Heroes in children's books face darker times today than those in the past, say academics after conducting a study.

Historical detail steadies a lively yarn set in NZ's early showbiz days.

Recalcitrant readers take note: a publisher in Buenos Aires has created a book written in disappearing ink.

British author Simon Mawer talks to Stephen Jewell about the truth behind his secret agent heroine and feeling like a tourist in one’s own land.

Nicky Pellegrino sees a film sequel in Joanne Harris' latest novel.

Her first two novels failed to sell and her next three weren’t even accepted by a publisher. So how did Chocolat author Joanne Harris become an international best-seller? She talks to Stephen Jewell about food, religion and her latest novel.

"Mommy porn" - it's more emetic than erotic.

One critic dubbed it "Bend it Like Beckham in a burka." A feel-good read that carries with it romance, humour and suspense, with a sinister twist.

Adults of all ages will love this comic cleverness, writes Nicky Pellegrino.

When we last saw Thomas Cromwell, in the Booker prize-winning Wolf Hall, Hilary Mantel's unlikely hero was at the height of his powers.

New research suggests by losing yourself in a book you could temporarily change your own behaviour and thoughts to channel the characters.

Today's romantic comedies and louche celebrities set a poor example for the modern woman. So should we take lessons from a literary great instead? Emily Jupp tries Jane Austen's morals and values for size.