order at <a href="https://shop.penguin.co.uk/?utm_campaign=penguinpodcastdiscount&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Penguin Shop</a> using the discount code PENGUINPODCAST. <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/11/the-penguin-podcast-episode-8-christmas-gifting?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode8&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">T&amp;Cs apply</a></p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=podcast&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Could Shakespeare have been a woman? with Jodi Picoult

<p>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, <em>By Any Other Name</em>.&nbsp;</p><br><p><strong>Sign up to our</strong> <a href="https://tinyurl.com/3jv27f4t" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Booksmarks panel</a></p><p><strong>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/459200/by-any-other-name-by-picoult-jodi/9780241676042?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>By Any Other Name</em> by Jodie Picoult</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/460185/the-warm-hands-of-ghosts-by-arden-katherine/9781804948354?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Warm Hands of Ghosts</em> by Catherine Arden</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/306948/the-glass-woman-by-lea-caroline/9781405934619?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Glass Woman</em> by Caroline Lee</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/183657/jane-eyre-by-bronte-charlotte/9780141198859?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Jane Eyre</em> by Charlotte Bronte</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/461638/firebrand-by-fremantle-elizabeth/9781405965842?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Firebrand</em> by Elizabeth Freemantle</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/35482/the-count-of-monte-cristo-by-alexandre-dumas-trans--robin-buss-intro--robin-buss/9780141392462?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Count of Monte Cristo</em> by Alexandre Dumas</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/442675/act-of-oblivion-by-harris-robert/9781529160321?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Act of Oblivion by</em> Robert Harris</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/447528/in-memoriam-by-winn-alice/9780241567838?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>In Memoriam</em> by Alice Winn</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/60370/maurice-by-ed--steven-d-levitt-em-forster/9780141441139?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Maurice by E.M. Forster</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/410597/my-policeman-by-roberts-bethan/9781529115765?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">My Policeman by Bethan Roberts</a></p><br><p>For the full list of books and the transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/11/the-penguin-podcast-episode-7-historical-fiction" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 7: Historical Fiction</a></p><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode7&amp;utm_source=podcast&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Was the book better than the film? with Robert Harris

<p>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 <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/165242/robert-harris?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Robert Harris</a> about his gripping thriller, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/434238/conclave-by-harris-robert/9781804947814?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Conclave</em></a>, which has been adapted for the silver screen this November, starring Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/245701/stanley-tucci?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stanley Tucci. </a>So grab your books and your popcorn, and get ready for another book-filled episode.</p><br><p>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/434238/conclave-by-harris-robert/9781804947814?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conclave by Robert Harris</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/442678/precipice-by-harris-robert/9781529152821?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Precipice by Robert Harris</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/439498/miss-austen-by-hornby-gill/9781787469778?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Miss Austen by Gill Hornby</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/442585/romantic-comedy-by-sittenfeld-curtis/9781804991916?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/356999/atonement-by-ian-mcewan/9780099429791?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Atonement by Ian McEwan</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/56606/the-great-gatsby-by-fitzgerald-f-scott/9780241341469?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/458193/little-men-by-alcott-louisa-may/9780241652701?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Little Women by Louisa May Alcott</a></p><br><p>For the full list of books and the transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/11/episode-6-books-to-screen-with-robert-harris?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode6&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 6: Books to Screen</a></p><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How do you plot the perfect murder mystery? with Kate Atkinson

<p>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,&nbsp;<em>Death at the Sign of the Rook</em>. Get ready for some killer reads!</p><p>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/440075/death-at-the-sign-of-the-rook-by-atkinson-kate/9780857526571?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson</a></p><p><a href="The Secret History by Donna Tartt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Secret History by Donna Tartt</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/452659/the-cloisters-by-hays-katy/9781804990032?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Cloisters by Katie Hayes</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/329940/gone-baby-gone-by-dennis-lehane/9780857500519?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gone, Baby, Gone by Dennis Lehane</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/315815/the-thursday-murder-club-by-osman-richard/9780241988268?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/463398/the-blue-hour-by-hawkins-paula/9781529938067?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/160349/simon-brett?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Charles Paris series by Simon Brett</a></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Yellowface-instant-Sunday-bestseller-Witherspoon/dp/0008532818/?tag=prhmarketing26622-21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Yellow Face by Rebecca F.Kuang</a></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B006M3SPSS?tag=prhmarketing26621-21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Helen Fields</a></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gone-Girl-Gillian-Flynn/dp/0753827662/?tag=prhmarketing26623-21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn</a></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Christmas-Appeal-Sunday-bestseller-author/dp/1800817363/?tag=prhmarketing26624-21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett</a></p><p>For the full list of books and transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/preview/ecd712b4a7e5804b13681a6260d7b65ce46b5916eeb125f981b8405e9cf67d04/78394?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 5: Crime and Mysteries</a></p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode5&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Do ghost stories still have the power to scare us? with Daisy Johnson

