Book Shambles with Robin and Josie: Recent Episodes
The Cosmic Shambles Network
Using books as a jumping off point, hosts Josie Long and Robin Ince and a different special guest each week, dive into interesting, passionate and shambolic discussions. Part of the Cosmic Shambles Network.
This week Helen Czerski takes the host chair once again to talk to zoologist, author and broadcaster Jules Howard about dogs. His new book, Wonderdog, looks at the evolving science of dogs. How has humankind's favourite pet defied science and changed the way we think about animals overall, particularly in the field of cognitive research. From early research (WARNING: Some of this is a bit grim and may be disturbing to some listeners), through moving on from considering dogs as 'dumb wolves' to the cutting edge understanding of dog behaviour and companionship today. Subscribe to the podcast via patreon.com/bookshambles to hear extended episodes
On today's episode Robin is joined by comedian Rachel Parris to talk about her new, and first, book, Advice from Strangers. She chats with Robin about writing the book, the pressure of remembering not everything has to be funny, Jane Austen, the difficulties of writing satire right now and the book on the music she really wants to write next. Hear an extended version, and get lots of other goodies bby subscribing to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by artist and author Lauren John Joseph to talk about their new novel, At Certain Points We Touch. They chat about the book, literary influences and places that inspire creativity, particularly in their home town of Liverpool. To hear and extended version, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Tonight the ever brilliant Inside No. 9 returns to our screens for series 7 and so it is that Reece Shearsmith returns to Book Shambles! He joins Robin to talk about the new series, favourite episodes, great horror short stories and more. They're also joined by horror writer and historian Johnny Mains who, together with Robin, will be editing the third volume of Dead Funny, horror stories by comedians, of which Reece will be contributing. You can support it on Unbound, just search for Dead Funny. And you can support Book Shambles, and hear an extended version of this and all other episodes at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our guest today is the author of one of the most lauded books of 2021, the superb Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Patrick Radden Keefe. One of the awards it garnered last year was the highly prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction and one of the judges on the panel last year was our own Dr Helen Czerski, so this week we've handed over the solo reigns of the podcast to Helen. She talks to Patrick about the book, the research, the threats, legal and beyond and how the Sacklers are an example of an entirely broken system. Extended version and other goodies for podcast supporters at patreon.com/bookshambles
Hayley Campbell is a writer and broadcaster you may best know for his book The Art of Neil Gaiman. Her latest book, All the Living and the Dead, looks at our relationship with death, and the people for whom death is their life. She joins Robin to talk about her fascination with death, seeing her first dead body, embalming and Jeremy Bentham's head. Extended version as ever for Patreon subscribers at patreon.com/bookshambles
Veronica O'Keane is a Professor of Psychiatry and this week she joins Robin and Helen Czerski to talk about her book The Rag and Bone Shop which deals with her thirty year investigation into memory. One of the exciting things about Veronica's book, for Book Shambles fans, is how her book takes us on a journey through writers from Beckett to Yeats and beyond as she uncovers the mysteries of how our memories, and false memories, work. To hear and extended episode subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Robin is joined by author and poet Kei Miller to talk about his new collection of essays, Things I Have Withheld. They chat about the fear of writing such an honest book, how criticism and expectations of self differs from country to country, favourite Jamaican poets and much more. Extended episode, and other goodies, available for Patreon subscribers. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
You've probably encountered online what is often labeled 'Abandoned Places Porn'. Artistic photography of disused theme parks, factories and that sort of thing. Our guest on today's show is the author of widely acclaimed, and Baillie Gifford Prize shortlisted book, Islands of Abandonment, an in depth exploration into the places where nature is flourishing after humans have left. She talks to Robin about the book, the myths around these sorts of places, science fiction, Chernobyl and much more. Extended edition, as ever, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's show we have someone who was one of the writers, and performers, of the Cosmic Shambles and Book Shambles theme music. Oh, and he's also one of the world's leading experts on disgust and emotions and a Research Fellow at the Centre for the History of Emotions at Queen Mary University. And now Dr Richard Firth-Godbehere's first book has just been published, A Human History of Emotion. Richard chats to Robin and Helen Czerski about the book, the emotions of war, witch trials, the history of emoticons, why everything ends up back at Plato and a whole lot more. As ever, an extended edition of this week's episode is available to Patreon supporters which includes a chat about how emotions will control the metaverse. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's episode was recorded in January live at The Slapstick Festival in Bristol. Armando Iannucci, co-creator of The Thick Of It, Veep, Alan Partridge and so many other comedy icons, joins Robin to talk about the state of satire in 2022. Armando's latest book is Pandemonium : Some verses on the Current Predicament, an epic mock-heroic poem, written in response to the pandemic, but they don't really get round to that what with everything else going on. SUPER extended edition for Patreon supporters this week with over half an hour of extra content including discussions about The Death of Stalin and a bunch of audience questions. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's episode Robin is joined by the Reverend Richard Coles to talk about his literary inspirations and loves growing up as a nerdy kid in Kettering, finding God, a love of diaries and how the process of writing about grief after the loss of his partner David, which would become the book The Madness of Grief. Subscribe to our Patreon to hear extended episodes and get all sorts of other goodies. patreon.com/bookshambles is where to go to sign up
Julia Cooke is a writer and author whose work regularly appears in the likes of Salon, Smithsonian and The New York Times. Her latest book is the acclaimed Come Fly the World: The Jet-Age Story of the Women of Pan Am. She joins Robin to talk about how she found herself in the world of Pan Am and the Mad Men era, studying in Cuba and Pan Am's role in everything from Vietnam to Women's Liberation. Extended version and all sorts of exclusive bonuses are available to Patreon supporters at patreon.com/bookshambles
Man Booker Prize shortlisted novelist Ruth Ozeki joins us this week to talk about her latest novel The Book of Form and Emptiness which is out now. They chat about how the book took eight years to write, growing up learning to love books in a public library basement, listening to the voices that guide a novel and her past life working as an art director on low budget horror movies! Support the show and hear an extended version, including a story of Ruth's first encounter with Charlotte's Web by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles
Ruarri Joseph is a singer-songwriter and frontman for the band William The Conqueror. He's just written his first novel, of the same name, (available for pre-order now) which is an 'auto fiction' or maybe a 'meta biography'. He chats to Robin about the challenges of writing a novel compared to a screenplay or a song, moving away from folk music, the inspiration of Kurt Vonnegut and George Saunders and a whole lot more. Hear an extended edition of this, and all other episodes, by subscribing to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Ruarri Joseph is a singer-songwriter and frontman for the band William The Conqueror. He's just written his first novel, of the same name, (available for pre-order now) which is an 'auto fiction' or maybe a 'meta biography'. He chats to Robin about the challenges of writing a novel compared to a screenplay or a song, moving away from folk music, the inspiration of Kurt Vonnegut and George Saunders and a whole lot more. Hear an extended edition of this, and all other episodes, by subscribing to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
There's been a lot more interest in plants and trees in the UK recently thanks to David Attenborough's The Green Planet series, so this week we speak with nature writer James Canton about his recent book The Oak Papers which tells the story of an 800 year old oak tree, and our relationship with oak throughout the ages. He and Robin chat about great nature writing, notable underwear stores in Ealing and nature in literature from Homer to Chatwin to Macdonald and beyond. Support the podcast on Patreon to hear extended episodes each week. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
There's been a lot more interest in plants and trees in the UK recently thanks to David Attenborough's The Green Planet series, so this week we speak with nature writer James Canton about his recent book The Oak Papers which tells the story of an 800 year old oak tree, and our relationship with oak throughout the ages. He and Robin chat about great nature writing, notable underwear stores in Ealing and nature in literature from Homer to Chatwin to Macdonald and beyond. Support the podcast on Patreon to hear extended episodes each week. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's episode is a young readers special. Robin chats to author Louie Stowell about her new book for younger readers, Otherland and is also joined by high school librarian Julie Baugh. They chat about what kids and young adults are reading today, which classics are still popular, the importance of libraries, the wonderful Usborne series of books and a whole lot more. There's LOADS of recommendations this week! To hear an extended edition of this week's episode, and every other week too, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's episode is a young readers special. Robin chats to author Louie Stowell about her new book for younger readers, Otherland and is also joined by high school librarian Julie Baugh. They chat about what kids and young adults are reading today, which classics are still popular, the importance of libraries, the wonderful Usborne series of books and a whole lot more. There's LOADS of recommendations this week! To hear an extended edition of this week's episode, and every other week too, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Last year Dara McAnulty, at just 16 years of age, won Non-Fiction Book of the Year at the British Book Awards. Coincidentally, that category was presented by us at The Cosmic Shambles Network, so today, as Dara’s second book, Wild Child, hits shelves he took time out from studying for his maths exam next week to come on the podcast to chat to Robin and Helen Czerski. They chat about nature, climate, optimism, birds, Oliver Sacks, Andrei Tarkovsky and much more! Support the podcast and hear extended editions by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles
Last year Dara McAnulty, at just 16 years of age, won Non-Fiction Book of the Year at the British Book Awards. Coincidentally, that category was presented by us at The Cosmic Shambles Network, so today, as Dara’s second book, Wild Child, hits shelves he took time out from studying for his maths exam next week to come on the podcast to chat to Robin and Helen Czerski. They chat about nature, climate, optimism, birds, Oliver Sacks, Andrei Tarkovsky and much more! Support the podcast and hear extended editions by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our traditional end of year wrap up of the best things the Shambles crew read in 2021. The books don't have to have been released in 2021 of course, just read this year. With Josie on maternity leave Robin holds down the fort with loads of special guests including Chris Hadfield, Helen Czerski, Anil Seth, Isy Suttie, Steve Backshall, Helen Zaltzman and more. Please note that this episode was originally streamed live on December 30th 2021 so that will explain the varying audio quality of the guests! To support the show subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our traditional end of year wrap up of the best things the Shambles crew read in 2021. The books don't have to have been released in 2021 of course, just read this year. With Josie on maternity leave Robin holds down the fort with loads of special guests including Chris Hadfield, Helen Czerski, Anil Seth, Isy Suttie, Steve Backshall, Helen Zaltzman and more. Please note that this episode was originally streamed live on December 30th 2021 so that will explain the varying audio quality of the guests! To support the show subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin chats to US author Jessica Nordell about her Royal Society Prize shortlisted book, The End of Bias. Back when Jessica was a journalist she struggled to get a particular, timely article published by any national print. Until she submitted it under the name J.D. Nordell, instead of Jessica, and it was accepted immediately. Thus began the research on society's unconscious bias that led to her acclaimed book. To hear an extended edition, and support the podcast, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin chats to US author Jessica Nordell about her Royal Society Prize shortlisted book, The End of Bias. Back when Jessica was a journalist she struggled to get a particular, timely article published by any national print. Until she submitted it under the name J.D. Nordell, instead of Jessica, and it was accepted immediately. Thus began the research on society's unconscious bias that led to her acclaimed book. To hear an extended edition, and support the podcast, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Louis Barfe is an author and former journalist who has written some of the most lauded biographies of classic British comedians. He has written some of the definitive life stories of the likes of Les Dawson and Ken Dodd and in his latest book, Sunshine and Laughter, he tells the unique story of one Britain's most loved double acts, Morecambe and Wise. He joins Robin to talk about the book, classic British comedy, where it still seeps into today's comedy and who he'd most love to research for a future biography. Get an extra ten minutes of chat by subscribing to the Book Shambles Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Louis Barfe is an author and former journalist who has written some of the most lauded biographies of classic British comedians. He has written some of the definitive life stories of the likes of Les Dawson and Ken Dodd and in his latest book, Sunshine and Laughter, he tells the unique story of one Britain's most loved double acts, Morecambe and Wise. He joins Robin to talk about the book, classic British comedy, where it still seeps into today's comedy and who he'd most love to research for a future biography. Get an extra ten minutes of chat by subscribing to the Book Shambles Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author Zena Barrie joins Book Shambles today to chat to Robin about her first novel, Your Friend Forever. They chat about what made the former theatre manager write her first book, how autobiographical it is and how in her youth she would write to loads of celebrities although the only people that ever replied was Kelloggs, the cereal company. There's also chat on Adrian Mole, Lemn Sissay, Scottish pop music and a whole lot more. As always, longer episode for Patreon supporters. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author Zena Barrie joins Book Shambles today to chat to Robin about her first novel, Your Friend Forever. They chat about what made the former theatre manager write her first book, how autobiographical it is and how in her youth she would write to loads of celebrities although the only people that ever replied was Kelloggs, the cereal company. There's also chat on Adrian Mole, Lemn Sissay, Scottish pop music and a whole lot more. As always, longer episode for Patreon supporters. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin's science book came out the same day last month as Adam Rutherford and Hannah's Fry first book together, Rutherford and Fry's Complete Guide to Absolutely Everything. The Cosmic Shambles Network is also looking after Robin's 100 Bookshop Tour and working with JSM Events' Rutherford and Fry tour so it just makes sense to bring it all together on an episode of Book Shambles. They chat about the heavy lifting of the word 'abridged' in the title, science education, the nature of curiosity, authors with difficult to pronounce names and Hannah's decision to resign from the Science Museum. Get signed copies of both Robin and Adam and Hannah's book from cosmicshambles.com/bookshop Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear an extended edition of this and all other episodes of the podcast.
Robin's science book came out the same day last month as Adam Rutherford and Hannah's Fry first book together, Rutherford and Fry's Complete Guide to Absolutely Everything. The Cosmic Shambles Network is also looking after Robin's 100 Bookshop Tour and working with JSM Events' Rutherford and Fry tour so it just makes sense to bring it all together on an episode of Book Shambles. They chat about the heavy lifting of the word 'abridged' in the title, science education, the nature of curiosity, authors with difficult to pronounce names and Hannah's decision to resign from the Science Museum. Get signed copies of both Robin and Adam and Hannah's book from cosmicshambles.com/bookshop Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear an extended edition of this and all other episodes of the podcast.
It's our Halloween special and sometimes co-host Bec Hill returns to Book Shambles today to talk to Robin about her new kids horror book, The Slime, the first in a 13 book series called Horror Heights! They talk about creating the series, creativity in lockdown, favourite fictional slime, the influence of RL Stine and Paul Jennings and the joy of growing up with a librarian for a Mum. Listen to an extended edition of this episode, and all the others, by supporting us on patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's our Halloween special and sometimes co-host Bec Hill returns to Book Shambles today to talk to Robin about her new kids horror book, The Slime, the first in a 13 book series called Horror Heights! They talk about creating the series, creativity in lockdown, favourite fictional slime, the influence of RL Stine and Paul Jennings and the joy of growing up with a librarian for a Mum. Listen to an extended edition of this episode, and all the others, by supporting us on patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Robin is joined by the writer, editor and broadcaster Liz Frazer to talk about her new book, and bestseller, Coming Clean: A True Story of Love, Addiction and Recovery. They chat about the different faces and perception of alcoholism in individuals and society, mental health, the importance of diaries and how recovery applies to both an addict and the partner of an addict. Please note this episode contains discussions around topics that may be upsetting to some listeners.To support the show, and get extended episodes, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Robin is joined by the writer, editor and broadcaster Liz Frazer to talk about her new book, and bestseller, Coming Clean: A True Story of Love, Addiction and Recovery. They chat about the different faces and perception of alcoholism in individuals and society, mental health, the importance of diaries and how recovery applies to both an addict and the partner of an addict. Please note this episode contains discussions around topics that may be upsetting to some listeners.To support the show, and get extended episodes, subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our favourite Canadian returns to the podcast this week, it's astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield. Chris has just released his first ever work of fiction, a historical thriller titled The Apollo Murders. He joins Robin, and guest co-host Helen Czerski, to talk about his favourite thrillers, what it was like moving into the world of fiction, making sure the space science was accurate and the future of human spaceflight itself. Around 10 extra minutes of chat this week for Patreon supporters so sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our favourite Canadian returns to the podcast this week, it's astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield. Chris has just released his first ever work of fiction, a historical thriller titled The Apollo Murders. He joins Robin, and guest co-host Helen Czerski, to talk about his favourite thrillers, what it was like moving into the world of fiction, making sure the space science was accurate and the future of human spaceflight itself. Around 10 extra minutes of chat this week for Patreon supporters so sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin Ince's brand new book The Importance of Being Interested: Adventures in Scientific Curiosity is out TODAY! Go grab a signed copy from our bookshop now at cosmicshambles.com/bookshop. To celebrate we did a livestream launch event early this week with Robin talking about the book with our Shambles chum, musician, composer and comedian Tim Minchin. So we've made that conversation available on the podcast this week complete with bonus introduction from Robin and his Science Shambles co-host Dr Helen Czerski. You can watch the full livestream on our YouTube channel. Robin and Tim chat about what they love about science, cosmic vertigo, putting big ideas into song and why you should definitely get the vaccine. Support the podcast by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles for extended episodes and more.
Robin Ince's brand new book The Importance of Being Interested: Adventures in Scientific Curiosity is out TODAY! Go grab a signed copy from our bookshop now at cosmicshambles.com/bookshop. To celebrate we did a livestream launch event early this week with Robin talking about the book with our Shambles chum, musician, composer and comedian Tim Minchin. So we've made that conversation available on the podcast this week complete with bonus introduction from Robin and his Science Shambles co-host Dr Helen Czerski. You can watch the full livestream on our YouTube channel. Robin and Tim chat about what they love about science, cosmic vertigo, putting big ideas into song and why you should definitely get the vaccine. Support the podcast by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles for extended episodes and more.
Francesca Stavrakopoulou was a guest on the first series of Tips for Existence and now that her first book, God: An Anatomy, has just been released we'd excited to have her on Book Shambles with Robin and Josie to talk about it. They chat about how Francesca had to write the book she wished existed when she was in university, why examining God upsets people and whether God went to the toilet or not... Extended edition for Patreon supporters as ever so please subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Francesca Stavrakopoulou was a guest on the first series of Tips for Existence and now that her first book, God: An Anatomy, has just been released we'd excited to have her on Book Shambles with Robin and Josie to talk about it. They chat about how Francesca had to write the book she wished existed when she was in university, why examining God upsets people and whether God went to the toilet or not... Extended edition for Patreon supporters as ever so please subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week’s episode our guest is Kathryn Mannix, a palliative care doctor and author. Kathryn self proclaims that her Mastermind subject would be death, and in her new book Listen she uses her years of experience to deconstruct our difficulty with difficult conversations. This conversation, on the podcast, isn’t difficult but why is it so hard to talk about death, coming out or even answering honestly when someone asks ‘How are you?’. Please note that this episode does contain conversations around subjects some people may find upsetting. To support the podcast, and hear and extended version of this and every other conversation, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles.
On this week’s episode our guest is Kathryn Mannix, a palliative care doctor and author. Kathryn self proclaims that her Mastermind subject would be death, and in her new book Listen she uses her years of experience to deconstruct our difficulty with difficult conversations. This conversation, on the podcast, isn’t difficult but why is it so hard to talk about death, coming out or even answering honestly when someone asks ‘How are you?’. Please note that this episode does contain conversations around subjects some people may find upsetting. To support the podcast, and hear and extended version of this and every other conversation, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles.
This week our guest couldn't make the interview at the very last minute. Which was unfortunate because obviously we wanted to talk to them and also it meant we didn't have an episode for this week. So since Robin and Josie were already on the Zoom call, they just interviewed each other for half an hour. Hope you enjoy. Normal service will resume next week. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week our guest couldn't make the interview at the very last minute. Which was unfortunate because obviously we wanted to talk to them and also it meant we didn't have an episode for this week. So since Robin and Josie were already on the Zoom call, they just interviewed each other for half an hour. Hope you enjoy. Normal service will resume next week. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
James Baldwin is one of the most recommended and discussed authors on this podcast so this week's guest is someone who literally wrote the book on Baldwin. Eddie Glaude is a Professor of African American Studies at Princeton University and his latest book is Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own. he talks to Robin about Baldwin, race in America and what society needs to do to move forward, face up to its past. To hear a super extended version of this interview complete with Baldwin clips and more you can subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles and hear it on the Tips for Existence podcast.
James Baldwin is one of the most recommended and discussed authors on this podcast so this week's guest is someone who literally wrote the book on Baldwin. Eddie Glaude is a Professor of African American Studies at Princeton University and his latest book is Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own. he talks to Robin about Baldwin, race in America and what society needs to do to move forward, face up to its past. To hear a super extended version of this interview complete with Baldwin clips and more you can subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles and hear it on the Tips for Existence podcast.
Anil Seth has been researching consciousness for over twenty years and now he's released his first book on the subject, Being You. He joins Robin and Josie to talk about the book and what we do and don't know about consciousness. Are trees consciousness? What is panpsychism? Are there levels of consciousness? Why do some people see the letter B as purple? And now that he's finished writing a book what fiction can he escape into? Extended edition for Patreon supporters of course. Subscribe and support at patreon.com/bookshambles
Anil Seth has been researching consciousness for over twenty years and now he's released his first book on the subject, Being You. He joins Robin and Josie to talk about the book and what we do and don't know about consciousness. Are trees consciousness? What is panpsychism? Are there levels of consciousness? Why do some people see the letter B as purple? And now that he's finished writing a book what fiction can he escape into? Extended edition for Patreon supporters of course. Subscribe and support at patreon.com/bookshambles
As part of The Cosmic Shambles Network's takeover of The Speakeasy at this year's Latitude Festival, Dr Helen Czerski was joined by Professor Dan Davis for a live Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover show. They chat about Dan's new book The Secret Body: How the New Science of the Human Body Is Changing the Way We Live, glowing jellyfish, doing science without a hypothesis, how immune cells are changing how they behave and a whole lot more. To support the podcast, and the CSN at large, subscribe via Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
As part of The Cosmic Shambles Network's takeover of The Speakeasy at this year's Latitude Festival, Dr Helen Czerski was joined by Professor Dan Davis for a live Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover show. They chat about Dan's new book The Secret Body: How the New Science of the Human Body Is Changing the Way We Live, glowing jellyfish, doing science without a hypothesis, how immune cells are changing how they behave and a whole lot more. To support the podcast, and the CSN at large, subscribe via Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Isy Suttie was one of our first guests on the podcast many years ago now and as her first ever novel, Jane is Trying, hits shelves this month she returns to talk about with Robin and Josie. They chat about the experience of not writing a novel to sound like a novel, not letting Isy's mum read it, being concerned that coffee granules could be cancerous moles and a whole lot more! Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Isy Suttie was one of our first guests on the podcast many years ago now and as her first ever novel, Jane is Trying, hits shelves this month she returns to talk about with Robin and Josie. They chat about the experience of not writing a novel to sound like a novel, not letting Isy's mum read it, being concerned that coffee granules could be cancerous moles and a whole lot more! Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week on Book Shambles Josie and Robin are joined by the Swedish journalist Katrine Marçal to talk about her new book Mother of Invention: How Good Ideas Get Ignored in an Economy Built for Men. They chat about how this means we had a man on the moon before we had suitcases with wheels and how electric cars are 'just for girls'. Extended edition for Patreons as ever. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week on Book Shambles Josie and Robin are joined by the Swedish journalist Katrine Marçal to talk about her new book Mother of Invention: How Good Ideas Get Ignored in an Economy Built for Men. They chat about how this means we had a man on the moon before we had suitcases with wheels and how electric cars are 'just for girls'. Extended edition for Patreons as ever. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
You might recognise journalist Rachel England's voice from the Brain Yapping podcast that she co-hosts with Dean Burnett on The Cosmic Shambles Network but today she's a guest on Book Shambles as her first book has just been released. Everyday Activism: How to Change the World in Five Minutes, One Hour or a Day is full of ideas for people who want to make things better, but aren't sure where to start. Robin and guest co-host Helen Czerski talk about changing your search engine, not mowing your lawn and changing the meaning of activism itself. Support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
You might recognise journalist Rachel England's voice from the Brain Yapping podcast that she co-hosts with Dean Burnett on The Cosmic Shambles Network but today she's a guest on Book Shambles as her first book has just been released. Everyday Activism: How to Change the World in Five Minutes, One Hour or a Day is full of ideas for people who want to make things better, but aren't sure where to start. Robin and guest co-host Helen Czerski talk about changing your search engine, not mowing your lawn and changing the meaning of activism itself. Support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Rupert Thomson is the author of thirteen highly acclaimed novels and an award winning memoir. He has spent timing living all around the world and his latest novel, Barcelona Dreaming, comes from the six years he spent living in the Spanish city. He talks to Robin and Josie about the book, the city and what it's like finding out one of your novels was on David Bowie's 100 Greatest Books of All Time List. As ever, extended edition available for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Rupert Thomson is the author of thirteen highly acclaimed novels and an award winning memoir. He has spent timing living all around the world and his latest novel, Barcelona Dreaming, comes from the six years he spent living in the Spanish city. He talks to Robin and Josie about the book, the city and what it's like finding out one of your novels was on David Bowie's 100 Greatest Books of All Time List. As ever, extended edition available for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Professor Karl Deisseroth is an emergency psychiatry physician. He's been responsible for some breakthrough scientific discoveries in optogenetics in which he developed ways to allow turning specific brain cells on or off, with light. This week he joins Robin to talk about that process and his new book on mental health and human empathy, Connections. Please note due to a couple of technical hitches, and last minute schedule changes, this week's episode is a little shorter than normal and Josie was unable to join us. Back to normal next week! Support the podcast and get all sorts of bonus goodies at patreon.com/bookshambles
Professor Karl Deisseroth is an emergency psychiatry physician. He's been responsible for some breakthrough scientific discoveries in optogenetics in which he developed ways to allow turning specific brain cells on or off, with light. This week he joins Robin to talk about that process and his new book on mental health and human empathy, Connections. Please note due to a couple of technical hitches, and last minute schedule changes, this week's episode is a little shorter than normal and Josie was unable to join us. Back to normal next week! Support the podcast and get all sorts of bonus goodies at patreon.com/bookshambles
John Robb is a musician from bands like The Membranes but also one of the UK's most respected music journalists. This week he joins Robin and Josie to talk the re-release of his book Death to Trad Rock all about the explosion of the niche post-punk scene and why it never broke through into the mainstream. They also chat about the bands of today that reflect the bands of that period like Idles, music's influence on comedy and when John was the first person to interview Nirvana long before they were famous. To hear an extended edition of this, and all episodes, of Book Shambles subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
John Robb is a musician from bands like The Membranes but also one of the UK's most respected music journalists. This week he joins Robin and Josie to talk the re-release of his book Death to Trad Rock all about the explosion of the niche post-punk scene and why it never broke through into the mainstream. They also chat about the bands of today that reflect the bands of that period like Idles, music's influence on comedy and when John was the first person to interview Nirvana long before they were famous. To hear an extended edition of this, and all episodes, of Book Shambles subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Pragya Agarwal is a behavioural scientist who’s written a number of excellent books on the subject but her most recent book, (M)otherhood: On the choices of being a woman, is her most personal book yet as it examines how we as a society look at motherhood. She joins Robin and Josie this week to chat about the book, how each new book consumes her, childbirth, menopause and much more. As ever, Patreon supporters get an extended edition which this week includes tales of Robin’s self isolation and a particularly memorable evening at the Fringe… Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Pragya Agarwal is a behavioural scientist who’s written a number of excellent books on the subject but her most recent book, (M)otherhood: On the choices of being a woman, is her most personal book yet as it examines how we as a society look at motherhood. She joins Robin and Josie this week to chat about the book, how each new book consumes her, childbirth, menopause and much more. As ever, Patreon supporters get an extended edition which this week includes tales of Robin’s self isolation and a particularly memorable evening at the Fringe… Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded live online as part of the More Than Words Literary Festival, Robin and Josie are joined by comedian and writer Michael Spicer who you probably best know as the 'Room Next Door' guy. They chat about his recently released first book, The Secret Political Advisor, creating comedy during the pandemic, the state of satire and a whole lot more. To hear an extended version you an subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded live online as part of the More Than Words Literary Festival, Robin and Josie are joined by comedian and writer Michael Spicer who you probably best know as the 'Room Next Door' guy. They chat about his recently released first book, The Secret Political Advisor, creating comedy during the pandemic, the state of satire and a whole lot more. To hear an extended version you an subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Comedian, actor, writer and podcaster Jessie Cave joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her debut novel Sunset which is out now. They talk about why she chose to write about grief, hating being on stage, working with her family and worrying that whatever the book ended up being it'd just be labelled as 'Harry Potter chick lit'. A warning as well that this episode contains some talk about sexual assault and death that may be upsetting for some listeners. Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear an extra 10 minutes of conversation.
Comedian, actor, writer and podcaster Jessie Cave joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her debut novel Sunset which is out now. They talk about why she chose to write about grief, hating being on stage, working with her family and worrying that whatever the book ended up being it'd just be labelled as 'Harry Potter chick lit'. A warning as well that this episode contains some talk about sexual assault and death that may be upsetting for some listeners. Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear an extra 10 minutes of conversation.
