Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Where are you now and what can you see?
I'm in my work-room sitting at my drawing board, on the first floor of my [West London] house, looking out to the communal gardens.
What are you currently reading?
Coincidentally, a book by my son [and journalist] Ed Vulliamy. For 'The War is Dead, Long Live the War', he went back to Bosnia and found all the people he spoke to ten years ago. I'm also reading Joanna Trollope's 'The Other Family'. She writes brilliantly.
Choose a favourite author, and say why you admire her/him
I go back to reading Dickens for pleasure: his style, his humour and his ability to mix high comic scenes with cruelty and brutality. I also find Honoré de Balzac inspiring.
Describe the room where you usually write
At my kitchen table in longhand.
Which fictional character most resembles you?
The mole in 'The Wind in the Willows'. He was a rather nervous character but he plucked up the courage and went on an adventure. I have all my adventures in my head.
Who is your hero/heroine from outside literature?
My daughter and daughters-in-laws for bringing up families and still doing a job they like.
Shirley Hughes's novel, 'Hero on a Bicycle', is published by Walker Books
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments