What is your favourite book?
Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy, a novel of passion, betrayal, hope and ultimately redemption. Our hero, Gabriel, finally settles down with his true love, Bathsheba.
What do you like to read at Christmas?
The same as at any other time of year. I read mostly non-fiction, particularly classical history, although the history of any country, at any time, I find of interest.
Favourite political book or biography?
The Political Animal: An Anatomy by Jeremy Paxman is such an accurate reflection of political life. Stalin: The Court of the Red Tsar stands out for its excellent depiction of real historical characters, attention to detail, facts and pace.
What was your favourite book as a child?
The Once and Future King by TH White is a book full of excitement and adventure in a romantic and idealised past. I was about 12 when I read it and I found it quite magical.
Name a significant book published in the last 10 years.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. A thoroughly enjoyable read and an excellent film too, with as its focal point a subject that is taboo almost everywhere.
What is your least favourite book?
The Wesker Trilogy by Arnold Wesker. I had to study this dreary, bleak, depressing book for Higher English. The whole class hated it. The very memory of it makes me want to slash my wrists.
Which literary character would you most like to be?
Although I have never actually read any of Fleming’s books, James Bond has to be the one; the girls, the glamour, the gadgets – and he always managed to save the world in the end.
What is the most inspiring book you have ever read?
The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin. It explains how we came to be. So much debate and scientific research has sprung from that far-sighted, seminal work of genius, which has stood the test of time.
Kenneth Gibson is the SNP MSP for Cunninghame North
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