Overview: With Magnus Magnusson from the University of Lancaster. Four contenders from the North of England compete for a place in the semi-finals. Dave Williams (teacher) 'Epic' historical novels of James A. Michener; Peter Castree (computer systems engineer) History of Russia, 980-1613; Robert Barnard (crime writer) Mature operas of Donizetti; Helen Grayson (technical writer) Life and work of Mary Wollstonecraft, 1759-97.