News Archive 2006

Minette's editorial on the Ipswich murders

Those of you living in the UK will have followed the story of a series of murders that took place in Ipswich, on the east coast of England. Minette was asked to write an editorial for The Observer on the tragic events that unfolded. Her insight into the "inadequate underachiever" who she believes was behind the brutal killings makes for fascinating reading.

Read Minette's article in The Observer > >

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Minette unlocks new 'crime house'

In December 2006, Minette opened the doors of Bournemouth University's 'crime house', a real house designed to help teach students on its forensic programme exactly what's involved in conducting 'scene of crime' work. Minette is shown here cutting the ribbon on opening day. She's vowed to return and take a course!

Read more > >

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Minette awarded second honorary university degree

Southampton Solent University has awarded Minette with an honorary degree for making an outstanding contribution to her field of work. The University's graduation ceremony saw 4,000-plus students gain degrees in subjects ranging from law to psychology and criminology, topics that Minette certainly knows a bit about!

Minette is pictured here in November, 2006, after receiving her degree. (Photo: A. Walters)

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Minette backs campaign to keep Dorset libraries open

On 10 June, 2006, Minette attended a read-a-thon in Crossways, a Dorset village near her home. The village's library, like 12 others in Dorset, is under threat of closure.

During her reading, Minette explained how the Victorians had set out to help people to read and to educate themselves by setting up the public library. Refering to the 'Quick Reads' initiative, she said, "Libraries are the first port of call for people who want to learn to read. Closing them is a terrible mistake."

Also attending the read-a-thon was Julian Fellowes (pictured above with Minette), who said, "If you chip away at the bricks at the bottom, the whole edifice collapses."

(Photo courtesy of A. Walters)

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Chickenfeed wins Quick Reads award!

Chickenfeed, Minette's contribution to the 2006 World Book Day Quick Reads initiative, has won the first 'Quick Reads Learners' Favourite' Award. The winner was decided by adult literacy groups around the country who read copies of all the books involved in the scheme.

Find out more about the award > >

Find out more about Chickenfeed > >

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Minette visits Australia and Norway

Minette recently traveled to Australia to promote the release of The Devil's Feather 'down under'. A reader who attended one of the Australian events was kind enough to send us a review of the Melbourne lunch that was held to discuss Minette's latest books. Read Fiona's review of lunch with Minette > >

Minette then visited Norway where she gave several talks, including a fascinating televised interview. Watch Norwegian interview > >