Neuroscientist and best selling author Dean Burnett is a regular contributor to the Cosmic Shambles Network and this week he returns to the Book Shambles podcast to chat to Robin and Josie about his latest book Psycho-Logical, the problems surrounding mental health care in the UK, dealing with grief in the pandemic and some of the continuing misconceptions of mental health issues. On the extended Patreon edition you can hear a long discussion about Section 28 and also Josie's laptop dies... Subscribe and support at patreon.com/bookshambles
Neuroscientist and best selling author Dean Burnett is a regular contributor to the Cosmic Shambles Network and this week he returns to the Book Shambles podcast to chat to Robin and Josie about his latest book Psycho-Logical, the problems surrounding mental health care in the UK, dealing with grief in the pandemic and some of the continuing misconceptions of mental health issues. On the extended Patreon edition you can hear a long discussion about Section 28 and also Josie's laptop dies... Subscribe and support at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Josie and Robin chat to the writer Lauren Oyler. A prolific writer of articles for publications like Harper's and the New Yorker, as well as having ghostwritten for many people, her first novel is Fake Accounts about a a woman who discovers her boyfriend is an anonymous internet conspiracy theorist. They chat about the challenges of writing a novel instead of feature articles, the problems with social media in 2021, favourite novels and, of course, lots of other stuff. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Josie and Robin chat to the writer Lauren Oyler. A prolific writer of articles for publications like Harper's and the New Yorker, as well as having ghostwritten for many people, her first novel is Fake Accounts about a a woman who discovers her boyfriend is an anonymous internet conspiracy theorist. They chat about the challenges of writing a novel instead of feature articles, the problems with social media in 2021, favourite novels and, of course, lots of other stuff. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Geoff Dyer returns to the podcast to talk to Robin and Josie (who is late arriving because her daughter broke the TV...) about his new book See/Saw: Looking at Photographs, which is out now. They talk about photography, favourite photographers, writing about niche topics for a wide audience and humour in photography. To hear an extended edition of this episode with 15 bonus minutes subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Geoff Dyer returns to the podcast to talk to Robin and Josie (who is late arriving because her daughter broke the TV...) about his new book See/Saw: Looking at Photographs, which is out now. They talk about photography, favourite photographers, writing about niche topics for a wide audience and humour in photography. To hear an extended edition of this episode with 15 bonus minutes subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Robin and Josie are joined by Annie Macmanus (who you may better know as Annie Mac from Radio1) to talk about her debut novel Mother Mother. They chat about her fears of moving into an entirely different creative arena, how the literary and music worlds compare and creating playlists for books. Bonus chat as always for Patreon supporters. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Robin and Josie are joined by Annie Macmanus (who you may better know as Annie Mac from Radio1) to talk about her debut novel Mother Mother. They chat about her fears of moving into an entirely different creative arena, how the literary and music worlds compare and creating playlists for books. Bonus chat as always for Patreon supporters. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Musa Okwonga is a writer, poet, podcaster and author about everything from politics to football. His new book is a memoir titled One of Them, about his time at Eton college as a young black man and delves into the effect these sorts of institutions have had on Britain's political life. He talks to Robin and Josie about why he had to write the book, what his school friends from the time think about it, and Eton, now and where Britain is headed. Support the show on Patreon for all sort of extras and bonus content including extended episodes. An extra 20 minutes of conversation for Patreon supporters awaits you on this episode. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Musa Okwonga is a writer, poet, podcaster and author about everything from politics to football. His new book is a memoir titled One of Them, about his time at Eton college as a young black man and delves into the effect these sorts of institutions have had on Britain's political life. He talks to Robin and Josie about why he had to write the book, what his school friends from the time think about it, and Eton, now and where Britain is headed. Support the show on Patreon for all sort of extras and bonus content including extended episodes. An extra 20 minutes of conversation for Patreon supporters awaits you on this episode. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin and Josie are joined by author Yasmin Khan to talk about her knew book Ripe Figs which is part cookbook, part travel book that traces recipes from the Mediterranean from the time of Ottoman rule to the influence of recent refugee communities. They chat about the inspiration for the book, favourite recipes, first cookbooks, best cookbooks and the best food from around the world. To hear more chat, subscribe to the extended version on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin and Josie are joined by author Yasmin Khan to talk about her knew book Ripe Figs which is part cookbook, part travel book that traces recipes from the Mediterranean from the time of Ottoman rule to the influence of recent refugee communities. They chat about the inspiration for the book, favourite recipes, first cookbooks, best cookbooks and the best food from around the world. To hear more chat, subscribe to the extended version on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Comedian and Bake Off host Tom Allen joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his memoir No Shame, which is out now. They chat of growing up in the suburbs, doing Julie Andrews numbers at high school plays and early comedy gigs in New Cross. They also discuss in detail how many celebrities admit to soiling themselves in their autobiographies... To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles. 15 extra minutes of chat and chaos this week including in depth analysis of The Glades shopping centre in Bromley.
Comedian and Bake Off host Tom Allen joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his memoir No Shame, which is out now. They chat of growing up in the suburbs, doing Julie Andrews numbers at high school plays and early comedy gigs in New Cross. They also discuss in detail how many celebrities admit to soiling themselves in their autobiographies... To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles. 15 extra minutes of chat and chaos this week including in depth analysis of The Glades shopping centre in Bromley.
Two guests on this week's episode. Firstly Robin chats to A.L. Kennedy who returns to the podcast to chat about her new collection of short stories We Are Attempting to Survive Our Time and why she finds writing short stories a different, and sometimes harder, challenge than writing a novel. And then in the second half of the episode Josie talks to philosopher and author Tom Whyman about his book Infinitely Full of Hope: Fatherhood and the Future in an Age of Crisis and Disaster. They chat about how the book was written pre-COVID and how being full of hope now is still possible, if more of a challenge! To hear the full versions of both of these chats subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Two guests on this week's episode. Firstly Robin chats to A.L. Kennedy who returns to the podcast to chat about her new collection of short stories We Are Attempting to Survive Our Time and why she finds writing short stories a different, and sometimes harder, challenge than writing a novel. And then in the second half of the episode Josie talks to philosopher and author Tom Whyman about his book Infinitely Full of Hope: Fatherhood and the Future in an Age of Crisis and Disaster. They chat about how the book was written pre-COVID and how being full of hope now is still possible, if more of a challenge! To hear the full versions of both of these chats subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie are joined by author Douglas Stuart, winner of the 2020 Booker Prize for his debut novel Shuggie Bain ahead of it's release in paperback. They chat about the book's decade long gestation, growing up in Glasgow under Thatcher and the importance of getting more working class stories into popular fiction. As always, an extended version of this episode is available for Patreon supporters. This week Douglas welcomes Josie to Glasgow and Robin delights in the art and music that's come out of the Scottish city. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles Using books as a jumping off point, each week award winning comedians and bibliophiles Josie Long and Robin Ince and a special guest dive into interesting, passionate and shambolic discussions.
Robin and Josie are joined by author Douglas Stuart, winner of the 2020 Booker Prize for his debut novel Shuggie Bain ahead of it's release in paperback. They chat about the book's decade long gestation, growing up in Glasgow under Thatcher and the importance of getting more working class stories into popular fiction. As always, an extended version of this episode is available for Patreon supporters. This week Douglas welcomes Josie to Glasgow and Robin delights in the art and music that's come out of the Scottish city. Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles Using books as a jumping off point, each week award winning comedians and bibliophiles Josie Long and Robin Ince and a special guest dive into interesting, passionate and shambolic discussions.
On today's episode Josie and Robin are joined by the actor, comedian and writer Katy Wix to talk about her new book, Delicacy: A Memoir about Cake and Death. They chat about the book, stories of the Fringe, jugglers who can't juggle and then, eventually, Josie just can't keep her love of Stath Lets Flats in any longer... To hear a super bumper edition with 25 minutes of extra chat, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
On today's episode Josie and Robin are joined by the actor, comedian and writer Katy Wix to talk about her new book, Delicacy: A Memoir about Cake and Death. They chat about the book, stories of the Fringe, jugglers who can't juggle and then, eventually, Josie just can't keep her love of Stath Lets Flats in any longer... To hear a super bumper edition with 25 minutes of extra chat, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
Two science authors on the show today, both with new books that look at different ways of what makes us human. First up it's Shambles regular, Ginny Smith chatting to Robin and Josie about her new book Overloaded: How Every Aspect of Your Life is Influenced by Your Brain Chemicals, which is out today! And then they chat with Melanie Challenger about her new release, How to Be Animal: A New History of What It Means to Be Human. Book Shambles Patreon supporters can listen to longer interviews with each author. Over 40 minutes of bonus content for you this week. You can sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Two science authors on the show today, both with new books that look at different ways of what makes us human. First up it's Shambles regular, Ginny Smith chatting to Robin and Josie about her new book Overloaded: How Every Aspect of Your Life is Influenced by Your Brain Chemicals, which is out today! And then they chat with Melanie Challenger about her new release, How to Be Animal: A New History of What It Means to Be Human. Book Shambles Patreon supporters can listen to longer interviews with each author. Over 40 minutes of bonus content for you this week. You can sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's Book Shambles is a cross over event. Physicist, and one of the world's biggest selling science authors, Carlo Rovelli has a new book out today, Helgoland. He joined Robin for a conversation for our Patreon exclusive series Tips for Existence but we're making some of that conversation around the book available for free here on Book Shambles. To hear the full Tips for Existence episode, which is 40 minutes longer, you can sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles Other guests in that series include Neil Gaiman, Tim Minchin, Ann Druyan and Brian Greene.
This week's Book Shambles is a cross over event. Physicist, and one of the world's biggest selling science authors, Carlo Rovelli has a new book out today, Helgoland. He joined Robin for a conversation for our Patreon exclusive series Tips for Existence but we're making some of that conversation around the book available for free here on Book Shambles. To hear the full Tips for Existence episode, which is 40 minutes longer, you can sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles Other guests in that series include Neil Gaiman, Tim Minchin, Ann Druyan and Brian Greene.
It's a double header this week! First up Robin and Josie chat with journalist Ben Machell about his book, The Unusual Suspect: The Rise and Fall of a Modern-Day Outlaw and then in the second part Robin chats to Booker Prize shortlisted author of The Shadow King, Maaza Mengiste. If you'd like to hear the full versions of both of these interviews, you can subscribe to the podcast's Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's a double header this week! First up Robin and Josie chat with journalist Ben Machell about his book, The Unusual Suspect: The Rise and Fall of a Modern-Day Outlaw and then in the second part Robin chats to Booker Prize shortlisted author of The Shadow King, Maaza Mengiste. If you'd like to hear the full versions of both of these interviews, you can subscribe to the podcast's Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Journalist Nell Frizzell's new book is The Panic Years: Dates, Doubts, and the Mother of All Decisions and it spoke so strongly to Josie that she provided one of the cover quotes so it only makes sense she join her and Robin on the podcast. They chat about the book, motherhood, some of Nell's favourite books about parenting, vegetable growing and much more. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles. 20 minutes extra this week.
Journalist Nell Frizzell's new book is The Panic Years: Dates, Doubts, and the Mother of All Decisions and it spoke so strongly to Josie that she provided one of the cover quotes so it only makes sense she join her and Robin on the podcast. They chat about the book, motherhood, some of Nell's favourite books about parenting, vegetable growing and much more. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles. 20 minutes extra this week.
On today's episode, Josie couldn't make the recording and so Robin is joined by a guest co-host, the brilliant Natalie Haynes. They chat to Mark Steel about a new book of collected writings and musings of the late Jeremy Hardy, Speaks Volumes, for which Mark wrote the introduction. They chat about the difference between a comedian and a comic, favourite stories in the book and why it's high time we called a canoe a canoe... To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles where there's a whole bonus twenty minutes this week.
On today's episode, Josie couldn't make the recording and so Robin is joined by a guest co-host, the brilliant Natalie Haynes. They chat to Mark Steel about a new book of collected writings and musings of the late Jeremy Hardy, Speaks Volumes, for which Mark wrote the introduction. They chat about the difference between a comedian and a comic, favourite stories in the book and why it's high time we called a canoe a canoe... To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles where there's a whole bonus twenty minutes this week.
Salena Godden was one of our very first guests on Book Shambles six years ago and now she's back to talk about her debut novel, the hugely acclaimed Mrs Death Misses Death. She chats to Josie and Robin about the book, discovering female authors in her thirties and the process of writing while walking. Support the show on Patreon to get extended editions each and every week. You can do that at patreon.com/bookshambles The extended edition this week includes the potential of cannibal marshmallows covered in death magic...
Salena Godden was one of our very first guests on Book Shambles six years ago and now she's back to talk about her debut novel, the hugely acclaimed Mrs Death Misses Death. She chats to Josie and Robin about the book, discovering female authors in her thirties and the process of writing while walking. Support the show on Patreon to get extended editions each and every week. You can do that at patreon.com/bookshambles The extended edition this week includes the potential of cannibal marshmallows covered in death magic...
This week Robin and Josie are joined by the multi-award winning, and Booker Prize long-listed, Irish novelist and short stories writer Kevin Barry. They chat about his latest collection of short stories, That Old Country Music, the grumpiness of Dennis Potter, a hatred of the first draft and the appeal of living by a swamp. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin and Josie are joined by the multi-award winning, and Booker Prize long-listed, Irish novelist and short stories writer Kevin Barry. They chat about his latest collection of short stories, That Old Country Music, the grumpiness of Dennis Potter, a hatred of the first draft and the appeal of living by a swamp. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Marian Keyes is one of the most successful Irish writers of all time with her novels having sold over 30 million copies and been translated into 33 languages. With her most recent novel, the Sunday Times #1 bestseller Grown Ups, just landing in paperback she joined Josie and Robin to talk about the book, her writing process, dealing with important issues in 'genre fiction' and much more. As always, you can hear an extended edition of this episode by subscribing to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Marian Keyes is one of the most successful Irish writers of all time with her novels having sold over 30 million copies and been translated into 33 languages. With her most recent novel, the Sunday Times #1 bestseller Grown Ups, just landing in paperback she joined Josie and Robin to talk about the book, her writing process, dealing with important issues in 'genre fiction' and much more. As always, you can hear an extended edition of this episode by subscribing to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
You've probably heard us talking about our new audio documentary series An Uncanny Hour on Book Shambles recently. Well we've just finished season one of the show, which features six one hour documentaries on everything from Hawkwind to David Cronenburg. We speak to authors, performers and scientists such as Stewart Lee, Reece Shearsmith and Kier-La Janisse about the weird and the uncanny corners of culture. We thought we'd provide Book Shambles listeners with a 30 minute anthology collection of the first season this week. You can listen to the entire thing by becoming a Patreon supporter of Book Shambles and/or The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles and patreon.com/cosmicshambles
You've probably heard us talking about our new audio documentary series An Uncanny Hour on Book Shambles recently. Well we've just finished season one of the show, which features six one hour documentaries on everything from Hawkwind to David Cronenburg. We speak to authors, performers and scientists such as Stewart Lee, Reece Shearsmith and Kier-La Janisse about the weird and the uncanny corners of culture. We thought we'd provide Book Shambles listeners with a 30 minute anthology collection of the first season this week. You can listen to the entire thing by becoming a Patreon supporter of Book Shambles and/or The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles and patreon.com/cosmicshambles
Author Nikesh Shukla returns to the podcast this week to chat to Robin and Josie about his new memoir, Brown Baby. They chat about the importance of humour in non-fiction, the idea of writing a memoir to his children and the amusement derived from dropping Marvel Easter Eggs into the book. They also cover parenting, the pointlessness of Twitter arguments and Nikesh's daughter's desire for the episode to be over so they can have lunch. To hear an extended edition of this episode in which Nikesh recounts the time he had lunch with George Saunders, subscribe to Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author Nikesh Shukla returns to the podcast this week to chat to Robin and Josie about his new memoir, Brown Baby. They chat about the importance of humour in non-fiction, the idea of writing a memoir to his children and the amusement derived from dropping Marvel Easter Eggs into the book. They also cover parenting, the pointlessness of Twitter arguments and Nikesh's daughter's desire for the episode to be over so they can have lunch. To hear an extended edition of this episode in which Nikesh recounts the time he had lunch with George Saunders, subscribe to Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Alexi Pappas is an author, actor, screenwriter and Olympian to boot. You might have recently seen her in the film Olympic Dreams, alongside Nick Kroll, with whom she also co-wrote it. She competed in track and field for Greece in the 2016 Olympics and has just released her brilliant memoir Bravey, in which she talks about her life, drive and battles with depression. She joins Robin and Josie from the US to chat about the book, getting Maya Rudolph to write the foreword, juggling improv classes and Olympic training and a whole lot more. To hear an extended edition of this episode, as with all episodes, you can pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
Alexi Pappas is an author, actor, screenwriter and Olympian to boot. You might have recently seen her in the film Olympic Dreams, alongside Nick Kroll, with whom she also co-wrote it. She competed in track and field for Greece in the 2016 Olympics and has just released her brilliant memoir Bravey, in which she talks about her life, drive and battles with depression. She joins Robin and Josie from the US to chat about the book, getting Maya Rudolph to write the foreword, juggling improv classes and Olympic training and a whole lot more. To hear an extended edition of this episode, as with all episodes, you can pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin has often mentioned how much he enjoyed Cosey Fanni Tutti's book Art Sex Music so it was only right we finally get her on the show. She joins Robin and Josie to talk about Hull, the counter culture, finding your own path in art and feminism in the 70s. Josie was having all myriad of technical difficulties during this recording so please bear with her! And also please note that there is some discussion about the 'scene' in the 60s and 70s that people may find upsetting. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin has often mentioned how much he enjoyed Cosey Fanni Tutti's book Art Sex Music so it was only right we finally get her on the show. She joins Robin and Josie to talk about Hull, the counter culture, finding your own path in art and feminism in the 70s. Josie was having all myriad of technical difficulties during this recording so please bear with her! And also please note that there is some discussion about the 'scene' in the 60s and 70s that people may find upsetting. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
For our first proper episode of 2021 Josie and Robin are joined by comedian and broadcaster Alan Davies, who is also the author of the new acclaimed memoir, Just Ignore Him. They chat about the process of writing the book, dealing with the past, separating the art from the artist and a whole lot more. Please note that this episode does contain discussion around the subject of abuse. To hear an extended edition of this episode support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Supporters receive an extra 15 minutes of chat this week in which Alan awards Josie with the best joke of 2020
For our first proper episode of 2021 Josie and Robin are joined by comedian and broadcaster Alan Davies, who is also the author of the new acclaimed memoir, Just Ignore Him. They chat about the process of writing the book, dealing with the past, separating the art from the artist and a whole lot more. Please note that this episode does contain discussion around the subject of abuse. To hear an extended edition of this episode support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Supporters receive an extra 15 minutes of chat this week in which Alan awards Josie with the best joke of 2020
In our first episode of 2021, Robin and Josie look back on the best things they read in 2020. Most are books that came out last year, but a few aren't, don't hold it against us. From poetry to science to horror, there's something in this long list of recommendations for everyone! Support the show, and hear extended episodes, by signing up at patreon.com/bookshambles
In our first episode of 2021, Robin and Josie look back on the best things they read in 2020. Most are books that came out last year, but a few aren't, don't hold it against us. From poetry to science to horror, there's something in this long list of recommendations for everyone! Support the show, and hear extended episodes, by signing up at patreon.com/bookshambles
In a somewhat Christmas themed episode Robin is joined by the philosopher Julian Baggini and the former Dean of Guilford to talk about Julian's new book, The Godless Gospel. They chat about the main question of Julian's book, if we take the 'magical' elements out of The Bible, was Jesus a good moral teacher? They also talk about the philosophy of Jesus, the role of, and failures of, religion today, the writing of Richard Holloway and why the resurrection isn't very good narratively. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
In a somewhat Christmas themed episode Robin is joined by the philosopher Julian Baggini and the former Dean of Guilford to talk about Julian's new book, The Godless Gospel. They chat about the main question of Julian's book, if we take the 'magical' elements out of The Bible, was Jesus a good moral teacher? They also talk about the philosophy of Jesus, the role of, and failures of, religion today, the writing of Richard Holloway and why the resurrection isn't very good narratively. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Jenny Landreth returns to the podcast this week to speak to Josie about her new book Breaking a Leg. They chat about the wonderful world of am-dram, the negative connotations of the word 'amateur' and how Jenny single handedly invented cold water swimming. For reading lists, past episodes etc head to cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles and support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Jenny Landreth returns to the podcast this week to speak to Josie about her new book Breaking a Leg. They chat about the wonderful world of am-dram, the negative connotations of the word 'amateur' and how Jenny single handedly invented cold water swimming. For reading lists, past episodes etc head to cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles and support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Today Robin is joined by author and journalist Susannah Cahalan. Her first book, Brain on Fire, was a smash hit memoir about contracting a rare auto-immune disease, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis that was turned into a film of the same name with Chloë Grace Moretz playing the role of Susannah. Her new book is The Great Pretender in which she investigates the work of prominent psychologist David Rosenhan and how is famed experiments may not hold up to scrutiny. Note: This was recorded on the same day as last week's episode when Josie was indisposed. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Today Robin is joined by author and journalist Susannah Cahalan. Her first book, Brain on Fire, was a smash hit memoir about contracting a rare auto-immune disease, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis that was turned into a film of the same name with Chloë Grace Moretz playing the role of Susannah. Her new book is The Great Pretender in which she investigates the work of prominent psychologist David Rosenhan and how is famed experiments may not hold up to scrutiny. Note: This was recorded on the same day as last week's episode when Josie was indisposed. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
When we said Hallie Rubenhold was going to be a guest on the show we were flooded with comments from people saying The Five, her 2019 book about the lives of the women murdered by Jack the Ripper, was one of their favourite books of the last few years. They're not alone as it was shortlisted for the Wolfson History Prize and won the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-fiction. Robin chats to Hallie about that book, the reaction to it a year on, and what she's working on now. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
When we said Hallie Rubenhold was going to be a guest on the show we were flooded with comments from people saying The Five, her 2019 book about the lives of the women murdered by Jack the Ripper, was one of their favourite books of the last few years. They're not alone as it was shortlisted for the Wolfson History Prize and won the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-fiction. Robin chats to Hallie about that book, the reaction to it a year on, and what she's working on now. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Janna Levin is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Columbia University and a world leading researcher on our understanding of black holes. Her new book, Black Hole Survival Guide, is out this week and she joined us from the US to chat about it. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Janna Levin is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Columbia University and a world leading researcher on our understanding of black holes. Her new book, Black Hole Survival Guide, is out this week and she joined us from the US to chat about it. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
A little while ago we did a Book Shambles Livestream as part of the Royal Albert Home series and now, here it is, in podcast form. Robin and Josie co-host with Science Shambles co-host Helen Czerski and they are joined by astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti to chat about her new book, Diary of an Apprentice Astronaut, as well as musician Tanita Tikaram whose music was taken to space by a number of astronauts, including Samantha. As this was a livestream recording there may be the odd tech glitch not present in a normal episode. Support the podcast by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles Donate to the Royal Albert Hall at royalalberthall.com/donate
A little while ago we did a Book Shambles Livestream as part of the Royal Albert Home series and now, here it is, in podcast form. Robin and Josie co-host with Science Shambles co-host Helen Czerski and they are joined by astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti to chat about her new book, Diary of an Apprentice Astronaut, as well as musician Tanita Tikaram whose music was taken to space by a number of astronauts, including Samantha. As this was a livestream recording there may be the odd tech glitch not present in a normal episode. Support the podcast by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles Donate to the Royal Albert Hall at royalalberthall.com/donate
This week Robin is joined by physician and author Gavin Francis to talk about his obsession with islands, and his new book on the subject Island Dreams. They talk about the psychology and philosophy beyond humans connections to islands and when moving to an island can become more of a nightmare than a dream. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by physician and author Gavin Francis to talk about his obsession with islands, and his new book on the subject Island Dreams. They talk about the psychology and philosophy beyond humans connections to islands and when moving to an island can become more of a nightmare than a dream. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Hugh Warwick is an ecologist and nature writer who is very much the 'The Hedgehog Guy'. He joins Robin and Josie on this episode to talk about everything to do with hedgehogs and his new book, The Hedgehog Book. They also talk about the perils of sniffing otter poo, why we should be feeding frozen peas to ducks and what to do with an injured glis glis. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
Hugh Warwick is an ecologist and nature writer who is very much the 'The Hedgehog Guy'. He joins Robin and Josie on this episode to talk about everything to do with hedgehogs and his new book, The Hedgehog Book. They also talk about the perils of sniffing otter poo, why we should be feeding frozen peas to ducks and what to do with an injured glis glis. To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by psychologist Dr Stuart Ritchie to talk about his latest book Science Fictions: Exposing Fraud, Bias, Negligence and Hype in Science. They talk about how we can better communicate the process of science and be aware of any bias within it, what scientists themselves can do better when it comes to publicising their findings and how we need to be better and quickly calling out bad science. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by psychologist Dr Stuart Ritchie to talk about his latest book Science Fictions: Exposing Fraud, Bias, Negligence and Hype in Science. They talk about how we can better communicate the process of science and be aware of any bias within it, what scientists themselves can do better when it comes to publicising their findings and how we need to be better and quickly calling out bad science. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On so many previous episodes of Book Shambles guests have talked about how much they love the writing of Kit de Waal and so on this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by Kit herself to talk about her new book Supporting Cast. Well, that was the plan but they barely great round to it and spend most of the time talking about classic films, Trevor Howard, struggling at school and then, eventually, her wonderful new book. By the way, if you’re listening to this episode and wonder where Josie is at the start, she was running a bit late (it's explained) but joins Robin about 8 minutes in! To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
On so many previous episodes of Book Shambles guests have talked about how much they love the writing of Kit de Waal and so on this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by Kit herself to talk about her new book Supporting Cast. Well, that was the plan but they barely great round to it and spend most of the time talking about classic films, Trevor Howard, struggling at school and then, eventually, her wonderful new book. By the way, if you’re listening to this episode and wonder where Josie is at the start, she was running a bit late (it's explained) but joins Robin about 8 minutes in! To hear an extended edition of this episode subscribe to Patreon on patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode Robin chats with the author of the 2020 Royal Society Science Book Prize shortlisted Explaining Humans - What Science Can Teach Us about Life, Love and Relationships, Dr Camilla Pang. They talk about how using a set of scientific principles can provide a useful way through life and interaction for someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder like Camilla, reading Stephen Hawking as a child and how others with Autism Spectrum Disorders have found the book useful. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode Robin chats with the author of the 2020 Royal Society Science Book Prize shortlisted Explaining Humans - What Science Can Teach Us about Life, Love and Relationships, Dr Camilla Pang. They talk about how using a set of scientific principles can provide a useful way through life and interaction for someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder like Camilla, reading Stephen Hawking as a child and how others with Autism Spectrum Disorders have found the book useful. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Professor Alice Roberts returns to Book Shambles and she's brought along her co-author and editor of the new book, The Little Book of Humanism, Andrew Copson. They talk about what exactly humanism is, how they came to put together this new book and just how many Bertrand Russell quotes is too many... 15 bonus minutes of chat on the Patreon edition today including Robin dealing with a dog... Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
Professor Alice Roberts returns to Book Shambles and she's brought along her co-author and editor of the new book, The Little Book of Humanism, Andrew Copson. They talk about what exactly humanism is, how they came to put together this new book and just how many Bertrand Russell quotes is too many... 15 bonus minutes of chat on the Patreon edition today including Robin dealing with a dog... Subscribe at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's Science Book Shambles Robin is joined by astronaut Tim Peake to chat about his new autobiography Limitless. They chat about Tim's career leading up to his astronaut training including answering an ad that was basically, 'Wanna Be An Astronaut', breaking things and aviation failures. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's Science Book Shambles Robin is joined by astronaut Tim Peake to chat about his new autobiography Limitless. They chat about Tim's career leading up to his astronaut training including answering an ad that was basically, 'Wanna Be An Astronaut', breaking things and aviation failures. Extended conversation, and lots of other goodies, for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Mark Watson joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his new novel Contacts. They talk about the differences between writing a novel and a stand up show, trying to stay creative during a pandemic and how constantly being late for gigs means you end up being a lot fitter than you imagined. Also Robin makes Mark show off unread books from his shelf at random. This was a bumper episode so to hear a whole 20 extra minutes of chat, including what films are best to watch after emergency dental procedures, become a supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Mark Watson joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his new novel Contacts. They talk about the differences between writing a novel and a stand up show, trying to stay creative during a pandemic and how constantly being late for gigs means you end up being a lot fitter than you imagined. Also Robin makes Mark show off unread books from his shelf at random. This was a bumper episode so to hear a whole 20 extra minutes of chat, including what films are best to watch after emergency dental procedures, become a supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's Science Book Shambles Robin chats with one of the founding members of The Trowelblazers, Rebecca Wragg Sykes. Her new book, Kindred, takes one of the fullest looks yet about what we know, and don't know, about Neanderthals. Robin also learns how Neanderthals have become clickbait... Hear an extended edition of chat by pledging your support at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's Science Book Shambles Robin chats with one of the founding members of The Trowelblazers, Rebecca Wragg Sykes. Her new book, Kindred, takes one of the fullest looks yet about what we know, and don't know, about Neanderthals. Robin also learns how Neanderthals have become clickbait... Hear an extended edition of chat by pledging your support at patreon.com/bookshambles
Laura Bates returns to Book Shambles to talk to Robin and Josie about her new book Men Who Hate Women. They chat about the dark misogyny on the internet uncovered when writing the book, what to say at parties when someone makes an offensive joke and point out the book is called Men Who Hate Women, not All Men Hate Women. It's important to note that due to the content of Laura's book this episode does contain discussion about topics of abuse, sexual assault and other subject matters that may upset or cause triggering responses for some listeners. To hear 15 extra minutes of chat, including why Josie struggles with a particular Netflix show, become a supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Laura Bates returns to Book Shambles to talk to Robin and Josie about her new book Men Who Hate Women. They chat about the dark misogyny on the internet uncovered when writing the book, what to say at parties when someone makes an offensive joke and point out the book is called Men Who Hate Women, not All Men Hate Women. It's important to note that due to the content of Laura's book this episode does contain discussion about topics of abuse, sexual assault and other subject matters that may upset or cause triggering responses for some listeners. To hear 15 extra minutes of chat, including why Josie struggles with a particular Netflix show, become a supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin chats with journalist and author Jo Marchant, author of the new book The Human Cosmos. They talk about our changing relationship with the night sky as light pollution and such things change what we see when we look up. And they wander through cave paintings, lunar cycles and how science can give us a different perspective of being human. To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin chats with journalist and author Jo Marchant, author of the new book The Human Cosmos. They talk about our changing relationship with the night sky as light pollution and such things change what we see when we look up. And they wander through cave paintings, lunar cycles and how science can give us a different perspective of being human. To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
A Shambles regular, Natalie Haynes, joins Robin and Josie to chat about her brand new book Pandora’s Jar. They chat about the women of the classics, how Medusa is misrepresented, what’s right and wrong and The Clash of the Titans and writing an introduction after you’ve written the rest of the book. Robin, Josie and Natalie always embrace too many tangents and so to hear an extra 15 minutes of chat you can become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
A Shambles regular, Natalie Haynes, joins Robin and Josie to chat about her brand new book Pandora’s Jar. They chat about the women of the classics, how Medusa is misrepresented, what’s right and wrong and The Clash of the Titans and writing an introduction after you’ve written the rest of the book. Robin, Josie and Natalie always embrace too many tangents and so to hear an extra 15 minutes of chat you can become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode of Science Book Shambles Robin is joined by regular Book Shambles co-host Josie Long to chat with Dr Kat Arney about her new book Rebel Cell. They talk about cancer in dinosaurs, current cancer research and tales of Victorian chimney sweeps... To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode of Science Book Shambles Robin is joined by regular Book Shambles co-host Josie Long to chat with Dr Kat Arney about her new book Rebel Cell. They talk about cancer in dinosaurs, current cancer research and tales of Victorian chimney sweeps... To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
You may best know Ian for his live tweeting of the House of Commons or his podcast Remainiacs, but today he joins us to talk about his new book, How to Be A Liberal. He chats with Robin about the history of liberalism, where it's gone wrong and right and what the hell we do about the absolute chaos of the world right now. Be sure to support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
You may best know Ian for his live tweeting of the House of Commons or his podcast Remainiacs, but today he joins us to talk about his new book, How to Be A Liberal. He chats with Robin about the history of liberalism, where it's gone wrong and right and what the hell we do about the absolute chaos of the world right now. Be sure to support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin Ince chats to Nobel Prize winner Sir Paul Nurse about his thoughts on the UK's position on COVID-19, the possibility of life on Venus and his new book, What is Life? To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin Ince chats to Nobel Prize winner Sir Paul Nurse about his thoughts on the UK's position on COVID-19, the possibility of life on Venus and his new book, What is Life? To hear an extended version of this interview, subscribe to our Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's been almost three years since we had Tim Harford (BBC's More or Less) on the show so we're delighted to have him back in the virtual studio to talk about his new book How to Make the World Add Up. They chat about that, what got Tim interested in economics and statistics, how facts can be misused and then Tim blows Josie's mind with the real rules of Monopoly. Over 15 mins of extra chat for Patreon subscribers this episode. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's been almost three years since we had Tim Harford (BBC's More or Less) on the show so we're delighted to have him back in the virtual studio to talk about his new book How to Make the World Add Up. They chat about that, what got Tim interested in economics and statistics, how facts can be misused and then Tim blows Josie's mind with the real rules of Monopoly. Over 15 mins of extra chat for Patreon subscribers this episode. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
We've been trying to get Ruby Wax on Book Shambles for ages and it took a pandemic to get everyone's diaries to line up! Ruby joins Robin and Josie to talk about her new book, And Now for the Good News, as well as making positive change, why Robin is popular with turkeys, sniffing out companies BS when it comes to 'good deeds' and a whole lot more. Extended edition for Patreon subscribers as always. Enjoy around 15 percent more Ruby, Josie and Robin this week by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles
We've been trying to get Ruby Wax on Book Shambles for ages and it took a pandemic to get everyone's diaries to line up! Ruby joins Robin and Josie to talk about her new book, And Now for the Good News, as well as making positive change, why Robin is popular with turkeys, sniffing out companies BS when it comes to 'good deeds' and a whole lot more. Extended edition for Patreon subscribers as always. Enjoy around 15 percent more Ruby, Josie and Robin this week by subscribing at patreon.com/bookshambles
Matt Haig returns to Book Shambles as he sits atop the Sunday Times bestseller list with his new novel The Midnight Library. He chats to Robin about the book, favourite libraries, anxiety during a pandemic, David Cronenberg and much more. Extended edition for Patreon subscribers as always. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Matt Haig returns to Book Shambles as he sits atop the Sunday Times bestseller list with his new novel The Midnight Library. He chats to Robin about the book, favourite libraries, anxiety during a pandemic, David Cronenberg and much more. Extended edition for Patreon subscribers as always. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by bestselling author, neuroscientist and broadcaster David Eagleman to talk about his latest book Livewired - The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain. They chat about brain plasticity, why we don’t look for the rearview mirror when walking, the criminal brain, the power of suggestion within fiction and how David broke his hand the day before we recorded... As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by bestselling author, neuroscientist and broadcaster David Eagleman to talk about his latest book Livewired - The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain. They chat about brain plasticity, why we don’t look for the rearview mirror when walking, the criminal brain, the power of suggestion within fiction and how David broke his hand the day before we recorded... As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode Robin and Josie are joined by the poet Rachel Long whose debut book My Darling From the Lions has just been released. They chat about shifting from writing bad novels to good poetry, being expected to be an expert on your entire gender and race and discovering poetry on a park bench during a lunch break... Also Robin introduced Josie to some girl's ghost story annuals from the 70s. As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode Robin and Josie are joined by the poet Rachel Long whose debut book My Darling From the Lions has just been released. They chat about shifting from writing bad novels to good poetry, being expected to be an expert on your entire gender and race and discovering poetry on a park bench during a lunch break... Also Robin introduced Josie to some girl's ghost story annuals from the 70s. As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author of the New York Times bestseller The Vanishing Half joins Robin to talk about the book, the inspiration for its story and what it's like having a book crop up on countless 'anti-racist' reading lists. They also chat about James Baldwin, SE Hilton and mourn the loss of book talks and tours. Before Brit joins the show Robin and Josie catch up about current reading, old Marie Claire magazines and more. As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author of the New York Times bestseller The Vanishing Half joins Robin to talk about the book, the inspiration for its story and what it's like having a book crop up on countless 'anti-racist' reading lists. They also chat about James Baldwin, SE Hilton and mourn the loss of book talks and tours. Before Brit joins the show Robin and Josie catch up about current reading, old Marie Claire magazines and more. As always, extended edition for Patreon supporters. Sign up at patreon.com/bookshambles
The very last episode from the studio days back at the start of the year, Robin chats with Paul Tonkinson about his book 26.2 Miles to Happiness. That means they talk of Paul's love of running, Robin's hatred of running and favourite books about running... Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
The very last episode from the studio days back at the start of the year, Robin chats with Paul Tonkinson about his book 26.2 Miles to Happiness. That means they talk of Paul's love of running, Robin's hatred of running and favourite books about running... Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
Adam Kay's first book in 2017, This is Going to Hurt, was the bestselling non-fiction title of the decade in the UK and now he's edited an anthology of stories titled Dear NHS: 100 Stories to Say Thank You. He joins Robin and Josie to talk about the book, the incredible NHS compared to US healthcare, COVID, why children aren't learning enough about the body in education and the issues with having a famous patient. To hear a super extended edition of this week's episode, you can subscribe and support us at patreon.com/bookshambles Pledgers get an extra 30 mins of chat with Robin, Josie and Adam this week.
