Following on from her Oliva Kittridge and Lucy Barton novels, Pulitzer Prize winning author Elizabeth Strout has turned her attention to a new cast of characters.

The Things We Never Say introduces the unassuming Artie Dam, a school teacher in Massachusetts, who harbours a deep secret.

Elizabeth talks to Matt about the inspiration behind the novel and how her own background influences what she is compelled to write about.

To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.