From the British Library in London, Alexander McCall Smith talks to the programme as well as an audience for a question and answer session. Presenter: Harriett Gilbert

Scott Turow joins an audience of World Service listeners to answer questions about his 1987 crime novel Presumed Innocent.

The British author, Louis De Bernieres answers questions from an audience and sent in by BBC listeners about his novel, Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Presenter: Harriett Gilbert.

(Photo: Louis de Bernieres in his study, holding a mandolin)

Philip Pullman talks about his book and takes questions on his book The Northen Lights part of the His Dark Materials trilogy.

(Photo: Philip Pullman. Credit: Getty Images)

Maya Angelou answers listeners questions about her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Presenter: Harriett Gilbert.

Salman Rushdie talks to an audience and takes questions on his award winning book Midnight's Children. Presented by Harriett Gilbert.

Andre Brink joins an audience of World Service listeners to discuss his novel A Dry White Season.

Author of "Blonde" Joyce Carol Oates answers questions about her novel. Presenter: Harriett Gilbert.

Carlos Fuentes joins an audience of World Service listeners to discuss his novel The Death of Artemio Cruz.

Nick Hornby talks to an audience about his book about being an Arsenal football fan Fever Pitch. Presented by Harriett Gilbert.