Adam Kay's first book in 2017, This is Going to Hurt, was the bestselling non-fiction title of the decade in the UK and now he's edited an anthology of stories titled Dear NHS: 100 Stories to Say Thank You. He joins Robin and Josie to talk about the book, the incredible NHS compared to US healthcare, COVID, why children aren't learning enough about the body in education and the issues with having a famous patient. To hear a super extended edition of this week's episode, you can subscribe and support us at patreon.com/bookshambles Pledgers get an extra 30 mins of chat with Robin, Josie and Adam this week.
Robin and Josie are joined by the 2019 Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo on this week's episode. They chat about her incredible prize winning novel Girl, Woman, Other, sharing a car ride from Latitude, why people are scared of poetry and the power of an increased platform. To hear an extended edition of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles you can become a Patreon subscriber by visiting patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie are joined by the 2019 Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo on this week's episode. They chat about her incredible prize winning novel Girl, Woman, Other, sharing a car ride from Latitude, why people are scared of poetry and the power of an increased platform. To hear an extended edition of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles you can become a Patreon subscriber by visiting patreon.com/bookshambles
After a couple of years, Richard Holloway, award winning author and former Bishop of Edinburgh, returns to Book Shambles, albeit remotely. He chats to Robin and Josie about his new book, The Stories We Tell Ourselves which looks at the power, both good and bad, of stories. They look at today's political landscape, grappling with our past and Josie is shocked to learn Richard's never read a Kurt Vonnegut novel. Get an extended version of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon subscriber at patreon.com/bookshambles
After a couple of years, Richard Holloway, award winning author and former Bishop of Edinburgh, returns to Book Shambles, albeit remotely. He chats to Robin and Josie about his new book, The Stories We Tell Ourselves which looks at the power, both good and bad, of stories. They look at today's political landscape, grappling with our past and Josie is shocked to learn Richard's never read a Kurt Vonnegut novel. Get an extended version of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon subscriber at patreon.com/bookshambles
Today Josie and Robin are joined by two brilliant authors, Curdella Forbes and Clare Mackintosh. First up they chat to Curdella about her new book, A Tall History of Sugar, and the blending of fact and fiction in that latest, acclaimed novel. In the second interview they are joined by multiple Sunday Times bestseller Clare Mackintosh and chat about the real life tragedy behind her latest novel After the End. To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content
Today Josie and Robin are joined by two brilliant authors, Curdella Forbes and Clare Mackintosh. First up they chat to Curdella about her new book, A Tall History of Sugar, and the blending of fact and fiction in that latest, acclaimed novel. In the second interview they are joined by multiple Sunday Times bestseller Clare Mackintosh and chat about the real life tragedy behind her latest novel After the End. To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content
Two guests on today's episode. Comedian and novelist Nick Revell joined Robin and Josie in the studio earlier this year to talk about how comedy has changed and reading for research for routines. Then in isolation Robin chats with Ian Stone about his new book To Be Someone about his relationship with The Jam and the violence of the 70s music scene. To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content.
Two guests on today's episode. Comedian and novelist Nick Revell joined Robin and Josie in the studio earlier this year to talk about how comedy has changed and reading for research for routines. Then in isolation Robin chats with Ian Stone about his new book To Be Someone about his relationship with The Jam and the violence of the 70s music scene. To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content.
On today's episode we have two guests whose books look at two different angles of human evolution. Dave Coplin's Rise of the Humans looks at our evolving and changing relationship with technology while Gaia Vince's Transcendence looks at human evolution as it relates to culture and the objects we create. They both chat to Robin and Josie about their books, the state of humans right now, and why Robin is bad at video games... To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content.
On today's episode we have two guests whose books look at two different angles of human evolution. Dave Coplin's Rise of the Humans looks at our evolving and changing relationship with technology while Gaia Vince's Transcendence looks at human evolution as it relates to culture and the objects we create. They both chat to Robin and Josie about their books, the state of humans right now, and why Robin is bad at video games... To hear the full version of both of these interviews, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles. Subscribers get extended versions of each and every episode. This week there's a bonus 45 mins of content.
On this week's episode Robin and Josie chat with author Dina Nayeri about her new book The Ungrateful Refugee in which she looks back at her journey from leaving Iran as an 8 year old and arriving in the United States as a refugee with her family. They talk about the refugee experience, finding creativity during lockdown, the power of short stories and the challenges of teaching children about difficult subjects. As always Book Shambles Patreon supporters get an extended edition of this week's episode plus, those at the behind the scenes tier, this week also get to watch the episode! Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's episode Robin and Josie chat with author Dina Nayeri about her new book The Ungrateful Refugee in which she looks back at her journey from leaving Iran as an 8 year old and arriving in the United States as a refugee with her family. They talk about the refugee experience, finding creativity during lockdown, the power of short stories and the challenges of teaching children about difficult subjects. As always Book Shambles Patreon supporters get an extended edition of this week's episode plus, those at the behind the scenes tier, this week also get to watch the episode! Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
On our first 'remotely recorded' episode of Book Shambles, Robin and Josie are joined by music icon Tori Amos. They chat about Tori's new book, Resistance and playing piano for the Speaker of the House, the current protests in America, being visited by the 'muses' and how Carl Sagan helped her write a song. Sort of... Extended edition, and all sorts of other bonus shows and the like, available as always for our Patreon supporters at patreon.com/bookshambles
On our first 'remotely recorded' episode of Book Shambles, Robin and Josie are joined by music icon Tori Amos. They chat about Tori's new book, Resistance and playing piano for the Speaker of the House, the current protests in America, being visited by the 'muses' and how Carl Sagan helped her write a song. Sort of... Extended edition, and all sorts of other bonus shows and the like, available as always for our Patreon supporters at patreon.com/bookshambles
Previous winner of the Costa Book of the Year prize Nathan Filer joins Robin Ince in a hotel room back in January to chat about his new book, This Book Will Change Your Mind About Mental Health. They talk about the inspiration behind the book and Nathan's time working as a psychiatric nurse and in mental health research. To hear an extended version of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Previous winner of the Costa Book of the Year prize Nathan Filer joins Robin Ince in a hotel room back in January to chat about his new book, This Book Will Change Your Mind About Mental Health. They talk about the inspiration behind the book and Nathan's time working as a psychiatric nurse and in mental health research. To hear an extended version of this, and every, episode of Book Shambles, become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Brian Greene is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at Columbia University and one of the best selling science authors of all time. His latest book, Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe, is a personal look at some of the fundamental questions of existence through the lens of physics. He chats to Robin about the book, why he became a vegetarian, and then vegan, at age 9, and whether alien lifeforms care about maths... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers.
Brian Greene is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at Columbia University and one of the best selling science authors of all time. His latest book, Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe, is a personal look at some of the fundamental questions of existence through the lens of physics. He chats to Robin about the book, why he became a vegetarian, and then vegan, at age 9, and whether alien lifeforms care about maths... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers.
Geneticist, author and broadcaster Dr Adam Rutherford returned to the Book Shambles studio just weeks before lockdown to talk about his latest book How to Argue with a Racist with Robin Ince. They chat about the history of race and racism, the science of race and whether race should be viewed as biological or social construct. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers. There's bonus tales of bears and otters for you this week...
Geneticist, author and broadcaster Dr Adam Rutherford returned to the Book Shambles studio just weeks before lockdown to talk about his latest book How to Argue with a Racist with Robin Ince. They chat about the history of race and racism, the science of race and whether race should be viewed as biological or social construct. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers. There's bonus tales of bears and otters for you this week...
Oliver Double is a comedian, lecturer and comedy historian and his latest book Alternative Comedy: 1979 and the Reinvention of British Stand-Up is the definitive guide to the legacy of Alternative Comedy in Britain. Oliver interviewed Robin and Josie for the book so it seemed only right Robin and Josie interview Oliver about the book. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers.
Oliver Double is a comedian, lecturer and comedy historian and his latest book Alternative Comedy: 1979 and the Reinvention of British Stand-Up is the definitive guide to the legacy of Alternative Comedy in Britain. Oliver interviewed Robin and Josie for the book so it seemed only right Robin and Josie interview Oliver about the book. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each episode exclusive to Patreon pledgers.
Young Adult author Lisa Williamson joined Robin Ince in the studio (earlier this year) to talk about her new book Paper Avalanche, smuggling copies of her sister's Jackie Collins books, tackling difficult issues in YA fiction and whether Shane Meadows should make a Midlands version of Sweet Valley High... Support the podcast and get all sorts of goodies for doing so, like extended episodes, at patreon.com/bookshambles
Young Adult author Lisa Williamson joined Robin Ince in the studio (earlier this year) to talk about her new book Paper Avalanche, smuggling copies of her sister's Jackie Collins books, tackling difficult issues in YA fiction and whether Shane Meadows should make a Midlands version of Sweet Valley High... Support the podcast and get all sorts of goodies for doing so, like extended episodes, at patreon.com/bookshambles
Another episode we recorded in the studio when such things were possible, Robin chats with Matthew Cobb, Professor of Zoology at the University of Manchester and author of the acclaimed new book The Idea of the Brain. They chat about Matthew's new book, free will and what it was like working with David Attenborough. Support the podcast and get extended editions of each and every episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
Another episode we recorded in the studio when such things were possible, Robin chats with Matthew Cobb, Professor of Zoology at the University of Manchester and author of the acclaimed new book The Idea of the Brain. They chat about Matthew's new book, free will and what it was like working with David Attenborough. Support the podcast and get extended editions of each and every episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded in the studio in the before times, Robin chats to epidemiologist, podcaster and author Dr Suzi Gage about her book, Say Why to Drugs. They chat about what is and isn't deemed a drug, shifting political opinions about drugs and the difficulties involved with researching drug use. Also Robin talks about the time he once took ecstasy on a canal boat. Support the show to get extended editions of episodes and other goodies at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded in the studio in the before times, Robin chats to epidemiologist, podcaster and author Dr Suzi Gage about her book, Say Why to Drugs. They chat about what is and isn't deemed a drug, shifting political opinions about drugs and the difficulties involved with researching drug use. Also Robin talks about the time he once took ecstasy on a canal boat. Support the show to get extended editions of episodes and other goodies at patreon.com/bookshambles
Back at the end of January, we recorded a live special as part of the Slapstick Festival in Bristol to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Goodies, and countdown the Top 5 episodes as voted by the public. We had planned to put the episode out this week as a fun pick me up in the middle of this lockdown, but then on the weekend we learned of the sad passing of Tim Brooke-Taylor. We had a debate about whether it was still right to put the episode out this week but have decided to do so as a tribute to Tim, and to remember what a wonderful, talented and energetic man he was, even just a few months ago, before COVID-19. We hope it is the right decision. So please enjoy this conversation between Robin Ince, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Bill Odie and Graeme Garden; The Goodies. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
Back at the end of January, we recorded a live special as part of the Slapstick Festival in Bristol to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Goodies, and countdown the Top 5 episodes as voted by the public. We had planned to put the episode out this week as a fun pick me up in the middle of this lockdown, but then on the weekend we learned of the sad passing of Tim Brooke-Taylor. We had a debate about whether it was still right to put the episode out this week but have decided to do so as a tribute to Tim, and to remember what a wonderful, talented and energetic man he was, even just a few months ago, before COVID-19. We hope it is the right decision. So please enjoy this conversation between Robin Ince, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Bill Odie and Graeme Garden; The Goodies. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
This episode of Book Shambles was recorded live as part of the Stay at Home Festival. Robin is joined by Dr Katie Mack to talk about her upcoming (albeit slightly pandemic delayed) book, The End of Everything. Then Lemn Sissay stops by to talk about creativity in a time of crisis as well as music from Laura Kidd. While The Stay at Home Festival is free to watch please do consider dropping a tip in the bucket at cosmicshambles.com/stayathome All profits will go to supporting acts, artists and venues who have lost all income during this pandemic. If you’d like to directly support what we do at the Cosmic Shambles Network visit patreon.com/bookshambles
This episode of Book Shambles was recorded live as part of the Stay at Home Festival. Robin is joined by Dr Katie Mack to talk about her upcoming (albeit slightly pandemic delayed) book, The End of Everything. Then Lemn Sissay stops by to talk about creativity in a time of crisis as well as music from Laura Kidd. While The Stay at Home Festival is free to watch please do consider dropping a tip in the bucket at cosmicshambles.com/stayathome All profits will go to supporting acts, artists and venues who have lost all income during this pandemic. If you’d like to directly support what we do at the Cosmic Shambles Network visit patreon.com/bookshambles
Our guest this week is the author and activist Sophie Walker. This was meant to be an episode with two guests but we didn't get a chance to record the second guest before the world went mad so here's our chat with Sophie in the meantime! She chats to Robin and Josie about her new book, Five Rules for Rebellion, amongst many other things. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles and check out our daily shows as part of The Stay at Home Festival, running until we're all allowed to do real gigs again, at cosmicshambles.com/stayathome
Our guest this week is the author and activist Sophie Walker. This was meant to be an episode with two guests but we didn't get a chance to record the second guest before the world went mad so here's our chat with Sophie in the meantime! She chats to Robin and Josie about her new book, Five Rules for Rebellion, amongst many other things. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles and check out our daily shows as part of The Stay at Home Festival, running until we're all allowed to do real gigs again, at cosmicshambles.com/stayathome
Tracey Thorn started out as one half of the chart topping group Everything But the Girl but is now a top selling critically acclaimed author. Her latest book, Another Planet is an exploration of growing up in suburbia. She joins Josie and Robin to talk about that, discovering new art before the internet, trying to look cool by what books you like, generational divide, Jack Reacher and Robin’s just watched Horse Girl on Netflix. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week including an in depth discussion of The Stranger adaptation on Netflix.
Tracey Thorn started out as one half of the chart topping group Everything But the Girl but is now a top selling critically acclaimed author. Her latest book, Another Planet is an exploration of growing up in suburbia. She joins Josie and Robin to talk about that, discovering new art before the internet, trying to look cool by what books you like, generational divide, Jack Reacher and Robin’s just watched Horse Girl on Netflix. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week including an in depth discussion of The Stranger adaptation on Netflix.
Another returning favourite previous guest this week as singer and songwriter David McAlmont joins Robin in the studio. They chat about David's new project looking at some specific works of James Baldwin, the difficulty of separating the artist from the art and a whole bunch more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Over 10 extra minutes of chat with David and Robin this week.
Another returning favourite previous guest this week as singer and songwriter David McAlmont joins Robin in the studio. They chat about David's new project looking at some specific works of James Baldwin, the difficulty of separating the artist from the art and a whole bunch more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Over 10 extra minutes of chat with David and Robin this week.
Claudia Hammond was on Book Shambles back in 2016 and now the host of the BBC's All in the Mind returns to talk to Robin about her new book The Art of Rest. They chat about how one of the most restful things you can do is, of course, read! They also chat about the evolving public perception of mental health, particularly in old mental health books as well as Little Women, Laura Dodsworth, Sally Rooney and much more! Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Claudia Hammond was on Book Shambles back in 2016 and now the host of the BBC's All in the Mind returns to talk to Robin about her new book The Art of Rest. They chat about how one of the most restful things you can do is, of course, read! They also chat about the evolving public perception of mental health, particularly in old mental health books as well as Little Women, Laura Dodsworth, Sally Rooney and much more! Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Konnie Huq was a much loved presenter of the children’s show Blue Peter for over a decade and now she’s written her first children’s book, Cookie. She joins Robin in studio to chat about that book, the books that got her hooked on reading as a kid, how we should be encouraging kids to read in school, fairy tales, National Geographic and much more. Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes each week. 10 bonus and exclusive minutes with Robin and Konnie this week.
Konnie Huq was a much loved presenter of the children’s show Blue Peter for over a decade and now she’s written her first children’s book, Cookie. She joins Robin in studio to chat about that book, the books that got her hooked on reading as a kid, how we should be encouraging kids to read in school, fairy tales, National Geographic and much more. Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes each week. 10 bonus and exclusive minutes with Robin and Konnie this week.
Recorded live at the Bristol Old Vic as part of the Slapstick Festival, Robin chats with Prof Sophie Ratcliffe and Joanna Neary about the work, and slapstick credentials, of PG Wodehouse. They chat about his letters (collected and edited in a volume by Sophie), turns of phrase and favourite Jeeves and Wooster moments. There's also chat of Joanna's character Celia, Sophie's new book about about life, death, love and trains, Mills and Boons and much more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Around 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week where you can find out why Raymond Chandler cost Robin a pub quiz victory...
Recorded live at the Bristol Old Vic as part of the Slapstick Festival, Robin chats with Prof Sophie Ratcliffe and Joanna Neary about the work, and slapstick credentials, of PG Wodehouse. They chat about his letters (collected and edited in a volume by Sophie), turns of phrase and favourite Jeeves and Wooster moments. There's also chat of Joanna's character Celia, Sophie's new book about about life, death, love and trains, Mills and Boons and much more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Around 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week where you can find out why Raymond Chandler cost Robin a pub quiz victory...
At this year's Slapstick Festival in Bristol, the Cosmic Shambles Network team were there across the festival recording all sorts of events we were taking part in for a special series of podcasts. In this first episode Robin chats with Stephen Merchant about the enduring legacy of Laurel and Hardy, their favourite Laurel and Hardy films and some fun stories from a Laurel and Hardy book Stephen got second hand. In the second segment, as part of a celebration of At Last the 1948 Show, Robin chats with Tim Brooke-Taylor about the show, working with Cleese and Chapman and especially Marty Feldman as Robin regales stories from Marty's recently found autobiography. Support the Cosmic Shambles Network on Patreon and get extended editions of each episode, including this one. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
At this year's Slapstick Festival in Bristol, the Cosmic Shambles Network team were there across the festival recording all sorts of events we were taking part in for a special series of podcasts. In this first episode Robin chats with Stephen Merchant about the enduring legacy of Laurel and Hardy, their favourite Laurel and Hardy films and some fun stories from a Laurel and Hardy book Stephen got second hand. In the second segment, as part of a celebration of At Last the 1948 Show, Robin chats with Tim Brooke-Taylor about the show, working with Cleese and Chapman and especially Marty Feldman as Robin regales stories from Marty's recently found autobiography. Support the Cosmic Shambles Network on Patreon and get extended editions of each episode, including this one. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
In a Shambles Extra, Robin chats to comedian, poet and activist Chris McGlade. Robin became interested in Chris' work after reading about it online, specifically his new show Forgiveness in which he talks about his father's murder and so Robin and he caught up. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
In a Shambles Extra, Robin chats to comedian, poet and activist Chris McGlade. Robin became interested in Chris' work after reading about it online, specifically his new show Forgiveness in which he talks about his father's murder and so Robin and he caught up. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
A Book Shambles / Film Shambles episode as author and film critic Mark Kermode joins Robin and Josie to talk his own books on films, great books about films and some of the best, and worst, film tie in novelisations. And Robin and Mark realise they are both huge fans of the same three obscure films. Patreon supporters get a very special bumper episode this week with almost an entire bonus half hour of film chat as Mark reveals regrettable reviews, Josie has it in for Raa Raa the Noisy Lion and lots more. You can become a Patreon supporter by going to patreon.com/bookshambles
A Book Shambles / Film Shambles episode as author and film critic Mark Kermode joins Robin and Josie to talk his own books on films, great books about films and some of the best, and worst, film tie in novelisations. And Robin and Mark realise they are both huge fans of the same three obscure films. Patreon supporters get a very special bumper episode this week with almost an entire bonus half hour of film chat as Mark reveals regrettable reviews, Josie has it in for Raa Raa the Noisy Lion and lots more. You can become a Patreon supporter by going to patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded live in Thirsk at the Podcast Social Festival, Robin is joined by Laura Kidd (who you might better know as She Makes War) and psychologist and author Charles Fernyhough. Using the book edited and by Charles, Others: Writers on the Power of Words To See Beyond Ourselves as a launching pad they chat about the nature of storytelling, the power of books and the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of 'others'. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Recorded live in Thirsk at the Podcast Social Festival, Robin is joined by Laura Kidd (who you might better know as She Makes War) and psychologist and author Charles Fernyhough. Using the book edited and by Charles, Others: Writers on the Power of Words To See Beyond Ourselves as a launching pad they chat about the nature of storytelling, the power of books and the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of 'others'. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Recorded live at the British Library as part of the Chortle Comedy Book Festival Robin chat to actor, comedian and broadcasting icon Les Dennis. They talk about his autobiography, Must the Show Go On and share tales of Little and Large, Tommy Cooper and their like as well as discuss favourite showbiz memoirs before Les and Josie swap stories from when they were both of Celebrity Masterchef. Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles. This week Patreon supporters get a bonus 15 minutes of conversation not on the public feed.
Recorded live at the British Library as part of the Chortle Comedy Book Festival Robin chat to actor, comedian and broadcasting icon Les Dennis. They talk about his autobiography, Must the Show Go On and share tales of Little and Large, Tommy Cooper and their like as well as discuss favourite showbiz memoirs before Les and Josie swap stories from when they were both of Celebrity Masterchef. Support the show by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles. This week Patreon supporters get a bonus 15 minutes of conversation not on the public feed.
