I heard her read The Colour, and I have to say it rather put me off, though Music and Silence is very high on my list of favourite novels. Maybe it's just because NZ history doesn't get me in the gut like 17th century Denmark.

But I'm frequently put off by readings. I'm never sure if it's that most authors don't read well, or sometimes even adequately. Or because the kind of extract that seems suitable - such as the opening, because it needs no explaining or something descriptive, because the author has limited vocal range and acting skill - is usually very unsuitable from the point of view of compelling listening. Or it might be because I had a glass of wine on an empty stomach beforehand and I'm now falling asleep... Poets are usually better, but then they get the practice anywhere. And - dare I say it - most poet's work doesn't demand the range of vocal skills that a lively bit of fiction does.

Emma

Thanks for all these recommendations. I have quite a stack on my bedside table now, and the block seems to have shifted at last.

Myrtle

Glad to hear it, Myrtle.

I was thinking of writing one of these myself. When I was a young teacher a friend and colleague embarked on what turned out to be a thirty year career of teaching English abroad and a lengthy correspondence with me. No Internet in those days, so the letters were all on paper. I made carbon copies so I could remember what I'd written and kept these and the replies in A4 files- they totaled half a dozen, until emails took over.

I've had it in mind for years to turn these into fiction, so thanks for the reminder.

Sheila

But I'm frequently put off by readings. I'm never sure if it's that most authors don't read well, or sometimes even adequately.

Yes, I agree. I went to the series of lectures at Cambridge (I can't remember the name of them, but they're quite well known). I saw AS Byatt and Margaret Atwood both reading and talking about their work. Byatt was so dull, and rather pretentious. Shame, as Possession is an amazing book. Atwood on the other hand seemed like a genuinely nice woman. Suffice to say I've read lots more Atwood but no more Byatt - most of Byatt's other work I just find too difficult, and her rather dull voice just kept coming through.

D.

I've only seen Byatt in action once, and she was paired with Doris Lessing, compared to whom she was warmth and grace personified. They weren't reading, either, so I can't judge that. And yes, what I've heard and read of Atwood seems really warm and human. She writes fascinatingly about writing.When I need another source of income I think I'll set up as a voice coach for authors - boy do some of them need it.

I adore Possession, when I'm not being infuriated by it. It's just as well the whole thing is so astonishing, because the flaws are very deep. (Which of course was why it made such a good subject for my MPhil critical paper) I like Byatt best when she's dealing with myths and fairy tales, and least when she's being modern and caustic - she's so chilly. Possession of course is both, and then some.

Emma