Podcast appearances and mentions of James Naughtie

Led by presenter James Naughtie, a BBC Bookclub audience in Glasgow speaks to the author Natalie Haynes about her 2019 novel - A Thousand Ships - which retells the ancient Greek myths from a woman's perspective. Penelope, Clytemnestra, Andromache and Cassandra among others, all make appearances, but their stories are given a new voice and a fresh emphasis. This is the Trojan war and its impact as never seen before. The book was shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction in 2020. Producer: Dom Howell Editor: Gillian Wheelan This was a BBC Audio Scotland production.

This month BBC Radio 4's Bookclub, presented by James Naughtie, speaks to the writer Michel Faber about his debut novel, Under the Skin. Published in the year 2000 by Canongate it went on to be shortlisted for the Whitbread Award that same year. The book follows the female protagonist of Isserley who roves the A9 in the Scottish Highlands looking to pick up hitchhikers (preferably ones with big muscles). In 2013 the book was made into a film, shot in Glasgow, and directed by Jonathan Glazer. It starred Scarlett Johansson as Isserley.Producer: Dominic Howell Editor: Gillian WheelanThis was a BBC Audio Scotland production.

This month, Bookclub, presented by James Naughtie, speaks to the author Christopher Brookmyre, as he takes questions from a live BBC audience about his debut novel, Quite Ugly One Morning. The book is a pacey crime thriller, not so much a 'whodunnit', as a 'whydunnit', and it introduces us to the wily, wise-cracking journalist Jack Parlabane - a character Chris is still writing about some thirty years later. Published in 1996, Quite Ugly One Morning, was a best-seller at the time, and the actor David Tennant read the audiobook. Producer: Dom Howell Editor: Gillian WheelanThis was a BBC AUDIO SCOTLAND PRODUCTION.

This month, BBC Bookclub, presented by James Naughtie, speaks to the writer Sara Collins, as she takes questions from a live audience about her award-winning debut novel, The Confessions of Frannie Langton. Sara was the Costa Book Awards First Novel Winner in 2019 and also she has also adapted the book for television.Producer: Dom Howell Editor: Gillian Wheelan This was a BBC Audio Scotland production.

Presented by James Naughtie, BBC Bookclub speaks to the writer Richard Osman about his crime-fiction novel The Thursday Murder Club, which sold millions of copies, and has been made into a film.

At the end of America's southern border wall with Mexico, James Naughtie meets the people helping recently-arrived migrants survive in the extreme conditions. Beginning his day's journey at a church in Tucson, Arizona, James hears how members of the congregation support a programme helping migrants find work. And at the end of the border wall with Mexico, he meets recently-arrived migrants from around the world seeking asylum in the United States. He watches them being collected by Border Patrol for processing, and speaks to the humanitarian workers about what might happen to their claims for asylum.

In the last of his essays reflecting on America's search for meaning, James Naughtie recalls a meeting a year ago with General Michael Hayden - the former head of the CIA - who, without fanfare, expressed concern for the future of US Democracy. 'I don't know that we'll come through this,' he said. ‘Right now I think it's about 50-50.'James reflects on past presidents, such as Jimmy Carter, and his dedication to the promotion and protection of democracy around the world, and compares it to the present, as we enter the final days of the 2024 campaign. What might a tight result might mean in the coming months? 'The system will be on trial,' he writes, recalling the legal battles over the 'hanging chads' of 2000 in which the fate of the nation was decided on just 537 votes.Producer: Sheila Cook Sound: Peter Bosher Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

James Naughtie argues that a common American identity will be achieved - one day - despite the heightened political rhetoric around immigration, that is making it one of the most contentious issues in this year's presidential election. He recalls Ronald Reagan's 'homely evocation of an American character'. For Reagan, James says, the inscription on the Statue of Liberty, 'give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses', had real contemporary power. For many Republicans today, he says, it's a very different story. But he sees signs of change. On a recent visit to the US border in Arizona, he met a 'cattleman of resolute conservative views in his 80s', who tells James that although he's fed up with armed drug runners using his land, he believes most people cutting through the fence are 'good people, in search of new lives'. 'The huddled masses will be absorbed... eventually', James writes. 'But the question right now is how much damage will be done in getting there - to the principles of their democracy, and perhaps to their precious belief in themselves.' Producer: Adele Armstrong Sound: Peter Bosher Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

From the description of Alexander Hamilton as 'the bastard brat of a Scotch pedlar', to Lyndon Johnson's depiction of Gerald Ford as a man who 'couldn't fart and chew gum at the same time', James Naughtie argues that American political language has long been teeming with insult. He recalls as a student in 1974, queuing at the back door of the White House one evening and coming away with transcripts of the Watergate tapes, full of 'expletive deleted' notes 'that blacked out various Nixon explosions.' But in our own time, James says, something quite different is at play. The language of politics today, he says, 'instead of being punctuated by insults, it's become enslaved to them. And the more exaggerated political language becomes, the more it is devalued - because it has lost its true purpose.' Producer: Adele Armstrong Sound: Peter Bosher Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