This week's in studio guest is a regular at our live events and joins Robin and guest co-host Helen Czerski to chat about his new book, The Crowd and the Cosmos. Prof Chris Lintott is probably best known as the co-host of The Sky and Night and he chats with us about the Zooniverse Project, why we probably won't find aliens, citizen science and what he's been reading lately. Also Helen lets us know her badminton coach would be a good scientist. Support the podcast and get extended episodes by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's in studio guest is a regular at our live events and joins Robin and guest co-host Helen Czerski to chat about his new book, The Crowd and the Cosmos. Prof Chris Lintott is probably best known as the co-host of The Sky and Night and he chats with us about the Zooniverse Project, why we probably won't find aliens, citizen science and what he's been reading lately. Also Helen lets us know her badminton coach would be a good scientist. Support the podcast and get extended episodes by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by the author, journalist and activist Joan Smith, alongside guest co-host Bec Hill. They focus on Joan's new acclaimed book Home Grown: How Domestic Violence Turns Men Into Terrorists as well as touch on some of her previous work of both fiction and non fiction. Due to the subject nature of her most recent book please be aware this episode contains open discussion about domestic violence, sexual violence and terrorism. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week Robin is joined by the author, journalist and activist Joan Smith, alongside guest co-host Bec Hill. They focus on Joan's new acclaimed book Home Grown: How Domestic Violence Turns Men Into Terrorists as well as touch on some of her previous work of both fiction and non fiction. Due to the subject nature of her most recent book please be aware this episode contains open discussion about domestic violence, sexual violence and terrorism. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
In the first Book Shambles of 2020, Robin is joined by his Science Shambles co-host Helen Czerski to chat with comedian and author Russell Kane. They chat about Russell's new book Son of a Silverback, the reactions to it from other alpha-man silverbacks and children thereof, as well as Evelyn Waugh, personalising comedy, emotional equality, Michael Rosen and much more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week including a discussion about why Brian Cox doesn't like jokes about octopuses...
In the first Book Shambles of 2020, Robin is joined by his Science Shambles co-host Helen Czerski to chat with comedian and author Russell Kane. They chat about Russell's new book Son of a Silverback, the reactions to it from other alpha-man silverbacks and children thereof, as well as Evelyn Waugh, personalising comedy, emotional equality, Michael Rosen and much more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week including a discussion about why Brian Cox doesn't like jokes about octopuses...
It's our annual books of the year edition of Book Shambles recorded with various guests back stage at the Compendium and Nine Lessons shows. In this year's edition Robin chats to Josie Long, Michael Legge, Pete Etchells, Claudia Hammond, Gecko, Chris Lintott, Chris Hadfield, Jo Neary, Suzi Gage, Lucie Green, Ben Moor, Tim Peake, Lucy Rogers, Peter Buckley Hill, Melinda Burton and Trent Burton. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's our annual books of the year edition of Book Shambles recorded with various guests back stage at the Compendium and Nine Lessons shows. In this year's edition Robin chats to Josie Long, Michael Legge, Pete Etchells, Claudia Hammond, Gecko, Chris Lintott, Chris Hadfield, Jo Neary, Suzi Gage, Lucie Green, Ben Moor, Tim Peake, Lucy Rogers, Peter Buckley Hill, Melinda Burton and Trent Burton. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
It’s Christmas Eve, so that means ghost stories surely? Robin is joined, for a Book Shambles Extra, by Johnny Mains. Book Shambles listeners may best know Jonny as the co-editor of Dead Funny and Dead Funny Encore, but he’s also a horror historian and author. They chat about his lost collections of old ghost stories written by women, including the new anthology, Remember the Dead at Christmas, Johnny’s work in progress book on Freaks and the thrill of finding rare books in second hand book stores. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions and other goodies.
It’s Christmas Eve, so that means ghost stories surely? Robin is joined, for a Book Shambles Extra, by Johnny Mains. Book Shambles listeners may best know Jonny as the co-editor of Dead Funny and Dead Funny Encore, but he’s also a horror historian and author. They chat about his lost collections of old ghost stories written by women, including the new anthology, Remember the Dead at Christmas, Johnny’s work in progress book on Freaks and the thrill of finding rare books in second hand book stores. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions and other goodies.
Our comics experts, Nathaniel Metcalfe and Tom Oldham joined Robin for an update on what'd good in comics and offer some excellent Christmas gift ideas. They chat about new work from Lala Albert, Vic Pratt, Daniel Clowes, Martin Scorese's take on Marvel movies and also try to work out why people didn't like mother! when it's clearly an excellent film. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Our comics experts, Nathaniel Metcalfe and Tom Oldham joined Robin for an update on what'd good in comics and offer some excellent Christmas gift ideas. They chat about new work from Lala Albert, Vic Pratt, Daniel Clowes, Martin Scorese's take on Marvel movies and also try to work out why people didn't like mother! when it's clearly an excellent film. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Angela Saini's Superior: The Return of Race Science has featured in a lot of Books of the Year lists of late so we thought it high time we had Angela on the show to chat about it, and her other work. She chats with Robin about what she discovered in researching for the book, books that inspired her growing up and the advantages of having an engineer for a father. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions and other goodies.
Angela Saini's Superior: The Return of Race Science has featured in a lot of Books of the Year lists of late so we thought it high time we had Angela on the show to chat about it, and her other work. She chats with Robin about what she discovered in researching for the book, books that inspired her growing up and the advantages of having an engineer for a father. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions and other goodies.
Professor Jon Butterworth is a regular at many of our live shows and he's also written two top selling popular science books about physics, his latest, A Map of the Invisible, has recently come out in paperback. So he dropped by the studio to chat about it with Josie and Robin as well as climate change, where science meets politics, reading more fiction and Josie's update on Dark Matter. Support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/cosmicshambles
Professor Jon Butterworth is a regular at many of our live shows and he's also written two top selling popular science books about physics, his latest, A Map of the Invisible, has recently come out in paperback. So he dropped by the studio to chat about it with Josie and Robin as well as climate change, where science meets politics, reading more fiction and Josie's update on Dark Matter. Support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/cosmicshambles
Author Scarlett Thomas joins Robin and a returning Josie this week to chat about her new book Oligarchy. They look at the inspiration provided by boarding schools, the work of Elizabeth Taylor (not that one), Muriel Spark and Angela Carter. Also Robin and Josie both have a bit of a cold. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Author Scarlett Thomas joins Robin and a returning Josie this week to chat about her new book Oligarchy. They look at the inspiration provided by boarding schools, the work of Elizabeth Taylor (not that one), Muriel Spark and Angela Carter. Also Robin and Josie both have a bit of a cold. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Author John Higgs is in the studio this week with Robin and Bec to talk about all things William Blake, which makes sense being that John has just written a new essay on him for the Tate Exhibition and as a major new book coming out next year about Blake. They also talk about AI, climate and the future, the subject of John's latest book The Future Starts Here as well as Elizabeth Taylor, Matt Haig and discover The Beatles were quite good. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. In this week's extended edition find out why Tomorrowland wasn't as bad as Bec thought it would be...
Author John Higgs is in the studio this week with Robin and Bec to talk about all things William Blake, which makes sense being that John has just written a new essay on him for the Tate Exhibition and as a major new book coming out next year about Blake. They also talk about AI, climate and the future, the subject of John's latest book The Future Starts Here as well as Elizabeth Taylor, Matt Haig and discover The Beatles were quite good. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. In this week's extended edition find out why Tomorrowland wasn't as bad as Bec thought it would be...
Robin is joined by author Lisa Blower this week to talk about her latest book, It's All Gone Dark Over Bill's Mother's. They chat about highlighting different voices in fiction, caravan holidays, Kit De Waal and the beauty of a novella. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Robin is joined by author Lisa Blower this week to talk about her latest book, It's All Gone Dark Over Bill's Mother's. They chat about highlighting different voices in fiction, caravan holidays, Kit De Waal and the beauty of a novella. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Best selling science fiction author Peter F. Hamilton joins Robin and Bec in studio this week to talk about what goes into creating massive 'space opera' worlds like that of his latest book Salvation Lost. They talk about science fiction influences, which sci-fi books got turned into movies that were actually good and why Robin's local library wouldn't allow him to order a book by Eric Idle... Support the podcast by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles for as little as $1 a month to get extended episodes and more.
Best selling science fiction author Peter F. Hamilton joins Robin and Bec in studio this week to talk about what goes into creating massive 'space opera' worlds like that of his latest book Salvation Lost. They talk about science fiction influences, which sci-fi books got turned into movies that were actually good and why Robin's local library wouldn't allow him to order a book by Eric Idle... Support the podcast by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles for as little as $1 a month to get extended episodes and more.
In a Halloween special, comedian and author John Robertson joins Book Shambles this week to talk of his novel, The Little Town of Marrowville with Robin and Bec. Then they talk about the spooky tales of childhood books from horror anthologies to Paul Jennings and the most unsettling things in fiction... Who's that woman standing by the window? The one without any eyes... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
In a Halloween special, comedian and author John Robertson joins Book Shambles this week to talk of his novel, The Little Town of Marrowville with Robin and Bec. Then they talk about the spooky tales of childhood books from horror anthologies to Paul Jennings and the most unsettling things in fiction... Who's that woman standing by the window? The one without any eyes... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Lemn is back for part two after a shortened first (that was actually his second) visit to Book Shambles. Robin and Lemn, with Natalie Haynes a super sub for Josie Long, carry on their conversation about 'My Name is Why' and how it has connected with readers in the wider world. All mixed in with tales of Lenny Henry, Julian Barnes and Welsh Miners Workers Libraries. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week. Lemn will be joining Robin at the Royal Albert Hall on May 17th 2020 as part of Sea Shambles, a huge variety spectacular show along with Steve Backshall, Helen Czerski, British Sea Power, Josie Long and many more! Tickets at cosmicshambles.com/seashambles
Lemn is back for part two after a shortened first (that was actually his second) visit to Book Shambles. Robin and Lemn, with Natalie Haynes a super sub for Josie Long, carry on their conversation about 'My Name is Why' and how it has connected with readers in the wider world. All mixed in with tales of Lenny Henry, Julian Barnes and Welsh Miners Workers Libraries. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week. Lemn will be joining Robin at the Royal Albert Hall on May 17th 2020 as part of Sea Shambles, a huge variety spectacular show along with Steve Backshall, Helen Czerski, British Sea Power, Josie Long and many more! Tickets at cosmicshambles.com/seashambles
Lemn Sissay returns to Book Shambles to chat about his bestseller 'My Name is Why' to chat with Robin and Josie. This is part one of Lemn's return because there was a travel issue, which means this episode is shorter than normal, but we've recorded a full episode with Lemn, with Robin and Natalie Haynes because the following week, Josie was away, and that'll be out next week... In the meantime enjoy this chat of poetry, Harry Potter and lost book shops... Support the podcast by pledging to patreon.com/bookshambles
Lemn Sissay returns to Book Shambles to chat about his bestseller 'My Name is Why' to chat with Robin and Josie. This is part one of Lemn's return because there was a travel issue, which means this episode is shorter than normal, but we've recorded a full episode with Lemn, with Robin and Natalie Haynes because the following week, Josie was away, and that'll be out next week... In the meantime enjoy this chat of poetry, Harry Potter and lost book shops... Support the podcast by pledging to patreon.com/bookshambles
Author Dan Richards' new book Outpost is all about journeying into the wilderness and finding the edges of civilisation. But Robin and Dan got very sidetracked and didn't talk about that. So go get a copy of Dan's book after you've listened to a conversation about Wind in the Willows, miscast fictional detectives, Winnie the Pooh audiobooks and Keith Moon's interactions with grandmothers... Support the podcast by pledging as little as $1 a month on Patreon at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
Author Dan Richards' new book Outpost is all about journeying into the wilderness and finding the edges of civilisation. But Robin and Dan got very sidetracked and didn't talk about that. So go get a copy of Dan's book after you've listened to a conversation about Wind in the Willows, miscast fictional detectives, Winnie the Pooh audiobooks and Keith Moon's interactions with grandmothers... Support the podcast by pledging as little as $1 a month on Patreon at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin, and returning guest co-host Natalie Haynes, are joined by astronomer and astronomy writer Colin Stuart to talk about his new book Rebel Star. They chat about what we know about the sun, and how we know it, the dangers of space weather and why Natalie has issues with both Ray Bradbury and Christopher Nolan... Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear extended episodes.
Robin, and returning guest co-host Natalie Haynes, are joined by astronomer and astronomy writer Colin Stuart to talk about his new book Rebel Star. They chat about what we know about the sun, and how we know it, the dangers of space weather and why Natalie has issues with both Ray Bradbury and Christopher Nolan... Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear extended episodes.
Our first ever guest on Book Shambles was Stewart Lee, and with his new book, March of the Lemmings, just released he's back in the studio this week with Robin to chat about it. Given the new book is about Brexit, there's a lot of chat about Brexit, finding the comedy in, but also talk of Steve Jones, William Blake, Marvel comics and what Robin and Stew need to do to make sure they remain members of the metropolitan liberal elite... To hear the extended edition of this, and all, episodes, support the podcast at https://patreon.com/bookshambles Pic by Steve Ullathorne
Our first ever guest on Book Shambles was Stewart Lee, and with his new book, March of the Lemmings, just released he's back in the studio this week with Robin to chat about it. Given the new book is about Brexit, there's a lot of chat about Brexit, finding the comedy in, but also talk of Steve Jones, William Blake, Marvel comics and what Robin and Stew need to do to make sure they remain members of the metropolitan liberal elite... To hear the extended edition of this, and all, episodes, support the podcast at https://patreon.com/bookshambles Pic by Steve Ullathorne
This week it's all about the classics as Robin is joined by two classicists, Natalie Haynes and Charlotte Higgins. They chat about the best translations of The Odyssey, how much filth the monks permitted, why the classics are frowned upon as 'too high brow' and good entry points for getting into these great Greek tales. Also, spoiler alert, this episode contains spoilers for a number of works written about 3000 years ago. Support the podcast at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Please note: Although discussed in the context of work written in the 8th century BC, this episode does contain mentions of sexual violence and suicide.
This week it's all about the classics as Robin is joined by two classicists, Natalie Haynes and Charlotte Higgins. They chat about the best translations of The Odyssey, how much filth the monks permitted, why the classics are frowned upon as 'too high brow' and good entry points for getting into these great Greek tales. Also, spoiler alert, this episode contains spoilers for a number of works written about 3000 years ago. Support the podcast at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Please note: Although discussed in the context of work written in the 8th century BC, this episode does contain mentions of sexual violence and suicide.
Our guest this week was meant to be Lemn Sissay but a mix up with timings meant Robin and Josie found themselves alone in the studio for 40 minutes or so. So what better way to fill the time than catch up with what they've been reading since they last saw each other a couple of months ago! Jean Rhys, Alistair Humphreys, Shirley Jackson, Roger Deakin and more! Support the podcast by pledging at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Our guest this week was meant to be Lemn Sissay but a mix up with timings meant Robin and Josie found themselves alone in the studio for 40 minutes or so. So what better way to fill the time than catch up with what they've been reading since they last saw each other a couple of months ago! Jean Rhys, Alistair Humphreys, Shirley Jackson, Roger Deakin and more! Support the podcast by pledging at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Renowned physicist and broadcaster Prof Jim Al-Khalili has just written his first work of fiction, the sci-fi novel Sunfall. So he joins Robin and Bec in studio to talk about what that experience was like, making sure the science is right in fiction, favourite sci-fi authors and much more. Extended edition available, as always, to Patreon supporters. Become one at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
Renowned physicist and broadcaster Prof Jim Al-Khalili has just written his first work of fiction, the sci-fi novel Sunfall. So he joins Robin and Bec in studio to talk about what that experience was like, making sure the science is right in fiction, favourite sci-fi authors and much more. Extended edition available, as always, to Patreon supporters. Become one at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
This week one of the most recognisable voices in British radio, Mark Radcliffe, joins Robin and Bec to talk about his new book Crossroads: In Search of the Moments That Changed Music. They chat about the book, why The Beatles aren't the perfect band, why Jimi Hendrix was the perfect guitarist and how Black Sabbath might've invented heavy metal after a machining accident. Also Bec recounts her brief career cameo as a drummer... Support the podcast at https://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week one of the most recognisable voices in British radio, Mark Radcliffe, joins Robin and Bec to talk about his new book Crossroads: In Search of the Moments That Changed Music. They chat about the book, why The Beatles aren't the perfect band, why Jimi Hendrix was the perfect guitarist and how Black Sabbath might've invented heavy metal after a machining accident. Also Bec recounts her brief career cameo as a drummer... Support the podcast at https://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
On this episode of Book Shambles Robin Ince and Bec Hill are joined by former winner of the Royal Society Book Prize for science books, Gaia Vince. They chat about her award winning book, Adventures in the Anthropocene, the state of the climate, hope for the future of humanity and urinating in the wild... Get extended episodes and support the podcast by pledging at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
On this episode of Book Shambles Robin Ince and Bec Hill are joined by former winner of the Royal Society Book Prize for science books, Gaia Vince. They chat about her award winning book, Adventures in the Anthropocene, the state of the climate, hope for the future of humanity and urinating in the wild... Get extended episodes and support the podcast by pledging at https://patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin is once again joined by guest co-host Bec Hill and their special guest this week is Wellcome Book Prize winner Will Eaves. They chat about Will's award winning novel Murmur plus Alan Turing, Montaigne, Andy Stanton and the role of mirrors in fiction... Support the podcast and everything at the CSN by pledging as little as a dollar a month at patreon.com/bookshambles Robin's tour dates at robinince.com, CSN events at cosmicshambles.com and Bec's at www.bechillcomedian.com Murmur is available wherever you buy books.
Robin is once again joined by guest co-host Bec Hill and their special guest this week is Wellcome Book Prize winner Will Eaves. They chat about Will's award winning novel Murmur plus Alan Turing, Montaigne, Andy Stanton and the role of mirrors in fiction... Support the podcast and everything at the CSN by pledging as little as a dollar a month at patreon.com/bookshambles Robin's tour dates at robinince.com, CSN events at cosmicshambles.com and Bec's at www.bechillcomedian.com Murmur is available wherever you buy books.
On this week's episode Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill are joined by comedian, novelist and 'Grumpy Old Woman' Jenny Eclair to chat about her new novel Inheritance. They chat about Jenny's lack of a plan when she starts writing, being a pioneering 'woman in stand up', John Niven and cling film... Support the show on Patreon to get extended episodes each and every week. Go to https://patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week's episode Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill are joined by comedian, novelist and 'Grumpy Old Woman' Jenny Eclair to chat about her new novel Inheritance. They chat about Jenny's lack of a plan when she starts writing, being a pioneering 'woman in stand up', John Niven and cling film... Support the show on Patreon to get extended episodes each and every week. Go to https://patreon.com/bookshambles
It's a Book Shambles - Griefcast crossover this week as Cariad Lloyd joins Robin and (eventually) guest co-host Bec Hill in the studio. They chat about the best books that deal with grief, Jane Austen and the allure of a Penguin classic.A bumper 20 extra minutes awaits Patreon supporters this week. Become one at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
It's a Book Shambles - Griefcast crossover this week as Cariad Lloyd joins Robin and (eventually) guest co-host Bec Hill in the studio. They chat about the best books that deal with grief, Jane Austen and the allure of a Penguin classic.A bumper 20 extra minutes awaits Patreon supporters this week. Become one at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
On an Apollo 50th special we talk to a number of people about a single book, Arthur C Clarke’s 1986 book ‘July 20th 2019’ in which he imagines what life might be like on the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. Recorded mostly at the Latitude Festival on said anniversary, with book in hand, Robin chats to Chris Lintott, Helen Czerski, Kevin Fong and Suzie Imber about their impressions of Clarke’s vision. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. This week Patreon’s get an entire bonus guest, as Robin chats about the book with Hannah Critchlow.
On an Apollo 50th special we talk to a number of people about a single book, Arthur C Clarke’s 1986 book ‘July 20th 2019’ in which he imagines what life might be like on the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. Recorded mostly at the Latitude Festival on said anniversary, with book in hand, Robin chats to Chris Lintott, Helen Czerski, Kevin Fong and Suzie Imber about their impressions of Clarke’s vision. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. This week Patreon’s get an entire bonus guest, as Robin chats about the book with Hannah Critchlow.
The second episode recorded live from The Elgar Room at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and Josie are joined by comedian Reginald D Hunter. They chat about what's changed in Reginald's comedy in the twenty years he's been in the UK, the books his sisters made him read, the power of Charlie Brown, Richard Wright, Neil Postman and much more. Also this week, play the fun guessing game of who it was Josie was talking about that we had to bleep out... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Both Reg and Josie are up at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe with brand new shows so be sure to check them out.
The second episode recorded live from The Elgar Room at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and Josie are joined by comedian Reginald D Hunter. They chat about what's changed in Reginald's comedy in the twenty years he's been in the UK, the books his sisters made him read, the power of Charlie Brown, Richard Wright, Neil Postman and much more. Also this week, play the fun guessing game of who it was Josie was talking about that we had to bleep out... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. Both Reg and Josie are up at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe with brand new shows so be sure to check them out.
We are back! Recorded live from the Elgar Room at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and Josie are joined by actor Wendell Pierce (The Wire, Treme) who is currently winning acclaim for his lead turn in Death of a Salesman at The Young Vic. They chat about Arthur Miller and the potency of the Loman family being portrayed by an African American cast, bad accents in The Wire, Taylor Branch, Kate Grenville and more. Support Book Shambles and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging as little as $1 a month at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, free tickets to events and much more! Tickets for the West End transfer of Death of a Salesman can be found at http://salesmanwestend.com
We are back! Recorded live from the Elgar Room at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and Josie are joined by actor Wendell Pierce (The Wire, Treme) who is currently winning acclaim for his lead turn in Death of a Salesman at The Young Vic. They chat about Arthur Miller and the potency of the Loman family being portrayed by an African American cast, bad accents in The Wire, Taylor Branch, Kate Grenville and more. Support Book Shambles and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging as little as $1 a month at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, free tickets to events and much more! Tickets for the West End transfer of Death of a Salesman can be found at http://salesmanwestend.com
With Robin and Josie both on tour at the moment, and Book Shambles on a small break, we thought you might enjoy a bit of a Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover episode. Helen Czerski is still in the host chair subbing for Robin and this week she is joined by cosmologist and best selling science author Marcus Chown. His latest book, Infinity in the Palm of Your Hand, looks at fifty bonkers things about the Universe and the two try to dig into as many as possible. Would it matter if the Sun was made of bananas? Can you fit all of humanity in a sugar cube... Support the podcast, and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
With Robin and Josie both on tour at the moment, and Book Shambles on a small break, we thought you might enjoy a bit of a Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover episode. Helen Czerski is still in the host chair subbing for Robin and this week she is joined by cosmologist and best selling science author Marcus Chown. His latest book, Infinity in the Palm of Your Hand, looks at fifty bonkers things about the Universe and the two try to dig into as many as possible. Would it matter if the Sun was made of bananas? Can you fit all of humanity in a sugar cube... Support the podcast, and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin is joined by guest co-host Bec Hill to chat to author and psychoanalyst Josh Cohen about his new book Not Working. They chat about the psychology of various authors from Emily Dickinson to David Foster Wallace and why Orson Welles was a workaholic. Also features a cameo from Sunday Times #1 bestseller Matt Parker. Support the podcast to hear extended editions of each episode at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin is joined by guest co-host Bec Hill to chat to author and psychoanalyst Josh Cohen about his new book Not Working. They chat about the psychology of various authors from Emily Dickinson to David Foster Wallace and why Orson Welles was a workaholic. Also features a cameo from Sunday Times #1 bestseller Matt Parker. Support the podcast to hear extended editions of each episode at http://patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin, and returning guest co-host Bec Hill, are joined by acclaimed US author Jarett Kobek. His novel I Hate the Internet is a regularly mentioned favourite on this podcast, so while he was in the UK it seemed only right to get him into the studio. They chat about that book, his new book Only Americans Burn in Hell, video games, virtue in the age of Trump and other favourite authors. Support the podcast at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week Robin, and returning guest co-host Bec Hill, are joined by acclaimed US author Jarett Kobek. His novel I Hate the Internet is a regularly mentioned favourite on this podcast, so while he was in the UK it seemed only right to get him into the studio. They chat about that book, his new book Only Americans Burn in Hell, video games, virtue in the age of Trump and other favourite authors. Support the podcast at http://patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Author Kerry Hudson joins Robin this week, along with guest co-host Bec Hill, to talk about her new book Lowborn which is out very soon. They talk about classism, poverty, Dennis Potter and the healing power of libraries. To find out more about the charities mentioned in this episode, go to cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles/kerryhudson Support the podcast and everything we do at the CSN by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended editions of each and every episode.
Author Kerry Hudson joins Robin this week, along with guest co-host Bec Hill, to talk about her new book Lowborn which is out very soon. They talk about classism, poverty, Dennis Potter and the healing power of libraries. To find out more about the charities mentioned in this episode, go to cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles/kerryhudson Support the podcast and everything we do at the CSN by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week one of our Shambles bloggers, Pete Etchells, joins Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill, to talk about his brand new book Lost in a Good Game. They chat about the book, video games, Douglas Adams, the Stanford Prison Experiment and much more. Pete's book is out now and you can read his blog at cosmicshambles.com/words/blogs/peteetchells Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week one of our Shambles bloggers, Pete Etchells, joins Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill, to talk about his brand new book Lost in a Good Game. They chat about the book, video games, Douglas Adams, the Stanford Prison Experiment and much more. Pete's book is out now and you can read his blog at cosmicshambles.com/words/blogs/peteetchells Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week we welcome back a Book Shambles regular, and recent Sunday Times Number One Bestseller, Philippa Perry. She joins Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill to talk about her new book, The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read, youth fiction, Janne Teller and, ah, Rocky IV... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
This week we welcome back a Book Shambles regular, and recent Sunday Times Number One Bestseller, Philippa Perry. She joins Robin and guest co-host Bec Hill to talk about her new book, The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read, youth fiction, Janne Teller and, ah, Rocky IV... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 10 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Everyone from Robin to Alan Moore has talked about Picnic Comma Lightning on the podcast so we thought it high time we had its author, Laurence Scott, on the show to talk about. Joined by guest co-host Bec Hill, they chat about the new reality of the digital age, the Fyre Festival, Nabokov, Virginia Woolf and more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Everyone from Robin to Alan Moore has talked about Picnic Comma Lightning on the podcast so we thought it high time we had its author, Laurence Scott, on the show to talk about. Joined by guest co-host Bec Hill, they chat about the new reality of the digital age, the Fyre Festival, Nabokov, Virginia Woolf and more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Recorded live at the Manchester Science Festival Robin chats to writer and psychologist Charles Fernyhough and neuroscientist Professor Sophie Scott. They chat about Charles latest book The Voices Within, it's influence on Robin's book, some of the most influential books in psychology and doing experiments on your own children... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 20 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Recorded live at the Manchester Science Festival Robin chats to writer and psychologist Charles Fernyhough and neuroscientist Professor Sophie Scott. They chat about Charles latest book The Voices Within, it's influence on Robin's book, some of the most influential books in psychology and doing experiments on your own children... Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 20 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
The journalist and broadcaster Samira Ahmed joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about politics, the joy of library books, the joy of putting in brand new book shelves and some of her favourite books. Also Robin is annoyed Billy Wilder wasn't forced to make more films. Support the podcast and network and get things like extended editions of each episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
The journalist and broadcaster Samira Ahmed joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about politics, the joy of library books, the joy of putting in brand new book shelves and some of her favourite books. Also Robin is annoyed Billy Wilder wasn't forced to make more films. Support the podcast and network and get things like extended editions of each episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
US theatre and filmmaker Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam, Corrina, Corrina) was in town last week for the opening of Tony Award nominated musical Waitress for which she wrote the book based on the film of the same name. So Robin caught up with her for a Book Shambles Extra to chat about books that have inspired her, her differing experiences writing for stage and screen and writing her first musical. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes and much more.
US theatre and filmmaker Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam, Corrina, Corrina) was in town last week for the opening of Tony Award nominated musical Waitress for which she wrote the book based on the film of the same name. So Robin caught up with her for a Book Shambles Extra to chat about books that have inspired her, her differing experiences writing for stage and screen and writing her first musical. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes and much more.
