Recommending books is an inherently sensual act. This is our favourite maxim by writer and journalist Dominique van Varsseveld. We love to know what novels are on her bedside table, as she is a gleaner of true literary jewels. Having written the afterword to Strafhok (Punishment Pen) (1971) by the recently rediscovered Surinamese author Bea Vianen, a celebrated voice from the 1960s and 70s, Dominique has also delivered lectures on Harlem Renaissance figures including Nella Larsen, James Baldwin and William M. Kelley. A cultural journalist by trade, she reviews films, writes for the publishing house Querido and judges an array of literary prizes. Find her erotic short story ‘Old Boys’ in Extra Extra no. 19, where a one-night stand ends in a biting twist.