Gapers Block has ceased publication.

Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
 Thank you for your readership and contributions. 

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Tuesday, March 19

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Book Club

Events Wed Dec 30 2015

Fillet of Solo Takes Rogers Park in January

fillet of solo 2016

Fourteen of Chicago's most acclaimed live lit collectives and solo performers are teaming up for the 19th annual Fillet of Solo Festival. The festival opens Wednesday, Jan. 13 at 7pm at Mayne Stage in Rogers Park and runs for three weeks. Opening night is a free event featuring performances from Minita Gandhi, Julie Ganey, Nestor Gomez, Tyler Greene, David Kodeski, Jeremy Owens and Amy Sumpter. Festival passes will be available for purchase on opening night for a discounted rate of $25.

A full schedule of events can be found online. There will be continued coverage of the Fillet of Solo performances and an interview with festival founder and performer, Dorothy Milne, featured on Third Coast Review in January.

Emma Terhaar

Events Fri Nov 13 2015

Read/Write Library Rewrites Wicker Park in New Pop-Up

rewritable wicker park popup library
The Read/Write Library is running Rewritable Wicker Park, a pop-up library in the Boombox pop-up kiosk in Mautene Court, 1260 N. Milwaukee Ave.

"This is our largest neighborhood pop-up to date, but we've done a number of these in the past and it's definitely something that we want to do more regularly," said Nell Taylor, co-founder of the Read/Write Library. "And for us, it's getting the materials we have in our collection back out in the neighborhoods they came from.

"One thing that we'd always find when we did smaller pop-up libraries in the past is that people always want to tell us things about what was in the collection or what jogged memories for them, or that they had things at home that they'd want to bring. But we'd be like, 'Oh, sorry, we're only here for a day,' or 'we don't have that much room.' So this is one of the few times we've had an opportunity to let people actively participate in rewriting the neighborhood's history by having their inspiration sparked by things they see here and coming back and adding things themselves."

Continue reading this entry »

Andrew Huff

Events Mon Nov 09 2015

Photojournalist Lynsey Addario has a Community Conversation

This Thursday, Nov. 12, at 6pm at the AMC River East 21 (322 E. Illinois St.) join New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario as part of the 10th anniversary of Community Conversation events. This free event, presented by Facing History and Ourselves and The Allstate Foundation, will host Addario to discuss her memoir It's What I Do: A Photographer's Life of Love and War, which is currently being produced into a feature length film.

Community Conversations focuses on the power of stories respecting diversity, promoting tolerance, and creating social change. Space is limited. RSVP at the Community Conversations website.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Oct 22 2015

Skokie Public Library Hosts YA Authors November 5

Popular young adult authors Ally Condie, Jandy Nelson, and Meg Wolitzer bring their nationwide book tour to the Skokie Public Library (5215 Oakton Street) on Thursday, November 5 at 7:00pm. The Penguin Random House authors are on tour together promoting the releases of their new paperbacks: Atlantia by Ally Condie, I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson, and Belzhar by Meg Wolitzer. ya-book-tour.jpgThe moderated panel discussion will take place in the Petty Auditorium of the Skokie Public Library, and books will be available for purchase courtesy of The Book Stall. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is available online to those with a current library card from the Skokie or other suburban public libraries. If you do not have a library card or if you live in Chicago, call (847) 673-7774 to sign up by phone.

Jeremy Owens

Author Wed Oct 21 2015

Beyond Lolita: Literary Writers on Sex and Sexuality

LOLITA.jpgWomen and Children First Bookstore hosts Beyond Lolita: Literary Writers on Sex and Sexuality at the Swedish American Museum (5211 North Clark Street), Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7:30pm. This Chicago round-table event will be moderated by writer Anna March and feature Chicago-area authors Rachel Dewoskin, Audrey Niffenegger, Megan Stielstra, Luis Urrea and Cyn Vargas.

"Beyond Lolita" brings writers and editors together for a discussion on sex and sexuality in literature. Participants will reflect on their own work as well as the work of a diverse array of modern and contemporary writers. Topics may include: craft considerations; the impact writing on these topics has on the culture and on writers themselves; the challenges authors have in writing their own experiences and writing beyond their own experiences; the importance of writing diverse sexuality; aspects of LGBT culture; and more.

The Chicago stop is one of five events being held around the country (Boston, Los Angeles, New York, and Portland) to benefit the PEN America's Writers' Emergency Fund. This event is free and open to the public, reservations are not required.

Jeremy Owens

Chicago Public Library Fri Oct 02 2015

One Book, One Chicago Events

One-Book-One-Chicago.jpgJoin the Chicago Public Library at the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State) this month as it presents a variety of programs in conjunction with the current One Book, One Chicago selection, The Third Coast by Thomas Dyja.

On Monday, October 5 at 6:00 pm the Lower Level of the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium will offer a sneak peak premier of the film In The Game. The movie, directed Maria Finitzo, takes a look at four years in the life of the girls' soccer team at Chicago's inner city Kelly High School in the primarily Hispanic Brighton Park neighborhood. This event will be followed by a panel discussion.

Do you wish you could design a home like the architects in The Third Coast? You'll get the chance on Monday, October 12 at 1:00 in the library's Maker Lab. Participants will learn architectural and design skills on a small scale when they make a doll house with a laser cutter in this Really Tiny House Maker Lab Series. This series will continue through April 2016 resulting in a complete "Really Tiny House."

Teddy Cruz, a Rome Prize-winning architect, will be on hand Tuesday, October 27 at 6:00 pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Architectural historian Dianne Harris will interview Mr. Cruz about the societal implication of his architectural work. Cruz is known for using the Tijuana-San Diego border as a laboratory to re-think global dynamics, including the issues of hospitality inherent in immigration issues and the expanded gap between wealth and poverty.

Continue reading this entry »

Jeremy Owens

Author Fri Sep 25 2015

Lifeline Theatre Hosts James Sie October 4

james sieAward-winning playwright and former Lifeline ensemble member James Sie returns to Lifeline Theatre (6912 N. Glenwood) on October 4 from 6:30 to 8pm to celebrate the release of his debut novel (with illustrator Sungyoon Choi),
Still Life Las Vegas: A Novel
.

Sie was a member of the Lifeline Theatre artistic ensemble from 1985 -1997, where he served as a playwright (Island of the Blue Dolphins - Non-Equity Jeff Award: New Adaptation, The Road to Graceland - After Dark Award: New Work, Dracula - Non-Equity Jeff nomination: New Adaptation, A Wrinkle in Time - Non-Equity Jeff nomination: New Adaptation), director and actor. In addition to writing, Sie is also a voiceover artist, known for Jackie Chan Adventures, Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness and Ice Age: The Meltdown.

The evening will include a wine and cheese reception, a concert reading selection from the novel featuring current Lifeline Theatre ensemble members, and a Q&A session moderated by Lifeline Artistic Director Dorothy Milne, followed by a book signing with Sie. Copies of Still Life Las Vegas will be available for sale in the Lifeline lobby. This event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. Please contact Lifeline at info@lifelinetheatre.com or call 773-761-4477 to reserve your seat.

Jeremy Owens

Events Wed Sep 16 2015

Wicker Park and West Town Celebrate Neighborhood Lit Day

Wicker Park & West Town Lit Day is Saturday, Sept. 26 at various locations in these neighborhoods. A group of local organizations and businesses is getting together to promote all things literary in their bordering neighborhoods.

Wicker Park West Town Lit Day
The Lit Day event day poster was designed by Susie Kirkwood.

The idea of read local and shop small is the main focus in this neighborhood lit walk of sorts. Partnering organizations include 826CHI, Chicago Publishers Resource Center, Chicago Public Library, Quimby's Bookstore, Revolution Bookstore and Volumes Bookcafe. All will be open their regular hours. Here is a list of events and specials throughout the day.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Chicago Public Library Fri Sep 11 2015

One Book, One Chicago: The Third Coast

ONE BOOK.jpgFor more than a decade, the Chicago Public Library and its One Book, One Chicago program has helped bring communities together around one central book and theme through diverse programming. From October through April 2016, One Book, One Chicago will explore a central theme--Chicago: The City That Gives. This year's selection is The Third Coast by Thomas Dyja.

The Third Coast presents a critically acclaimed history of Chicago at mid-century featuring many of the personalities that shaped American culture. Covering the time period following World War II through 1960, this nonfiction piece highlights Chicago as the crux of commerce, and innovation. Readers explore the people and events that shaped postwar Chicago, which still have a profound influence on how people view the city today.