Author JB Morrison, who you might know better as Jim Bob, frontman of Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine, joins Robin and Josie in the studio this week. They talk about moving from songwriter to novel writer and his new memoir In the Shadow of My Former Self which is out very soon. Plus there's chat of Cormac McCarthy, Jean Rhys and Status Quo. Because of course there is. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Author JB Morrison, who you might know better as Jim Bob, frontman of Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine, joins Robin and Josie in the studio this week. They talk about moving from songwriter to novel writer and his new memoir In the Shadow of My Former Self which is out very soon. Plus there's chat of Cormac McCarthy, Jean Rhys and Status Quo. Because of course there is. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
A Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover. Robin is joined in studio by Professor Gina Rippon and Dr Julia Shaw to talk about their new science books, The Gendered Brain: The New Neuroscience That Shatters the Myth of the Female Brain and Making Evil: The Science Behind Humanity's Dark Side. They dive into topics like the lack of women in STEM, the myth of the male and female brain, false memories, why we are all capable of doing awful things, toxic masculinity, prison libraries and much more. Subscribe for free to the Science Shambles podcast to get the full episode. Support the podcast, and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
A Book Shambles / Science Shambles crossover. Robin is joined in studio by Professor Gina Rippon and Dr Julia Shaw to talk about their new science books, The Gendered Brain: The New Neuroscience That Shatters the Myth of the Female Brain and Making Evil: The Science Behind Humanity's Dark Side. They dive into topics like the lack of women in STEM, the myth of the male and female brain, false memories, why we are all capable of doing awful things, toxic masculinity, prison libraries and much more. Subscribe for free to the Science Shambles podcast to get the full episode. Support the podcast, and the Cosmic Shambles Network by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
The final episode we recorded at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and guest co-host Sarah Kendall are joined by solar physicist and author Professor Lucie Green. Recorded right after Alan Moore's episode from last week, Lucie fact checks Alan's graphic novels and then chats about building satellites in sheds, Judge Dredd regrets, space based poetry, speed reading Tina Fey and her own book about the sun. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
The final episode we recorded at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin and guest co-host Sarah Kendall are joined by solar physicist and author Professor Lucie Green. Recorded right after Alan Moore's episode from last week, Lucie fact checks Alan's graphic novels and then chats about building satellites in sheds, Judge Dredd regrets, space based poetry, speed reading Tina Fey and her own book about the sun. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. 15 bonus minutes await pledgers this week.
Recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin is joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall and Alan Moore. They chat about where real science has influenced Alan's works, why Trump's election might be a result of too many superhero films and the best motorway services in and around Milton Keynes.Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. There's a whole twenty extra minutes of Robin, Alan and Sarah this week.
Recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin is joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall and Alan Moore. They chat about where real science has influenced Alan's works, why Trump's election might be a result of too many superhero films and the best motorway services in and around Milton Keynes.Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode. There's a whole twenty extra minutes of Robin, Alan and Sarah this week.
Kate Davies debut novel, In at the Deep End, comes out this week. Josie read an advanced copy and fell in love with it so we got Kate into the studio to chat about it with her and Robin. Not only that, she came armed with a list of her favourite books divided into categories! So the three of them dig into the best sexy, queer and funny books from Zadie Smith to Diana Athill, Stephen Fry and beyond. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
Kate Davies debut novel, In at the Deep End, comes out this week. Josie read an advanced copy and fell in love with it so we got Kate into the studio to chat about it with her and Robin. Not only that, she came armed with a list of her favourite books divided into categories! So the three of them dig into the best sexy, queer and funny books from Zadie Smith to Diana Athill, Stephen Fry and beyond. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week Philippa Perry joins Robin as co-host and they chat with writer and performer Rebecca Peyton. They talk about the process of working with editors, psychotherapy, the joy of a good sad book and the work of Joseph Heller, Min Jin Lee, Joseph Conrad and more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week Philippa Perry joins Robin as co-host and they chat with writer and performer Rebecca Peyton. They talk about the process of working with editors, psychotherapy, the joy of a good sad book and the work of Joseph Heller, Min Jin Lee, Joseph Conrad and more. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended editions of each and every episode.
This week's episode is a comics special as Robin is joined in studio by our resident comics expert, comedian Nat Metcalfe and Tom Oldham of Breakdown Press. They chat about Douglas Dixon, Ken Reid, Lando and why too many comics these days are starting to read like storyboards for a future Netflix series. As always there's an extended version for Patreon pledgers and this week features and extra 15 minutes. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week's episode is a comics special as Robin is joined in studio by our resident comics expert, comedian Nat Metcalfe and Tom Oldham of Breakdown Press. They chat about Douglas Dixon, Ken Reid, Lando and why too many comics these days are starting to read like storyboards for a future Netflix series. As always there's an extended version for Patreon pledgers and this week features and extra 15 minutes. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
For pretty much as long as we've been producing Book Shambles, Josie has been recommending everyone read the Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante. She even had the first book on her cape in Cosmic Superheroes. So with the My Beautiful Friend series just coming out we thought we should do a Ferrante special with Josie and two other mega fans. So joined by Sara Pascoe and Tania Edwards, they dig into her work and many other tangents. Fair warning though, spoilers abound. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes of Book Shambles. Over 20 minutes extra in this week's episode!
For pretty much as long as we've been producing Book Shambles, Josie has been recommending everyone read the Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante. She even had the first book on her cape in Cosmic Superheroes. So with the My Beautiful Friend series just coming out we thought we should do a Ferrante special with Josie and two other mega fans. So joined by Sara Pascoe and Tania Edwards, they dig into her work and many other tangents. Fair warning though, spoilers abound. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes of Book Shambles. Over 20 minutes extra in this week's episode!
A triple podcast crossover this week as Vitriola's Michael Legge subs in for Josie Long and our guest is The Allusionist's Helen Zaltzman in the studio with Robin. They chat about favourite showbiz memoirs and diaries, Scientology books and the time Iggy Pop stage dived at an eleven year old and landed on his face. Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
A triple podcast crossover this week as Vitriola's Michael Legge subs in for Josie Long and our guest is The Allusionist's Helen Zaltzman in the studio with Robin. They chat about favourite showbiz memoirs and diaries, Scientology books and the time Iggy Pop stage dived at an eleven year old and landed on his face. Extended edition for Patreon supporters as always. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Geneticist, author and broadcaster Dr Adam Rutherford joins Robin and Josie in the studio this week to talk about many things including his latest book, The Book of Humans. They chat about the peril of writing books that will go out of date, bad misuses of genetics, who was racist even by Victorian standards and Adam tries to remember the difference between The Odyssey and The Iliad. Extended version available exclusively to our Patreon supporters. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Geneticist, author and broadcaster Dr Adam Rutherford joins Robin and Josie in the studio this week to talk about many things including his latest book, The Book of Humans. They chat about the peril of writing books that will go out of date, bad misuses of genetics, who was racist even by Victorian standards and Adam tries to remember the difference between The Odyssey and The Iliad. Extended version available exclusively to our Patreon supporters. Become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
We lots of specials and time specific episodes towards the end of 2018, so we've yet to put out the final episode we recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, so here it is! Robin is joined by comedian and author Mark Watson and the new writing team Ambrose Parry, comprised of crime writer Christopher Brookmyre and anaesthetist Dr Marisa Haetzman. They chat about the differences between writing crime and historical fiction, stand up and novels and the best way to seek revenge against high school bullies in your books. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended editions of each episode
We lots of specials and time specific episodes towards the end of 2018, so we've yet to put out the final episode we recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, so here it is! Robin is joined by comedian and author Mark Watson and the new writing team Ambrose Parry, comprised of crime writer Christopher Brookmyre and anaesthetist Dr Marisa Haetzman. They chat about the differences between writing crime and historical fiction, stand up and novels and the best way to seek revenge against high school bullies in your books. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended editions of each episode
Robin and Josie have both been guests on RHLSTP so we thought it high time that we had Richard Herring on Book Shambles. He joins us in the studio to chat about favourite early comedy books from the likes of Monty Python and Not the Nine O'Clock News and then they try to work out how the Amazon book charts work as Robin and Rich's latest books battle it out on the 'Jokes and Riddles' charts. To hear an extended version of this, and almost every other episode too, you can become a patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie have both been guests on RHLSTP so we thought it high time that we had Richard Herring on Book Shambles. He joins us in the studio to chat about favourite early comedy books from the likes of Monty Python and Not the Nine O'Clock News and then they try to work out how the Amazon book charts work as Robin and Rich's latest books battle it out on the 'Jokes and Riddles' charts. To hear an extended version of this, and almost every other episode too, you can become a patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's part two of our multi guest end of year special where we chat to all sorts of performers from our Christmas shows about the best things they read this year. In this all-star special there's recommendations from Robin Ince, Josie Long, Brian Cox, the Octavia Poetry Collective, Ben Moor, Chris Lintott, Suzi Gage, Suzie Imber, Hannah Fry, Grace Petrie, Matt Parker, Chris Stokes, Dr Karl, Helen Czerski, Kat Arney, Ronnie Le Drew and Melinda Burton! Support the show at the network at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's part two of our multi guest end of year special where we chat to all sorts of performers from our Christmas shows about the best things they read this year. In this all-star special there's recommendations from Robin Ince, Josie Long, Brian Cox, the Octavia Poetry Collective, Ben Moor, Chris Lintott, Suzi Gage, Suzie Imber, Hannah Fry, Grace Petrie, Matt Parker, Chris Stokes, Dr Karl, Helen Czerski, Kat Arney, Ronnie Le Drew and Melinda Burton! Support the show at the network at patreon.com/bookshambles
Each year we catch up with as many different people as we can at our Christmas shows to talk to them about their books of the year and this year is no different. In Part 1 we chat with Robin Ince, Alan Moore, Melinda Gebbie, Sophie Scott, Jo Neary, Ginny Smith, Dean Burnett, Gecko, Hannah Critchlow and Philip Ball. Loads more to come next week too. Thanks for listening in 2018. Big plans for 2019. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
Each year we catch up with as many different people as we can at our Christmas shows to talk to them about their books of the year and this year is no different. In Part 1 we chat with Robin Ince, Alan Moore, Melinda Gebbie, Sophie Scott, Jo Neary, Ginny Smith, Dean Burnett, Gecko, Hannah Critchlow and Philip Ball. Loads more to come next week too. Thanks for listening in 2018. Big plans for 2019. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin AND Josie are back in the studio together for a brand new batch of Book Shambles episodes. The first guest is Ariane Sherine, author of the new book Talk Yourself Better. They chat about her new book, and the experiences that led to it, plus look at Twitter, PD James, Lyne Reid, Tank Girl and much more. Support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) to hear extended episodes of the show each week. NB - This episode contains a discussion about abuse
Robin AND Josie are back in the studio together for a brand new batch of Book Shambles episodes. The first guest is Ariane Sherine, author of the new book Talk Yourself Better. They chat about her new book, and the experiences that led to it, plus look at Twitter, PD James, Lyne Reid, Tank Girl and much more. Support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) to hear extended episodes of the show each week. NB - This episode contains a discussion about abuse
Recorded live at the launch of Robin’s book ‘I’m a Joke and So Are You’ at Kings Place in London, this episode features some stand up from Robin and Josie, a performance from Grace Petrie, a conversation with Philippa Perry and an extended chat with Stewart Lee about comedy. Enjoy! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded live at the launch of Robin’s book ‘I’m a Joke and So Are You’ at Kings Place in London, this episode features some stand up from Robin and Josie, a performance from Grace Petrie, a conversation with Philippa Perry and an extended chat with Stewart Lee about comedy. Enjoy! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin is joined once again by guest co-host Natalie Haynes to chat to Jason Heller, the Hugo Award winning author of new book Strange Stars which looks at sci-fi's influence on the music of 70s. So there's plenty of chat about Bowie, Asimov, Arthur C Clarke and more. An extra ten minutes of chat this week for Patreon supporters to enjoy this week too so if you'd like to join them, head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin is joined once again by guest co-host Natalie Haynes to chat to Jason Heller, the Hugo Award winning author of new book Strange Stars which looks at sci-fi's influence on the music of 70s. So there's plenty of chat about Bowie, Asimov, Arthur C Clarke and more. An extra ten minutes of chat this week for Patreon supporters to enjoy this week too so if you'd like to join them, head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie took to the stage at the London Podcast Festival in September for an episode of Book Shambles. Their guests were scientists and authors Professor Mark Miodownik and Dr Kevin Fong. They chat about their own upcoming books, books of bad science, unfortunate barbecuing incidences, Josie's return from her daughter's birth and debate whether peanut butter is a liquid or not. Live at the Festival we recorded for around 90 minutes, and if you'd like to hear the uncut version of the live show, you can do just that by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie took to the stage at the London Podcast Festival in September for an episode of Book Shambles. Their guests were scientists and authors Professor Mark Miodownik and Dr Kevin Fong. They chat about their own upcoming books, books of bad science, unfortunate barbecuing incidences, Josie's return from her daughter's birth and debate whether peanut butter is a liquid or not. Live at the Festival we recorded for around 90 minutes, and if you'd like to hear the uncut version of the live show, you can do just that by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and author and cartoonist Martin Rowson just happened to be in Toronto at the same time so they recorded a Book Shambles Extra in a hotel room. Martin's got three books out of this year, including his graphic novel of The Communist Manifesto. They chat about that, the state of satire, politics, cartooning and much more. Support The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and author and cartoonist Martin Rowson just happened to be in Toronto at the same time so they recorded a Book Shambles Extra in a hotel room. Martin's got three books out of this year, including his graphic novel of The Communist Manifesto. They chat about that, the state of satire, politics, cartooning and much more. Support The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles
When we originally announced we were doing a Book Shambles Live at QED Con in Manchester we were supposed to be joined by Mercury 13 and aviation legend Wally Funk, but sadly she had to pull out due to last minute illness. So joining Robin is author of Wally Funk's Race for Space, Sue Nelson and doing his best Josie Long impression, co-host for this week is Dallas Campbell. They chat about women in space, books that have not quite predicted the future so accurately and, of course, the great Wally Funk. Get an extended version of this episode, plus many other goodies, by supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
When we originally announced we were doing a Book Shambles Live at QED Con in Manchester we were supposed to be joined by Mercury 13 and aviation legend Wally Funk, but sadly she had to pull out due to last minute illness. So joining Robin is author of Wally Funk's Race for Space, Sue Nelson and doing his best Josie Long impression, co-host for this week is Dallas Campbell. They chat about women in space, books that have not quite predicted the future so accurately and, of course, the great Wally Funk. Get an extended version of this episode, plus many other goodies, by supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Another episode we recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, Robin is joined by the great Neil Gaiman, author of Sandman, The Ocean at the End of the Lane and countless other classics. They chat extensively about the late Harlan Ellison, his life and work, as well as Neil's own views on creativity and looking back on his own work. There's also chat of Gene Wolfe, Alan Moore and much more besides. Patreon supporters of The Cosmic Shambles Network will get an exclusive extended edition of this, and all other episodes. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles Image courtesy Helen Crimmins.
Another episode we recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, Robin is joined by the great Neil Gaiman, author of Sandman, The Ocean at the End of the Lane and countless other classics. They chat extensively about the late Harlan Ellison, his life and work, as well as Neil's own views on creativity and looking back on his own work. There's also chat of Gene Wolfe, Alan Moore and much more besides. Patreon supporters of The Cosmic Shambles Network will get an exclusive extended edition of this, and all other episodes. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles Image courtesy Helen Crimmins.
In our second Halloween special this year, Robin is joined by guest co-host Natalie Haynes and comedian, horror enthusiast and heir to Dennis Wheatley's library of occult books, Anna Savory. They chat about said library, favourite horror films and books, Agatha Christie's lack of respect, Shirley Jackson, MR James and why goats are upsettingly easy to kill. Extended edition, plus other goodies, available for Patreon supporters. Visit patreon.com/bookshambles
In our second Halloween special this year, Robin is joined by guest co-host Natalie Haynes and comedian, horror enthusiast and heir to Dennis Wheatley's library of occult books, Anna Savory. They chat about said library, favourite horror films and books, Agatha Christie's lack of respect, Shirley Jackson, MR James and why goats are upsettingly easy to kill. Extended edition, plus other goodies, available for Patreon supporters. Visit patreon.com/bookshambles
The first of two Halloween specials, Robin is joined by co-creator and co-writer of The League of Gentlemen and Ghost Stories, as well as many other things, Jeremy Dyson. Recorded live at the Ilkley Literature Festival they chat about what authors drew them into both horror and comedy and influences on the League. Plus there's talk of Stephen King, Robert Aikman, Arthur C Clarke and much more. If you support the show on patreon you'll get access to extended episodes and other goodies too. There's twenty extra minutes of chat, including more League of Gentlemen tales, in the Patreon exclusive version this week. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
The first of two Halloween specials, Robin is joined by co-creator and co-writer of The League of Gentlemen and Ghost Stories, as well as many other things, Jeremy Dyson. Recorded live at the Ilkley Literature Festival they chat about what authors drew them into both horror and comedy and influences on the League. Plus there's talk of Stephen King, Robert Aikman, Arthur C Clarke and much more. If you support the show on patreon you'll get access to extended episodes and other goodies too. There's twenty extra minutes of chat, including more League of Gentlemen tales, in the Patreon exclusive version this week. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
International best selling author Ian Rankin returns to Book Shambles for a special episode recorded as part of our live run at the Edinburgh Fringe. He chats to Robin about Rebus, great music novels, being asked to ghost write Sean Connery's biography and how crime writers seek revenge on ex-lovers... Support the show by leaving a review at Apple Podcasts or pledging as little as $1 a month on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
International best selling author Ian Rankin returns to Book Shambles for a special episode recorded as part of our live run at the Edinburgh Fringe. He chats to Robin about Rebus, great music novels, being asked to ghost write Sean Connery's biography and how crime writers seek revenge on ex-lovers... Support the show by leaving a review at Apple Podcasts or pledging as little as $1 a month on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
A couple of days before Robin's new book I'm a Joke and So Are You hit shops, we went to a Waterstones in London where Robin and Josie had a chat about the book with a lovely audience. No guest, just Robin and Josie, popping by with new daughter, to chat about comedy, wit, the birth of Book Shambles and more. Robin also did a 15 minute intro and short stand up set that is available exclusive to Patreon supporters. Become one and help us out here patreon.com/bookshambles
A couple of days before Robin's new book I'm a Joke and So Are You hit shops, we went to a Waterstones in London where Robin and Josie had a chat about the book with a lovely audience. No guest, just Robin and Josie, popping by with new daughter, to chat about comedy, wit, the birth of Book Shambles and more. Robin also did a 15 minute intro and short stand up set that is available exclusive to Patreon supporters. Become one and help us out here patreon.com/bookshambles
In Part 2 Robin, Alan and Barney continue their chat. They delve into the Alan's final comic book EVER, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Tempest, try to work out what consciousness is, chat about Robin's new book as well as John Higgs, Camus and more. Also everyone misremembers a BBC theme tune. If you become a Patreon supporter you could listen to another exclusive extra 15 minutes for Part 2 which means a whole extra half hour of Alan Moore, Barney Farmer and Robin Ince with Part 1's bonus content. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
In Part 2 Robin, Alan and Barney continue their chat. They delve into the Alan's final comic book EVER, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Tempest, try to work out what consciousness is, chat about Robin's new book as well as John Higgs, Camus and more. Also everyone misremembers a BBC theme tune. If you become a Patreon supporter you could listen to another exclusive extra 15 minutes for Part 2 which means a whole extra half hour of Alan Moore, Barney Farmer and Robin Ince with Part 1's bonus content. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
Since today is publication day for Robin Ince's book I'm a Joke and So Are You we've got a very special double episode. In a front room in Northampton Robin is joined by Alan Moore, subbing in as co-host for Josie Long this week, to chat with author of Drunken Baker Barney Farmer. They chat about all their new books, accents, Viz, Laurence Scott, HP Lovecraft and a whole lot more. Part Two will be out very soon. As always, thanks to our Patreon supporters who have a a whole 15 minutes of extra exclusive chat this week, and the same again in Part 2. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Since today is publication day for Robin Ince's book I'm a Joke and So Are You we've got a very special double episode. In a front room in Northampton Robin is joined by Alan Moore, subbing in as co-host for Josie Long this week, to chat with author of Drunken Baker Barney Farmer. They chat about all their new books, accents, Viz, Laurence Scott, HP Lovecraft and a whole lot more. Part Two will be out very soon. As always, thanks to our Patreon supporters who have a a whole 15 minutes of extra exclusive chat this week, and the same again in Part 2. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Canadian singer-songwriter Ben Caplan is on tour in Europe at the moment with his band and new musical Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story, so he dropped by the studio to chat with Robin and Michael Legge, subbing for Josie again whilst she's on maternity leave. They chat of Jewish refugees, squeezing philosophy lines into songs, great music biographies by hard rockers and much more. And Michael does an ad for Mercedes for which we very much didn't get paid for. Extended edition for Patreons as always. Please consider supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles so we can keep on making it!
Canadian singer-songwriter Ben Caplan is on tour in Europe at the moment with his band and new musical Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story, so he dropped by the studio to chat with Robin and Michael Legge, subbing for Josie again whilst she's on maternity leave. They chat of Jewish refugees, squeezing philosophy lines into songs, great music biographies by hard rockers and much more. And Michael does an ad for Mercedes for which we very much didn't get paid for. Extended edition for Patreons as always. Please consider supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles so we can keep on making it!
Another of our live shows from the Edinburgh Fringe and this time Robin is chatting to Sofie Hagen and Martin Mor. They talk about Sofie writing her own book at the moment, Martin's favourite counter culture magazines of the 1980s plus dinosaur erotics, Oliver Sacks, Hunter S Thompson and plenty more. This was the first of our live shows in Edinburgh and there was a bit of an issue with the sound in the venue that wasn't fixed in time for the show. As such there's some distortion and hiss in the this episode that was cleaned up best we could but apologies for the less than ideal sound. There is a bonus twenty minutes for Patreon supporters this week. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles to support the show.
Another of our live shows from the Edinburgh Fringe and this time Robin is chatting to Sofie Hagen and Martin Mor. They talk about Sofie writing her own book at the moment, Martin's favourite counter culture magazines of the 1980s plus dinosaur erotics, Oliver Sacks, Hunter S Thompson and plenty more. This was the first of our live shows in Edinburgh and there was a bit of an issue with the sound in the venue that wasn't fixed in time for the show. As such there's some distortion and hiss in the this episode that was cleaned up best we could but apologies for the less than ideal sound. There is a bonus twenty minutes for Patreon supporters this week. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles to support the show.
Another episode recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, this time Robin is joined by comedians Jen Brister and mere hours after finding out he was nominated for the Comedy Award, Alex Edelman. They chat about which books inspired their comedy, Jane Austen, Janne Teller, graphic novels, lesbian fiction, Jewish fiction and how Robin helped Alex through a medical crisis many Edinburgh's ago... Support the podcast by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes and more. For instance, this episode features a bonus 15 minutes for Patreon supporters.
Another episode recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe, this time Robin is joined by comedians Jen Brister and mere hours after finding out he was nominated for the Comedy Award, Alex Edelman. They chat about which books inspired their comedy, Jane Austen, Janne Teller, graphic novels, lesbian fiction, Jewish fiction and how Robin helped Alex through a medical crisis many Edinburgh's ago... Support the podcast by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and get extended episodes and more. For instance, this episode features a bonus 15 minutes for Patreon supporters.
