THE DAUGHTER OF VERA BRITTAIN WRITES HER AUTOBIOGRAPHY

[Matt123]

Shirley Williams is the daughter of wartime memoir writer and feminist icon Vera Brittain. Shirley is following in her mother's footsteps by publishing her autobiography 'Climbing The Bookshelves'. I found an online clip where the Baroness also reveals why her hair has held back her political career and why she feels akin to Boris Johnson's signature mop! The clip is available on the website of Sky Arts.

Another guest on the show is one who also looks to the past for inspiration; John Boyne, author of the highly acclaimed novel 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas'. John explores the myths surrounding the Russian Princess Anastacia in his book 'The House of Special Purpose'. John tells presenter Mariella how it felt to learn that the Princess' remains were discovered when mid-way through writing his book in 2008.

Last, but by no means least, is American author Joshua Ferris, who jumps on to Mariella's sofa to talk romance, marriage and happy endings in his new novel; 'The Unnamed'. Joshua also reveals his resistance to Hollywood pressure and future film plans. Find out much more on the website of The Book Show on Sky Arts. Very Happy

Speaking of historical novels, historian David Starkey recently hit out at the number of women writing about history and feminising history... do you think there are too many books being published about history?

[Perrywinkle47]

No, don't think so..