Author Thomas Dyja will visit the Harold Washington Library Center on Nov. 4 to discuss the book and the theme of "Chicago: The City that Gives." He is a third generation Chicagoan, and The Third Coast focuses on Chicago and its influence on America. "I couldn't begin to count the hours I spent at the Chicago Public Library when I was a kid," said the author. "It was where I learned to love books and so, in a way, I owe everything to the Chicago Public Library."

This will be the first time ever that One Book, One Chicago programming will take place in all 80 branches of Chicago Public Library. Joining with over 25 community partners, the Library will offer Chicagoans a variety of events and programs, including architectural walking tours, public art discussions and music performances, to bring people, businesses, and civic agencies of Chicago together to engage with the book and theme. Free citywide programs will launch in early October.

Jeremy Owens

Readings Thu Sep 03 2015

Gloria Steinem in Conversation with Roxane Gay

Gloria.jpg

Women & Children First bookstore will host an intimate conversation between feminist icons Gloria Steinem and Roxane Gay on October 29 at The People's Church in Uptown. This one night only event celebrates the release of Steinem's forthcoming memoir, My Life on the Road.

Gloria Steinem, best known for her outspoken advocacy on behalf of women, was a founding editor of, and political commentator for, New York Magazine, and founding editor of Ms. Magazine. She is the recipient of many accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.

Roxane Gay, critic, and commentator is the author of the 2014 bestselling essay collection Bad Feminist. She is a professor of English at Purdue University and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Time, The Los Angeles Times, The Nation, The Rumpus, The Butter, and many others.

My Life on the Road details Steinem's life of travel, activism and leadership and how those experiences helped her to inspire change and revolution. This event will be a rare and great opportunity to hear from two different generations of important feminist leaders

The conversation will be held at The People's Church (941 W. Lawrence). Doors open at 6:15pm and the program begins at 7pm with a book signing following from 8 to 10pm. One ticket is included with the pre-order purchase of Gloria Steinem's My Life on the Road from Women & Children First. Tickets are also available in-store, or by calling 773.769.9299.

Jeremy Owens

Book Club Fri Aug 28 2015

Poetry Center of Chicago Revives Poets Look at Paintings

Poets Look at Paintings.jpg

While the world contemplates whether poetry is relevant or dead, the Poetry Center of Chicago revives an event to celebrate 40 years of history and connect the history of the organization to contemporary Chicago.

In 1974, the Poetry Center hosted its first live event, Poets Look at Paintings, in the Museum of Contemporary Art. Today, the revival of Poets Look at Paintings makes an effort to connect two seemingly disparate art forms and create something new and beautifully intricate.

To assemble a line-up for the event in November, the Poetry Center calls for poems that are "rooted in visual art in some way, whether that be in response to a piece, in narration, in action, in reflection, etc." These art-inspired poems are referred to as "ekphrastic poems," which according to The Poetry Foundation, seek to describe a scene or a work of art. One of the most famous examples of ekphrastic poetry is John Keats' "Ode on a Grecian Urn," but just as art continues to change and evolve, the Poetry Center's event and call for submissions challenges today's poets to match the evolution of art.

The deadline to join the event as a reader is September 21. You can submit in a .doc, .docx, or PDF attachment up to three poems rooted in visual art to danielle@poetrycenter.org with the subject line "Poets Look at Paintings." Title your attachment "LAST NAME_PLAP." You can find more information about submitting on the Poetry Center's website.

The Poets Look at Paintings event will take place on Nov. 18 from 6 to 7pm in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center. The event is free, so come support the Poetry Center of Chicago and the history of literary Chicago!

Brianna Kratz

Contest Wed Aug 26 2015

Joe Meno's Marvel and a Wonder: A Party & a Contest

marvel and a wonderAuthor Joe Meno's latest novel, Marvel and a Wonder, will be released on Tuesday, Sept. 1 by Akashic Books.

The book tells the story of Jim Falls, a Korean War veteran, and his 16-year-old grandson Quentin, who he is raising on a farm in southern Indiana. In the summer of 1995, they unexpectedly receive a beautiful quarter horse, whose arrival draws the interest of a pair of meth-addicted brothers, who steal and sell the horse. The Falls must descend into the seedy underbelly of the horse world to get their horse back. You can read an excerpt of Marvel and a Wonder on The Rumpus.

To celebrate the book's release, Meno is throwing a party and reading at the Book Cellar on Thursday, Sept. 10, sponsored by Gapers Block and lit journal Goreyesque. In addition to reading from and signing his new book, Meno will be joined by Jan-Henry Gray, Amy Giacalone, Jan Bottiglieri and Julia Fine, who will each read a short piece of their own. We hope you'll join us there -- RSVP on Facebook.

Gapers Block has a pair of signed hardcover copies of Marvel and a Wonder to give away to two lucky readers. To enter, send an email with the subject line "Joe Meno" and your name and address in the body to contests@gapersblock.com. We'll select the winners at random from all entries received by 5pm Thursday, Aug. 27, and will mail the books out on Friday so they'll hopefully arrive by the 1st. Good luck!

Andrew Huff / Comments (1)

Events Mon Aug 24 2015

Get Ready for Chicago Humanities Festival 2015

The Chicago Humanities Festival returns October 24 through November 8 as a celebration of humanities and the arts at various venues throughout the city. The festival programming contains over 180 events specializing in music, performance, film, comedy, literature and the arts. Event tickets go on sale for festival members on September 8 and to the public on September 14.

This year, their calendar is heavy with readings and discussions with too many talented authors and writers to list. Highlights include an evening with Sarah Vowel, a discussion with Daily Show correspondent Aasif Mandvi, scary stories with Audrey Niffenegger, poetry in performance with Claudia Rankine, an award presented to Salman Rushdie, a conversation with Roxanne Gay, life in cartoons presented by Bob Mankoff, comedian Patton Oswald, and the live storytelling from Manual Cinema.

View the complete schedule of events and get tickets before they're gone.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Aug 06 2015

Two Cookie Minimum Kicks Off Its Sixth Year

Reading series Two Cookie Minimum begins their sixth year next Tuesday August 11 at the Comfort Station 2579 N Milwaukee Ave. at 8pm. The reading is known for mixing a variety of talent and performance mediums. This Tuesday will be no different.

The reading welcomes special guest, writer and poet Mairead Case who is visiting from Denver, CO. Rounding out the lineup will be comic artist Andy Glass, artist and zinester Victoria Perez-Segovia, and comic artist Andy Burkholder. Hosted by series curator Johnny Misfit.

Keeping with the series namesake, there will be free cookies. The series is sponsored by Chicago Publishers Resource Center and donations collected will benefit CHIPRC.

Two Cookie ends its summer run at the Comfort Station next month on Tuesday September, 8th.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jun 04 2015

Overindulge on CAKE all Weekend Long

CAKE.jpgThe fourth annual Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, affectionately known as CAKE, will take place this weekend Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted Ave. from 11am-6pm daily (free and open to the public). CAKE gives a forum for independent artists, cartoonists, comic book makers, zines writers and more. Throughout the weekend celebrate the graphic form with an overload of events, artists, programs, and parties. To get set, here are 8 things that make this festival one of the largest independent comics shows in the nation. Their organization is a testament to what hard work and the love of one's craft can do to support a community.

Exhibitors and Guests
Both Saturday and Sunday upwards of 100 tables will be full of comics artists, illustrators, and cartoonists coming from Chicago, across the country and internationally. There will be kid friendly comcis on tables marked by balloons. Comics that are goofy, humorous, twisted, eye catching, slick, realistic and weird will all be present in some form or another.

CAKE's 2015 Artwork
All the 2015 artwork has been designed by Chicago's own Ivan Burnetti. There's not a better way to have work from one of the most acclaimed cartoonists' while supporting an independent literary festival then to nab a CAKE silk screened poster or t-shirt.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jun 03 2015

The Point Magazine Issue 10 Release Party

The Point Magazine releases their tenth issue this Friday, June 5th, 8:30pm at a launch party held in Hyde Park's Experimental Station, 6100 S. Blackstone Ave.

The Point is Chicago-based magazine with a biannual print edition and monthly supplementary online articles that feature philosophical essays on everyday life.

