John Christopher’s 1977 children’s novel about the end of the world is as grim as anything on a similar theme that he wrote for adults, just toned down for language and “themes.” In this episode I take a closer look at what it’s all about and why it enjoyed a bit of a renaissance just a few years ago.

A wonderfully bookish biography of a bookish person by another bookish person. This book is a delight for those who are fans of Lewis or even if you re not. Wilson is a fabulously erudite reteller of Lewis’s life and inspirations.

Galaxy Quest is a 1999 science fiction comedy starring Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver and Alan Rickman. It’s an utter delight and a favourite of mine. Riffing more than slightly off the real-life experiences of the actors in Star Trek, it’s a hilarious trip across the galaxy with a wonderful heart.

Collaborations aren’t normally something that I enjoy but when they work they are an absolute delight (see episode 1 of this series for more proof). This 1980s classic by two giants of the field is a fantastic depiction of a manned expedition to explore Halley’s Comet. Full of adventure and tragedy and wonderful science-y ideas, it’s a thumping good tale.

Episode 25: Illusion by Paula Volsky

Illusion is a brilliant novel that tells a fantasy version of the French Revolution. It’s a delight to read despite covering fairly grim material and I absolutely love it.

Helene Hanff rose to international prominence with 84, Charing Cross Road, but she had been a writer all her life. This frequently hilarious memoir details how that writing life began…