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My 2026 writing course on Lesbos
I’m leading a writing course on the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos from 5-12 September 2026.
Who’s afraid of autocracy?
“Mr Nobody against Putin” and “The Wave” highlight the seductive danger of autocracy, and why we should never assume “it couldn’t happen here”.
Lessons in Diplomacy: Testimonials!
What do conservationist Jane Goodall, Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, author and academic Tom Fletcher and writer and ex-politician
How to write characters: Peter James
How to write characters is a perennial problem for authors. Crime writer Peter James delivers a masterclass in vivid pen-portraits.
Indexers: unsung heroes
Indexers can make or break a book. “Lessons in Diplomacy” has a terrific index, done by a top professional. What lessons can you learn?
PG Wodehouse books: a feast of fun
Looking for PG Wodehouse books? Here are some side-splitting suggestions for both experienced Wodehouse lovers and novices.
The Skinheads of Buchenwald
Being confronted by a gang of skinheads before a visit to Buchenwald amplified the horror of the camp. It was also a reminder of how the fragmentation of 21st century media strengthens the case for making internet platforms responsible for the material they transmit.
The perfect Pimm’s
We all want a perfect Pimm’s. But how do you make one? Watch a video of Antonio, the best butler in the world, giving a step-by-step guide.
The Three-Body Problem
“The Three-Body Problem” is out on Netflix. Some Chinese critics are reportedly angered by the Netflix series, including its depiction of China. I can see why.
Wodehouse on authors
What are the views of PG Wodehouse on authors? “The Clicking of Cuthbert” reveals how he hated wannabe authors forcing themselves on him.
Russia’s attack on Ukraine: 3 ways it threatens your security
‘If Putin is allowed to break the taboo, which has really been maintained since 1945 in Europe, that you cannot invade your neighbour and steal
Book cover design: Lessons in Diplomacy
Authors, famously, often cannot influence the book cover design of their works. I’ve been lucky with mine.
Travis McGee, loner prototype
Travis McGee, the creation of US author John D MacDonald, is a superb prototype of a loner hero. Lee Child cites him as an inspiration for his solo tough guy, Jack Reacher.
Choosing a safari
Choosing a safari is something most of us are only ever likely to do once in a lifetime, if that. A few tips.
Phineas Finn: The Irish Member
You have to worship an author who wrote: ‘It has been the great fault of our politicians that they have all wanted to do something.’
Prigozhin: “Burnt by the Sun”
Yevgeny Prigozhin, Russian mercenary leader, might have done well to watch, and learn from, the 1994 Russian film “Burnt by the Sun”.
The Tunnel Under the World
The Tunnel Under the World begins with the words: “On the morning of June 15th, Guy Burckhardt woke up screaming out of a dream.”
Christmas books: 5 options
Christmas books: I feel kind of embarrassed pointing you towards these 5 options. If you’ve already read all my books, skip to the bottom of
Ukraine Fatigue
Is the world suffering from “Ukraine fatigue”? It is, and it matters immensely. The security of all of us is at stake: wherever you live.
Deutsche Bahn: Germany in crisis?
Does the chaos at Deutsche Bahn – German railways – show Germany in crisis? What is happening to Europe’s largest economy?
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