For the launch event, there will be a DJ, cocktails and beer as well as copies of lit mags The Point and n+1. Admission is $10 which gets you a copy of their new issue. RSVP is required.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jun 02 2015

What do The Blackhawks and RUI have to do with each other?

Local reading series Reading Under the Influence has been going strong for over a decade on the first Wednesday of the month at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. So what do they have to do with the Blackhawks?

Sheffield's is a neighborhood bar in Wrigleyville, the brings in a sports crowd. Their walls have numerous screens showing whatever sporting event might be on that night, from NCAA and professional sports as well as international sports. For anyone who's attended an RUI, you know that their is a mutual respect from the bar that allows sports and live lit to coexist. This is a hard balance to keep and one that most reading series don't have to juggle. Before each reading, one of the many hosts of RUI, be it past host Rob Duffer or current host Frankie Migacz, will reach up to turn off the screens the showed the Cubs or the Bulls, so the reading could commence (I would have mentioned host Behnam Riahi, but he simply can't reach that high).

Chicago's love of literature and sports can sometime get in the way of each other. Such is the case for this month at RUI as the Blackhawks begin their quest for their third Stanley Cup in a decade. Game one happens to be this Wednesday, the first one of the month. That's pushed the loyal series to alter its monthly slot to Thursday, June 4th. Lucky for them the Bulls didn't make the NBA finals which begin on that day. I doubt the bar will mind turning off the LeBron show for one night.

Join RUI this month as their theme is Tools. Their signature mix of great readers and literary trivia will not change. In fact, this month's reading lineup is one worth waiting for.

Featured readers include LA-based author Bronwyn Mauldin, Chicagoan Cyn Vargas (who's first novel On the Way was released on Curbside Splendor this spring), Carly Oishi co-host of reading series Miss Spoken, and local writer Laura Adamczyk.

The reading opens at 7pm with $2 domestic bottle specials and the readers begin at 7:30pm. There is a $3 cover. RUI will return to its regularly scheduled date the first Wednesday of the month, on July 1st. Go Hawks and RUI.

John Wawrzaszek

Interview Mon May 11 2015

New Yorker Cartoonist Roz Chast Comes to Chicago This Wednesday

cantwetalk.jpgIt takes great skill and dedication to be recognized as one of the top names in any field. For cartoonists, Roz Chast is one such person. Chast is an award winning cartoonist and author of her own books, as well a staff cartoonist for The New Yorker. Chast's most recent book is her memoir titled Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?

I got to talk with Chast via email about her memoir and her work as a cartoonist. Chast will be in Chicago on Wednesday, May 13 as keynote speaker of the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis Annual Benefit, at the Standard Club, 320 S. Plymouth Ct.

In your work Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant? you deal with the subject of aging and loss. What made you choose this subject matter as the focus for your graphic memoir?

It seemed like a very rich and emotionally engaging subject, one that I hadn't known much about until I was more or less forced to deal with it. Also, my parents were unusual people. I felt it would be interesting to draw and write about our relationships with one another.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed May 06 2015

Chicago Zine Fest Showcases Self-publishing Efforts This Weekend

CZF 2015 Logo.jpg
Chicago Zine Fest holds its sixth annual celebration of self-publishing this weekend, May 8 and 9. The weekend's programing is a mix of exhibition, live performances, workshops, and discussions all organized by a dedicated all-volunteer staff. Things kick off Friday at 5pm at Access Living, 115 W. Chicago Ave., with a night full of events.

A panel discussion, Zines: A Future Craft, will focus on the history and future of zine creation in our culture. Moderated by Barnard College Librarian Jenna Freedman and sponsored by The University of Chicago Library, the panel will include invited guests and zine creators Jonas, Julia Eff, and Ocean Capewell. Following the panel will be a reading Zines: The Next Generation featuring students from Chicago Public Schools, Convergence Academy, and 826CHI among others. Closing out the night will be readings and performances from festival exhibitors.

On Saturday, May 9 the festival proper starts at 11am at Plumbers' Union Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd. Tables set up exhibition style will be full of zines, comics, chapbooks, and magazines from over 250 self-publishers from Chicago and around the country. Workshops on radical poetry, resisting assimilation, youth performance, hands-on drawing, and more will be presented by the Busy Beaver Button Company, the International School of Comics, and representatives from the Poetry Center, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

The festival has become an institution in Chicago's independent literary and art community. To keep things fresh, this year organizers shifted annual scheduling date from March to May and moved programming to new venues. I spoke with Julie Koslowsky, CZF coordinator of youth readings and day-of programming, to explore some of changes and how they were embraced by the community.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (1)

Events Tue May 05 2015

Help Open Books Move by Clearing the Shelves

openbooks literacenterOpen Books is moving its original store from 213 W. Institute Pl. in River North to 651 W. Lake St. in the West Loop next week, and to help make the move easier, they're holding a sale May 5-10. The deal gets better each day, with discounts rising to 60 percent off by Sunday, May 10, the store's last day open.

Open Books' new location will open May 26 in the new Literacenter, the first-in-the-nation shared nonprofit workspace exclusively for literacy organizations. Developed by the Chicago Literary Alliance, the space, which opened May 4, will host more than two dozen organizations and provide work space, meeting facilities, classrooms, social/event space and office support. A grand opening event is planned for June 10.

Andrew Huff

Events Mon May 04 2015

Words and Music Assault Your Senses this Wednesday

Local publishing juggernaut Curbside Splendor is back this Wednesday, May, 6 for their trademark event Words + Music at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, at 8pm.

The Words portion of the night is a perfect fit for the event as all readers are music-based writers. Curbside author Tony Fitzpatrick is joined by the Reader's Gossip Wolf columnist JR Nelson, Featherproof Books and Pitchfork contributor Jessica Hopper, and Chicago music guru Jim DeRogatis.

The music portion of the night was booked by local label Dumpster Tapes. Bands include the label's act Sun of a Gun as well as locals Slushy and Cutworms.

The event is free if you RSVP or $8 at the door. Books will be for sale at the event.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Apr 29 2015

May 2 is a Big Day for Book Lovers

may-2-2015.jpgThis Saturday, May 2, might be overwhelming to some bookworms. That's because there are two big, day-spanning events that you won't want to miss.

First, Chicago Independent Bookstore Day takes a page from Record Store Day and rounds up special events at a dozen indie bookstores around the city. There will be author readings, free food, raffles and giveaways, discounts on purchases and more. In addition, each store will have pages from a limited edition short story by Stuart Dybek and illustrated by Dmitry Samarov -- visit each shop to collect the whole thing.

Continue reading this entry »

Andrew Huff

Events Tue Apr 21 2015

Big Venerable's Big Day, Matt Rowan Book Release at City Lit

Tomorrow, Wednesday April 22, join local writer Matt Rowan for the release of his newest novel, Big Venerable at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie Blvd. at 6:30pm.

The novel comes out from the Chicago Center for Literature and Photography, a local press that makes limited run hand-bound books. Big Venerable is a collected work of short fiction that weaves through the lives of different characters from a fast food worker to a TV show contestant. The stories lean toward the dark and warped with a touch of humor.

Other readers supporting Rowan include local writers Ben Tanzer, Joseph G. Peterson, and Halle Butler.

Books will be on sale at the event. You can even ask for a signature if you stick around and chat with the author. The event is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Apr 14 2015

This Weekend, Reading Series Red Rover Celebrates 10 Years!

The reading series Red Rover, founded in 2005, celebrates its 10 year anniversary with a reading on Saturday, April 18 at Outer Space Studio, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave.

This is the series' 84th installment, curated by Laura Goldstein and Jennifer Karmin. Each event has been designed as a reading experiment. For this occasion, readers were asked to defend any issue or topic with their own writing. Exploring this idea will be local writers Cean Gamalinda, Marcy Rae Henry, Nathan Hoks, Daniela Olszewska and Anne K. Yoder.

There is a $4 suggested donation at the door. The doors open at 7pm and lock at 7:30pm. Make sure to get there on the dot!

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Mar 25 2015

A Night of Cartoonists Not to Be Missed, Tomorrow at Quimby's

Brace yourself as Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., hosts a Night of Cartoonists, tomorrow, Thursday, March 26 at 7pm. The night is stacked with so much talent, their windows might burst.* Reading and discussing work will be three cartoonists: Nicole J. Georges, Keiler Roberts and Gina Wynbrandt.

