The Observer Book Club

The Observer’s Literary Editor, Tom Gatti, talks to historian Simon Sebag Montefiore about his new book, The Cauldron, which is about the making of the modern Middle East. As America’s war with Iran enters a new phase, Simon Sebag Montefiore takes us back to the 1979 revolution, when the Shah was overthrown and replaced by an Islamic theocracy. To what extent was this world-changing event the key to understanding today’s Middle East? 

The Observer’s Literary Editor, Tom Gatti, is joined by author William Boyd to talk about his new book, Cold Sunset, the final instalment in the thrilling Cold War trilogy.Set amidst the smoke, booze, and high-stakes tension of 1960s espionage, the novel follows "accidental spy" and travel writer Gabriel Dax. Boyd reflects on the art of keeping readers guessing, why he thinks spies might betray their country, and how the Cambridge Five inspired his latest work.

The Observer’s Deputy Comment Editor Erica Wagner is joined by Deborah Frances-White, live from the Manchester Literary Festival, to talk about her latest book, Six Conversations We’re Scared to Have. Their discussion covers the new fights for women's rights, the perils of social media addiction, and the importance of free speech.