James Naughtie presents the first of four personal essays exploring America's 'wild search for meaning' in the run-up to November's presidential election. From the freezing waters of Nantucket Sound in Moby Dick, via sunken levees of the Mississippi and the railroad blues of New Orleans, to the ‘raucous expeditions into an underworld of…richly wounded humanity' in contemporary crime novels, James contemplates this moment in the United States through its fiction.Producer: Adele Armstrong Sound: Peter Bosher Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Susanna Clarke won the Women's Prize for Fiction with her novel Piranesi. She joins James Naughtie and a group of readers to answer their questions about this intriguing, tantalising novel.

Garry Richardson has finished his last sports bulletin on Radio 4's Today programme - 50 years to the day since he started at the BBC. Garry is best known for his sporting interviews, but his career has ranged from climbing towers for Radio Oxford to singing with the great Buddy Greco.James Naughtie picks some of the highlights from Garry's half century.

Bestselling novelist Ken Follett joins James Naughtie and readers to discuss his historical novel A Column of Fire, the third in his hugely successful Kingsbridge series. It's a tale of spying and intrigue, as Elizabeth I battles to keep her throne in the face of fierce religious division across Europe.

Ayobami Adebayo talks to James Naughtie and readers about her novel, Stay With Me, a moving story of loss and motherhood. Set against the backdrop of tumultuous political events in Nigeria, it tells the story of Yejide and Akin, whose marriage is childless. The novel, which is narrated by them both, explores the pressure to have a child, the toll it takes on their relationship and the profound emotional burden of desperately wanting to become a parent. Ayobami answers readers questions about the inspiration behind Stay With Me and how she inhabited the minds of her characters. Presenter: James Naughtie Producer : Nicola HollowayNext Bookclub recordings - both at 1830 in Broadcasting House, London 14 August - Ken Follett on A Column of Fire 25 September - Susanna Clarke on Piranesi

Celebrated novelist and short story writer Lucy Caldwell joins James Naughtie and readers to discuss These Days. Set in 1941, it focusses on the lives of two sisters living through the Belfast Blitz.Lucy talks about the inspiration for her novel, her research and writing it during the pandemic.

James Naughtie and readers quiz Nicholas Shakespeare about his book, Six Minutes In May: How Churchill Unexpectedly Became Prime Minister. It chronicles the dramatic political and military events of 1940 which led to the momentous Norway Debate and Chamberlain's resignation. Upcoming recordings at BBC Broadcasting House in London: Wednesday 15 May at 1300: Lucy Caldwell on These Days Thursday 6 June at 1245: Marlon James on A Brief History of Seven Killings

Clare Chambers talks to James Naughtie and readers about her bestselling novel, Small Pleasures. Set in the London suburbs in the 1950s, it tells the story of Jean Swinney, a journalist who is asked to investigate a letter sent to her paper, from a mother claiming her daughter is the result of a virgin birth. Jean meets the mother, Gretchen; her husband, Howard and daughter Margaret and is drawn into their family life. Her investigations soon expand both her world, and her heart. Upcoming recordings, at BBC Broadcasting House in London: Wednesday 24 April at 1800 - Nicholas Shakespeare on Six Minutes In MayWednesday 15 May at 1300 - Lucy Caldwell on These Days. Thursday 6 June at 1245 - Marlon James on A Brief History of Seven Killings Wednesday 10 July at 1830 - Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ on Stay With Me Email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to take part. Over 18s only.

Bookclub travels to Northumberland to meet best-selling crime writer Ann Cleeves. She joins James Naughtie and listeners to discuss her novel, Hidden Depths: Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope sets out to solve two murders which are apparently linked, although there are no clues to connect the victims.Upcoming recordings - 1830 BBC Broadcasting House in London : 26 March - Clare Chambers on Small Pleasures 24 April - Nicholas Shakespeare on 6 Minutes In May Email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to take part. Over 18s only.

