Films

John Pilkington shares several tales of serendipity, showing how luck has played a part in his literary life.

Chris Simms introduces his writing talisman, chosen from a plethora of candidates to ward off the perils of dark places in the psyche.

Ali Knight, Robin Blake, Sally Kindberg, Vayu Naidu, Caitlin Davies, Sarah Ardizzone and Nicholas Murray discuss their favourite book in translation.

Jon Hotten takes us on a tour of 'thwarted masculinity' including big boxers, hairy rockers and ... um... cricket.

Harriet Castor tells the story of how an unlikely lucky break produced a lovely long-term treasure.

Courttia Newland, Esther Selsdon, Nicola Baldwin, Hugh Stoddart, Mario Petrucci and Marina Benjamin discuss their favourite children's book.

James Sherwood presents a sample of his fashion-related literature, written for both commercial publishers and discerning private clients.

Duncan Forbes explains the significance, and the very long history, of his strange-looking writing talisman.