"When would-be writers seek his guidance, Jim Crace knows exactly what to say."

Dear Alison,
It was so nice to be recognised in the restaurant last night. I appreciate you coming across to introduce yourself to me and my wife and was touched that you then went to all the trouble of abandoning your meal and your friends to hurry home for your manuscript. I feel a bit guilty about the little scrape you had with your car on the way back. All in a good cause, I suppose.

I'll be honest, no, I have not had the chance to read much of the book. What can I say? Maybe your title - The Lizard - raised alarm bells, although normally I am receptive to wildlife fiction ...