Best of the Spectator

The Book Club: Francesca Simon

Mar 26, 2025
Francesca Simon, renowned for her Horrid Henry series, dives into her first adult novel, Salka: Lady of the Lake, reinterpreting Welsh folklore. She shares insights on transforming musical narratives into rich literary experiences, exploring themes of love, identity, and otherness. The conversation unveils the emotional complexities of relationships, grief, and societal expectations within her characters. Simon highlights the collaboration between writers and composers, showcasing the evolution of storytelling from prose to performance and the personal inspirations behind her work.
Ask episode
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes