US author Sandra Newman on her new novel, 'The Country of Ice Cream Star', set in a post-apocalyptic US, plus British author Courttia Newland and Sandra Newman in discussion about writing across racial lines.

Sandra Newman is the author of two novels, and several works of non-fiction. Kate Atkinson said of Newman's new novel: 'I can't remember when I last read something so original or sophisticated or emotionally engaging or so breathtakingly ambitious.'

Acclaimed author Roopa Farooki on her new novel, The Good Children, looking at the 1940s generation of children in Pakistan who were brought up to obey, and what happened when they chose no longer to be 'Good Children'. Roopa Farooki was born in Lahore, Pakistan, and brought up in London. She has written six novels to critical acclaim, and has been twice longlisted the Orange Prize.

Plus, award-winning Irish writer John Banville on the book he'd never lend.

And finally, in another in the occasional series of insider tip offs from the publishing world, Meike Ziervogel of Peirene Press recommends Sarah Pickstone's 'Park Notes'. Show less