Graeme Macrae Burnet joins James Naughtie and readers to reveal the secrets behind his award-winning historical novel, His Bloody Project. Set in the Scottish Highlands in 1869, His Bloody Project explores crime, justice and retribution through the confessions of a young man accused of murder, and an account of his trial.Upcoming recordings at BBC Broadcasting House in London: Tuesday 26 March 1830 - Clare Chambers discusses her bestselling novel, Small Pleasures.Wednesday 24 April 1830- Nicholas Shakespeare discusses Six Minutes In May: How Churchill Unexpectedly Became Prime Minister

JAMES NAUGHTIE & SHANE WHALEY chat to Paul THE SPY ACROSS THE WATER, the Flemyng trilogy, spy novels are all about character, James Jesus Angleton's wilderness of mirrors and Kim Philby's melancholy. THE SPY ACROSS THE WATER We live with our history, but it can kill us.Faces from the past appear from nowhere at a family funeral, and Will Flemyng, spy-turned-ambassador, is drawn into twin mysteries that threaten everything he holds dear.From Washington, he's pitched back into the Troubles in Northern Ireland and an explosive secret hidden deep in the most dangerous but fulfilling friendship he has known.And while he confronts shadowy adversaries in American streets, and looks for solace at home in the Scottish Highlands, he discovers that his government's most precious Cold War agent is in mortal danger and needs his help to survive.In an electric story of courage and betrayal, Flemyng learns the truth that his life has left him a man with many friends, but still alone. James Naughtie is a special correspondent for BBC News, for which he has reported from around the world. He presented Today on BBC Radio 4 for 21 years. This his third novel, and his most recent book is an account of five decades of travel and work in the United States – On the Road: American Adventures from Nixon to Trump. He lives in Edinburgh and London.Mentions: Mick Herron, John le Carré, David Brierley, Robert Harris, Charlotte Philby, Len Deighton Paul Burke writes for Crime Time, Crime Fiction Lover and the European Literature Network. He is also a CWA Historical Dagger Judge 2023.Shane Whaley & Spybrary Music courtesy of  Guy Hale KILLING ME SOFTLY - MIKE ZITO featuring Kid Anderson.GUY HALE Produced by Junkyard DogCrime TimeCrime Time FM is the official podcast ofGwyl Crime Cymru Festival 2023CrimeFest 2023CWA Daggers 2023& Newcastle Noir 20232024??

Marking 200 years since the birth of Wilkie Collins, crime writer, and Collins admirer, Elly Griffiths discusses one of his best known works -The Moonstone - with James Naughtie and a group of readers.

In this week's episode, we talk to one of the BBC's longest-serving political presenters, James Naughtie, who has covered every United States and United Kingdom election since the 1990s. We hear his observations on the recent implosion of the Scottish National Party, the stunning downfall of Nicola Sturgeon, one of the longest-running political leaders in the UK, and the 2024 American presidential election and why he thinks Donald Trump appeals to the electorate. Naughtie is one of many journalists who have written espionage thrillers, so our resident spymaster, Sir Richard Dearlove, gives his verdict on what these novels get right and wrong. Sir Richard reacts to Israel's landmark Supreme Court ruling striking down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial judicial overhaul plan. 

Henry Kissinger was one of the most important diplomatic figures of the last 50 years. James Naughtie looks back at his global influence, as he reflects on his own interview with Kissinger, conducted just a year before his death.

Few alive can claim as much influence over the shape of the modern world as Henry Kissinger. The former US Secretary of State and Nobel Peace laureate is loved, loathed and listened to - for the decisions he took, the attitude he espoused and for his knowledge and analysis of world affairs. James Naughtie travelled to Kissinger's home to discuss six great leaders and the lessons they taught, as Kissinger reflects on his own role in creating the modern world.

My guest is James Naughtie, one of the UK's most revered and recognisable journalists and broadcasters, perhaps best known for co-hosting the Today programme on BBC Radio 4 for 21 years. He's been the Chief Political Correspondent for both The Scotsman and The Guardian, as well as the Laurence Stern Fellow for the Washington Post. During his career, he has won both Journalist of the Year at the Scottish Press Awards and the Sony Radio Awards' Radio Personality Of The Year. A prolific author of novels and nonfiction, he was the Chair of the Booker Prize, made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and succeeded Dame Diana Rigg as Chancellor of The University of Stirling for a decade-long term. Succinctly, he's good with words. Recorded in the Media Yurt at - and with special thanks to - the Edinburgh International Book Festival, August 2023.

Bernardine Evaristo joins James Naughtie and readers to discuss Mr Loverman, her 2013 novel about Barrington Walker, a married man with a secret life. Ever since his teens in Antigua, Barry has been in love with Morris and despite both men moving to London, marrying and having children, their love affair has never faltered. Now he's in his seventies, Barry decides it's time to tell the truth. It's a funny, poetic, moving novel about love, family, prejudice and forgiveness. Upcoming recordings: Thursday 12 October at midday, BBC Broadcasting House in London - Katherine Heiny on Standard Deviation Email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to take part.

