A number of short story writers will be in town during the next two weeks for public readings, panel discussions and workshops surrounding the Cincinnati Short Story Festival, centered at the University of Cincinnati.

        The biggest name is John Updike, the author of more than 50 books and editor of The Best American Short Stories of the Century. His appearances include:

        • Free public reading, 8 p.m. today in UC's Zimmer Auditorium.

        • Panel discussion on his fiction with critics William H. Pritchard and Donald Greiner, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday in UC's Elliston Room in the Langsam Library.

        • Interview with UC English professor James Schiff, 2 p.m. Wednesday in UC's Robert J. Werner Recital Hall.

        • Sold-out appearance 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Mercantile Library.

        Lorrie Moore, whose short stories have appeared in The New Yorker and were included in the anthology Prize Stories: The O. Henry Awards gives a free public talk, 1 p.m. April 26 in UC's Langsam Library. And ZZ Packer, an up-and-coming writer speaks 2 p.m. April 24 in the Langsam Library.

        Day and evening programs with more than 10 writers and critics continue through April 26 at the University of Cincinnati and The Mercantile Library, downtown. Most events are free. For complete schedule, call 556-5924 or visit www.uc.edu/news/shortcal.htm

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