Writers' portraits - Edna O'Brien

    I have a lot of recent arrivals to talk about, similarly a lot of recent reads, but the catching up will have to wait for another day.

   Today, with many thanks first of all to Mary without whose post I might have missed it, let me point you in the direction of an excellent programme on Edna O'Brien (who, at an unbelievable 81, still looks amazing!). I had the chance to meet her at publishing event a few months ago but sadly I couldn't go: she is a fascinating person and the documentary is one not to miss. As for her books, I have many of her novels, all read when I was in my 20s, I think, and of course her memoir Country Girl has recently been published. Just by the way, Edna O'Brien has been the guest on Desert Island Discs twice, and you can hear the programmes or find her choice of music here. I wonder whether any castaway has ever chosen a recording of Edna O'Brien speaking - hers is a lovely voice to listen to, whether you're marooned or not.