James Naughtie is joined by Denise Mina to talk about her book The Long Drop. This intriguing true-crime story is set in 1950s Glasgow when notorious serial killer Peter Manuel spread fear throughout the city. The Long Drop alternates between Manuel's trial and a extraordinary night he spent with Glaswegian businessman William Watt, whose own family Peter Manuel was suspected of killing. Despite this, the two men form an unlikely alliance and tour the bars and dives of Glasgow together. Recorded at The Portobello Bookshop in Edinburgh. Upcoming recordings at BBC Broadcasting House in London: 21 September at 1300 - Bernardine Evaristo on Mr Loverman 12 October at 1200 noon - Katherine Heiny on Standard Deviation. Email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to take part

At the end of the show a question from David Stark Recommendations: Eamonn: Private Eye The official site for Private Eye magazine, the UK's number one best-selling news and current affairs publication edited by Ian Hislop. https://www.private-eye.co.uk/  Paddy: Nothing Compares - SKY Tv Directed by Belfast-born filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson, the archive-led documentary takes viewers back to Sinead's prophetic words and deeds from 1987-1993. It reflects on the legacy of a fearless artist through a contemporary feminist lens and features era-defining music videos and concert performances, previously unseen footage, and a present-day interview with Sinead. The docu-film is a tapestry of Sinead's impact on the world around her and ties together intimate first-hand interviews and insights from contemporary artists, musicians and social commentators who introduce broader themes of Irish history, politics, and global activism, all the while reflecting on Sinead's artistry and far-reaching, global impact. https://www.skystore.com/product/nothing-compares/a9b42c34-f6af-40ad-86c1-1e14b87ad9f7  Ruth: Moorcroft - National Theatre of Scotland Garry's turned 50 but doesn't feel like celebrating. Exhausted from years spent wrapped in regret, he begins to relive ‘the glory days', trying to understand his mistakes, answer questions and right some wrongs in a bid to make peace with his past and find renewed purpose. Inspired by true stories, Moorcroft follows a group of young lads in search of an escape from working class life. But can playing football save them from the challenges they face and make them the men they want to be? With true friendship and the tenacity of working class people at its heart, Moorcroft tackles toxic masculinity in Scotland and asks ‘what is a real man?' The hit show returns for extra-time after a sell-out run in 2022. https://www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/events/moorcroft  The Spy Across the Water - The Will Flemyng Thrillers (Hardback) :James Naughtie From one of our most treasured BBC broadcasters, The Spy Across the Water is the the third instalment in James Naughtie's brilliant spy series, woven around three brothers bound together forever through espionage. We live with our history, but it can kill us. Faces from the past appear from nowhere at a family funeral, and Will Flemyng, spy-turned-ambassador, is drawn into twin mysteries that threaten everything he holds dear. From Washington, he's pitched back into the Troubles in Northern Ireland and an explosive secret hidden deep in the most dangerous but fulfilling friendship he has known. And while he confronts shadowy adversaries in American streets, and looks for solace at home in the Scottish Highlands, he discovers that his government's most precious Cold War agent is in mortal danger and needs his help to survive. In an electric story of courage and betrayal, Flemyng learns the truth that his life has left him a man with many friends, but still alone. https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-spy-across-the-water/james-naughtie/9781784080235 

James Naughtie's voice as presenter of BBC Radio 4's Today programme will be familiar to listeners all over the world. As well as writing non-fiction, he's the author of the Will Flemyng thrillers the latest of which, The Spy Across the Water, takes readers from Washington DC to Ireland and the Highlands of Scotland. James talks us through his unique approach to spy fiction, and the importance of a sense of place in his writing.

Mary Lawson joins James Naughtie and a group of readers to answer questions about her novel, Crow Lake. An international bestseller, it tells the story of four siblings, orphaned by a road accident who have to find a new way to live as a family. The story is narrated by Kate, looking back at that dramatic rupture in her childhood. As she tells her story, Kate comes to understand not only how it affected her, but also her siblings - big brothers Luke and Matt, and baby sister Bo. Meanwhile, on a neighbouring farm, the Pye family faced their own crisis.... Upcoming recordings 13 June 1830 BBC Broadcasting House in London - Julian Barnes on Arthur and George 13 July 1830 BBC Broadcasting House in London - Mick Herron on Slough House email bookclub@bbc.co.uk

James Naughtie and readers are joined by novelist Sarah Winman, answering questions about her novel Tin Man. It's a moving and intimate portrait of three characters, Michael, Ellis and Annie. They variously fall in love, and fall out of touch, but are always deeply connected. Tin Man is a short and powerful novel about love, loss and kindness. Our next Bookclub recordings are with Mary Lawson, discussing her novel Crow Lake, at 1300 on 24 May at BBC Broadcasting House in London. Julian Barnes discussing Arthur and George at 1830 on Tuesday 13 June at BBC Broadcasting House, London. email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to take part

Tan Twan Eng talks to James Naughtie and a group of readers about The Garden of Evening Mists. A lyrical novel set largely in 1950s Malay (now Malaysia), it tells the story of Yun Ling, imprisoned by Japanese soldiers during the Second World War, and Aritomo, a master gardener who once worked for the Emperor of Japan. It's a complex and moving story about forgetting, forgiveness and mercy. Our next Bookclub recordings: (email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to join us) Wednesday 19th April at 1300 at BBC Broadcasting House in London. Sarah Winman will be answering questions about her novel Tin Man. Wednesday 24 May at 1300 at BBC Broadcasting House in London Mary Lawson on Crow Lake