NightOfCartoonists.jpg

(Self illustrations of each artist: Georges, Wynbrandt, and Roberts).

Nicole J. Georges, on tour from Portland, will be reading from her book, Calling Dr. Laura and discuss the process of making it. She'll also discuss her senior citizen zine project, Tell It Like It Tiz.

Keiler Roberts, local artist and teacher, is the author of Ignatz award nominated comic Powdered Milk. She'll hopefully regale the audience with hilarious tales that include her family, her daughter Xia, and her dog Crooky.

Gina Wynbrandt, local comics artist, will share some of the funniest comics being created today. Her love of pop culture will undoubtedly come up in the form of Justin Beiber, the internet, teen magazines (think '90s rags like Tiger Beat), or all three at once.

Get to Quimby's early to get a seat. Comics and zines by this fab lady dais will be available for sale.

*The windows won't actually burst. We hope.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Mar 18 2015

Writers Reading about Songs: Quimby's Night at Livewire Lounge

3-Songs, 3 Writers About Songs
This Sunday, March 22, Wicker Park/Bucktown's Quimby's Bookstore takes over Livewire Lounge, 3394 N. Milwaukee Ave., to create an event mashup of words and music that's been unseen before in Chicago.

The show, 3 Songs, 3 Writers Reading About Those Songs, was curated by the fine staff at Quimby's after being approached by the bar to partner on an event.

Mike "McBeardo" McPadden, author of Heavy Metal Movies: Guitar Barbarians, Mutant Bimbos, and Cult Zombies Amok in the 666 Most Ear- and Eye-Ripping Big Scream Films Ever! (Bazillion Points, 2014), will be reading about the Generation X song Kiss Me Deadly. Writer Celia Forrest will be reading about the DBs song Black and White. And for the third reader, there will be a mystery guest reading about the Blondie song X Offender.

All songs then will be performed live by the punk a capella outfit the Blue Ribbon Glee Club. The event begins at 7pm and is 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Mar 17 2015

Oyez Review Issue 42 Release Reading this Friday

On Friday, March 20th, Oyez Review, the literary magazine of the Creative Writing Program at Roosevelt University, will release their newest issue with a reading at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave, 7pm.

Among the readers for the night will be poet Donna Vorreyer who will read a selection that is featured in this issue. Vorreyer is the author of A House of Many Windows (Sundress Publications, 2013) as well as six chapbooks. Her most recent work Encantado (forthcoming from Redbird Chapbook this April) is a collaboration with artist Matt Kish (who's illustrated work can be found in Desert Places released on Chicago press Curbside Splendor).

The event is free and open to the public. The new issue of Oyez will be on sale and back issues are stocked at Quimby's.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Mar 16 2015

Story Week 2015 is NOW

Columbia College Chicago's annual literary celebration Story Week is back. Events run throughout the end of the week at various venues across the city, culminating on Saturday March 21.

This year's special guests will be leading panels on publishing, hosting live readings and embodying the festival's theme, The Power of Words. Story Week celebrates some notable Chicagoans including Samantha Irby, Audrey Niffenegger, Jessie Ann Foley and Kevin Coval. The festival also welcomes writers and poets of national acclaim such as T. Geronimo Johnson, Garnett Kilberg Cohen, and Edwidge Danticat.

Throughout the week look for event sessions titled Publishing Bootcamp. In these events, guest moderators aim to share their expertise on topics such as finding agents, working with editors, and promoting your work.

All programming is detailed on their web schedule. Events are free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Fri Mar 06 2015

Chicago Artist Justin Castaneda On Fan Fests And The Funny Pages

IMG_1509.JPG
Image courtesy of Justin Castaneda

Get ready to fan the flames of your fandom this weekend at Wizard World Fan Fest Chicago 2015. It's the first fan convention of its kind in Chicago, and is a "Fang (or Thank) You" to devoted Wizard World fans and con attendees. It's loaded with enough celebs and artists to ensure that everyone will geek out on the convention floor. Fan Fest Chicago runs March 7-8 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Here's the event and panel schedule for the weekend.

Aside from stars like "The Walking Dead's" Norman Reedus and "Orange Is The New Black's" Taryn Manning, Fan Fest Chicago will feature local artists like Justin Castaneda. Castaneda, who is a writer/illustrator from the south side of Chicago, is the creator of the When I Was Little picture book series and HEART. He is currently the illustrator for Wonder Care Presents: The Kinder Guardians with writer Victor Dandridge and Vantage InHouse Productions. He is also a featured artist in comic properties such as Aw Yeah Comics, Omega Comics Presents, and Scratch 9.

I asked Castaneda about his work and upcoming convention trips. Read on to learn more about this homegrown talent.

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Events Mon Mar 02 2015

March Madness Continues at Story Club North Side this Thursday

Thursday, March 5, Story Club North Side presents March Madness at Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan Rd.

Story Club mixes featured readers with an open mic. Sign-ups begin at 7:30pm and the event kicks off at 8pm. Following the open mic will be actor Maggie Andersen, writer Bokeen and artist Riva Lehrer. The audience will vote for their favorite story of the night. The winner will be included in the forthcoming Story Club Magazine.

The event is hosted by the energetic duo of Dana Norris and Erin Kahoa. The event is 21+ and there is a $10 suggested cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Feb 26 2015

Opaque Reading Series at Uncharted Books Tomorrow

Opaque Reading Series hosts their third reading tomorrow, Feb. 27, at 7pm at Uncharted Books, 2620 N. Milwaukee Ave.

This reading series aims to showcase literary performances of the "in-between." The theme for the night is growth. Covering that will be readers Daniela Olszewska, Mary Mueller, Emma Alamo, Adam Bangser and Madison Zielinski.

There will be a full color zine available at the event for the suggested price of $5. For those interested in reading at future Opaque events, contact them at opaquereading@gmail.com.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 25 2015

Begin the Madness of March with Tuesday Funk

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Time marches on, and so does Tuesday Funk. Join us in the upstairs lounge at Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St., on Tuesday, March 3. The readers will be Keidra Chaney, music writer and cofounder of The Learned Fangirl; Mare Swallow, executive director of the Chicago Writers Conference; poet Danielle Susi; storyteller Genevieve Waller; and writer Tom Underberg.

Doors open at 7pm sharp -- no earlier, alas, but get there as close to 7 as possible to grab a table, as the room fills up quickly. The show begins at 7:30pm, with one intermission. Eden Robins and Andrew Huff (me) co-host. Admission is free, but you must be 21 or older. RSVP, if you like, on Facebook.

Andrew Huff

Author Fri Feb 06 2015

Zine Fest Returns!

Screen shot 2015-02-06 at 2.06.12 PM.pngZine Fest has announced today that they will be returning in 2015 with a few tweaks, more space, and many more artists and authors. This year's festival for self-publishers will take place on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9 in Plumbers Union Hall just off the Ashland/Lake Pink and Green Line stop. The hall, a new choice for the Fest, will be able to hold over 200 exhibitors, meaning this year's will be the biggest Zine Fest to date.

Years past the Fest has topped off its wealth of exhibitors with readings, panels and classes, and this year is no different. Though specifics are forthcoming, expect plenty of workshops on the DIY of self-publishing, and panels featuring the industry's greats.

Want to exhibit? Submissions for Zine Fest 2015 open on February 22 at noon sharp (central time). Either way, make your way to 1340 W Washington Blvd. on May 8 and 9 for the best self-publishing the scene has to offer!

Miden Wood

Events Wed Feb 04 2015

Writers, Get to Work

In addition to its October conference, the Chicago Writers Conference holds workshops and talks throughout the year. And two upcoming events will be of particular interest if you're making this the year you finish that book you've been working on.

chicagowritersconference.jpgThis Thursday, Feb. 5, CWC presents Demystifying YA: Take Your Young Adult Novel from Process to Published, a panel discussion featuring YA authors Natalie Haney Tilghman, Elizabeth Wheeler, Stefanie Lyons and Wendy McClure; Esther Hershenhorn moderates. They'll provide insights into what they've learned about the YA genre over the years, from writing tips to marketing ideas. The discussion takes place from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the University of Chicago's Gleacher Center, 450 N. Cityfront Plaza Dr. Tickets are $30.

