The best Penguin Podcast episodes for aspiring writers

Are you currently building the fictional world of an epic fantasy? Dreaming up a dark and twisty thriller? Or maybe you're angling to write the next Bridget Jones's Diary. Whatever your flavour of fiction, you may be in search of advice from your favourite authors on how they became accomplished writers – and the Penguin Podcast is here to help.

We've delved into the archives to find the best conversations with leading writers in every major genre, covering everything from dealing with criticism to character development and writer's block.

To start, we recommend this special episode about Demystifying Publishing, where award-winning Penguin author Derek Owusu, literary agent Crystal Mahey-Morgan, and editor Tom Avery talk to host Leena Norms about how to bring a book into the world. Covering everything from creative inspiration to finding an agent, to working with booksellers, this is a must-listen for every aspiring writer, whether you're only just putting pen to paper or you're ready to pitch your story.

Best podcast episode for contemporary fiction authors

Bonnie Garmus With Isy Suttie

Best podcast episodes for general and literary fiction authors

Julian Barnes with Nihal Arthanayake

Bernardine Evaristo with Nihal Arthanayake

Best podcast episode for crime and thriller writers

Paula Hawkins with Nihal Arthanayake

Best podcast episode for romance writers

Helen Fielding with Konnie Huq

Best podcast episode for fantasy writers

Marlon James with Nihal Arthanayake

Best podcast episode for sci-fi writers

Sophie Aldred with Katy Brand

Actor and author Sophie Aldred rose to fame as Ace, companion to the Seventh Doctor (Sylvester McCoy) in the hit TV series Doctor Who. Her novel At Childhood's End revisits her character in the present day, where she runs into the 13th Doctor (played on-screen by Jodie Whittaker) for a new adventure. In this episode, she tells Katy Brand about writing (and rewriting) her reunion with the Doctor, and returning to the Doctor Who universe to tease out new storylines.

Best podcast episode for historical fiction writers

Conn Iggulden with Nihal Arthanayake

Best podcast episode for YA authors

Malorie Blackman with Nihal Arthanayake

Best podcast episode for children's authors

Jacqueline Wilson with Katy Brand

Listen and subscribe to the Penguin Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Acast, Spotify, or wherever you usually listen to podcasts.