Humza Yousaf has been elected to follow Nicola Sturgeon as the next SNP leader and will soon become Scotland's first minister. BBC Scotland editor James Cook, BBC special correspondent James Naughtie, and Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark talk about what it means for the future of Scotland and the rest of the UK. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed controversial plans to reform the judicial system after mass protests. Adam gets instant reaction from the BBC's Tom Bateman in Jerusalem. Today's Newscast was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray, Miranda Slade, and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor was Alison Gee. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

I interview James Naughtie about his latest book “The Spy Across The Water” and Liz Nugent about her latest book “Strange Sally Diamond”. I also review “Weyward” by Emilia Hart, “A Marvellous Light” by Freya Markse and “Never Never” by Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nadifa Mohamed joins James Naughtie and readers to talk about her award-winning novel The Fortune Men. Set in Cardiff in the 1950s, the novel is based on the real-life trial of Mahmood Mattan, a Somali seaman accused of murder. It's a powerful, moving read and a dazzling portrait of a proud, bewildered young man and his life in Cardiff's Tiger Bay. Upcoming recordings: 15 March at 1830 at BBC Broadcasting House, London: Tan Twan Eng will be answering questions about his novel The Garden of Evening Mists. 19 April at 1300 at BBC Broadcasting House, London: Sarah Winman on her novel Tin Man Email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to come along.

It seems like an impossible conundrum. Ukraine is valiantly defending itself against the man Boris Johnson called "a blood-stained aggressor" and fighting for survival in a war that is currently deadlocked. President Zelensky has warned that attempts at talks with The Russian Federation will fail, because Vladimir Putin cannot be trusted. So in the absence of a decisive victory or a negotiated settlement - what happens? James Naughtie investigates how other conflicts have come to a conclusion, in a bid to shed light on a war which has so far defied predictions. He will talk to key figures who have been in the room as peace deals are ground out - and visit the law makers in Washington DC who are the key source of defence funding for Ukraine. History may have lessons when it comes to a conflict for which there seems no end in sight. Presented by James Naughtie Produced by Kevin Core

James Naughtie and a group of readers talk to Cal Flyn about her acclaimed book, Islands of Abandonment, an exploration of places which have been reclaimed by nature. She talks about her travels to Cyprus, the Orkney Islands, First World War battlefields in France, and beyond, chronicling the fightback that plants have staged once humans have left. She reveals why finding hope in even the most desolate places is important to her, and why it's ok to leave lawns unmown. Our next recordings are both in-person events at BBC Broadcasting House in London. 16 February 2023 at 18.30 Nadifa Mohamed will be answering questions about The Fortune Men. 15 March 2023 at 1830 Tan Twan Eng on The Garden of Evening Mists To come along and take part, email bookclub@bbc.co.uk

James Naughtie is joined by writer A J Pearce and a group of listeners, as she answers their questions about her bestselling novel Dear Mrs Bird. Set in London in the 1940s, it's the story of Emmy who has ambitions to be an intrepid war reporter, but instead finds herself working as a secretary on the agony aunt pages of an old-fashioned women's magazine. Her main duty is opening and sorting the post but Emmy just can't resist sharing her opinions... Dear Mrs Bird is a funny, heart-warming novel which does not shy away from the true horrors of war. Our next Bookclub recordings: Ross King, on 8th December. He'll be taking us to Italy with his book Brunelleschi's Dome. To take part, in person or online, email bookclub@bbc.co.uk 1300 on 18 January at BBC Broadcasting House: Cal Flyn on Islands of Abandonment. email bookclub@bbc.co.uk to come along

You may not know who he is - but you should. Under Donald Trump Ron DeSantis rode the MAGA wave to to the governor job in Florida. For some, he's a "smart Trump". For others, a "troll" who, with a series of eye-catching stunts and pronouncements, has dominated headlines and is now viewed as a serious contender for the Republican nomination in 2024. From transporting migrants to the millionaires' playground of Martha's Vineyard to taking on Disney over so-called "Don't Say Gay" legislation, this is a politician who has weaponised the culture wars to enormous effect. For liberals, he's a cruel, socially awkward bogeyman, to his supporters, a resolute strongman turning the tide against corrosive wokeism. James Naughtie profiles the man who, if he does turn his eye to The White House, may have to take the gloves off with the man who many say made him - Donald Trump. The programme features Fernanda Santos of Futuro Media, Mike Binder of the University of North Florida Public Opinion Research Lab and Rick Wilson, founder of The Lincoln Project. Presented by James Naughtie. Produced by Kevin Core.

