Booker prize-winning author shows novel approach in campus interviews

During Welcome Week, undergraduates studying a wide range of subjects were given a copy of Vernon God Little, the debut novel which scooped the author the award in 2003.

In all 5000 copies were handed out and now the author is coming in person to be interviewed by two students at sessions at both Hull and Scarborough campuses.

The university has been supported by the Booker Prize Foundation which is aiming to introduce students to high-quality, contemporary fiction and to provide a shared experience to encourage debate.

Professor of Creative Writing Martin Goodman says: “This book contains material that can stir, it is wild and bitingly funny, an original creation with great use of language.

“I would encourage all students to seize the opportunity to meet the fascinating author of this wonderful novel.”

“We’re training chemists, nurses, entrepreneurs, bureaucrats, lawyers, historians, you name it. Novels deal with all of life, they are for everybody, not just for the English department.

“You don’t have to love Vernon God Little, you can hate it if you like, just read it with passion.

“So think about it, chat about it and come along to meet the author.”

Members of the public are also invited – but will have to pay £5 to get in. The first session is at Middleton Hall tomorrow, at 6pm and at 12.15pm on Thursday at The Theatre on the Scarborough campus.