A Quick One on The Side - Mark Billingham

A warm welcome to today's guest writer, Mark Billingham.

Mark was born and raised in Birmingham. He eventually moved to London. As well as becoming a top-notch crime fiction writer, Mark has been an actor, television writer and a stand-up comedian. His best known acting role was in the BBC's children series 'Maid Marian and her Merry Men', created and written by Tony Robinson. He played the role of Gary, one of the Sheriff of Nottingham's guards/henchmen. So, he was officially a baddie. For all you disbelievers, here is the evidence...


Mark's first novel, 'Sleepyhead' published in 2001, introduced the London-based detective Tom Thorne. The series of subsequent novels led to Sky's television series 'Thorne', starring David Morrissey in the lead role. Mark is frequently seen at crime festivals and this year he is chairing the organising committee of the Theakston's Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate.
So here are ten quickies for Mark...

Who is your favourite author?
"It changes every five minutes. I will always read Burke, Pelecanos and Woodrell."

What would be your favourite book read?
"The book that probably influenced me the most was 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes'. The first one that knocked me on my arse was 'The Godfather'. The book I wish I'd written would be 'The Big Blowdown' by George Pelecanos."

Who is your favourite band/group?
"Elvis Costello and the Attractions / The Smiths."
What is your most listened to album?
"'Imperial Bedroom' by Elvis Costello / 'The Queen is Dead' by the Smiths."

What has been the best gig/concert that you have attended?
"The Smiths at the concert for the end of the GLC and Nick Lowe at the Royal Albert Hall."

What is your favourite food?
"Sushi or curry. That's a tough one."

What would be your favourite holiday destination?
"Florida's Gulf Coast."

What would be the most autographs you've signed in one session?
"Well, if you count mass signings at warehouses, many thousands. But at an event with real people...probably a hundred or so."

Have you ever been mistaken for someone else?
"I used to get people telling me I was the actor Neil Morrissey."

How often do you get recognised?
"Rarely."

To clear things up, here are some useful tips...

Neil Morrissey

David Morrissey

Morrissey

Mark Billingham

So there you go...
My thanks to Mark for answering ten quickies today.
My next guest writer is Doug Johnstone. Thanks as ever for reading.....