In a special programme first broadcast in 2013, Hilary Mantel discusses Bring Up the Bodies, her second Man Booker Prize-winning novel with James Naughtie and his Bookclub audience. England, 1535. A one-time mercenary, master-politician, lawyer and doting father, Thomas Cromwell has risen from commoner to become King Henry VIII's chief adviser. He learnt everything he knew from his mentor Cardinal Wolsey, whose place he has taken. Anne Boleyn is now Queen, her path to Henry's side cleared by Cromwell. But Henry remains without a male heir, and the conflict with the Catholic Church has left England dangerously isolated as France and the Holy Roman Empire manoeuvre for position. Mantel charts how the King begins to fall in love with the seemingly plain Jane Seymour at her family home of Wolf Hall; how Cromwell must negotiate an increasingly dangerous court as he charms, bullies and manipulates nobility, commoners and foreign powers alike to satisfy Henry, and advance his own ambitions. Hilary Mantel was the first author to win two Man Booker Prizes with consecutive novels. She discusses Bring Up the Bodies with Jim and her readers at the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival in Devon - and gives tantalising insights into the final part of the trilogy, The Mirror and the Light. Producer : Dymphna Flynn

About 25 years ago, I was giving a speech at my father's 65th birthday party. There were seventy or eighty people at the dinner and, as Dad was a playwright, most of them were theatricals.I'm a comedian, it was a fun occasion, so I wanted the speech to be funny. There were a few entertainment VIPs in the room, so there were professional as well as personal reasons to make sure my speech was as good as possible. But it was also a very personal occasion - a landmark in my dad's life - so there was no way I was going to crowbar in bits from my act. I wanted the speech to be special: I love my Dad very much and I wanted to say so publicly. But I also didn't want the speech to descend into an embarrassing, gushing, sentimental affair. It was by no means the hardest speech I've ever had to give, but there was still a balance that I had to get right, and I felt a bit of pressure because there were so many professional performers in the room who were way more experienced than me.As I was speaking, and I guess I was feeling a little nervous, I noticed someone looking at me. Of course, the whole room was looking at me, but this was the only person I noticed. He had friendly blue eyes, narrowed in a frown of intense concentration, and he seemed deeply interested in what I had to say, and very sympathetic to the difficulties I was having making such a speech. I don't know if I was projecting my own imagination, but there was a wise, kindly look to him. I'd never noticed anybody listen like that before.It was a few moments before I realised it was the actor, Timothy West. Thinking about it later, it made sense to me why Timothy West had been such a popular actor with his peers. He listened so well. In a room of eighty people all doing the same thing– his was the listening I noticed.(Any aspiring actors reading this: work on your listening. It's a crucial, yet underrated skill and one that is rarely taught. Teaching is concentrated around the bits when you are doing the talking. Watch what wonderful listeners many great actors are.)Fast forward a couple of years and I was doing a set on the Radio 4 show, Loose Ends. This was around 1999 and, in those days, the show was recorded live, but the only audience you would have were the four or five other guests on the show who would be sitting in the studio with you, along with the host, Ned Sherrin. You got some real VIPs on that show - I used to do it quite a bit. Off the top of my head, I remember appearing with Jackie Collins, Danni Minogue, Divine Comedy, Mariella Frostrup, Sir Humphrey Burton, The Proclaimers, and many more besides. But most of them would be thinking about their own bits, so doing comedy in that little studio to four or five people who weren't that interested could be a bit like doing comedy into the void. Comedy is hard without an audience - even if by the time it made it out of the radio, it seemed to work. I think it was the first time I had done the show, so I was nervous. There I was, doing my Ludwig The Bavarian act, all dressed up in my lederhosen costume, with all sorts of nerves rushing through my head as I did my act to no audience, when there it was again. The look. The kindly, listening, I-know-what-you're-going-through-and-I'm-on-your-side look. This time it was Michael Parkinson, one of the guests on the show. While all the other guests, and, to an extent, Ned, were wrapped up in their own stuff, Parkinson took time out to listen to me. Straight away I understood why he had been such a successful chat show host.Thank you for reading The Flying Frisby. This post is public so feel free to share it.The Today ProgrammeWe move on over ten years to 2012 and my first book, Life After the State, which, as the title suggests, makes the case for a lot less government in our lives. On the day it was published I was invited onto Radio 4's Today programme to talk about the role of the state. My publisher, Dan Kieran of Unbound, told me 'getting on the Today programme is the Holy Grail for an author. You're very lucky. You're on at the best time, peak listening time, just before 9. Everybody will be listening. The prime minister will be listening.”To say I was nervous is an understatement. 'This is the Today programme,' I told myself. 'For really clever people. It's not for comedians who've decided they want to write about economics. It's the BBC, the Ministry of Media. The last thing they'll suffer is some non-economist comedian calling for a smaller state. You are so going to be found out.'In the Green Room beforehand, I could barely speak. 'Would you like a cup of coffee?' 