<p>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, <a href="The Hotel by Diasy Johnson" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Hotel</em></a>. </p><br><p>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/463264/the-hotel-by-johnson-daisy/9781787335264?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode4&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Hotel by Daisy Johnson</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/463444/heads-will-roll-by-winning-josh/9780241710982?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode4&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Heads Will Roll by Josh Winning</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453212/the-night-house-by-nesbo-jo/9781529920598?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode4&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Night House by Jo Nesbo</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/392799/the-terror-by-simmons-dan/9780857503916?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode4&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Terror by Dan Simmons</a></p><p>For the full list of books plus transcript visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/10/episode-4-spooky-reads-with-daisy-johnson?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode4&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 4: Scary reads</a></p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How do we define a classic novel? With Henry Eliot and Gill Hornby

<p>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&nbsp;<em>Miss Austen</em>&nbsp;is being adapted into a four-part drama by the BBC.</p><br><p>Books and authors mentioned in this episode:</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/307215/the-penguin-classics-book-by-eliot-henry/9780241320853?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Penguin Classics Book by Henry Eliot</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/316985/the-penguin-modern-classics-book-by-eliot-henry/9780241441602?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Penguin Modern Classics Book by Henry Eliot</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/439498/miss-austen-by-gill-hornby/9781787462830?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Miss Austen by Gill Hornby</a></p><p>For the full list of recommended reads visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/10/the-penguin-podcast-episode-3-classics-and-modern-classics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 3: Classics</a></p><br><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode3&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><br><p>Follow Henry's substack by clicking <a href="https://henryeliot.substack.com/ " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here </a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who gets to write African History? with Zainab Badawi

<p>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.&nbsp;</p><p>Send us a question: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>Explore all the books discussed and a transcript by visiting: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/10/the-penguin-podcast-episode-2-black-history-month?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 2: Black History Month</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><p><strong>Books mentioned in this episode: </strong></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/series/XANDOS/noughts-and-crosses?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/56260/giovannis-room-by-james-baldwin/9780141032948?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/441012/that-reminds-me-by-derek-owusu/9781529118605?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">That Reminds Me by Derek Owusu</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/289838/homegoing-by-gyasi-yaa/9780241975237?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/455231/an-african-history-of-africa-by-badawi-zeinab/9780753560129?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">An African History of Africa by Zainab Badawi</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/309156/the-confessions-of-frannie-langton-by-collins-sara/9780241984017?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Confessions of Franny Langton by Sara Collins</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/444068/black-cake-by-wilkerson-charmaine/9781405950084?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/57514/the-lonely-londoners-by-selvon-sam/9780141188416?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon</a></p><p><a href=" https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/180750/ghana-must-go-by-selasi-taiye/9780670919888?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ghana Must Go by Teiye Selassie</a></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/307684/the-terrible-by-daley-ward-yrsa/9781846149825?utm_campaign=PodcastEpisode2&amp;utm_source=penguinwebsite&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Terrible by Yrsa Daley-Ward</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

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

<p>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?&nbsp;</p><br><p>In the first episode of our new series<em> Ask Penguin</em>, 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.</p><br><p>If you would like to send us a message or a question, email penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><br><p>Visit our website for more information about The Penguin Podcast: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=Penguin+Podcast+Trailer&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><p>For more information about this episode including a full list of books discussed visit: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2024/10/the-penguin-podcast-episode-1-prizewinners?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 1: Prize-winners</a></p><br><p><strong>Books mentioned in this episode: </strong></p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/309156/the-confessions-of-frannie-langton-by-collins-sara/9780241984017?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Confessions of Frannie Langton</a> by Sara Collins</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/457728/the-safekeep-by-wouden-yael-van-der/9780241652305?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Safe Keep</a> by Yael Van Der Wouden</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/454068/orbital-by-harvey-samantha/9781529922936?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Orbital</a> by Samantha Harvey</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/439602/creation-lake-by-kushner-rachel/9781787331747?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creation Lake</a> by Rachel Kushner</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/311140/girl-woman-other-by-evaristo-bernardine/9780241984994?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Girl, Woman, Other</a> by Bernardine Evaristo</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/447846/the-god-of-small-things-by-roy-arundhati/9781529187410?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The God of Small Things</a> by Arundhati Roy </p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/187884/mr-loverman-by-evaristo-bernardine/9781405971768?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mr Loverman</a> by Bernardine Evaristo</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/26619/the-emperors-babe-by-evaristo-bernardine/9780241989845?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Emperor's Babe</a> by Bernadine Evaristo</p><p><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/459053/gliff-by-smith-ali/9780241665572?utm_campaign=PenguinS1Ep1&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gliff</a> by Ali Smith </p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ask Penguin Trailer