First episode of six recorded live at Edinburgh Fringe, in this episode Robin chats to comedian and co-host of All Killa No Filla, Kiri Pritchard-McLean and comedian and DIY chef George Egg. They chat best books about serial killers, favourite cookery books, the precarious crossover of the two and home made Russian antennas. Support the show, and The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles. Lots of great rewards including extended episodes. There's an extra 15 minutes of this chat for instance. And be sure to check out the launch our new blog network, featuring Robin, Dean Burnett, Helen Czerski, Jon Butterworth and more at cosmicshambles.com/blogs
First episode of six recorded live at Edinburgh Fringe, in this episode Robin chats to comedian and co-host of All Killa No Filla, Kiri Pritchard-McLean and comedian and DIY chef George Egg. They chat best books about serial killers, favourite cookery books, the precarious crossover of the two and home made Russian antennas. Support the show, and The Cosmic Shambles Network at patreon.com/bookshambles. Lots of great rewards including extended episodes. There's an extra 15 minutes of this chat for instance. And be sure to check out the launch our new blog network, featuring Robin, Dean Burnett, Helen Czerski, Jon Butterworth and more at cosmicshambles.com/blogs
Recorded live at Latitude, it's a Book Shambles - Science Shambles crossover. Robin Ince hosts a discussion about The Magick of the Future, which is to say, what scientific discoveries and technological advancements are so incredible they seem like magic? Robin is joined by author John Higgs and scientists and broadcaster Dr Suzi Gage and Dr Lucy Rogers. You can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Book Shambles will be on a short hiatus for a couple of weeks now as the entire team is up at the Edinburgh Fringe. If you're up there, come and see some of our live shows with special guests such as Neil Gaiman and Ian Rankin. Entry is free! Info at cosmicshambles.com/events/edfringe
Recorded live at Latitude, it's a Book Shambles - Science Shambles crossover. Robin Ince hosts a discussion about The Magick of the Future, which is to say, what scientific discoveries and technological advancements are so incredible they seem like magic? Robin is joined by author John Higgs and scientists and broadcaster Dr Suzi Gage and Dr Lucy Rogers. You can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Book Shambles will be on a short hiatus for a couple of weeks now as the entire team is up at the Edinburgh Fringe. If you're up there, come and see some of our live shows with special guests such as Neil Gaiman and Ian Rankin. Entry is free! Info at cosmicshambles.com/events/edfringe
With Robin out of the country, and Josie on maternity leave, producer Trent Burton is taking up the hosting duties for a week. Which is appropriate as our guest for this Book Shambles Extra is author and journalist Mat Oxley. Mat is one of the world's leading motorcycle writers, and motorcycling racing is Trent's 'other world'. They chat about Mat's books including his latest Speed: The One Genuinely Modern Pleasure, as well as some of the great books and authors of fiction to tackle humankind's speed fetish including Aldous Huxley, Hunter S Thompson, Hemingway and others. You can support Book Shambles on Patreon and get lots of extras by visiting patreon.com/bookshambles
With Robin out of the country, and Josie on maternity leave, producer Trent Burton is taking up the hosting duties for a week. Which is appropriate as our guest for this Book Shambles Extra is author and journalist Mat Oxley. Mat is one of the world's leading motorcycle writers, and motorcycling racing is Trent's 'other world'. They chat about Mat's books including his latest Speed: The One Genuinely Modern Pleasure, as well as some of the great books and authors of fiction to tackle humankind's speed fetish including Aldous Huxley, Hunter S Thompson, Hemingway and others. You can support Book Shambles on Patreon and get lots of extras by visiting patreon.com/bookshambles
Our second special from this year's Latitude Festival, again recorded backstage at the Speakeasy tent. Robin chats her Ladybird Guide to Consciousness with Dr Hannah Critchlow and science books with Dr Michael Brooks of Science(ish). We catch up with Matt Haig about Notes on a Nervous Planet and Jen Brister on her new Edinburgh show. As before, being a festival, there can be some background noise in some of these chats. Like Gospel choirs at full tilt. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our second special from this year's Latitude Festival, again recorded backstage at the Speakeasy tent. Robin chats her Ladybird Guide to Consciousness with Dr Hannah Critchlow and science books with Dr Michael Brooks of Science(ish). We catch up with Matt Haig about Notes on a Nervous Planet and Jen Brister on her new Edinburgh show. As before, being a festival, there can be some background noise in some of these chats. Like Gospel choirs at full tilt. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's the first of a number of specials we recorded at this year's Latitude Festival. On this first episode we've got a bit of a focus on poetry. Robin chats to host of The Verb, Ian McMillan, poet Luke Wright, the Octavia Poetry Collective, punk poet, musician and Josie Long's primary school classmate Brigette Aphrodite and comedian and author Jonnie Bayfield. There's chat of Dylan Thomas, Melvyn Bragg, Dostoevsky and astrophysics based poetry. As always with the interviews we record at festivals, there's a bit of background noise from bands and other performers. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
It's the first of a number of specials we recorded at this year's Latitude Festival. On this first episode we've got a bit of a focus on poetry. Robin chats to host of The Verb, Ian McMillan, poet Luke Wright, the Octavia Poetry Collective, punk poet, musician and Josie Long's primary school classmate Brigette Aphrodite and comedian and author Jonnie Bayfield. There's chat of Dylan Thomas, Melvyn Bragg, Dostoevsky and astrophysics based poetry. As always with the interviews we record at festivals, there's a bit of background noise from bands and other performers. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our second episode recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin is once again joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall, with this week's special guest mathematician, author and broadcaster Dr Hannah Fry. They chat about Hannah's upcoming book Hello World, books on AI and the internet, air crash investigations, butter, baby food and making bad decisions based off of junk maths. Hear an extended edition of this episode, and almost all our other episodes too, plus bonus episodes and more by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our second episode recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall, Robin is once again joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall, with this week's special guest mathematician, author and broadcaster Dr Hannah Fry. They chat about Hannah's upcoming book Hello World, books on AI and the internet, air crash investigations, butter, baby food and making bad decisions based off of junk maths. Hear an extended edition of this episode, and almost all our other episodes too, plus bonus episodes and more by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
One year ago, we were doing Festival Shambles at Latitude with the great Barry Crimmins who sadly passed away earlier this year. Previously only available as a Patreon exclusive, here is the chat he had with Robin that night as part of one of our live shows. Sign up and pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
One year ago, we were doing Festival Shambles at Latitude with the great Barry Crimmins who sadly passed away earlier this year. Previously only available as a Patreon exclusive, here is the chat he had with Robin that night as part of one of our live shows. Sign up and pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
The last recorded, but the first released, of the four episodes we recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall in June. Robin is joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall and special guest comedian and broadcaster Adam Buxton. They chat about David Bowie's top 100 books, Viz, faking a book report, Judy Blume and more. A bonus 20 minutes of this chat is available exclusive to Patreon supporters. Sign up and pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
The last recorded, but the first released, of the four episodes we recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall in June. Robin is joined by guest co-host Sarah Kendall and special guest comedian and broadcaster Adam Buxton. They chat about David Bowie's top 100 books, Viz, faking a book report, Judy Blume and more. A bonus 20 minutes of this chat is available exclusive to Patreon supporters. Sign up and pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Dr Helen Czerski plays the role of Josie for the second time alongside Robin as they're joined by author and actual proper broadcaster Dallas Campbell to talk about space books, including his own recently released Ad Astra. From HG Wells to Jules Verne and Ladybird books of space the three discuss all manner of books, space travel and why people buy into conspiracy theories. Patreon supporters get a bonus fifteen minutes this week. If you'd like to become one head to patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Dr Helen Czerski plays the role of Josie for the second time alongside Robin as they're joined by author and actual proper broadcaster Dallas Campbell to talk about space books, including his own recently released Ad Astra. From HG Wells to Jules Verne and Ladybird books of space the three discuss all manner of books, space travel and why people buy into conspiracy theories. Patreon supporters get a bonus fifteen minutes this week. If you'd like to become one head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Kimokeo Kapahulehua is well-known throughout Hawai‘i for his tireless efforts to preserve and perpetuate his Hawaiian culture, the land and sea. A few nights before we recorded this episode he took to the Royal Albert Hall, with Robin's guest co-host for this episode, Dr Helen Czerski, as part of Space Shambles where they spoke of celestial navigation. Now he's in the Shambles studio to chat of the oceans, his involvement with Hawaiki Rising, the award winning book about the voyaging canoe Hokule'a. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus other goodies, support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
Kimokeo Kapahulehua is well-known throughout Hawai‘i for his tireless efforts to preserve and perpetuate his Hawaiian culture, the land and sea. A few nights before we recorded this episode he took to the Royal Albert Hall, with Robin's guest co-host for this episode, Dr Helen Czerski, as part of Space Shambles where they spoke of celestial navigation. Now he's in the Shambles studio to chat of the oceans, his involvement with Hawaiki Rising, the award winning book about the voyaging canoe Hokule'a. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus other goodies, support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
As mentioned on the last episode, Josie is now on maternity leave, but don't fret, we've still got lots of exciting episodes in store for you. Here is the recording from the London launch of The Happy Brain back in May. Robin chats to Dean Burnett about his new book, why The Daily Mail doesn't know what makes people happy, what happiness even is and then things get weird as Dean tries to explain orgasms while his in laws are in the audience. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
As mentioned on the last episode, Josie is now on maternity leave, but don't fret, we've still got lots of exciting episodes in store for you. Here is the recording from the London launch of The Happy Brain back in May. Robin chats to Dean Burnett about his new book, why The Daily Mail doesn't know what makes people happy, what happiness even is and then things get weird as Dean tries to explain orgasms while his in laws are in the audience. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our guest this week is comedian, writer and host of The Guilty Feminist, Deborah Frances-White. She chats with Robin and Josie about her time as a Jehovah's Witness, discovering improv and some of her favourite books including work by Virginia Woolf, George Orwell and Erica Jong. This is the last episode of the current series as Josie heads off on maternity leave. We've still got lots of episodes and specials to come though including recordings of lots of our recent live shows with guests including Dean Burnett, Alan Moore and Lucie Green. Tickets are still available for our live show on June 11 with guests Adam Buxton and Hannah Fry, as well as Space Shambles with Robin, Chris Hadfield, Stewart Lee and others on June 15. royalalberthall.com for tickets. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Our guest this week is comedian, writer and host of The Guilty Feminist, Deborah Frances-White. She chats with Robin and Josie about her time as a Jehovah's Witness, discovering improv and some of her favourite books including work by Virginia Woolf, George Orwell and Erica Jong. This is the last episode of the current series as Josie heads off on maternity leave. We've still got lots of episodes and specials to come though including recordings of lots of our recent live shows with guests including Dean Burnett, Alan Moore and Lucie Green. Tickets are still available for our live show on June 11 with guests Adam Buxton and Hannah Fry, as well as Space Shambles with Robin, Chris Hadfield, Stewart Lee and others on June 15. royalalberthall.com for tickets. Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Matt Haig has been one of our most requested guests on social media so we're delighted he is our guest this week. Robin and Josie chat to Matt about his own work including the upcoming Notes on a Nervous Planet as well as some of his favourite works from the likes of Emily Dickinson, Carl Sagan and Janette Winterson. A bonus 20 minutes of chat await Patreon supporters this week. You can hear that, and help keep the podcast in production, by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
Matt Haig has been one of our most requested guests on social media so we're delighted he is our guest this week. Robin and Josie chat to Matt about his own work including the upcoming Notes on a Nervous Planet as well as some of his favourite works from the likes of Emily Dickinson, Carl Sagan and Janette Winterson. A bonus 20 minutes of chat await Patreon supporters this week. You can hear that, and help keep the podcast in production, by pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles
We're celebrating our 100th episode! We're either a bit early, or a bit late, depending on how you want to count 'actual' episodes, but it's the thought that counts. On this episode we chat to Emmy and Golden Globe award winner and Oscar nominee Bryan Cranston about his autobiography A Life in Parts. He chats about his acting process, reading for role research, the Time's Up movement, favourite playwrights and a whole lot more. Robin is in the studio and Josie pre-recorded a series of questions as she was off with pregnancy related engagements. Thank you, as always, to you our great Patreon supporters. We would never have been able to make one episode, let alone a hundred odd, without their amazing support. It is hugely appreciated by all of us at Shambles. This week, it's a bumper Patreon edition with almost 25 minutes of extra Cranston just for pledgers. If you'd like to join them and help keep Book Shambles keeping on, head to patreon.com/bookshambles
We're celebrating our 100th episode! We're either a bit early, or a bit late, depending on how you want to count 'actual' episodes, but it's the thought that counts. On this episode we chat to Emmy and Golden Globe award winner and Oscar nominee Bryan Cranston about his autobiography A Life in Parts. He chats about his acting process, reading for role research, the Time's Up movement, favourite playwrights and a whole lot more. Robin is in the studio and Josie pre-recorded a series of questions as she was off with pregnancy related engagements. Thank you, as always, to you our great Patreon supporters. We would never have been able to make one episode, let alone a hundred odd, without their amazing support. It is hugely appreciated by all of us at Shambles. This week, it's a bumper Patreon edition with almost 25 minutes of extra Cranston just for pledgers. If you'd like to join them and help keep Book Shambles keeping on, head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin shared a house at The Laugharne Weekend with writer, author, comic and storyteller Nick Revell. They chat about Nick's latest tale, drinking with Peggy Seger and shape shifting lizards. If you'd like us to keep making the show, please do consider pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and then ideally actually pledging.
Robin shared a house at The Laugharne Weekend with writer, author, comic and storyteller Nick Revell. They chat about Nick's latest tale, drinking with Peggy Seger and shape shifting lizards. If you'd like us to keep making the show, please do consider pledging at patreon.com/bookshambles and then ideally actually pledging.
Founder of the Craftivist Collective, Sarah Corbett joins Josie and Robin to talk about craftivism and her own books on the subject. But Sarah also brought along a big bag of her favourite books to talk about so there's much chat about Martin Luther King Jr, Rebecca Solnit, Daniel Goleman and more. To hear an extended version of this episode and gets lots of other perks and rewards, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Founder of the Craftivist Collective, Sarah Corbett joins Josie and Robin to talk about craftivism and her own books on the subject. But Sarah also brought along a big bag of her favourite books to talk about so there's much chat about Martin Luther King Jr, Rebecca Solnit, Daniel Goleman and more. To hear an extended version of this episode and gets lots of other perks and rewards, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin caught up with MP and author of Everywoman: One Woman's Truth About Speaking the Truth, Jess Phillips. They chat about the book, influences, the diaries of Adrian Mole and much more. Thanks for your continued support. Details of our first live book club have been posted for pledgers at the $3 and up tier. If you'd like to support the show you can do so at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin caught up with MP and author of Everywoman: One Woman's Truth About Speaking the Truth, Jess Phillips. They chat about the book, influences, the diaries of Adrian Mole and much more. Thanks for your continued support. Details of our first live book club have been posted for pledgers at the $3 and up tier. If you'd like to support the show you can do so at patreon.com/bookshambles
Stay With Me was one of the most acclaimed novels of the part twelve months and this week its author, Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀, joins Robin and Josie to chat about her debut novel. They also chat about some of Ayọ̀bámi’s favourite books, Richard Holloway, Michael Rosen and much more. Book Shambles would not, and could not continue, to exist without your support on Patreon. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
Stay With Me was one of the most acclaimed novels of the part twelve months and this week its author, Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀, joins Robin and Josie to chat about her debut novel. They also chat about some of Ayọ̀bámi’s favourite books, Richard Holloway, Michael Rosen and much more. Book Shambles would not, and could not continue, to exist without your support on Patreon. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles
At The Laugharne Weekend Robin sat down with the prolific and acclaimed author, writer (and broadcaster) Stella Duffy. They chat about writing crime fiction, promoting diverse storytellers, Fun Palaces and a whole lot more! Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
At The Laugharne Weekend Robin sat down with the prolific and acclaimed author, writer (and broadcaster) Stella Duffy. They chat about writing crime fiction, promoting diverse storytellers, Fun Palaces and a whole lot more! Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles
In an episode we actually recorded quite a while back, writer, performer and comedian Ricky Gervais joins Robin and Josie in the studio for this week's episode. After Robin starts by saying Ricky doesn't like to read, they chat about why that is and some of Ricky's favourite philosophy writers and science books. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get access to bonus episodes and lots of other goodies, as well as helping keep the podcast going, please support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
In an episode we actually recorded quite a while back, writer, performer and comedian Ricky Gervais joins Robin and Josie in the studio for this week's episode. After Robin starts by saying Ricky doesn't like to read, they chat about why that is and some of Ricky's favourite philosophy writers and science books. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get access to bonus episodes and lots of other goodies, as well as helping keep the podcast going, please support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles
The final Author Extra we recorded at BAHFest, Robin chats to Kelly and Zach Weinersmith, authors of the graphic novel Soonish: Ten Emerging Technologies That'll Improve and/or Ruin Everything. They chat about reusable rockets, why Google Glass failed, augmented reality, medical breakthroughs and lots more! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
The final Author Extra we recorded at BAHFest, Robin chats to Kelly and Zach Weinersmith, authors of the graphic novel Soonish: Ten Emerging Technologies That'll Improve and/or Ruin Everything. They chat about reusable rockets, why Google Glass failed, augmented reality, medical breakthroughs and lots more! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Laura Bates, writer and founder of Everyday Sexism, joins Robin and Josie in the studio. They chat about her new book Misogynation, the Everyday Sexism Project, witches, Naomi Wolf, Matt Haig, Katrine Marcal and much more. As always thank you to our Patreon supporters. Patrons get an exclusive podcast feed with longer episodes, bonus episodes and much more. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles Also, please note, this episode contains discussion about sexual assault, sexual harassment, rape and subjects of that nature.
Laura Bates, writer and founder of Everyday Sexism, joins Robin and Josie in the studio. They chat about her new book Misogynation, the Everyday Sexism Project, witches, Naomi Wolf, Matt Haig, Katrine Marcal and much more. As always thank you to our Patreon supporters. Patrons get an exclusive podcast feed with longer episodes, bonus episodes and much more. Pledge at patreon.com/bookshambles Also, please note, this episode contains discussion about sexual assault, sexual harassment, rape and subjects of that nature.
Robin caught up with the author of the multi-award winning The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage, Sydney Padua. Backstage at BAHFest they chat about creating the steampunk graphic novel, maths, Mad magazine, cheese, comics and a whole lot more! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles. Not only are there some great rewards, but you'll also ensure the show keeps on keeping on!
Robin caught up with the author of the multi-award winning The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage, Sydney Padua. Backstage at BAHFest they chat about creating the steampunk graphic novel, maths, Mad magazine, cheese, comics and a whole lot more! Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles. Not only are there some great rewards, but you'll also ensure the show keeps on keeping on!
Francisco Cantú is a Mexican-American who served as an agent for the US Border Patrol in the deserts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. He joined Robin and Josie to talk about that experience and how it led him to write The Line Becomes a River, his new book on the horrors witnessed on the border. They also chat about the work of Jung, WG Sebald, Shalom Auslander and much more. Hear an extended version of this chat, and all other episodes, plus gets lots more bonus material by supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles. Without your support the show couldn't exist!
Francisco Cantú is a Mexican-American who served as an agent for the US Border Patrol in the deserts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. He joined Robin and Josie to talk about that experience and how it led him to write The Line Becomes a River, his new book on the horrors witnessed on the border. They also chat about the work of Jung, WG Sebald, Shalom Auslander and much more. Hear an extended version of this chat, and all other episodes, plus gets lots more bonus material by supporting the show at patreon.com/bookshambles. Without your support the show couldn't exist!
The first of three chats we recorded backstage at BAHFest, Robin chats to the author of The Butchering Art, Lindsey Fitzharris. Lindsey is medical historian so they chat about the often gruesome history of surgery covered in her new book as well as tales of Northampton and people fainting during her talks. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to help keep the show going and you'll get all sorts of amazing rewards including extended versions of episodes!
The first of three chats we recorded backstage at BAHFest, Robin chats to the author of The Butchering Art, Lindsey Fitzharris. Lindsey is medical historian so they chat about the often gruesome history of surgery covered in her new book as well as tales of Northampton and people fainting during her talks. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to help keep the show going and you'll get all sorts of amazing rewards including extended versions of episodes!
Author of over a dozen books and the former Bishop of Edinburgh, Richard Holloway joins Robin and Josie to talk about his latest book, Waiting for the Last Bus: Reflections on Life and Death. They chat about dealing with death, faith, great last words, inspiring poetry, Graham Greene, Viktor Frankel and much more. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to help keep the show going and you'll get all sorts of amazing rewards including extended versions of episodes!
Author of over a dozen books and the former Bishop of Edinburgh, Richard Holloway joins Robin and Josie to talk about his latest book, Waiting for the Last Bus: Reflections on Life and Death. They chat about dealing with death, faith, great last words, inspiring poetry, Graham Greene, Viktor Frankel and much more. Become a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to help keep the show going and you'll get all sorts of amazing rewards including extended versions of episodes!
Robin catches up with author John Higgs to talk about his latest book Watling Street: Travels Through Britain and Its Ever-Present Past. They chat about the book that charts the cultural history of one of Britain's oldest roads with tales of Alan Moore, Steve Moore, tulpamancy, the KLF and more. Support the show and get rewards for doing so at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin catches up with author John Higgs to talk about his latest book Watling Street: Travels Through Britain and Its Ever-Present Past. They chat about the book that charts the cultural history of one of Britain's oldest roads with tales of Alan Moore, Steve Moore, tulpamancy, the KLF and more. Support the show and get rewards for doing so at patreon.com/bookshambles
Sara was our second ever guest on Book Shambles some years ago and now she's back in the guest chair again. She chats with Robin and Josie about free speech and comedy, baby books, Eimear McBride, researching her new book and lots more besides. Support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) to hear an extended version of this and many other episodes, plus get bonus episodes, behind the scenes access and more!
Sara was our second ever guest on Book Shambles some years ago and now she's back in the guest chair again. She chats with Robin and Josie about free speech and comedy, baby books, Eimear McBride, researching her new book and lots more besides. Support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) to hear an extended version of this and many other episodes, plus get bonus episodes, behind the scenes access and more!
Before a gig in Edinburgh, Robin sits down backstage with the bestselling crime writer Ian Rankin. They chat about the process of writing popular crime fiction, the great American novel and why Jekyll and Hyde is one of the all time great crime novels. Become a Patreon supporter of the show to get bonus episodes, behind the scenes access and more. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Before a gig in Edinburgh, Robin sits down backstage with the bestselling crime writer Ian Rankin. They chat about the process of writing popular crime fiction, the great American novel and why Jekyll and Hyde is one of the all time great crime novels. Become a Patreon supporter of the show to get bonus episodes, behind the scenes access and more. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by singer-songwriter Grace Petrie to talk about her major literary influences on her work. In a bit of a departure from a normal episode, not only is it recorded in a kitchen, but the episode is also punctuated with some of Grace’s music. They chat about the influences of Shakespeare, Harper Lee and Supergirl comics. This is the final episode recorded during Josie’s bout of sickness and tourness. From next week it’s all back to Robin and Josie shambling together. The Cosmic Superheroes exhibition they chat about will be on tour later this year in the UK and you can view some of the images at cosmicshambles.com/superheroes. And don't forget you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
This week Robin is joined by singer-songwriter Grace Petrie to talk about her major literary influences on her work. In a bit of a departure from a normal episode, not only is it recorded in a kitchen, but the episode is also punctuated with some of Grace’s music. They chat about the influences of Shakespeare, Harper Lee and Supergirl comics. This is the final episode recorded during Josie’s bout of sickness and tourness. From next week it’s all back to Robin and Josie shambling together. The Cosmic Superheroes exhibition they chat about will be on tour later this year in the UK and you can view some of the images at cosmicshambles.com/superheroes. And don't forget you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin caught up with author and journalist Dr Matthew Sweet in a glass box where they hope they weren't being watched by spies. Inside they spoke about his new book Operation Chaos: The Vietnam Deserters Who Fought the CIA, the Brainwashers, and Themselves. Support the show on Patreon for lots of bonus content patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin caught up with author and journalist Dr Matthew Sweet in a glass box where they hope they weren't being watched by spies. Inside they spoke about his new book Operation Chaos: The Vietnam Deserters Who Fought the CIA, the Brainwashers, and Themselves. Support the show on Patreon for lots of bonus content patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by writer and broadcaster Lucy Cooke to talk about her new book The Truth About Animals. There’s tales of weird zoology, the grafting of monkey’s testicles, Will Self and Josie has a go at Aristotle. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get lots of other perks and rewards, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by writer and broadcaster Lucy Cooke to talk about her new book The Truth About Animals. There’s tales of weird zoology, the grafting of monkey’s testicles, Will Self and Josie has a go at Aristotle. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get lots of other perks and rewards, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
In this week's author extra, Robin Ince sits down to chat with immunologist Prof Dan Davis about his latest book, The Beautiful Cure. They chat about why vaccines work, why we never get 'double sick' and more. There'll also be a Patreon special on Tuesday when Dan reveals his top science books. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles
In this week's author extra, Robin Ince sits down to chat with immunologist Prof Dan Davis about his latest book, The Beautiful Cure. They chat about why vaccines work, why we never get 'double sick' and more. There'll also be a Patreon special on Tuesday when Dan reveals his top science books. Support the CSN at patreon.com/bookshambles
Author and avid swimmer Jenny Landreth joins the show to talk about her latest book Swell: A Waterbiography. She also brought along a bag full of her favourite books about swimming including works by Al Alvarez, Tanya Shadrick and Leanne Shapton. Stewart Lee is still around at the start of the episode for a lovely bit of synchronicity and Josie Long was still off with norovirus so Michael Legge is sitting in again to enjoy the chat and recommend some Spiderman comics. It'll all make sense when you listen to it, we promise... You can support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles and not only help the show keep getting made, but also get yourself lots of rewards and goodies! For instance, this week, there's an extra 15 minutes of chat from this episode and you'll get plus a bonus episode with Phill Jupitus too.
Author and avid swimmer Jenny Landreth joins the show to talk about her latest book Swell: A Waterbiography. She also brought along a bag full of her favourite books about swimming including works by Al Alvarez, Tanya Shadrick and Leanne Shapton. Stewart Lee is still around at the start of the episode for a lovely bit of synchronicity and Josie Long was still off with norovirus so Michael Legge is sitting in again to enjoy the chat and recommend some Spiderman comics. It'll all make sense when you listen to it, we promise... You can support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles and not only help the show keep getting made, but also get yourself lots of rewards and goodies! For instance, this week, there's an extra 15 minutes of chat from this episode and you'll get plus a bonus episode with Phill Jupitus too.
If you missed the news, we're going to putting out some shorter Book Shambles Extra episodes on Sunday. These will be more focused, in theory, conversations with an author just about their new or upcoming book with either Robin or Josie. In this Book Shambles Extra, Robin chats to Dr Meg Jay, writer and clinical psychologist about her new book, Supernormal: The Untold Story of Adversity and Resilience. The book looks at people who have dealt with various childhood adversity. Normal episodes will still go out on Thursday's, with extended editions for Patreon pledgers, and then on Tuesday there'll be mini 'My Favourite Books' episodes with lots of special guests exclusively for Patreon supporters. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
If you missed the news, we're going to putting out some shorter Book Shambles Extra episodes on Sunday. These will be more focused, in theory, conversations with an author just about their new or upcoming book with either Robin or Josie. In this Book Shambles Extra, Robin chats to Dr Meg Jay, writer and clinical psychologist about her new book, Supernormal: The Untold Story of Adversity and Resilience. The book looks at people who have dealt with various childhood adversity. Normal episodes will still go out on Thursday's, with extended editions for Patreon pledgers, and then on Tuesday there'll be mini 'My Favourite Books' episodes with lots of special guests exclusively for Patreon supporters. Support us at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week’s episode Josie and Robin are joined in the studio by journalist and novelist Clare Swatman. They chat about Clare’s brand new novel The Mother’s Secret as well as books on time travel, Margaret Atwood, Maggie O’Farrell, Limsip, bad reviews and favourite true stories from Take a Break magazine. Patreon supporters can enjoy an extended version of this episode. If you’d like to join our Patreon gang you can at patreon.com/bookshambles
On this week’s episode Josie and Robin are joined in the studio by journalist and novelist Clare Swatman. They chat about Clare’s brand new novel The Mother’s Secret as well as books on time travel, Margaret Atwood, Maggie O’Farrell, Limsip, bad reviews and favourite true stories from Take a Break magazine. Patreon supporters can enjoy an extended version of this episode. If you’d like to join our Patreon gang you can at patreon.com/bookshambles
In Part 2 of Stewart Lee's second visit to Book Shambles, Stew, Robin and guest co-host Michael Legge continue their conversation getting into the work of Rosemary Tonks, David Keenan, Dave Graney and Ithell Colquhoun. Also Stew doesn't like Dunkirk and Michael's annoyed on trains. This show wouldn't be possible without the support of our brilliant Patreon supporters. You can pledge to the show and get lots of brilliant rewards at patreon.com/bookshambles
In Part 2 of Stewart Lee's second visit to Book Shambles, Stew, Robin and guest co-host Michael Legge continue their conversation getting into the work of Rosemary Tonks, David Keenan, Dave Graney and Ithell Colquhoun. Also Stew doesn't like Dunkirk and Michael's annoyed on trains. This show wouldn't be possible without the support of our brilliant Patreon supporters. You can pledge to the show and get lots of brilliant rewards at patreon.com/bookshambles
Stewart Lee was our first ever guest on Book Shambles and now he’s back in Season 7 as our first return guest. Unfortunately Josie was ill at the last minute so for this episode the role of Josie was played by Michael Legge. Robin, Michael and Stew chat about Jarret Kobek, Alice Cooper and Mohave Ethnopsychiatry. This was a long chat so we’ve split it into two parts. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus lots of other perks you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Stewart Lee was our first ever guest on Book Shambles and now he’s back in Season 7 as our first return guest. Unfortunately Josie was ill at the last minute so for this episode the role of Josie was played by Michael Legge. Robin, Michael and Stew chat about Jarret Kobek, Alice Cooper and Mohave Ethnopsychiatry. This was a long chat so we’ve split it into two parts. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus lots of other perks you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Here are two extracts from two longer conversations on our Patreon channel with children's author Christoper Edge and playwright and director Philip Ridley. Both Robin and Josie will be doing a lot more of these non-studio chats in the coming months and you can hear them all by pledging as little as $1 at patreon.com/bookshambles Without the support of our Patreons we simply couldn't make the show so thank you for your support. Christopher's new book 'The Infinite Lives of Maisie Day' is out now and Philip's series of monologues 'Angry' is playing at the Southwark Playhouse.
Here are two extracts from two longer conversations on our Patreon channel with children's author Christoper Edge and playwright and director Philip Ridley. Both Robin and Josie will be doing a lot more of these non-studio chats in the coming months and you can hear them all by pledging as little as $1 at patreon.com/bookshambles Without the support of our Patreons we simply couldn't make the show so thank you for your support. Christopher's new book 'The Infinite Lives of Maisie Day' is out now and Philip's series of monologues 'Angry' is playing at the Southwark Playhouse.
Following two highly successful cookbooks after she finished runner up on Great British Bake Off, Ruby Tandoh first ‘book’ book Eat Up! has just been published looking at the fun, pleasure and symbolism of food to fly in the face of fads and bad diet science. She joins Josie and Robin to chat about that plus great cookbooks, Nora Ephron, suffragettes and her mental health zine. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get behind the scenes access, join the Shambles book club and a lot more why not support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Following two highly successful cookbooks after she finished runner up on Great British Bake Off, Ruby Tandoh first ‘book’ book Eat Up! has just been published looking at the fun, pleasure and symbolism of food to fly in the face of fads and bad diet science. She joins Josie and Robin to chat about that plus great cookbooks, Nora Ephron, suffragettes and her mental health zine. To hear an extended version of this episode, plus get behind the scenes access, join the Shambles book club and a lot more why not support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Science fiction writer Andy Weir joins Robin to talk about his new novel Artemis and his huge hit The Martian. They chat about the pressure of keeping science fiction scientifically accurate, manned space flight and whether science fiction is actually a genre. Andy is also a massive Doctor Who and Star Trek fan so there’s a lot of chat about that and it gets pretty nerdy. Please note that Andy was only very briefly in the UK which coincided with a brief period when Josie wasn’t. Support The Cosmic Shambles Network and Book Shambles at patreon.com/bookshambles Great rewards including behind the scenes access and your chance to be an actual guest on the show!
Science fiction writer Andy Weir joins Robin to talk about his new novel Artemis and his huge hit The Martian. They chat about the pressure of keeping science fiction scientifically accurate, manned space flight and whether science fiction is actually a genre. Andy is also a massive Doctor Who and Star Trek fan so there’s a lot of chat about that and it gets pretty nerdy. Please note that Andy was only very briefly in the UK which coincided with a brief period when Josie wasn’t. Support The Cosmic Shambles Network and Book Shambles at patreon.com/bookshambles Great rewards including behind the scenes access and your chance to be an actual guest on the show!
We kick of Season 7 with the stand up, writer, director and actor Jeff Garlin, who you may know best as Larry David’s agent Jeff from Curb Your Enthusiasm. Robin and Josie chat with Jeff about comic books, Madame Bovary, great books about trees and making sure you don’t confuse Iain Banks with Iain Rankin. New Patreon rewards tiers have been introduced. Find out how to get involved and maybe even be a guest on the show yourself at patreon.com/bookshambles
We kick of Season 7 with the stand up, writer, director and actor Jeff Garlin, who you may know best as Larry David’s agent Jeff from Curb Your Enthusiasm. Robin and Josie chat with Jeff about comic books, Madame Bovary, great books about trees and making sure you don’t confuse Iain Banks with Iain Rankin. New Patreon rewards tiers have been introduced. Find out how to get involved and maybe even be a guest on the show yourself at patreon.com/bookshambles
Start the New year with the final of of our End of Year Specials. Recorded backstage at the Apollo we chat about best books of the year, science fiction, physics and go through Brian Cox's Kindle. Guests include Jim Al-Khalili, Dr Karl, Jo Brand, Charlotte Church, Chris Hadfield, Terry Virts, Dara O Briain and Brian Cox. We'll back at the end of January with series 7 of Book Shambles. Become a patreon supporter and get bonus guests on this episode, plus all new goodies coming for series 7. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
Start the New year with the final of of our End of Year Specials. Recorded backstage at the Apollo we chat about best books of the year, science fiction, physics and go through Brian Cox's Kindle. Guests include Jim Al-Khalili, Dr Karl, Jo Brand, Charlotte Church, Chris Hadfield, Terry Virts, Dara O Briain and Brian Cox. We'll back at the end of January with series 7 of Book Shambles. Become a patreon supporter and get bonus guests on this episode, plus all new goodies coming for series 7. Go to patreon.com/bookshambles
It's Part II of our end of year specials, but Part I of those we recorded backstage at the Hammersmith Apollo as part of the Compendium of Reason gigs. Guests on this episode include Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Ben Goldacre, Helen Czerski, Jon Butterworth, Steve Mould, Hannah Fry, Laura Kid and Steve Best with book recommendations from photography collections to graphic novels to expansive novels. Be sure to become a Patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Lots of new perks and bonus content coming in 2018
It's Part II of our end of year specials, but Part I of those we recorded backstage at the Hammersmith Apollo as part of the Compendium of Reason gigs. Guests on this episode include Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Ben Goldacre, Helen Czerski, Jon Butterworth, Steve Mould, Hannah Fry, Laura Kid and Steve Best with book recommendations from photography collections to graphic novels to expansive novels. Be sure to become a Patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles Lots of new perks and bonus content coming in 2018
In the first instalment of our multi part end of year specials Josie and Robin chat about the best books they've read this year. Josie's got some poetry and short book recommendations and Robin's got some horror books and has finally read a Jean Rhys book. Also Nat Metcalfe pops in to give us his top comics of the year. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles All new exclusive perks coming in 2018..
