Simon Parkin: podcast appearances and interviews

Simon Parkin is an English writer and a contributing writer for The New Yorker. He is also a critic for The Observer and the author of four non-fiction books. His work has gained recognition through awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, and his books have received notable accolades. His book A Game of Birds and Wolves was shortlisted for the 2020 Mountbatten Award for Best Book, demonstrating its critical acclaim. Additionally, his book The Island of Extraordinary Captives was named one of the New Yorker's Best Books of 2022 and received the 2023 Wingate Prize. Another of his works, The Forbidden Garden of Leningrad, was recognized as a finalist in the 2025 Orwell Prize for political writing. Parkin also hosts the My Perfect Console podcast, where notable guests discuss five video games that have been meaningful in their lives. His diverse career spans journalism, criticism, and authorship, making him a prominent figure in contemporary nonfiction.