“Actually, I can write anywhere - airport lounges, in bed, on a rattling train going north.”

“All prizes have a role, if they are run with integrity and with a clear focus on reading and quality writing. I don't think any of them is necessary, but they all play an incredibly important role in building a body of literature, in introducing new authors to new readers, and extending reading.”

“Free and fair access to books - to reading - is a right and one we should fight for.”

“I am not a fan of historical fiction that is sloppy in its research or is dishonest about the real history.”

“I read a lot of thrillers, especially American crime novels.”

“I really like people and I keep friendships. I have people from all parts of my life.”

“Library campaigners are not prepared to stand by and watch something they cherish be dismantled brick by brick.”

“Lots of people have objections to prizes of all types, and it would be extraordinary if everybody agreed on anything that's worthwhile - they never do.”

“People have different views of how you deal with different issues in literature, and, frankly, long may it last that there is a range of views.”

“People think that I'm very serious.”

“The message is clear: libraries matter. Their solid presence at the heart of our towns sends the proud signal that everyone - whoever they are, whatever their educational background, whatever their age or their needs - is welcome.”

“Usually I decide on what it is I'm writing next by the books I'm reading.”