And on Wednesday, Feb. 11, author Samantha Hoffman leads "The Art of Revision - The End is Just The Beginning," an interactive workshop on how to polish your manuscript to better hook potential readers -- agents and publishers in particular. The workshop is at 826CHI, 1276 N. Milwaukee Ave., from 6:30 to 8:30pm, and is currently full, but you can get on the waitlist -- or agitate for another session soon!

Andrew Huff

Events Mon Feb 02 2015

Come Celebrate Back to Print's 5th Annual Jubilee this Tuesday

jube5poster.jpgChicago publishing organization Back to Print celebrates its fifth birthday with its annual Jubilee this Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 8pm at Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave.

This print collective focuses on self-publishing independent fiction, poetry, and comics. The event marks the 25th edition of The Deadline, a monthly broadsheet showcasing editorials, stories, and artwork.

Entertainment for the event will be joyous and maybe raucous with a mix of music and readings. Music will be provided by acts The Bribes, Tyler Bagwell, VINO ,and Lisa Leszczewicz. Readings feature various Back to Print authors including Adonis EndApartheid Quercia, Eric Bartholomew, Nicholas Souder, and Alex Bonner (who penned Normal Ave., the first novel released by Back to Print). Hosting will be Back to Print's editor-in-chief Elizabeth S. Tieri.

As all good celebrations do, there will be cake to commemorate the occasion. Back to Print publications will be available for sale as well.

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Wed Jan 07 2015

A Big Month at 826CHI

index.jpgNon-profit tutoring and creative writing center 826CHI has officially re-located and is open for business! Better yet, to celebrate the auspicious new turf, author and 826 co-founder Dave Eggers will be stopping in for an Open House. Friday, Jan. 16, come to 826's new digs (1276 N. Milwaukee Ave.) and meet the author, enjoy a tour of the new space, refreshments and live music. On top of that, find your family's storyteller with collaborative writing exercises for all ages.

While you're at it, donate to Scrabble for Cheaters teams as they prepare for the sneaky scrabble tournament of a lifetime. As these teams go head-to-head, all raised funds will help them cheat against their opponents, and help 826 continue tutoring, publishing, and having a grand old time. Sound fun? Feel free to start a team of two today and contribute to a fantastic cause.

It's a big month at 826. Come out and be a part of it!

Miden Wood

Events Tue Dec 30 2014

This Weekend Celebrate New Year's Zine

Start off 2015 with New Year's Zine, a reading of local and touring zine writers, Saturday, Jan. 3, at 7pm at Geek Bar Chicago, 1941 W. North Ave.

Zinesters like to have some fun with their readings, so this should be no exception. Local readers include an entertaining lineup featuring Liz Mason (manager at Quimby's Bookstore), Nikki Yowel (coordinator of Self Publishers of Chicago reading series), Jim Joyce (author of Let it Sink zine), Jonas (author of self published novel The Greatest Most Traveling Circus) and Alex Nall (comic contributor to Chicago Literati). Adding to the festivities will be out-of-town readers Julia Eff (whose zine titles include Every Thug Needs a Lady), Adam Gnade and Rust Belt Jesse.

The event is all ages. Donations will be taken in support of the 2015 Chicago Zine Fest. Zines will be on sale from all readers.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Dec 19 2014

Last Chance to Catch the Marrow in 2014

This Sunday, December 21st, don't let the holidays weigh you down. Celebrate with some live lit at Curbside Splendor Publishing's nonfiction lit series the Marrow. Join hosts Naomi Huffman and Leah Pickett at 7:30pm in historic Pilsen's Thalia Hall at the Punch House, 1227 W. 18th st.

This month's lineup welcomes Curbside Splendor Events & Programming Manager Catherine Eves, writer and photographer Susan Hope Lanier, stand-up comedian and writer Tyler Snodgrass, and Gapers Block own Book Club's contributor Danette Chavez.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Dec 10 2014

Jessie Ann Foley Brings a 'Carnival' to City Lit Books

On Saturday, Dec. 13, Chicago author Jessie Ann Foley stops by City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie, at 5pm for a reading from her YA book, The Carnival at Bray.

Foley, an Irish-American with North-side Chicago roots, mixes her cultural and Midwest upbringing with her fondness for the early '90s as influences for her first novel. The Carnival at Bray (Elephant Rock Books), set in Chicago and Ireland, is a coming of age story of a female lead, using music and setting to develop the plot. Setting part of the story in the Windy City, Foley doesn't disappoint, citing visual landmarks as well as audio standouts (referencing bands like the Smashing Pumpkins and Liz Phair). Music is key to the book, which Foley showcases in a playlist she created for the novel available on her website.

The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available, which is perfect timing to pick one up for holiday gifts.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Dec 08 2014

The Golden Age Of The (Front) Page

Print journalism has been hit pretty hard by the digital upstart that is online media, but the street boxes that can be found on just about any major Chicago street prove that we're holding on to the printed page. The newspaper has a storied history in the Second City, which is why the Chicago Public Library will host Mike Conklin for "Chicago's Golden Era of Print Journalism" on Tuesday night at 6 p.m.

Conklin was a writer and editor for the Chicago Tribune for over 12 years, has authored three books, and even spent some time as a Fox 32 News commentator and correspondent. He will chronicle the history of Chicago newspapers, from their mid-18th century beginnings to their 20th century zenith. He'll also talk about print journalism's major players, from publishers like Joseph Medill and Marshall Field III to such venerable contributors as Mike Royko and Gwendolyn Brooks.

The event is free and open to the public. The talk is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 7 pm. and will be held in the Video Theater in the Lower Level of the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. For more information, please call 312-747-4300.

Danette Chavez

Events Wed Dec 03 2014

Classic Queer Lit Onscreen & Onstage: Daviel Shy Previews The Ladies Almanack

Equal parts faux-heroic narrative and lesbian gossip column, Djuna Barnes's 1928 novel Ladies Almanack is very strange, very funny, and -- to be fair -- a little hard to read. Whatever one was expecting, it is not that; it's a magpie's nest of archaic language, double entendres, and in-jokes centering on Barnes' social circle, which was dominated by outspoken lesbian salon doyenne Natalie Clifford Barney.

No straightforward film adaptation could do the book justice, so instead Chicago writer and filmmaker Daviel Shy has conceived "a kaleidoscopic tribute to women's writing ... focused on lives and voices of 1920's Paris, refracted by the words of French 1970s theorists, and disseminated through the bodies of international contemporary artists," as the film's website puts it. Ladies AlmanackThose bodies: a pantheon of literary luminaries and other artists, including poet/genius Eileen Myles as the narrator and photographer Deborah Bright as Radclyffe Hall -- convening a contemporary circle of remarkable women to tell the stories of their forebears.

The Ladies Almanack, the movie, is still a work in progress, but throughout the coming year, The Nightingale's Follow Focus program will present excerpts in four installments while giving viewers a peek behind the scenes. The first screening takes place this Sunday, Dec. 7 at 7pm, at 1084 N. Milwaukee Ave., and will include a presentation from Shy and dramatic readings from the novel. For the $15 ticket price, you'll even get a souvenir: part of a Ladies Almanack tarot deck designed by Jess LeMaster, also to be released gradually over the course of the series.

Production photo of Eileen Myles courtesy of The Ladies Almanack.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Dec 03 2014

Chicago Book Expo to Feature Speakers, Literary Events, Book Sales

The Chicago Book Expo will be 11am-5pm Saturday at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash. The free event will have 75+ exhibitors selling books, including local presses, authors and literary organizations.

Seventeen sessions featuring more than 40 Chicago authors and other literary events are on the schedule. Here are some highlights:

Continue reading this entry »

Nancy Bishop

Events Tue Dec 02 2014

Avoid The Holidaze With Story Club

Christmas is coming and the geese are getting fat; people are also getting into fist fights on Black Friday (or better yet, protesting corporate greed) or feigning illness to avoid their "loved" ones. Let's face it, the holiday season doesn't elicit the same kind of merriment in people across the board. So because your heart might not grow three sizes this time of year (at least, it really shouldn't), Story Club is hosting a grumpus gathering worthy of the Krampus.

This Thursday, join host Dana Norris at Holiday Club for stories of holidays gone wrong. The evening's featured performers are Jen Bosworth, James Gordon aka G.P.A, and Jared Crum. As usual, there will be three open mic spots (eight minutes a piece or 1300 words) for a brave few, so happy holidays.

Doors and open mic sign-up will open at 7:30pm, and there's a $10 suggested donation.

