Preview: London Literature Festival 2009

Following on from our review of the opening night, and our earlier preview of the Buzz Aldrin talk, here's a quick rundown on some of the other highlights from the festival.

Ongoing until July16, the annual London Literature Festival will feature a series of talks, discussions, cabaret and performances to celebrate the written word. The Southbank Centre will host an eclectic mix of artists - from established writers like Will Self and musician Kate Nash to poet Benjamin Zephaniah and moonwalker Buzz Aldrin.

Most of the events and performances surround well-known names in the business. Established writers like Hanif Kureishi, Peter Ackroyd, Vikram Seth and 2008 Booker Prize winner Aravind Adiga will be at hand to spearhead the events. Performances of works by Samuel Beckett, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Joseph Conrad are also on offer.

Political clout comes from Amartya Sen, who will talk about the 'idea' of justice. Also on hand are writers and poets like Petina Gappah and Brian Chikwava who will discuss the topic of African diaspora.

Whether you are looking for a fun day in the sun (the performances are outdoors), or a bit of intellectual stimulation, this festival will have something for everyone.

By Abby Chau