Beyond the covers

Jacqueline Wilson Lola Rose, by Jacqueline Wilson, describes the upheavals of Jayni, her mum and her little brother. Typically, dysfunction is the name of the game, this time revolving around domestic violence, leaving home and an unwelcome lump. For girls aged 8-12.

Gary Rhodes Gary Rhodes signs copies of the paperback edition of his book, Gary Rhodes At The Table, a compilation of recipes that'll appeal to people who like what's supposed to be the best of British.

Ben Richards and Matt Thorne Child Star is Matt Thorne's new novel, about Gerald, a child celeb who grows up to become a flat-sharing teacher. The Mermaid And The Drunks is Ben Richards's latest, about the daughter of a Chilean exile who goes back home to find herself. Both authors sign copies of their books.

Talks

The Meaning of Genius If you're a sucker for scientific instruments, here's a chance to see and bid for items from the collection of James Watt, before they go under the hammer. Watt was one of the Lunar Men, together with Erasmus Darwin, grandpa of Charles, and Matthew Boulton. A guided tour of the sale is preceded by an afternoon of talks.

London Book Fair Although the LBF is a trade knees-up, there are enough quasi-celebs doing talks and debates to pull in the public. Granta: Best Of Young British Novelists 2003, the final shortlist comes under the spotlight with insights from Kate Mosse and Rachel Cusk (Mon 17 Mar, 5pm-6pm). Blake Morrison and Victoria Glendinning offer their views on writing autobiographies and biographies (Sun 16 Mar, 12.30pm-3.30pm) and Sue MacGregor hosts her own breakfast chat show (Mon 17 Mar, 8.30pm-9.30pm).

Jeanette Winterson Winterson talks about why the arts matter with Genista Mackintosh.

Gilles Kepel The author of Bad Moon Rising: A Chronicle Of The Middle East talks about the rise of religious fervour and why Osama Bin Laden has won over so many followers.

The 2003 Sam Wanamaker Fellowship Lecture Professor David Crystal on the impact that the First Folio and the King James Bible had on the development of the English language.

Michael Morpurgo The children's author talks about his new book, The Sleeping Sword, which follows a young boy who lives on an island and discovers an ancient sword and shield. It is the story of Arthur and Excalibur retold.

Edward Ardizzone Two lunchtime talks at the gallery show Edward Ardizzone's winning illustrations including first editions, books and Christmas cards. Brian Anderson discusses Ardizzone's illustrations, before Ardizzone's son, Nicholas, talks about his father's print-making.

The Thai House Domestic Thai architecture is based on a modular system so buildings can be easily erected and dismantled. Their construction, which follows four distinct, regional styles, is celebrated using elaborate ceremonies. Learn more from Narisa Chakrabongse's lecture.

David Bellamy: Managing England’s Countryside The ebullient, bearded botanist, author and wildlife campaigner talks about managing England's countryside (what's left of it). His autobiography, Jolly Green Giant, published last autumn, also gets an airing. Part of the National Trust series.

Patrick Moore with John Mason Astronomy's grand old man celebrates the big eight-o with the publication of his autobiography, 80 Not Out, and talks to astronomer and documentary-maker John Mason.