Danette Chavez

Events Tue Dec 02 2014

Tonight is Talk Tuesday

Tuesday Dec. 2, 2014The first Tuesday of the month is for some reason extra crowded with readings, and tonight is no exception.

At 6:30pm, the Reader's Mick Dumke and Ben Joravsky host First Tuesdays with Mick & Ben at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. This month their guest is Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart. Admission is $5 online or at the door. 21-and-over.

Tuesday Funk, the eclectic monthly reading series presented by Gapers Block, returns to the Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St., tonight at 7:30pm, with guests award-winning author Jac Jemc, author and playwright Clayton Smith, essayist Karen Genelly, poet and storyteller James Gordon (aka GPA) and New York Times best-selling author Jonathan Eig. Gapers Block's Andrew Huff and Eden Robins co-host. Doors open at 7pm sharp -- no earlier, unfortunately, but get there as close to 7 as possible to grab a table, as the room fills up quickly. Free, 21-and-over.

The Chicago chapter of national storytelling series the Moth holds its GrandSLAM Championship tonight at 8pm at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. Hear amazing true stories from the best readers over the past few months and vote for your favorite with your applause. Tickets are $20, and the show is 18-and-over.

At 9pm, Two Cookie Minimum holds its final show at the soon-to-close Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave. Readers include zinester Dave Roche, comics artist Neil Brideau, writer Tim Jones-Yelvington and writer Oliver Hunt -- plus resident illustrator Alex Nall will share some of his favorite sketches from his Cookie Crumbs series, and host Johnny Misfit (Gapers Block's own John Wawrzaszek) will share some of the series' highlights. A $5 donation is requested to help the series as it prepares to move to a new location. As always, free cookies will be available. 21-and-over.

Andrew Huff

Awards Wed Nov 26 2014

Chicago Literary Hall of Fame to Induct Six Authors

GB-LitHOFposter.jpg Six Chicago literary figures will be inducted into the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Saturday, Dec. 6, at Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall.

The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame honors and preserves Chicago's great literary heritage through educational programming, awards, exhibits and other special events. One of its current projects is creating a repository of detailed information about Chicago's past, present and future literary life, through such projects as the Chicago Literary Map, the Chicago Book of the Day, and the Chicago Literary Calendar.

This year's Literary Hall of Fame inductees are three poets, a legendary editor, a novelist and an author of iconic childen's books.

Continue reading this entry »

Nancy Bishop

Events Tue Nov 11 2014

Two Cookie Minimum, A Treat

The Hungry Brain is closing. To those who take liquid lunches, dinner or drinks on Belmont in Roscoe Village, this will mean one thing. For those in the live lit community, it will mean another.

The Hungry Brain is an iconic bar on Belmont and Oakley that has housed the monthly reading series Two Cookie Minimum since 2011, as well as a vintage Arkanoid game in the back (for as long as anyone's been playing Arkanoid).

To mark this occasion, Two Cookie's host Johnny Misfit brought in some of the city's best live lit hosts and curators to read. Misfit, known with more glossal strain as John Wawrzazsek, roasted each reader with endearing delicacy.

Continue reading this entry »

Alex Thompson

Events Fri Nov 07 2014

Curbside Pop Up Book Fair this Sunday

This Sunday, Nov. 9, publisher Curbside Splendor hosts one of its staple events, a Pop Up Book Fair at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., from 1 to 6pm.

The fair will include over 30 local and regional presses, authors and organizations.
The list of attendees includes presses Chicago Center for Literature and Photography and Featherproof books; magazines Poetry, Graze, and MAKE; and organizations Chicago Writers Association and Chicago Women in Publishing among others. Snag new Curbside titles at their table and check out their imprints 7 Vientos and Artiface.

Being that this is at the Empty Bottle, music will be provided by the bands Good Evening and Everything's Alright.

The event is $8 or free when you RSVP.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Oct 30 2014

Weekend of Woe/"Wow!" at the Chicago Humanities Festival

chf_journeys.jpgWashington University Professor William J. Maxwell dropped a few bombs last weekend at his Chicago Humanities Festival lecture, "FBI as Literary Critic." Abandoning his Powerpoint-style slideshow for a "fuck it...what do you wanna know?" approach, Maxwell's open-endedness miffed some festival subscribers but opened the floodgates for a more expansive dialogue. He began talking of J. Edgar Hoover's interest in authors of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts movement.

The subject led to unexpected side streets of death threats and latent homosexuality. His opening anecdote involved a white FBI agent named William C. Sullivan, a professorial type and liberal arts graduate, who wrote a letter to Martin Luther King Jr. in an implied black voice. "Like all frauds," Sullivan wrote, "your end is approaching." Gasps rippled through the audience.

The letter ended, "there is but one way out for you, you better take it before your filthy, abnormal fraudulent self is bared to the nation."

A man in a starched shirt raised his hand. "This sounds something like a death threat!" he exclaimed. Maxwell had assumed that this, and Hoover's 40-year homosexual marriage, were common knowledge.

Continue reading this entry »

Alex Thompson

Author Thu Oct 23 2014

Take A Journey With Eula Biss

The Chicago Humanities Festival begins celebrating its 25th anniversary on Saturday, October 25th. This year's theme, "Journeys," has been in the works for a while, so get ready to visit various nooks of the city for a few (dozen) of the 80 events, which will be concentrated at cultural institutions in the downtown area, but will also branch out to Northwestern University and the University of Chicago.

We recommend starting with a jaunt to Evanston for a panel with renowned essayist, Eula Biss. Biss is the author of the award-winning Notes from No Man's Land, a collection of essays exploring race and racial identity that Biss compiled while traveling across the country. Her latest work, On Immunity: An Inoculation, spans less geography, but tackles no less controversy; prompted by the anxiety of new motherhood, Biss takes a harrowing look at the science and history of immunizations. The author will be joined by Katie Watson, a professor of medical humanities and bioethics at Northwestern.

The panel will run from 2:30pm-3:30pm on Saturday at the Owen L. Coon Forum inside of the Donald P. Jacobs Center at 2001 Sheridan Rd, Evanston. Tickets will be available at the door (cash only), and are $5 for students/teachers, $9 for CHF members, and $12 for the general public. For more information, call the box office at 312-494-9509.

Danette Chavez

Events Wed Oct 22 2014

Book Club @ The Chicago Humanities Festival

The Chicago Humanities Festival begins full-swing this weekend, and four BC staff writers are first in line. Check out where we're headed this Saturday, Oct. 25, and why you should tag along!

jamaica_kincaid.pngJack @ Jamaica Kincaid (11:00 am)
In college, I accidentally signed up for a literature class entitled "Caribbean Literature." Thinking it'd be sort of a blow off course, I quickly found out I was dead wrong. The lit that we read, although there was an overwhelming amount of it, was incredibly enjoyable and included writers such as Sam Selvon, Edwidge Dantecat and Nobel Prize-winner V.S. Naipaul.

Of all the books we read during that semester, there's one that stands out above all else: Lucy by Jamaica Kincaid. I read the text front to back in one sitting, which was admittedly no real feat, the novella being somewhere around 100 pages. However, it was my favorite out of all the quality books that we read.

Much of Kincaid's work reflects on the disorienting experience of moving from one place to another, a perfect companion for many a Chicagoan. A widely-acclaimed writer for her fiction, nonfiction, and work as a staff writer at The New Yorker, Kincaid has done it all and won many prizes in the process. Check out her talk with CHF Emeritus Artistic Director, Lawrence Weschler, on Oct. 25, 11am-12pm at Cahn Auditorium. Tickets are $15 for CHF Members and $20 for the general public.

eula_biss_where_we_are_from.pngDannette @ Eula Bliss (2:30 pm)
Biss is the author of the award-winning Notes from No Man's Land, a collection of essays exploring race and racial identity that Biss compiled while traveling across the country. Her latest work, On Immunity: An Inoculation, spans less geography, but tackles no less controversy; prompted by the anxiety of new motherhood, Biss takes a harrowing look at the science and history of immunizations. The author will be joined by Katie Watson, a professor of medical humanities and bioethics at Northwestern.

wallace_shawn.pngAlex @ Wallace Shawn (5:00 pm)
Whether your memories of Wallace Shawn are at dinner with Andre Gregory, shouting "inconceivable!" into the ironic abyss of The Princess Bride or starring in Jonathan Demme's newest film, The Master Builder (an adaptation by Shawn of Ibsen's play), it is certain that this Saturday's Chicago Humanities Festival event would be silly to miss.