'Oh, no thanks. Actually, yes please. Er no, no. Actually, yes. Erm, not sure.' ‘I'm sorry?'I was to be interviewed by James Naughtie and there was a nice chap by the name of Neal Lawson from left-wing think tank, Compass, who would take the opposing side of the debate. There were various other people in the studio, all deep in notes and preparation for their next slot. None of them looked up as we came in. If I had my life again I'd answer one key question about collectivism differently - and I still get cross with myself about it - but overall I guess I did ok. However, mid-interview, while I was talking, I could feel somebody looking at me. I looked to my left, away from the people I was talking to, Naughtie and Lawson, and there, staring at me intently, was John Humphrys. He'd looked up from me his notes and, with his eyes narrowed slightly, now seemed to be deeply interested in what I was saying, even though he was nothing to do with this segment. His listening carried that same mixture of interest, intense focus, kindness and understanding that Timothy West's did all those years ago.Just as with West, I felt I gained some understanding as to why John Humphrys has been so successful in his extremely competitive profession.Afterwards I went and gave him a copy of the book.“Have a read and see what you think,” I said. “But I doubt you'll be on board with all this anti-state stuff.”“You'd be surprised,” he replied.Keynote FarageJust a few months later I was speaking about gold at an investor's show. Tom Winnifrith, the organizer, had managed to get Nigel Farage as his keynote speaker. This was years before the Brexit vote, but, thanks to the internet, his speeches at the EU Parliament were already starting to go viral.Afterwards, he and I sat down and started talking. All sorts of people were bombarding him for photos and signatures, and he was very gracious to everybody who pestered him, but at the same time he managed to convey the impression that he was really interested in talking to me. And, as I talked, there was that same look again – eyes narrowed slightly, kind, wise, interested, focused on you and you alone.If you say the names John Humphrys or Nigel Farage, kindness is not the first word that springs to mind with either. But that was what I saw. Nor is Farage known as great listener, but my experience was that he is. I'm sure it's his listening to people as he travelled up and down the country that made him so popular at grass roots level and helped him build such a following.Farage in person, as his GB News show, especially Talking Pints, is proving, is a far cry from the monster many of his opponents, especially the Centrist Trots who write for the Guardian, have made him out to be. My dinner with Jordan PetersonA few days ago I was lucky enough to be invited to dinner with Jordan Peterson. It's funny. Peterson is one of the biggest stars on the internet. He is adored by so many yet there are still quite a few people who have no idea who he is. My manager thought I was going to dinner with Jordan Henderson.Andrews Doyle and Shaw, the organisers of Comedy Unleashed, comedian Simon Evans and author Jeremy Hildreth were there as well as Peterson's minder (who took the photo below).It was amazing how quickly we got through the niceties and moved on to the interesting stuff. Within a few minutes of sitting down, we were talking about lucid dreams - these are dreams that you know are dreams while you dream them.I had a lucid dream last year, in which I met my father (who died in 2020) at a house party and, in the kitchen, started updating him on the progress I had made with Kisses on a Postcard, the new songs I'd written, the edits and so on. After a while I said, “This is a dream, isn't it?” Dad smiled and nodded.So I mentioned at the table that I had had this lucid dream last year in which I had had this conversation with my dead father. Peterson's head flashed round and he looked at me as I spoke. And there was that look again. That same Timothy West, Michael Parkinson, John Humphrys, Nigel Farage, slightly squinting, focused look of kindness, sympathy, empathy and genuine interest.Never mind how articulate he is, I'll bet one reason Peterson is so popular is because he listens. In fact, one reason he is so articulate is because he listens. He replies to what people actually say, rather than what he thinks they've said, and that centres him in the moment and thus in the truth.So there we are: people who have the look. What's the moral of all this? Listen, I guess. Don't talk. Listen.ADDENDUMI saw just how popular and loved Jordan Peterson was only an hour or two later. Over dinner somebody suggested that he do a set at Comedy Unleashed later that evening, and he agreed to read a comic poem he'd written. I was MCing, and I introduced him as the open spot, saying something like “we like to bring on new talent at Comedy Unleashed, so we give people short spots and if they're any good, they can progress to a full spot, please welcome Jordan Peterson”. The audience at first couldn't believe what they had heard. Then, as he came to the stage, they rose to their feet and gave him a standing ovation.I might have ended up compering what may be Jordan Peterson's only ever comedy spot. Thank you for reading The Flying Frisby. This post is public so feel free to share it.If you are in London on September 28 or 29, my lecture with funny bits, How Heavy?, about the history of weights and measures is coming to the Museum of Comedy. It's a 7-8pm show so you can come along and go out for dinner after. The lecture will give your evening a strong intellectual foundation. You can buy tickets here. This is a very interesting subject - effectively how you perceive the world. Hope to see you there.The Flying Frisby is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theflyingfrisby.com/subscribe

What to expect at Monday's state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Adam chats to James Naughtie and Rachel Burden, who are both part of the BBC radio coverage of the day's events, as the nation will say a final farewell to Britain's longest-reigning monarch. They're joined by charity worker Ella Marks MBE who remembers the funeral of George VI and will be attending Monday's ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Today's episode was produced by Tim Walklate with Miranda Slade and Clare Williamson. Emma Crowe is the technical producer and Sam Bonham the assistant editor.