In the first instalment of our multi part end of year specials Josie and Robin chat about the best books they've read this year. Josie's got some poetry and short book recommendations and Robin's got some horror books and has finally read a Jean Rhys book. Also Nat Metcalfe pops in to give us his top comics of the year. Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles All new exclusive perks coming in 2018..
The 2017 Royal Institute's Christmas Lectures will be given by our good friend, cognitive neuroscientist Professor Sophie Scott. So before they air on Boxing Day Sophie joined Robin and Josie to talk about her favourite psychology books, great thrillers, closed bookshops and the latest research on dreams and communication. Be sure to watch the Christmas Lectures on the BBC and also check out Sophie and Josie as part of Cosmic Superheroes at cosmicshambles.com/superheroes Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles All new exclusive perks coming in 2018.
The 2017 Royal Institute's Christmas Lectures will be given by our good friend, cognitive neuroscientist Professor Sophie Scott. So before they air on Boxing Day Sophie joined Robin and Josie to talk about her favourite psychology books, great thrillers, closed bookshops and the latest research on dreams and communication. Be sure to watch the Christmas Lectures on the BBC and also check out Sophie and Josie as part of Cosmic Superheroes at cosmicshambles.com/superheroes Support the podcast at patreon.com/bookshambles All new exclusive perks coming in 2018.
While Josie was in Glasgow, Robin caught up with a Glaswegian in London from Australia. As the frontman for Cold Chisel, and a solo artist with more number one albums to his name in Australia than anyone else in history, Jimmy Barnes is a rock legend. But more recently he's released a two volume autobiography about his harrowing childhood and youth that has garnered him multiple top literary prizes around the world. The second volume, Working Class Man, has just been released in the UK this week. We chatted to him about the process of writing that, how it's affected him on stage, and how it was much different to your run of the mill music autobiography. Please note that this episode contains frank discussions about suicide and abuse. Support Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
While Josie was in Glasgow, Robin caught up with a Glaswegian in London from Australia. As the frontman for Cold Chisel, and a solo artist with more number one albums to his name in Australia than anyone else in history, Jimmy Barnes is a rock legend. But more recently he's released a two volume autobiography about his harrowing childhood and youth that has garnered him multiple top literary prizes around the world. The second volume, Working Class Man, has just been released in the UK this week. We chatted to him about the process of writing that, how it's affected him on stage, and how it was much different to your run of the mill music autobiography. Please note that this episode contains frank discussions about suicide and abuse. Support Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles
After joining Robin and Josie for a Film Shambles special, Will Smith (The Thick of It, Veep) is back for a Book Shambles. They chat about his own books and books about the Channel Islands and a whole lot more besides. This episode may have the longest reading list yet. From Zola to Le Carré via Jean Rhys and Terry Jones. Become a Patreon for as little as $3 a month. You'll get extended episodes, prizes and help to enable us to keep making the show. Visit patreon.com/bookshambles
After joining Robin and Josie for a Film Shambles special, Will Smith (The Thick of It, Veep) is back for a Book Shambles. They chat about his own books and books about the Channel Islands and a whole lot more besides. This episode may have the longest reading list yet. From Zola to Le Carré via Jean Rhys and Terry Jones. Become a Patreon for as little as $3 a month. You'll get extended episodes, prizes and help to enable us to keep making the show. Visit patreon.com/bookshambles
While out in New Zealand Robin and Josie chatted to one of NZ's most celebrated science writers, Dr Rebecca Priestley. They chat about Rebecca's own work and her time in Antarctica as well as work through the big stack of books Rebecca brought in. From collections of essays and poetry, to the writings of Atul Gawande, Helen Macdonald and lots more. Please note that the small temporary studio we were put in to record this episode only had one mic to share between the three speakers, and Josie had a bad cold, so the audio quality isn't the best, sorry about that. To hear extended versions of Book Shambles plus the chance to win great book prizes, and bask in the satisfaction of knowing that for as little as $3 a month you can keep Book Shambles going, head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
While out in New Zealand Robin and Josie chatted to one of NZ's most celebrated science writers, Dr Rebecca Priestley. They chat about Rebecca's own work and her time in Antarctica as well as work through the big stack of books Rebecca brought in. From collections of essays and poetry, to the writings of Atul Gawande, Helen Macdonald and lots more. Please note that the small temporary studio we were put in to record this episode only had one mic to share between the three speakers, and Josie had a bad cold, so the audio quality isn't the best, sorry about that. To hear extended versions of Book Shambles plus the chance to win great book prizes, and bask in the satisfaction of knowing that for as little as $3 a month you can keep Book Shambles going, head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Founder of the iconic group The Go Betweens, Robert Forster, joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his new book Grant and I. There's also chat of the work of Alan Bennett, Jack Kerouac and TS Elliot. And then Josie discovers Robert is a fan of The Neapolitan Novels... To hear extended versions of Book Shambles plus the chance to win great book prizes, and bask in the satisfaction of knowing that for as little as $3 a month you can keep BooK Shambles going, head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Founder of the iconic group The Go Betweens, Robert Forster, joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his new book Grant and I. There's also chat of the work of Alan Bennett, Jack Kerouac and TS Elliot. And then Josie discovers Robert is a fan of The Neapolitan Novels... To hear extended versions of Book Shambles plus the chance to win great book prizes, and bask in the satisfaction of knowing that for as little as $3 a month you can keep BooK Shambles going, head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
With Paddington 2 hitting cinemas tomorrow, Robin and Josie are joined by one of its script contributors, plus performers for the original film, Will Smith for a special episode, a much requested Film Shambles. You might best know Will from his work on shows like The Thick of It but did you also know he collects old films on VHS and associated promo tat? From Hawk the Slayer to A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night, there's a lot of ground to cover. Become a Patreon supporter of the show to help us keep on making it! As little as $1 an episode up to a maximum of $3 a month and you'll go into prize draws plus get extended and bonus episodes. Pledge here at www.patreon.com/bookshambles
With Paddington 2 hitting cinemas tomorrow, Robin and Josie are joined by one of its script contributors, plus performers for the original film, Will Smith for a special episode, a much requested Film Shambles. You might best know Will from his work on shows like The Thick of It but did you also know he collects old films on VHS and associated promo tat? From Hawk the Slayer to A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night, there's a lot of ground to cover. Become a Patreon supporter of the show to help us keep on making it! As little as $1 an episode up to a maximum of $3 a month and you'll go into prize draws plus get extended and bonus episodes. Pledge here at www.patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded back when the Book Shambles crew were out in Australia, we spoke with dual Miles Franklin award winner Kim Scott, whose new book Taboo has recently been published. Robin and Josie chat with Kim about some of his favourite books from when he was an English teacher, his own novels, imposter syndrome, Aboriginal storytelling and his work with preserving the Indigenous Australian Noongar language. To find out more about the Wirlomin Noongar Language and Stories Project at wirlomin.com.au You can support Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear extended episodes, win books and much more.
Recorded back when the Book Shambles crew were out in Australia, we spoke with dual Miles Franklin award winner Kim Scott, whose new book Taboo has recently been published. Robin and Josie chat with Kim about some of his favourite books from when he was an English teacher, his own novels, imposter syndrome, Aboriginal storytelling and his work with preserving the Indigenous Australian Noongar language. To find out more about the Wirlomin Noongar Language and Stories Project at wirlomin.com.au You can support Book Shambles by becoming a Patreon supporter at patreon.com/bookshambles to hear extended episodes, win books and much more.
It's our first ever live episode of Book Shambles! Recorded at QEDCon in Manchester Robin Ince is joined by a panel of top science writers including Dr Dean Burnett, Dr Helen Czerski, Helen Keen and Ginny Smith. They chat about everyone's own science writing plus the work of Douglas Adams, Oliver Sacks, George RR Martin and lots more. Including sex magic with L. Ron Hubbard... Support Book Shambles on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, win prizes and more!
It's our first ever live episode of Book Shambles! Recorded at QEDCon in Manchester Robin Ince is joined by a panel of top science writers including Dr Dean Burnett, Dr Helen Czerski, Helen Keen and Ginny Smith. They chat about everyone's own science writing plus the work of Douglas Adams, Oliver Sacks, George RR Martin and lots more. Including sex magic with L. Ron Hubbard... Support Book Shambles on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, win prizes and more!
Singer-Songwriter Tanita Tikaram visited Robin and Josie in the Book Shambles studio armed with a bag of her favourite books. There's talk of Maya Angelou, Patrick Hamilton, Margaret Rutherford and the launching of a campaign to get some of Dorothy Porter's work reissued. To get extended versions of each episode, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Singer-Songwriter Tanita Tikaram visited Robin and Josie in the Book Shambles studio armed with a bag of her favourite books. There's talk of Maya Angelou, Patrick Hamilton, Margaret Rutherford and the launching of a campaign to get some of Dorothy Porter's work reissued. To get extended versions of each episode, you can support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Another Book Shambles EXTRA, free and uncut for all listeners. Recorded back at the Latitude Festival, Robin caught up with four fantastic poets to talk about their work and influences. Hollie McNish, Murray Lachlan Young, Luke Wright and John Osborne. Obviously, being recorded at a festival there is a bit of background noise and music at times but that just adds to the atmosphere. Back next week with a standard episode, with Robin and Josie, and an extended edition for patrons of which you can become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Another Book Shambles EXTRA, free and uncut for all listeners. Recorded back at the Latitude Festival, Robin caught up with four fantastic poets to talk about their work and influences. Hollie McNish, Murray Lachlan Young, Luke Wright and John Osborne. Obviously, being recorded at a festival there is a bit of background noise and music at times but that just adds to the atmosphere. Back next week with a standard episode, with Robin and Josie, and an extended edition for patrons of which you can become one at patreon.com/bookshambles
Writer and performer Matt Lucas joins Josie and Robin this week ahead of the launch of his alphabetical autobiography Little Me. They chat about the process of writing memories plus stories of Little Britain, touring, comedy annuals and the work of favourite authors such as Douglas Adams, Edmund White and Michael Carson. Become a Patreon supporter of Book Shambles for as little as $3 a month and you'll get access to extended editions of all episodes, bonus episodes, competitions and much more. Head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
Writer and performer Matt Lucas joins Josie and Robin this week ahead of the launch of his alphabetical autobiography Little Me. They chat about the process of writing memories plus stories of Little Britain, touring, comedy annuals and the work of favourite authors such as Douglas Adams, Edmund White and Michael Carson. Become a Patreon supporter of Book Shambles for as little as $3 a month and you'll get access to extended editions of all episodes, bonus episodes, competitions and much more. Head to http://patreon.com/bookshambles
A Book Shambles EXTRA this week, free and unedited for everyone. Robin chats extensively with sleep expert and neuroscientists Matthew Walker about his new book, Why We Sleep, out this week. They chat about the evolution of sleep, dreams, Jung defecating on cathedrals, alien abductions, the writing of Carl Sagan, Knausgaard and more. Next week will be a 'normal' episode with an extended edition for Patreon supporters like usual. You can become a Patreon for as little as $1 an episode (maximum of three charged episodes a month) at patreon.com/bookshambles
A Book Shambles EXTRA this week, free and unedited for everyone. Robin chats extensively with sleep expert and neuroscientists Matthew Walker about his new book, Why We Sleep, out this week. They chat about the evolution of sleep, dreams, Jung defecating on cathedrals, alien abductions, the writing of Carl Sagan, Knausgaard and more. Next week will be a 'normal' episode with an extended edition for Patreon supporters like usual. You can become a Patreon for as little as $1 an episode (maximum of three charged episodes a month) at patreon.com/bookshambles
Poet Lemn Sissay joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his first major acting role, being a poet as a full time job, some of his early poetry inspirations including Oku Onuora, Grace Nichols and Langston Hughes and the rise of great young, new poets such as Kate Tempest. Become a Patreon supporter of the show for as little as $1 an episode to get exclusive bonus episodes, extended editions of each episode and the chance to win great book prizes. patreon.com/bookshambles
Poet Lemn Sissay joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about his first major acting role, being a poet as a full time job, some of his early poetry inspirations including Oku Onuora, Grace Nichols and Langston Hughes and the rise of great young, new poets such as Kate Tempest. Become a Patreon supporter of the show for as little as $1 an episode to get exclusive bonus episodes, extended editions of each episode and the chance to win great book prizes. patreon.com/bookshambles
Kate Grenville is one of Australia's most celebrated novelists. Her most acclaimed work, The Secret River, won multiple awards worldwide and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. But her new book, The Case Against Fragrance, out this week, is a change of pace and her first real foray into non-fiction and specifically science. While we were out in Australia she chatted to Robin and Josie about her life's work, having too many footnotes, great Australian writers, sexism in literature, historical fiction and much more. To hear longer versions of each episode, plus win prizes and get bonus episodes, become a Patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Kate Grenville is one of Australia's most celebrated novelists. Her most acclaimed work, The Secret River, won multiple awards worldwide and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. But her new book, The Case Against Fragrance, out this week, is a change of pace and her first real foray into non-fiction and specifically science. While we were out in Australia she chatted to Robin and Josie about her life's work, having too many footnotes, great Australian writers, sexism in literature, historical fiction and much more. To hear longer versions of each episode, plus win prizes and get bonus episodes, become a Patreon supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
The final of the episodes recorded during the Edinburgh Fringe and Robin and Josie are joined by Baileys and Goldsmith prize winner, the novelist Eimear McBride. They chat about her latest work The Lesser Bohemians and the process of writing the acclaimed A Girl is a Half-Formed Thing as well as great songwriters, James Joyce, Beckett, Edna O'Brien and much more. Also Josie still has a bag of frozen peas on her knee. Become a supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes and much more.
The final of the episodes recorded during the Edinburgh Fringe and Robin and Josie are joined by Baileys and Goldsmith prize winner, the novelist Eimear McBride. They chat about her latest work The Lesser Bohemians and the process of writing the acclaimed A Girl is a Half-Formed Thing as well as great songwriters, James Joyce, Beckett, Edna O'Brien and much more. Also Josie still has a bag of frozen peas on her knee. Become a supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes and much more.
Recorded in Edinburgh the day after the horrific events in Charlottesville, Robin and Josie chat with American comedian, writer and podcaster Greg Proops. They chat about politics and race in the US right now, and some of the best books on the subject. Which leads to the best dystopian fiction novels and conspiracy theories, but also the literature landscape in Edinburgh so it's not all doom and gloom. Also, Josie has a bag of frozen peas on her knee. To hear an extended edition of all of this season's episodes, plus get bonus episodes and win prizes become a Patreon supporter of the show for as little as $1 an episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
Recorded in Edinburgh the day after the horrific events in Charlottesville, Robin and Josie chat with American comedian, writer and podcaster Greg Proops. They chat about politics and race in the US right now, and some of the best books on the subject. Which leads to the best dystopian fiction novels and conspiracy theories, but also the literature landscape in Edinburgh so it's not all doom and gloom. Also, Josie has a bag of frozen peas on her knee. To hear an extended edition of all of this season's episodes, plus get bonus episodes and win prizes become a Patreon supporter of the show for as little as $1 an episode at patreon.com/bookshambles
Actor, writer (and broadcaster) Robert Webb (Peep Show, That Mitchell and Webb Look) joined Robin and Josie in Edinburgh to chat about his first book, How Not To Be a Boy, out next week. They chat about imaginary friends and getting picked last for PE as well as work by John Updike, Clive James, Roald Dahl, Rupert Everett and more. To hear the extended version of this, and many other episodes (as well as lots of exclusive bonus episodes) become a patron of Book Shambles for as little as $1 an episode. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles
Actor, writer (and broadcaster) Robert Webb (Peep Show, That Mitchell and Webb Look) joined Robin and Josie in Edinburgh to chat about his first book, How Not To Be a Boy, out next week. They chat about imaginary friends and getting picked last for PE as well as work by John Updike, Clive James, Roald Dahl, Rupert Everett and more. To hear the extended version of this, and many other episodes (as well as lots of exclusive bonus episodes) become a patron of Book Shambles for as little as $1 an episode. Head to patreon.com/bookshambles
In the first of the episodes we recorded at this year’s Fringe Festival, Josie and Robin are joined by writer and performer Erin McGathy (Community, HarmonQuest) who is in Edinburgh with her solo show MurderTown. As such there’s much talk of murder mystery novels rom the likes of Agatha Christie and Jim Thompson. Plus books on rituals, self help, James Joyce, Flann O’Brien and the great American classics Erin read at high school. To hear an extended version of this, and other episodes, plus bonus interviews, videos and more become a supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
In the first of the episodes we recorded at this year’s Fringe Festival, Josie and Robin are joined by writer and performer Erin McGathy (Community, HarmonQuest) who is in Edinburgh with her solo show MurderTown. As such there’s much talk of murder mystery novels rom the likes of Agatha Christie and Jim Thompson. Plus books on rituals, self help, James Joyce, Flann O’Brien and the great American classics Erin read at high school. To hear an extended version of this, and other episodes, plus bonus interviews, videos and more become a supporter of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
Robin and Josie are used to working with a keyboard player who became a physicist, but this week they're joined by a physicist who became a keyboard player, not to mention legendary songwriter, best selling author and founding member of Australia's biggest band, Cold Chisel. Don Walker joins the show to chat about writing songs, his book Shots plus Jorge Luis Borges, Gore Vidal, Ray Bradbury and much more. And remember, to hear the extended 1 hour version of the show become a patron at patreon.com/bookshambles Extended episodes, bonus episodes, prizes and more.
Robin and Josie are used to working with a keyboard player who became a physicist, but this week they're joined by a physicist who became a keyboard player, not to mention legendary songwriter, best selling author and founding member of Australia's biggest band, Cold Chisel. Don Walker joins the show to chat about writing songs, his book Shots plus Jorge Luis Borges, Gore Vidal, Ray Bradbury and much more. And remember, to hear the extended 1 hour version of the show become a patron at patreon.com/bookshambles Extended episodes, bonus episodes, prizes and more.
Another episode we recorded out in Australia, Robin and Josie are joined by award winning comedian Tom Ballard who brought along a little bag of some of his favourite books to discuss. Terry Pratchett, Simon Rich, Owen Jones, JK Rowling and more are all on the menu. And remember, to get extended and bonus episodes of Book Shambles, become a patron at patreon.com/bookshambles And if you happen to be in Edinburgh this month, Robin, Josie and Tom all have shows on at the Fringe Festival.
Another episode we recorded out in Australia, Robin and Josie are joined by award winning comedian Tom Ballard who brought along a little bag of some of his favourite books to discuss. Terry Pratchett, Simon Rich, Owen Jones, JK Rowling and more are all on the menu. And remember, to get extended and bonus episodes of Book Shambles, become a patron at patreon.com/bookshambles And if you happen to be in Edinburgh this month, Robin, Josie and Tom all have shows on at the Fringe Festival.
This week we’re diving back into some of the episodes recorded on our Australia and New Zealand tour. This week we speak to comedian Urzila Carlson about writing her memoir, growing up in libraries, dark fairy tales and more. This August Urzila, Robin and Josie all have shows on at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. And remember to support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, bonus episodes and more.
This week we’re diving back into some of the episodes recorded on our Australia and New Zealand tour. This week we speak to comedian Urzila Carlson about writing her memoir, growing up in libraries, dark fairy tales and more. This August Urzila, Robin and Josie all have shows on at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. And remember to support the show on Patreon at patreon.com/bookshambles to get extended episodes, bonus episodes and more.
In a second special episode recorded at the Latitude Festival Robin spoke with Susan Calman, Helen Keen and Alice Roberts about everything from sending postcards to four 92 year old bridge players to Game of Thrones and crying over children's books in the bath... Become a Patron of Book Shambles at patreon.com/bookshambles
In a second special episode recorded at the Latitude Festival Robin spoke with Susan Calman, Helen Keen and Alice Roberts about everything from sending postcards to four 92 year old bridge players to Game of Thrones and crying over children's books in the bath... Become a Patron of Book Shambles at patreon.com/bookshambles
In the first of our many upcoming specials recorded at the 2017 Latitude Festival 2017, Robin Ince chats with a variety of guests about all sorts of bookish delights. Guests on this first special are Jo Neary, Geoff Dyer, Katy Brand, John Luke Roberts and Joanna Cannon. And remember, to hear extended editions of Book Shambles episodes, as well as receive bonus episodes, become a patron of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
In the first of our many upcoming specials recorded at the 2017 Latitude Festival 2017, Robin Ince chats with a variety of guests about all sorts of bookish delights. Guests on this first special are Jo Neary, Geoff Dyer, Katy Brand, John Luke Roberts and Joanna Cannon. And remember, to hear extended editions of Book Shambles episodes, as well as receive bonus episodes, become a patron of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
The Undercover Economist, Tim Harford, joins Robin and Josie to talk about his latest book 50 Things, great economics writers and why it's perfectly fine to have a messy desk. And remember to support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) for exclusive access to extended episodes.
The Undercover Economist, Tim Harford, joins Robin and Josie to talk about his latest book 50 Things, great economics writers and why it's perfectly fine to have a messy desk. And remember to support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) for exclusive access to extended episodes.
Cultural and art historian Dr Janina Ramirez joins Robin and Josie to talk about medieval literature this week. Gospels, Julian of Norwich, Beowulf and great books on critical art theory are all up for discussion this episode. And remember to support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) for exclusive access to extended episodes.
Cultural and art historian Dr Janina Ramirez joins Robin and Josie to talk about medieval literature this week. Gospels, Julian of Norwich, Beowulf and great books on critical art theory are all up for discussion this episode. And remember to support the show on Patreon (patreon.com/bookshambles) for exclusive access to extended episodes.
We may well call all our guests broadcasters, but Iain Lee is a proper one. The comedian and TalkRadio host joins Robin and Josie to talk about great books on mental health, the work of Will Storr, Matt Haig, Anna Minton and many more all ending in a massive Vonnegut love in. This is the free 35 minute version of the episode. To listen to the full 1 hour edition, become a patron of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
We may well call all our guests broadcasters, but Iain Lee is a proper one. The comedian and TalkRadio host joins Robin and Josie to talk about great books on mental health, the work of Will Storr, Matt Haig, Anna Minton and many more all ending in a massive Vonnegut love in. This is the free 35 minute version of the episode. To listen to the full 1 hour edition, become a patron of the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
A special mini-episode of Book Shambles this week as Robin and Josie go all broadsheet and breakfast TV and present their recommended summer reading, or nuclear winter if you prefer, list. Expect Rebecca Fox, Oscar Zarate, Kate Grenville, Sabrina Mahfouz, Nikesh Shukla and more. Support the podcast via Patreon at cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles
A special mini-episode of Book Shambles this week as Robin and Josie go all broadsheet and breakfast TV and present their recommended summer reading, or nuclear winter if you prefer, list. Expect Rebecca Fox, Oscar Zarate, Kate Grenville, Sabrina Mahfouz, Nikesh Shukla and more. Support the podcast via Patreon at cosmicshambles.com/bookshambles
The first of our episodes recorded in New Zealand saw Robin and Josie joined by nanotechnologist, science communicator and writer Dr Michelle Dickinson (who you might better know as Nanogirl). Michelle's first book is out in October so they chat about that as well as the work of Michael Crichton, Atul Gawande, Barbara Baynton and more. There's also a quite gross story about scratching one's head... Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
The first of our episodes recorded in New Zealand saw Robin and Josie joined by nanotechnologist, science communicator and writer Dr Michelle Dickinson (who you might better know as Nanogirl). Michelle's first book is out in October so they chat about that as well as the work of Michael Crichton, Atul Gawande, Barbara Baynton and more. There's also a quite gross story about scratching one's head... Support the show at patreon.com/bookshambles
During a break from filming the new season of his sitcom The Ex PM, Robin and Josie are joined by one of Australia’s most celebrated comedic writers and performers, Shaun Micallef. They chat about his latest book The President’s Desk, favourite comedian biographies, a mutual love of silent film and the difficulty writing Trump based satire in Australia.
During a break from filming the new season of his sitcom The Ex PM, Robin and Josie are joined by one of Australia’s most celebrated comedic writers and performers, Shaun Micallef. They chat about his latest book The President’s Desk, favourite comedian biographies, a mutual love of silent film and the difficulty writing Trump based satire in Australia.
UK audiences may best know Judy Nunn as Ailsa Stewart from Home and Away, but she is also one of Australia's most successful novelists of period fiction. She joined Robin and Josie to chat her latest book, Spirits of the Ghan, plus the work of Pat Barker, RM Ballantyne and how to make sound effects with cabbages.
UK audiences may best know Judy Nunn as Ailsa Stewart from Home and Away, but she is also one of Australia's most successful novelists of period fiction. She joined Robin and Josie to chat her latest book, Spirits of the Ghan, plus the work of Pat Barker, RM Ballantyne and how to make sound effects with cabbages.
Welcome to season 6 of Book Shambles with Robin and Josie! We kick off with a bumper episode that is one we recorded out in Australia as part of the Cosmic Shambles LIVE tour. Our guest is Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, science broadcaster, communicator and author of over forty bestselling science books. Topics of discussion include jet lag and climate change, Dr Karl’s own works plus those of Steven Pinker, Richard Holmes, Peter De Vries and much more!
Welcome to season 6 of Book Shambles with Robin and Josie! We kick off with a bumper episode that is one we recorded out in Australia as part of the Cosmic Shambles LIVE tour. Our guest is Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, science broadcaster, communicator and author of over forty bestselling science books. Topics of discussion include jet lag and climate change, Dr Karl’s own works plus those of Steven Pinker, Richard Holmes, Peter De Vries and much more!
In the final episode of this season, psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about some of the best books in her field, as well as her own work. Philippa also brought along some of her favourite books including work by Jane Austen, Harvey Pekar and EF Benson.
In the final episode of this season, psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about some of the best books in her field, as well as her own work. Philippa also brought along some of her favourite books including work by Jane Austen, Harvey Pekar and EF Benson.
Children's author and poet A.F Harrold sits down with Robin and Josie to talk about his own work and some his favourite poetry and children's books including the work of Russell Hoban, Brian Patten and Raymond Briggs. Also, in our first ever commercial break, that isn't really a commercial break, Nat Metcalfe pops in to let us know about the best new comics out right now.
Children's author and poet A.F Harrold sits down with Robin and Josie to talk about his own work and some his favourite poetry and children's books including the work of Russell Hoban, Brian Patten and Raymond Briggs. Also, in our first ever commercial break, that isn't really a commercial break, Nat Metcalfe pops in to let us know about the best new comics out right now.
Comedian Dane Baptiste joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about how Malcom X’s biography got him into stand up comedy, how he preferred Beowulf to Judy Blume and the influence of the comic series 2000 AD.
Comedian Dane Baptiste joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about how Malcom X’s biography got him into stand up comedy, how he preferred Beowulf to Judy Blume and the influence of the comic series 2000 AD.
Theoretical cosmologist Professor Fay Dowker joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about the science behind Alan Moore's work, Émile Zola, Noam Chomsky, the letters of Albert Einstein and more, including quizzing Josie on the Newtonian physics of her butt on her chair...
Theoretical cosmologist Professor Fay Dowker joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about the science behind Alan Moore's work, Émile Zola, Noam Chomsky, the letters of Albert Einstein and more, including quizzing Josie on the Newtonian physics of her butt on her chair...
Stand Up Mathematician and author of Things To Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension, Matt Parker joins Robin and Josie this week. They talk about all things numbers. Best books on maths, books about mathematicians, puzzle books and plenty more. And Matt will be joining Robin, Josie and others for our live tour of Australia and New Zealand in March/April. Details at cosmicshambleslive.com
Stand Up Mathematician and author of Things To Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension, Matt Parker joins Robin and Josie this week. They talk about all things numbers. Best books on maths, books about mathematicians, puzzle books and plenty more. And Matt will be joining Robin, Josie and others for our live tour of Australia and New Zealand in March/April. Details at cosmicshambleslive.com
This week Robin and Josie sit down to talk inspirational books with founder and director of the Daughter’s of Eve organisation and FGM campaigner, Nimko Ali. There’s chat of religious texts, George Orwell, Walt Whitman and many more besides.
This week Robin and Josie sit down to talk inspirational books with founder and director of the Daughter’s of Eve organisation and FGM campaigner, Nimko Ali. There’s chat of religious texts, George Orwell, Walt Whitman and many more besides.
Welcome to Season 5 of Book Shambles, now part of the Cosmic Shambles Network! Artist and writer and Raoul Martinez joins Robin and Josie to kick of Season 5 of Book Shambles. They discuss Raoul's new book Creating Freedom, have a bit of a debate about free will and chat about the work of Howard Zinn, Rebecca Solnit, Noam Chomsky and more.
Welcome to Season 5 of Book Shambles, now part of the Cosmic Shambles Network! Artist and writer and Raoul Martinez joins Robin and Josie to kick of Season 5 of Book Shambles. They discuss Raoul's new book Creating Freedom, have a bit of a debate about free will and chat about the work of Howard Zinn, Rebecca Solnit, Noam Chomsky and more.