The iconic actor and playwright has been featured in nearly 100 films (including 7 in 1995 alone). He was awarded the PEN/Laura Pels International Foundation for Theater Award in 2005 as a Master American Dramatist.

still_failing_gary_shteyngart_returns.pngMiden @ Gary Shteyngart (7:30 pm)
Even if one hasn't heard of Gary Shteyngart, bookstore loiterers would doubtless recognize the polka-dotted jacket of his bestselling novel Super Sad True Love Story. When I first started reading Love Story, I underlined every phrase that made me laugh out loud. Now, my copy is so dense with stripes one could feasibly call it nautical.

Of course I can't help but wonder about the author of a book that so strikes me with its wit. Now I need not wonder at all: Shteyngart's memoir, Little Failure employs both wit and heart in detailing his childhood; from the transition from Soviet Russia to America, to his extreme childhood asthma, to the climactic unveiling of his first unreleased work -- a 100-page novel about Lenin and a magical goose that he wrote for his grandmother in exchange for slices of cheese.

Miden Wood / Comments (1)

News Tue Oct 21 2014

Clarence Page in Discussion @ The Union League Club

Screen shot 2014-10-21 at 3.15.44 PM.pngThis Wednesday, Oct. 22, Printers Row presents a luncheon at The Union League Club (65 W. Jackson Blvd.) in honor of Pulitzer Prize-winner and nationally renowned columnist Clarence Page, wherein he will discuss his new anthology of work, Culture Worrier, Selected Columns 1984 - 2014, Reflections on Race, Politics and Social Change.

In the 30 years since his first column in The Chicago Tribune, Page has witnessed a multitude of American milestones; his commentary on which has rightfully earned Page a revered place in the journalistic community. The anthology traverses decades and topics alike, as his interests, though always built around a core of cultural analysis, are truly varied. (Perusing his latest posts on Page's Page you'll find articles regarding President Obama's second term, the food gentrification of collard greens, and the American response to the ebola virus, to name a few.)

Page will be joined in discussion by Bruce Dold, editorial page editor of the Chicago Tribune. The event kicks off with a reception at 11:30am, with the discussion set to begin at noon. Admission is $35, and copies of Culture Worrier will be available for sale at the event.

Miden Wood

Events Thu Oct 16 2014

Sex, Drugs & Nonfiction: Chuck Klosterman Reads at Columbia College

On Tuesday, Oct. 21, the Poetry and Nonfiction Reading Series at Columbia College Chicago welcomes author Chuck Klosterman for a reading at 33 E. Congress, Room 101, at 5:30pm.

Hosted by the college's Department of Creative Writing's MFA Nonfiction program, Klosterman will give a nonfiction reading (a genre which he can definitely cover lest we forget his debut Fargo Rock City). This reading series is committed to bringing in guests that are critically engaging, culturally relevant and offer diverse voices (he can cover that too).

There will be an opportunity to purchase books and meet the author at the end of the program. The event is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Oct 16 2014

John Lahr and His "Mad Pilgrimage:" Writing the Biography of Tennessee Williams

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John Lahr, veteran writer and biographer, sat on the Steppenwolf Theatre stage Monday night to discuss his definitive and intimate biography of Tennessee Williams, one of America's greatest playwrights.

His book, Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh (Norton 2014) is one of the five nominees for the nonfiction National Book Award.

Lahr and Martha Lavey, Steppenwolf artistic director, were seated on a stage dressed for the cluttered Irish bachelor-hoarder's apartment for the current Steppenwolf production, Conor McPherson's The Night Alive. Lavey, whose departure as artistic director was recently announced, was prepared with her own advance copy of the book stuffed with fuchsia post-it notes. She asked short, pointed questions and let Lahr warm to his subject.

Williams, born Thomas Lanier Williams in 1911, adopted the name Tennessee early in his writing career. He wrote some 70 plays including masterpieces such as The Glass Menagerie, Streetcar Named Desire, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, The Night of the Iguana, The Rose Tattoo and Summer and Smoke.

Continue reading this entry »

Nancy Bishop

Events Wed Oct 15 2014

To-Do This Month: Chicago Humanities Festival 2014

Screen shot 2014-10-15 at 2.37.12 PM.png
Who better to discuss journeys than Jamaica Kincaid, Cheryl Strayed, Marjane Satrapi or Philippe Petit? Than those makers who traversed oceans, countries, revolutions; who proved that the most harrowing journeys can occur within just two hundred feet of tightrope?

The much-anticipated Chicago Humanities Festival returns for its 25th year with an extraordinary line-up of events, all centered around the theme of "Journeys." The tremendous talent includes, in addition to the aforementioned, writers like Ben Marcus (Leaving the Sea, Flame Alphabet), Eric Schlosser (Fast Food Nation), Eula Bliss (On Immunity), Gary Shteyngart (Little Failure), and Jesmyn Ward (The Men We Reaped) to name only a few. Sit in on conversations with these authors and more as they recount journeys actual and notional; from the adventures that inspired their books to the very personal journey of writing them.

In addition to relishing favorite authors, lit lovers can revel in A Moth StorySLAM or any of a number of lectures. Unearth the original iteration of Hamlet, investigate J. Edgar Hoover's fascination with the Harlem Renaissance, or analyze love in all its guilty pleasure modernity with "Modern Love" editor Daniel Jones.

The festival kicks off on Oct. 21 with a Benefit Gala featuring The New York Times Op-Ed Journalist, David Brooks. Then, on Oct. 25, CHF begins full swing, with such a wide array of event topics as to make traveling to one program after another a journey in and of itself. In short, if you were looking for something to do between Oct. 25 and Nov. 9, Chicago Humanities can ensure that you will never be bored [PDF].

Miden Wood

Author Tue Oct 14 2014

Lit from Chicago, Mexico City Celebrated at Lit & Luz Festival

LitLuz.jpg

With each gust of wind the weary thought of winter gets stronger in our heads and suddenly we're all thinking about taking extended vacations in Mexico. Well, for those that can't get away, there's Lit & Luz: a festival featuring visual art, performances, and, of course, readings (how could we forget the readings?) with artists and authors from Chicago and Mexico City. The festival kicks off today at various locations throughout Chicago.

Lasting for four days, (Oct 15-18), Lit & Luz has lectures, interviews, and readings from strong, up-and-coming novelists and poets, such as Álvaro Enrigue, Valeria Luiselli, and Luis Felipe Fabre. Most of the readings are free, although tickets to the closing party, "A Live Magazine Show Extravaganza" put on by MAKE Literary Magazine are going for $15.

Jack McCormick / Comments (1)

Events Fri Oct 10 2014

You're Invited to A Casual Reading This Saturday

casual reading.jpg
You are cordially invited to The Learning Machine, 3145 S. Morgan, in Bridgeport this Saturday, October 11th, 7pm for A Casual Reading.

The night's entertainment will be anything but. Words from writers Amanda Goldblatt, Cecilia Stelzer, and Swoon Lake. Images/words from writer/artist Jen Rickert. Musical accompaniment includes Harmonica Blues by Dance Lance.

Attire: casual.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Oct 08 2014

The Reader's Dilemma: Which Thursday Night Event to Attend

This Thursday, Oct. 9, is one of the more challenging nights of competing literary events in recent memory, as Michael Chabon, Ta-Nehisi Coates and Steven Pinker will all be appearing in different parts of the city.

coates pinker chabon

Coates, a senior editor and writer for The Atlantic and journalist-in-residence at City University of New York, wrote the controversial story "The Case for Reparations," which examined the cultural and economic issues surrounding violence in Chicago's mostly black neighborhoods. He'll discuss the article and the issue as a whole at 5pm in Roosevelt University's 10th floor library, 430 S. Michigan Ave.

Continue reading this entry »

Andrew Huff / Comments (1)

Events Mon Oct 06 2014

Get Funky Tuesday at Tuesday Funk

Tuesday Funk October 2014This Tuesday, Oct. 7, the 74th edition of Tuesday Funk will live up to its tagline with a truly eclectic show, featuring Mark Turcotte, Noel Jones, Paul McComas and Maya Kuper, Lori Rader-Day, and Dmitry Samarov.