In the second episode of Radio 4's new podcast on the life of Elizabeth II, James Naughtie looks at the dramatic change that transformed Princess Elizabeth's life much earlier than she had anticipated. She and Prince Philip, together with their two young children, Prince Charles and Princess Anne, had been living on the island of Malta where he was serving with the Royal Navy. Early in 1952, the royal couple embarked on an extensive foreign tour and it was in East Africa that they received shattering news from home.

In this episode of Radio 4's new podcast on the life of Elizabeth II, James Naughtie looks at how she put her stamp on the monarchy. In the 1950s, Britain - and the Commonwealth - were changing fast and the public expected to see and hear a different style from Buckingham Palace. Yet achieving that while also maintaining the royal traditions that she regarded as a bedrock was a formidable challenge for the young queen. And not all her actions won golden opinions - indeed, some of the sharpest criticism she received came from a surprising quarter. With the help of some of those who observed her at close quarters, we find out how the sovereign responded.

In the latest episode of Radio 4's new podcast on the life of Elizabeth II, James Naughtie looks at the Queen's relations with her prime ministers over the decades of her reign. Winston Churchill was in Downing Street when she came to the Throne; Tony Blair and Boris Johnson had not been born. Although she stood above the party political fray, in the intimate dealings with governments of different stripes the Queen learnt how best to deploy the Crown's influence, especially at moments of crisis. And over more than seventy years, the power relationships shifted subtly.

The last years of the Queen's life underlined her place at the heart of national life. From a unique state visit to the Republic of Ireland to the Diamond Jubilee, from the marriage of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles to London 2012, she remained a potent symbol. During the Covid-19 pandemic her effectiveness at capturing the public mood was re-affirmed in a series of powerful broadcasts. But, as James Naughtie explains in the last episode of Radio 4's new podcast on the reign of Elizabeth II, the concluding years of the Queen's reign were also coloured by personal heartache. Prince Philip, who had been such a stalwart support to her throughout their marriage, died in 2021 and relations with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who chose to step back from public duties and live abroad, were sometimes strained. Yet the transition to a new era was also carefully and discreetly carried on as an extraordinary reign drew to a close. London Olympics © 2012 IOC/BBC Sport Queen's Jubilee © 2022 Buckingham Palace/STUDIOCANAL/BBC Studios Productions Limited

News with James Naughtie, including a new Conservative leader is elected - how long will they last? On the news review Isabel Hardman, Samuel Kasumu and Richard Eyre.

For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, James Naughtie is joined by an in-person audience who are putting their questions to Kevin Barry, about his novel Night Boat To Tangier. It's a darkly comic, melancholy novel about two gangsters, Maurice and Charlie, waiting in the port of Algeciras, hoping to spot Maurice's runaway daughter. And as they wait, they reminisce and swap stories. Our next Bookclub is recording at Greenside Parish Church in Edinburgh on Thursday 25th August at 7pm. Our guest is Kathleen Jamie, Scotland's Makar, talking about her Selected Poems and her writing life. For more details, and to book a place, email bookclub@bbc.co.uk

Novelist Karen Joy Fowler joins James Naughtie to answer listener questions about her Booker shortlisted novel We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves, a surprising story about an unusual family, and the lasting impact of an unconventional childhood. Narrator Rosemary looks back fondly on her early years with her sister Fern, but all is not as it seems. The novel has an unexpected twist and this programme contains spoilers. Our next read on Bookclub is Angelmaker by Nick Harkaway. Do get in touch if you'd like to take part.

Sarah Moss joins James Naughtie to answer listener questions about her novel The Tidal Zone - a story of healthcare, parenting, and the echoes of the past. Adam and Emma are parents to 15 year old Miriam and 8 year old Rose. One day, Miriam collapses at school: her heart briefly stopped beating. She is rushed to hospital. The Tidal Zone considers the impact of this event on Miriam, and all of her family, as they spend time in hospital and then learn to live with what has happened. Interwoven with this story of contemporary family life, is the story of the re-building of Coventry Cathedral after the Second World War, the subject of Adam's academic research. The novel ask questions about how we rebuild and recover after trauma, and how we learn to live with history, both personal and political. Our next recordings for Bookclub are with Karen Joy Fowler and Nick Harkaway. Follow the links on the website to take part and ask a question.