It’s the 50th episode of Book Shambles which just happens to coincide with the launch of the Cosmic Shambles network. Well, we say coincide, we orchestrated it entirely. Anyway, Robin and Josie have a chat about Robocop and what they’ve been reading lately before we take a walk down memory lane with some highlights from the first 49 episodes. Check out the CSN at cosmicshambles.com
It’s the 50th episode of Book Shambles which just happens to coincide with the launch of the Cosmic Shambles network. Well, we say coincide, we orchestrated it entirely. Anyway, Robin and Josie have a chat about Robocop and what they’ve been reading lately before we take a walk down memory lane with some highlights from the first 49 episodes. Check out the CSN at cosmicshambles.com
The Costa Book of the Year is announced this week, so we’re joined by the chair of the judging panel, writer and historian Kate Williams. She chats with Robin and Josie about judging the prize, great sci-fi books, history’s great diaries and the perils of historical accuracy in fiction. The Cosmic Shambles network launches next week, sign up now at cosmicshambles.com
The Costa Book of the Year is announced this week, so we’re joined by the chair of the judging panel, writer and historian Kate Williams. She chats with Robin and Josie about judging the prize, great sci-fi books, history’s great diaries and the perils of historical accuracy in fiction. The Cosmic Shambles network launches next week, sign up now at cosmicshambles.com
Josie and Robin are joined by writer Johann Hari to talk about all manner of things. From his new book, ‘Chasing the Scream’ and rebuilding trust with readers, to the work of Rebecca Solnit, Simon Ings, Peter Ackroyd and more. This is a bonus episode, free to all with no charge to our Patreons. Subscribe to the all new Cosmic Shambles which is launching soon at cosmicshambles.com
Josie and Robin are joined by writer Johann Hari to talk about all manner of things. From his new book, ‘Chasing the Scream’ and rebuilding trust with readers, to the work of Rebecca Solnit, Simon Ings, Peter Ackroyd and more. This is a bonus episode, free to all with no charge to our Patreons. Subscribe to the all new Cosmic Shambles which is launching soon at cosmicshambles.com
Comedian James Acaster is in the guest chair this week to talk about the arts scene in Kettering, great comedians’ biographies, Dave Eggers and dealing with a drop in your Uber rating. And Book Shambles is expanding. Cosmic Shambles is coming soon and you can sign up for free at cosmicshambles.com
Comedian James Acaster is in the guest chair this week to talk about the arts scene in Kettering, great comedians’ biographies, Dave Eggers and dealing with a drop in your Uber rating. And Book Shambles is expanding. Cosmic Shambles is coming soon and you can sign up for free at cosmicshambles.com
Storyteller Philip Ridley joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his own art, plays, books and more as well as his early comic book influences, reading to escape and the problems with genre. Also Robin and Josie still haven't read Ulysses. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
Storyteller Philip Ridley joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his own art, plays, books and more as well as his early comic book influences, reading to escape and the problems with genre. Also Robin and Josie still haven't read Ulysses. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
Scientist, Author and Broadcaster Professor Alice Roberts sits down with Robin and Josie this week to talk about the challenges of turning science TV shows into popular science books and why she should read more fiction. There’s also chat about Stevie Smith poems leading to hypothermia, great new pop biology books and some Carl Sagan controversy. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
Scientist, Author and Broadcaster Professor Alice Roberts sits down with Robin and Josie this week to talk about the challenges of turning science TV shows into popular science books and why she should read more fiction. There’s also chat about Stevie Smith poems leading to hypothermia, great new pop biology books and some Carl Sagan controversy. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
Writer and performer Alice Lowe (and her delightful baby) join Robin and Josie this week to talk about writing dark fiction and horror whilst pregnant, including her film Prevenge. There’s also chat around the work of Patti Smith, Angela Carter, Tom Robbins and, of course, Kurt Vonnegut. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
Writer and performer Alice Lowe (and her delightful baby) join Robin and Josie this week to talk about writing dark fiction and horror whilst pregnant, including her film Prevenge. There’s also chat around the work of Patti Smith, Angela Carter, Tom Robbins and, of course, Kurt Vonnegut. And if you haven’t signed up to the mailing list for Cosmic Shambles, our new adventure launching in January, head to cosmicshambles.com
A Christmas Special of Book Shambles! Robin and Josie chat about their favourite books of the year and then we caught up with twenty of the guests backstage at Brian and Robin's Christmas Compendium show about their favourite books of the year including Simon Le Bon, Chris Hadfield, Brian Cox, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Ben Goldacre, Helen Czerski and many more! All Patreon proceeds from this episode will be donated to St Mungo's Help For Homeless People charity. cosmicshambles.com is coming in 2017. Sign up to the mailing list now.
A Christmas Special of Book Shambles! Robin and Josie chat about their favourite books of the year and then we caught up with twenty of the guests backstage at Brian and Robin's Christmas Compendium show about their favourite books of the year including Simon Le Bon, Chris Hadfield, Brian Cox, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Ben Goldacre, Helen Czerski and many more! All Patreon proceeds from this episode will be donated to St Mungo's Help For Homeless People charity. cosmicshambles.com is coming in 2017. Sign up to the mailing list now.
We kick of part 2 of season 4 with Robin and Josie joined by writer and actor Ralf Little. Ralf controversially brings up his love of video games before taking aim at Tolkien all via discussions of the great work of Caroline Aherne, Terry Pratchett, Paul Merton and others. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
We kick of part 2 of season 4 with Robin and Josie joined by writer and actor Ralf Little. Ralf controversially brings up his love of video games before taking aim at Tolkien all via discussions of the great work of Caroline Aherne, Terry Pratchett, Paul Merton and others. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
It’s a Book Shambles EXTRA mini episode this week. Josie is on tour in the US, but we couldn’t miss the chance to catch up with great Danish writer Janne Teller who happened to be in Cambridge at the same time as Robin. They chat about her new book War as well as the existential classic Nothing, plus the work of Vonnegut (obviously), Thomas Hardy, Albert Camus and more. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
It’s a Book Shambles EXTRA mini episode this week. Josie is on tour in the US, but we couldn’t miss the chance to catch up with great Danish writer Janne Teller who happened to be in Cambridge at the same time as Robin. They chat about her new book War as well as the existential classic Nothing, plus the work of Vonnegut (obviously), Thomas Hardy, Albert Camus and more. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
Robin and Josie are joined by writer, comedian and musician John Dowie this week to talk about his upcoming book, The Freewheeling John Dowie as well as seeing Spike Milligan live, Terry Pratchett, stand up in the 70s and a whole lot more. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
Robin and Josie are joined by writer, comedian and musician John Dowie this week to talk about his upcoming book, The Freewheeling John Dowie as well as seeing Spike Milligan live, Terry Pratchett, stand up in the 70s and a whole lot more. And remember Cosmic Shambles LIVE hits the road to Aus/NZ next year! cosmicshambleslive.com
Writer and sometime stand up Nat Luurtsema joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own catalogue of work, the nature of stand up and living in Watford. Nat also brought along a big bag of books to chat about including works by Stephen King, Paul Sangster and a bundle of filmmaking textbooks.
Writer and sometime stand up Nat Luurtsema joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own catalogue of work, the nature of stand up and living in Watford. Nat also brought along a big bag of books to chat about including works by Stephen King, Paul Sangster and a bundle of filmmaking textbooks.
The day before the US election, Robin and Josie sat down with writer, comedian and activist Alexei Sayle. There's talk of Alexei's new paperback and his entire back catalogue of work, plus that of Sinclair Lewis, Graham Greene, Saki and what the hell is going on with the world these days.
The day before the US election, Robin and Josie sat down with writer, comedian and activist Alexei Sayle. There's talk of Alexei's new paperback and his entire back catalogue of work, plus that of Sinclair Lewis, Graham Greene, Saki and what the hell is going on with the world these days.
Actor, humorist and author Nick Offerman sits down with Josie and Robin this week to talk about his new woodworking book ‘Good Clean Fun’. But they also find time to get into the joys of fish and chips in Margate, the work of George Saunders, Daniel Clowse and Jon Ronson and why some people are disappointed to find out Nick’s and Ron Swanson’s politics aren’t exactly similar. And don't forget, we're on tour across Aus and NZ soon, with a whole heap of special guests. Details at cosmicshambleslive.com
Actor, humorist and author Nick Offerman sits down with Josie and Robin this week to talk about his new woodworking book ‘Good Clean Fun’. But they also find time to get into the joys of fish and chips in Margate, the work of George Saunders, Daniel Clowse and Jon Ronson and why some people are disappointed to find out Nick’s and Ron Swanson’s politics aren’t exactly similar. And don't forget, we're on tour across Aus and NZ soon, with a whole heap of special guests. Details at cosmicshambleslive.com
Physicist, writer and broadcaster Dr Helen Czerski joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about the science of every day things, which just happens to be what her new book, ’Storm in a Teacup’ is all about. There’s also love for the work of Richard Fortey, Grayson Perry, Bruce Chatwin and more. And there’s also a special announcement this week. Robin and Josie are off on tour with Cosmic Shambles LIVE, a science, comedy, literary, musical variety night. There’ll be plenty of guests along for the ride, including Helen, and the show is going around Australia and New Zealand in early 2017. Tickets and details at cosmicshambleslive.com
Physicist, writer and broadcaster Dr Helen Czerski joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about the science of every day things, which just happens to be what her new book, ’Storm in a Teacup’ is all about. There’s also love for the work of Richard Fortey, Grayson Perry, Bruce Chatwin and more. And there’s also a special announcement this week. Robin and Josie are off on tour with Cosmic Shambles LIVE, a science, comedy, literary, musical variety night. There’ll be plenty of guests along for the ride, including Helen, and the show is going around Australia and New Zealand in early 2017. Tickets and details at cosmicshambleslive.com
Writer of both science fact and science fiction, Simon Ings joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his new book 'Stalin and the Scientists'. They also dive into everyone's favourite science fiction authors including Phillip K Dick, JG Ballard, Frank Herbert and a whole lot more.
Writer of both science fact and science fiction, Simon Ings joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his new book 'Stalin and the Scientists'. They also dive into everyone's favourite science fiction authors including Phillip K Dick, JG Ballard, Frank Herbert and a whole lot more.
Philosophical discussion abounds this week as Robin and Josie are joined by author of, amongst many great books, ‘At the Existentialist Café’, Sarah Bakewell. They wander through the work of Bertrand Russell, Albert Camus, Mervyn Peake and many more besides before arriving at the conclusion that basically we should just all reread ‘The Great Gatsby’ more often than we do.
Philosophical discussion abounds this week as Robin and Josie are joined by author of, amongst many great books, ‘At the Existentialist Café’, Sarah Bakewell. They wander through the work of Bertrand Russell, Albert Camus, Mervyn Peake and many more besides before arriving at the conclusion that basically we should just all reread ‘The Great Gatsby’ more often than we do.
This week Josie and Robin are joined by writer, performer and comedian Noel Fielding. There's talk of Richard Braughtigan, Flann O'Brien and everyone's favourite pop-up books. Also lots of stuff we had to bleep out so we didn't get sued...
This week Josie and Robin are joined by writer, performer and comedian Noel Fielding. There's talk of Richard Braughtigan, Flann O'Brien and everyone's favourite pop-up books. Also lots of stuff we had to bleep out so we didn't get sued...
We're back and kicking off Season 4 with one of the greatest writers in history. Alan Moore joins Josie and Robin to talk about the release of his new opus, Jerusalem as well as some of his epic back catalogue plus the work of HP Lovecraft, David Foster Wallace, Chuck D and more... Patreon supporters will also get an exclusive bonus hour with Alan talking about the process of creating Jerusalem.
We're back and kicking off Season 4 with one of the greatest writers in history. Alan Moore joins Josie and Robin to talk about the release of his new opus, Jerusalem as well as some of his epic back catalogue plus the work of HP Lovecraft, David Foster Wallace, Chuck D and more... Patreon supporters will also get an exclusive bonus hour with Alan talking about the process of creating Jerusalem.
This week sees the World Premiere of No’s Knife at The Old Vic in London. A selection of Samuel Beckett’s ‘Texts for Nothing’, it’s conceived and performed by one of our former Shambles guests, Lisa Dwan. So two days before the first preview Robin sat down backstage with Lisa for a fascinating in depth chat about all things Beckett. From being true to the text to the musical rhythm of his language. From performing Beckett’s works as a woman to dealing with bad reviews. No’s Knife opens on September 29th and runs for a limited season of two weeks.
This week sees the World Premiere of No’s Knife at The Old Vic in London. A selection of Samuel Beckett’s ‘Texts for Nothing’, it’s conceived and performed by one of our former Shambles guests, Lisa Dwan. So two days before the first preview Robin sat down backstage with Lisa for a fascinating in depth chat about all things Beckett. From being true to the text to the musical rhythm of his language. From performing Beckett’s works as a woman to dealing with bad reviews. No’s Knife opens on September 29th and runs for a limited season of two weeks.
As a prelude to Season 4 of Book Shambles, here is the final free podcast we recorded at the Latitude Festival this summer. Robin and Josie go second hand book shopping on the Book Bus with 'The Dylan Thomas Guy', Jeff Towns. And Robin sits down to chat books with poet Joshua Idehen, comedian and author Mark Watson and the team from the Guilty Feminist podcast, Sofie Hagen and Deborah Frances-White.
As a prelude to Season 4 of Book Shambles, here is the final free podcast we recorded at the Latitude Festival this summer. Robin and Josie go second hand book shopping on the Book Bus with 'The Dylan Thomas Guy', Jeff Towns. And Robin sits down to chat books with poet Joshua Idehen, comedian and author Mark Watson and the team from the Guilty Feminist podcast, Sofie Hagen and Deborah Frances-White.
Author Evie Wyld joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own novels plus the perils of going to a book club meeting when your own work is the book of the week. There's also chat of Tim Winton, Alison Bechdel, Stephen King and more. And somehow no-one mentions Jean Rhys.
Author Evie Wyld joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own novels plus the perils of going to a book club meeting when your own work is the book of the week. There's also chat of Tim Winton, Alison Bechdel, Stephen King and more. And somehow no-one mentions Jean Rhys.
Songwriter and performer David McAlmont joins Robin and Josie this week as he awaits the final results from his Art History degree, due that very afternoon. They talk of the great books of art as well as the work of John Baldwin, AA Milne, Truman Capote and, of course, Jean Rhys.
Songwriter and performer David McAlmont joins Robin and Josie this week as he awaits the final results from his Art History degree, due that very afternoon. They talk of the great books of art as well as the work of John Baldwin, AA Milne, Truman Capote and, of course, Jean Rhys.
The man behind everything from Zippy and Sweep to goblins from the Labyrinth, Ronnie Le Drew, joins Robin and Josie this week. There's much chat of puppets, naturally, via the work of Roald Dahl, Simon Callow, Anna Kemp and others plus Ronnie's own upcoming autobiography on Unbound.
The man behind everything from Zippy and Sweep to goblins from the Labyrinth, Ronnie Le Drew, joins Robin and Josie this week. There's much chat of puppets, naturally, via the work of Roald Dahl, Simon Callow, Anna Kemp and others plus Ronnie's own upcoming autobiography on Unbound.
In Part 2 of the Science Shambles specials from the Blue Dot Festival from Jodrell Bank, Robin and Josie tackle the issue of evolution and bananas before we chat about scientific delight in all things bookish with a bumper lineup of guests. There's science presenters and writers Dallas Campbell and Ginny Smith, immunologist Sheena Cruickshank, astronomer Paul Abel, the team from ScienceGrrl, impressionist Jon Culshaw and Public Service Broadcasting's J Willgoose. Because this episode was recorded in a large field where a music festival was also taking place, there is often a bit of background noise. Sorry about that.
In Part 2 of the Science Shambles specials from the Blue Dot Festival from Jodrell Bank, Robin and Josie tackle the issue of evolution and bananas before we chat about scientific delight in all things bookish with a bumper lineup of guests. There's science presenters and writers Dallas Campbell and Ginny Smith, immunologist Sheena Cruickshank, astronomer Paul Abel, the team from ScienceGrrl, impressionist Jon Culshaw and Public Service Broadcasting's J Willgoose. Because this episode was recorded in a large field where a music festival was also taking place, there is often a bit of background noise. Sorry about that.
Recorded at the Blue Dot Festival at Jodrell Bank, Robin chatted with various people about the great works of science and science fiction. And also some Mills and Boons. Robin and Josie kick things off and then our guests include physicist and professional pointer at wondrous things, Professor Brian Cox, Rosetta project scientist Dr Matt Taylor, space scientist Professor Monica Grady and actor, comedian and science writer Ben Miller. Because this episode was recorded in a large field where a music festival was also taking place, there is often a bit of background noise. Sorry about that.
Recorded at the Blue Dot Festival at Jodrell Bank, Robin chatted with various people about the great works of science and science fiction. And also some Mills and Boons. Robin and Josie kick things off and then our guests include physicist and professional pointer at wondrous things, Professor Brian Cox, Rosetta project scientist Dr Matt Taylor, space scientist Professor Monica Grady and actor, comedian and science writer Ben Miller. Because this episode was recorded in a large field where a music festival was also taking place, there is often a bit of background noise. Sorry about that.
Stand Up, actor and writer Isy Suttie joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her new book, The Actual One. As usual, the conversation meanders through all sorts of stuff from stand up to Jane Eyre to poo to Sue Townsend. They also establish a new comedic cliche to replace the differences between men and women; The differences between Bronte fans and Austen fans. It’s bound to catch on.
Stand Up, actor and writer Isy Suttie joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her new book, The Actual One. As usual, the conversation meanders through all sorts of stuff from stand up to Jane Eyre to poo to Sue Townsend. They also establish a new comedic cliche to replace the differences between men and women; The differences between Bronte fans and Austen fans. It’s bound to catch on.
Comedian Sarah Kendall joins Robin and Josie to talk about her upcoming Edinburgh show and Radio 4 series as well as bringing in a big bag of her favourite books. There’s Jeffrey Eugenides, Kurt Vonnegut, David Mitchell, Ben Moor, Marta Hillers and plenty of others. Also Josie reads us her favourite poem. Content Warning- The following episode contains a discussion about sexual violence.
Comedian Sarah Kendall joins Robin and Josie to talk about her upcoming Edinburgh show and Radio 4 series as well as bringing in a big bag of her favourite books. There’s Jeffrey Eugenides, Kurt Vonnegut, David Mitchell, Ben Moor, Marta Hillers and plenty of others. Also Josie reads us her favourite poem. Content Warning- The following episode contains a discussion about sexual violence.
Saturday night at Latitude, around midnight, Robin and Josie hosted a Book Shambles Live Horror Special to coincide with the launch of Dead Funny Encore from Salt Publishing. This special podcast includes highlights from the live show as week as backstage chats with some of the guests including Reece Shearsmith, Suzi Gage, Anna Savory and Rufus Hound.
Saturday night at Latitude, around midnight, Robin and Josie hosted a Book Shambles Live Horror Special to coincide with the launch of Dead Funny Encore from Salt Publishing. This special podcast includes highlights from the live show as week as backstage chats with some of the guests including Reece Shearsmith, Suzi Gage, Anna Savory and Rufus Hound.
Robin and Josie introduce the live panel held on Friday night at the 2016 Latitude where we asked the question, is art a spell? David Bowie's final work, visually and aurally, was some of the most potent of his career, made all the more so by his death three days after the release of Blackstar. His favourite books contained many on art, the occult and magick - so are the great creators shamanic… The panel, hosted by Robin, includes Daisy Campbell, Andrew O’Neill, John Constable and Hollie McNish.
Robin and Josie introduce the live panel held on Friday night at the 2016 Latitude where we asked the question, is art a spell? David Bowie's final work, visually and aurally, was some of the most potent of his career, made all the more so by his death three days after the release of Blackstar. His favourite books contained many on art, the occult and magick - so are the great creators shamanic… The panel, hosted by Robin, includes Daisy Campbell, Andrew O’Neill, John Constable and Hollie McNish.
Direct from day one of the Latitude Festival it’s Robin’s Book Shambles. Because Josie is still on route. Robin chats with comic book creators Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie, poet Luke Wright and writer and comedian Shappi Khorsandi.
Direct from day one of the Latitude Festival it’s Robin’s Book Shambles. Because Josie is still on route. Robin chats with comic book creators Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie, poet Luke Wright and writer and comedian Shappi Khorsandi.
On the 100th anniversary of The Battle of the Somme on July 1st, Robin and Josie chatted with the acclaimed writer of 'The Missing of the Somme', Geoff Dyer about that plus his entire body of work including his new book, 'White Sands'. All that and jazz, Tarkovsky, Brexit, Jean Rhys, sitcoms and more.
On the 100th anniversary of The Battle of the Somme on July 1st, Robin and Josie chatted with the acclaimed writer of 'The Missing of the Somme', Geoff Dyer about that plus his entire body of work including his new book, 'White Sands'. All that and jazz, Tarkovsky, Brexit, Jean Rhys, sitcoms and more.
Acclaimed writer Nikesh Shukla joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his own work including the upcoming collection of essays, The Good Immigrant, plus everything from Spiderman comics to the dirty short stories of Philip Larkin...
Acclaimed writer Nikesh Shukla joins Josie and Robin this week to talk about his own work including the upcoming collection of essays, The Good Immigrant, plus everything from Spiderman comics to the dirty short stories of Philip Larkin...
Author and host of 'All in the Mind', Claudia Hammond joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her new book, psychology, Primo Levi, George Saunders and her own teenage book diary..
Author and host of 'All in the Mind', Claudia Hammond joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her new book, psychology, Primo Levi, George Saunders and her own teenage book diary..
Actor and Beckett performer extraordinaire Lisa Dwan joins Robin and Josie this week ahead of her upcoming World Premiere of No’s Knife at The Old Vic later this year. There’s obviously plenty of Samuel Beckett’s work to discuss as well as everyone’s favourite short story authors, Dante and the best music to read Mills and Boons by.
Actor and Beckett performer extraordinaire Lisa Dwan joins Robin and Josie this week ahead of her upcoming World Premiere of No’s Knife at The Old Vic later this year. There’s obviously plenty of Samuel Beckett’s work to discuss as well as everyone’s favourite short story authors, Dante and the best music to read Mills and Boons by.
Season 3 of Book Shambles kicks off with Robin and Josie joined by mathematician, author and Pelé biographer, Alex Bellos with talk of football, Feynman, Euclid, reader offers in 1970s comic books and a whole lot more.
Season 3 of Book Shambles kicks off with Robin and Josie joined by mathematician, author and Pelé biographer, Alex Bellos with talk of football, Feynman, Euclid, reader offers in 1970s comic books and a whole lot more.
Quest For Wonder Launch Special - With the Cosmic Genome site buzzing this week with the launch of our new series, The Quest For Wonder, we thought we'd celebrate with a Book Shambles special. Author Jon Ronson joins Robin and Josie to talk about the influences on his own work, Hunter S Thompson, Albert Camus and a whole lot more.
Quest For Wonder Launch Special - With the Cosmic Genome site buzzing this week with the launch of our new series, The Quest For Wonder, we thought we'd celebrate with a Book Shambles special. Author Jon Ronson joins Robin and Josie to talk about the influences on his own work, Hunter S Thompson, Albert Camus and a whole lot more.
Season 2 - Episode 6 - In the season two finale of Book Shambles, Robin and Josie are joined by the comedian and actor Eddie Izzard. Along with discussions of theories of the universe and improv, they get into the work of John Higgs, Monty Python and Charlie Chaplin.
Season 2 - Episode 6 - In the season two finale of Book Shambles, Robin and Josie are joined by the comedian and actor Eddie Izzard. Along with discussions of theories of the universe and improv, they get into the work of John Higgs, Monty Python and Charlie Chaplin.
Season 2 - Episode 5 - Writer, performer, broadcaster and Man Booker Prize judge Natalie Haynes is in the studio with Robin and Josie this week to talk about reading two books a day for a year, Greek classics and an excess of novels set in WWII.
Season 2 - Episode 5 - Writer, performer, broadcaster and Man Booker Prize judge Natalie Haynes is in the studio with Robin and Josie this week to talk about reading two books a day for a year, Greek classics and an excess of novels set in WWII.
Season 2 - Episode 4 - Taking a break from trying on wigs for the new series of 'Inside No. 9', Reece Shearsmith joins Robin and Josie to talk all things horror. There's talk of books of horror movie history, Stephen King, talking mongooses called Gef and everything else horrific in between.
Season 2 - Episode 4 - Taking a break from trying on wigs for the new series of 'Inside No. 9', Reece Shearsmith joins Robin and Josie to talk all things horror. There's talk of books of horror movie history, Stephen King, talking mongooses called Gef and everything else horrific in between.
Season 2 - Episode 3 - Award winning writer and comic A.L. Kennedy joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own work plus that of Robert Louis Stevenson, Philip Ridley and secret books of magic... Please note that this episode contains a discussion about suicide.
Season 2 - Episode 3 - Award winning writer and comic A.L. Kennedy joins Robin and Josie this week to talk about her own work plus that of Robert Louis Stevenson, Philip Ridley and secret books of magic... Please note that this episode contains a discussion about suicide.
Season 2 - Episode 2 - In this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by singer-songwriter Charlotte Church to talk of books to read to your children, books that make you cry, quantum physics and get into why Charlotte hasn’t read the entire works of Plato.
Season 2 - Episode 2 - In this week’s episode Robin and Josie are joined by singer-songwriter Charlotte Church to talk of books to read to your children, books that make you cry, quantum physics and get into why Charlotte hasn’t read the entire works of Plato.
Season 2 - Episode 1 - In the Season 2 premiere of Book Shambles, Josie and Robin are joined by neuroscientist and author of the popular Brainflapping blog as well as new book The Idiot Brain, Dr Dean Burnett to talk psychology, science fiction, Spike Milligan and horse punching...
Season 2 - Episode 1 - In the Season 2 premiere of Book Shambles, Josie and Robin are joined by neuroscientist and author of the popular Brainflapping blog as well as new book The Idiot Brain, Dr Dean Burnett to talk psychology, science fiction, Spike Milligan and horse punching...
Season 1 - Christmas Special - With special Christmas episodes of both Sherlock and Doctor Who due on screens this holiday season, who better to join Josie and Robin for the Book Shambles Christmas Special than Mark Gatiss?! Expect musings on Sherlock and Doctor Who, naturally, as well as Dickens, The League of Gentlemen, Dennis Wheatley and a surprisingly in-depth discussion about wigs.
Season 1 - Christmas Special - With special Christmas episodes of both Sherlock and Doctor Who due on screens this holiday season, who better to join Josie and Robin for the Book Shambles Christmas Special than Mark Gatiss?! Expect musings on Sherlock and Doctor Who, naturally, as well as Dickens, The League of Gentlemen, Dennis Wheatley and a surprisingly in-depth discussion about wigs.
Season 1 - Episode 6 - On the day that Brit Tim Peake begins his journey to the International Space Station, the Book Shambles crew wondered what sort of books he might want to read while he’s up there and what sort of books might inspire an astronaut. So who better to ask than Chris Hadfield, author, musician and former Commander of the ISS. Chris joins Josie and Robin for the final episode of Book Shambles, Series 1.
Season 1 - Episode 6 - On the day that Brit Tim Peake begins his journey to the International Space Station, the Book Shambles crew wondered what sort of books he might want to read while he’s up there and what sort of books might inspire an astronaut. So who better to ask than Chris Hadfield, author, musician and former Commander of the ISS. Chris joins Josie and Robin for the final episode of Book Shambles, Series 1.
Season 1 - Episode 5 - It’s poetry week on Book Shambles as Robin and Josie are joined by poet Salena Godden to talk about everything from Lenny Bruce and Elizabeth Smart to the virtues of writing in your books. In pen.
Season 1 - Episode 5 - It’s poetry week on Book Shambles as Robin and Josie are joined by poet Salena Godden to talk about everything from Lenny Bruce and Elizabeth Smart to the virtues of writing in your books. In pen.
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Political books are the starting point for this week's episode as Josie and Robin are joined by author and political activist Owen Jones to talk of everything from Naomi Klein and Ronnie Barker to Howard Zinn and the poetry of Louise Mensch.
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Political books are the starting point for this week's episode as Josie and Robin are joined by author and political activist Owen Jones to talk of everything from Naomi Klein and Ronnie Barker to Howard Zinn and the poetry of Louise Mensch.
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Author and performance poet Laura Dockrill joins Robin and Josie for episode 3 of the series for a shambolic ramble through the world of children’s books via Roald Dahl, Maurice Sendak, Michael Rosen and more.
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Author and performance poet Laura Dockrill joins Robin and Josie for episode 3 of the series for a shambolic ramble through the world of children’s books via Roald Dahl, Maurice Sendak, Michael Rosen and more.
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Josie and Robin are joined by Sara Pascoe to talk of Margaret Atwood, Aldous Huxley, the aquatic ape theory and a whole lot more.
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Josie and Robin are joined by Sara Pascoe to talk of Margaret Atwood, Aldous Huxley, the aquatic ape theory and a whole lot more.
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Stewart Lee joins Robin and Josie for a chatabout Grayson Perry, Ray Bradbury, Alan Bennett and dog muck.
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Stewart Lee joins Robin and Josie for a chatabout Grayson Perry, Ray Bradbury, Alan Bennett and dog muck.