Ana Kinsella and Maria Semple talk to Steve Jones

As a celebration of the books we’ll be reading in summer 2026, Steve Jones talks to two authors about their remarkable new novels, which are already attracting huge attention. One of the most distinctive voices in contemporary fiction, Maria Semple – author of Where'd You Go, Bernadette – discusses Go Gentle, an eargerly anticipated novel this summer: the thrilling story of one woman’s mid-life transformation. Alongside her, Ana Kinsella introduces the epic and unforgettable story of how two people can shape and define each other’s lives, the subject of her hotly tipped Frida Slattery As Herself.

The authors discuss what makes these books so irresistible – is it the pull of the writing, characters or plot, or something else entirely? And what do they themselves love to read? Join us for a lively conversation and a joyful celebration of the pleasure of reading, including a few recommended summer reads from the authors themselves.