Is the novel an inherently feminine form? And is it a distinctive thing to be a female novelist or is that in itself a misogynistic construct?

Three of our finest novelists discuss the creation of the female writer. Focusing on the writing that best illustrates their careers, and guided by literary critic Sam Leith, we explore questions such as: Where do the voices in their fiction come from, and what does it give them – and take away? And do they feel connected to fellow female novelists, living and dead?

Tracy Chevalier grew up in the US and moved to the UK aged 22. Her second novel, Girl with a Pearl Earring, was an international bestseller and won the Barnes and Noble Discover award. She has written eight novels.

Ayelet Gundar-Goshen is an award winning novelist, and a clinical psychologist based in Israel. Her novels are translated into 14 languages. She’s an occasional correspondent to the BBC, TIME magazine and Israeli media.

Fay Weldon CBE FRSL is an award-winning author, essayist and playwright. She was honoured for services to literature and is currently Professor of Creative Writing at Bath Spa University.

Sam Leith is literary editor at The Spectator, a columnist at The Financial Times, The Evening Standard and Prospect. His work appears in The Guardian, The Times and the TLS among others.

In association with the New Israel Fund.