A title that takes on a very big subject: the glorious span of literature from Greek myth to graphic novels, from The Canterbury Tales to Harry Potter. With masterful digressions into various themes - censorship, narrative tricks, self-publishing, taste, creativity and madness - it demonstrates the full depth and intrigue of reading.

John Sutherland, Lord Northcliffe Professor Emeritus of Modern English Literature, University College London, has taught students at every level and is the author or editor of more than 20 books. He lives in London.