Bookclub

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Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Led by James Naughtie, readers talk to acclaimed authors about their best-known novels

Led by James Naughtie, a group of readers talk to acclaimed authors about their best-known novels

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Bookclub: Marian Keyes - Rachel's Holiday

Marian Keyes - Rachel's Holiday

BBC Radio 4 - Bookclub, Marian Keyes - Rachel's Holiday

Marian Keyes on one of her most popular novels, Rachel's Holiday. With James Naughtie

Marian Keyes talks about Rachel's Holiday, with James Naughtie and a group of invited readers.

Marian Keyes talks about one of her most popular novels, Rachel's Holiday.

Rachel Walsh is an Irish woman in her late 20s living in New York, but whose life is disintegrating around her. She's lost her dead-end job; her boyfriend Luke has broken up with her; her best friend and flat-mate Brigit can't cope with her behaviour any longer – and the reason for all this, which Rachel just can't see, is that she's become addicted to drugs and alcohol.

Her 'holiday' is a trip into a rehab clinic in Dublin - the Cloisters - where she imagines she'll get away from it all, but discovers more about herself then she expected.  Marian Keyes's book has been an international phenomenon - and maybe one reason, apart from its wit, is that it tells a story from the inside.  As a recovering alcoholic herself, Marian understands Rachel's journey and how humour can help people survive.  

Presented by James Naughtie and a group of invited readers ask the questions.

To take part in future Bookclubs apply at bookclub@bbc.co.uk 

Presenter : James Naughtie
Producer : Dymphna Flynn

April's Bookclub Choice - Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill (2014)

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