Book review: Paradise City

THERE’S a journalist in Elizabeth Day’s new novel.

She’s called Esme Reade and, through her we gain some insight into journalism including the mechanics of a good interview. Arriving to meet the author, I’m nervous, in case my own interviewing style is scrutinised and found wanting.

Elizabeth laughs when I mention my misgivings, and confesses that she is nervous too. A staff writer with The Observer, she’s not sure that she has mastered the art of being interviewed.