They are what they eat

With the rise in skin complaints and asthma, obesity and attention disorders, children's health is a constant battle. However, simple changes in their diet can help target these problems. In this extract from his informative new book, Dr John Briffa pinpoints the danger signs, and serves up the foods that'll keep them sweet.

Healing hopes

Toby Murcott examines complementary medicine in The Whole Story. Phil Whitaker has no need of a second opinion.

The mysterious bacillus

Tony Gould anatomises a misunderstood disease in his study of leprosy, Don't Fence Me In.

Make with the shaker

Girls, if you're looking for love, learn to mix an Old Fashioned. Rachel Cooke on advice for the single girl from Marjorie Hillis, Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo.

Invasion of the pregnant dads

Books on fatherhood used to be few and far between - but not any more. Nicholas Lezard takes a look at the good, the bad, and the downright mawkish.

Nothing but the truth

Will Fatherhood, Marcus Berkmann's birth manual for dads, spawn a new breed of blokeish guides to daddydom? Vanessa Thorpe finds out.

Long live couch potatoes!

A new book claims that laziness is the key to a lengthy and happy life. But not everyone is convinced, says Ian Sample.

Take a leaf out of the books winners read

Can the written word really turn you into a success story? Anna Tobin and Nick Pandya asked a variety of leaders what they would recommend to help people follow in their footsteps.

Destiny’s children

Natasha Walter: The banalities of astrology have replaced religion in giving young people a sense of purpose and belonging.