Leila's father's role as a minister in the Somali government marked the family as a militia target, and the family spent the next 8 years living as refugees in camps near the Kenyan border.

From reluctant student to leading archaeologist

Jane is the author of two fictionalised books that tell the story of her hero, Queen Elizabeth I.

Nigel's father moved the family from Barbados to London in the 50's.

The first tanks were invented in a desperate attempt to end the agony of trench warfare.

Susan is a writer with a fascination for Australian history. She also teaches English to adults.

Stephen and Sally's son Massimo became seriously ill when he was just a year old.

Michael shares his intimate knowledge of the jihadist group's origins and motivations

Author David Vann was living a hand-to-mouth existence in his late twenties and looking for a way out.

Jane was raised in Zimbabwe by loving but reserved parents. At 19 she learned they'd adopted her in difficult circumstances.