<p><em>The Penguin Podcast</em> is returning with a brand-new series called <em>Ask Penguin</em>. 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.</p><br><p>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?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/134770/sara-collins?utm_campaign=Penguin+Podcast+Trailer&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sara Collins</a>, and provide you with plenty of book recommendations with Publishing Director Simon Prosser.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Send us your questions for a chance to be featured by emailing: penguinpodcast@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Don't forget to follow the show, so you never miss an episode!</p><br><p>Find out more: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcast?utm_campaign=Penguin+Podcast+Trailer&amp;utm_source=acast&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_camteam=penguin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Best Of the Penguin Podcast 2023

<p>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.</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/tags/PenguinPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#PenguinPodcast</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gate.sc/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguin.co.uk%2Fpodcasts&amp;token=9cf687-1-1700559273059" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Sebastian Faulks with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by national treasure and bestselling author, Sebastian Faulks.</p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/tags/PenguinPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#PenguinPodcast</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gate.sc/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguin.co.uk%2Fpodcasts&amp;token=9cf687-1-1700559273059" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

C Pam Zhang with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by Booker Longlisted author, C Pam Zhang.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/tags/PenguinPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#PenguinPodcast</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gate.sc/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguin.co.uk%2Fpodcasts&amp;token=9cf687-1-1700559273059" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Peter Singer with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>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.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/tags/PenguinPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#PenguinPodcast</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gate.sc/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguin.co.uk%2Fpodcasts&amp;token=9cf687-1-1700559273059" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Yanis Varoufakis with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>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,&nbsp;<em>Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism</em>, explores how the owners of big tech have become the world's feudal overlords.</p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="http://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Alain de Botton with Isy Suttie

<p>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.&nbsp;His latest book, <em>A Therapeutic Journey</em>, 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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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&nbsp;<a href="http://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

David Mitchell with Isy Suttie

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>They discuss the historical artefacts that inspired the book, why people in the Middle Ages had more confidence, and&nbsp;how a bout of food poisoning changed the course of English history forever.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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&nbsp;<a href="http://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Megan Nolan with Isy Suttie

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by journalist and award-winning writer, Megan Nolan.</p><br><p>Megan joins Isy for a chat about her latest novel, Ordinary Human Failings. </p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>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</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Rob Rinder with Isy Suttie

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by Barister, TV host and Novelist, Rob Rinder.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Rob joins Isy for a joyful conversation about his number one Sunday Times best-selling novel, The Trial.</p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>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</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Michael Magee with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Nihal Arthanayake is joined by debut novelist Michael Magee.</p><br><p>Michael joins us to discuss his critically acclaimed novel, Close to Home, which has already been shortlisted for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>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&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/tags/PenguinPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#PenguinPodcast</a>, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguin.co.uk%2Fpodcasts&amp;token=6a9f1-1-1692730025511" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Shaparak Khorsandi with Isy Suttie live from Latitude Festival

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, we bring you a special episode: Shaparak Khorsandi in conversation with Isy Suttie live from Lattitude Festival. </p><br><p>Shaparak joined us to discuss her latest book, Scatter Brain: <em>How I finally got off the ADHD rollercoaster and became the owner of a very tidy sock drawer.</em></p><br><p>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. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Brandon Taylor with Isy Suttie

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by Booker shortlisted writer, Brandon Taylor. </p><br><p>Brandon joins us to discuss his new novel, The Late Americans.</p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Isabella Hammad with Isy Suttie

<p>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. </p><br><p>Isabella Joins us to discuss her new novel, Enter Ghost.</p><br><p>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. </p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Tom Crewe with Nihal Arthanayake

<p>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.</p><br><p>Tom Joins us to discuss his incredible new novel, The New Life.</p><br><p>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, <em>Sexual Inversion</em>, and also how his novel unconsciously reflects the times he has lived through.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Maxine Mei-Fung Chung with Isy Suttie

<p>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. </p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Sophie Mackintosh with Isy Suttie

<p>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.</p><br><p>Sophie joins us to discuss her latest novel, Cursed Bread. </p><br><p>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.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Chris van Tulleken with Isy Suttie

<p>This week on the Penguin Podcast, Isy Suttie is joined by medical doctor, academic and science populariser and presenter, Chris van Tulleken.</p><p>Chris joins us to discuss his latest book, Ultra Processed People: Why Do We All Eat Stuff That Isn't&nbsp;Food… and Why Can't We Stop?</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please do leave us a review –&nbsp;it really does help us. And finally, to find out more about the #PenguinPodcast, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>