The reading gets underway promptly at 7:30pm in the upstairs lounge at Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St., Chicago. Doors open at 7pm -- no earlier unfortunately, but get there as close to 7 as possible to secure a table, as the room fills up quickly. Gapers Block's Andrew Huff and Eden Robins co-host.

RSVP on Facebook and bring a friend. No cover, 21+

Andrew Huff

Events Fri Oct 03 2014

Two Cookie Minimum Resurrects Silver Tongue Reading Series

As host of the reading series Two Cookie Minimum, I set out each month to book a show that I would like to see and then hope others will be as excited as I am for it. For the October reading, I connected with Mason Johnson, an old friend in the literary scene, to help curate the month's readers (it's gets hard to do this month after month so I asked for some assistance). Johnson is a writer for CBS online, a 2010 graduate of Columbia College's Fiction Writing Department, and author of Sad Robot Stories (Chicago Center for Literature and Photography). When at Columbia, Johnson was host of Silver Tongue, a student run reading series. The series was funded through special events office of student affairs. The advisors (writers themselves, Jill Summers, Dave Snyder and Mairead Case) allowed students to curate readers, book special guests and put out the literary magazine Mad Licks. The series was a sponsor of lit events such as Printer's Ball and Chicago Zine Fest. It booked writers such as Lindsay Hunter, Tao Lin, and Ian Belknap. Each reading featured Columbia student readers. It was booked by students, for students. Due to staff changes, budget and student support, the series ended its run in mid-2013. It began in 2008.

On Tuesday, October 7th, Two Cookie Minimum will resurrect the idea of the Silver Tongue reading series with Johnson reprising as host. The reading will feature past students (all have since graduated) including Lauryn Allison Lewis author of Solo Down (also on CCLaP), Devan Perine member the band Sojourner, writer Andi White, comedian Mr. Dan Shapiro, and writer Ian Jones (who was host after Johnson graduated). Joining will be the series advisors, writer Jill Summers (main advisor for the series' tenure) and poet Dave Snyder (who coined the series' name). Johnson will deliver eulogies for each reader and has a few other tricks up of his sleeve.

In preparation for the event, I interviewed Johnson via email to get a better understanding of what the series meant to him. He provided a brief series history, some memorable moments and how the experience aided his writing career.

Can you give a brief history of the reading series and how long were you part of it?

Two years. I think. Some stuff happened, then I arrived. Then I left. Then some more stuff happened. I don't want to downplay the influence of those who came before (Jasmine Neosh and co.) or after (Ian Jones, Sandra Lee Ersnberger, and co.) me, but I'm the one who brought the pizazz. Everyone else who's been involved has been, like, authentic Italian food and I was Olive Garden. Sure, whatever, your spaghetti's great, grandma, but... well, let's just say I hit that school like a basket full of free bread sticks, and those bratty college kids ate me up.

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Sun Sep 28 2014

Hey Dude, Don't Miss Reading Under the Influence On October 1st

Longstanding series Reading Under the Influence is at it again, Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 7pm at their home, the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.

The month's theme is Dude Ranch. That could reference anything from the title of a Blink 182 album, the setting of a John Wayne Western, or the title of a classic '90s Nickelodeon television show. See how it is interpreted by readers, Brian Costello (author of Losing in Gainesville), Matt Rowan (author of Why God Why), Joseph G. Peterson (author of Gideon's Confession) and Gint Aras (author of Finding the Moon in Sugar).

Readers read twice, once with original work and again with published work related to the night's theme. Trivia questions per the theme will be asked with drink tickets and literary swag awarded to the victors.

Stay for drink specials, $2 domestic bottles and some barbecued vittles. There is a $3 cover, and it's 21 and over.

John Wawrzaszek

Awards Wed Sep 24 2014

Right This Way to "Women & Children First Way"

Talk about bragging rights: in a move that celebrates Women & Children First's reputation as a city institution, the bookstore is getting its own street in Chicago. 48th Ward Alderman Harry Osterman announced on Tuesday that the block at Clark St and Farragut Ave will bear the honorary name, "Women & Children First Way," as a tribute to the "iconic indie bookstore's impact as a community builder and neighborhood anchor."

This latest bit of good news comes on the heels of a change in ownership and talk of expansion in July. Founders Linda Bubon and Ann Christophersen sold W&CF to store manager Sarah Hollenbeck and her colleague, Lynn Mooney. Hollenbeck and Mooney bring years of writing and publishing experience to their leadership of Chicago's preeminent feminist bookstore.

The unveiling is scheduled for October 11th, and the celebration calls for poetry and performances by Yvonne Zipter and W&CF bookseller Shanta Nurullah. The event is free and open to the public. You'll also have a chance to meet Hollenbeck and Mooney in their store, where they'll share public drawings and a floorplan for the store renovation, set to begin in winter 2015.

Danette Chavez

Events Wed Sep 24 2014

Explore Creative Writing at Unabridged Books this Friday

Chicago authors lead a literary expedition, Exploring Creative Nonfiction, this Friday, Sept. 26, 7pm at Unabridged Bookstore, 3251 N. Broadway.

The exploration team includes authors Wendy Ortiz (Excavation: A Memoir), Dmitry Samarov (Where To?: A Hack Memoir) and Megan Stielstra (Once I Was Cool). Take notes in your field manual as they read selections of their work. Then get a chance to dig into their process and experiences with a short Q&A. Closing the night will be a book signing and a chance to pick up their texts for further study. Wine and refreshments will be provided. The event is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Sep 12 2014

Unabridged Bookstore Throws a Free Party for Paying Guests

The Paying Guests.jpgSet in 1920's London, The Paying Guests examines the social shift that followed the First World War: the extraordinary moment of transformation for women's role in society. Sarah Waters' much-anticipated novel has been hailed as absorbing, compelling, and eloquent; and now copies are coming to you!

Unabridged Books has just heard word that they will be receiving limited signed copies of The Paying Guests and the only proper vessel for their vast enthusiasm is, of course, a party! Featuring complimentary brew from neighboring DryHop Brewers, snacks, jams, and what promise to be "adorable lit-themed photo ops," this Monday's festivities are not to be missed. In addition to Waters' autographed arrivals, Unabridged will be celebrating Margaret Atwood's new collection, Stone Mattress, and Ian McEwan's new novel, The Children Act. In honor of all three authors, for Monday night only 100% of their works in the store will be available at a 20% discount.

Once you've sunk your teeth into old favorites and new releases, get a sneak peek at what Unabridged has in store for their stock; you might just win advanced copies of upcoming releases.

The festivities are this Monday at 10:30 pm. Come on out for your chance at winning a signed copy, and for the plethora of party perks!

Miden Wood

Events Wed Sep 10 2014

Book Release This Saturday for Erika Wurth's Crazy Horse's Girlfriend

Erika Wurth celebrates the release of her newest book, Crazy Horse's Girlfriend (Curbside Splendor Publishing), Saturday, Sept. 13 at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie, at 5pm.

Wurth, an Apache/Chickasaw/Cherokee raised outside of Denver, is a teacher of creative writing at Western Illinois University. Her debut poetry collection, Indian Trains, (West End Press) is about small town Indians, mixed-bloods of multiple tribes. In Crazy Horse's Girlfriend Wurth returns to explore the modern preconceptions of what it means to be Native American.

For the release she will be joined by fellow readers Lindsay Hunter (Ugly Girls out on Farrar, Straus and Giroux is due out on Nov. 4), Samantha Irby (Meaty, also on Curbside), and Jac Jemc (A Different Bed Every Time, out on Dzanc Books in October). The event is free. Books will be available for purchase.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Sep 10 2014

Chicago Zine Fest Wants to Play Croquet with You

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In today's fast-paced, hyper-tech, power-driven society, it's difficult to stay in touch with the truth; difficult to be yourself, to produce authentic work, to embrace individualism. This is why in such tumultuous times it is important to revisit those pieces of art that hold a mirror up to society and ask, "What is your damage, Heather?"

Chicago Zine Fest, one of the largest conferences of self-published talent in the country, celebrates artists and authors with powerful voices and unique perspective -- Veronicas in a world of Heathers. While CZF 2015 is still many moons away, the preparations have already begun, and the festival needs your help. Join the Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia Ave.) in a fundraising screening of the darkest of comedies on Sept. 24, featuring candy from Dandy Sweets! Doors open at 5:30pm, $7 suggested donation.

Miden Wood

Bookmarks Fri Aug 29 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Union Street Gallery brings you a plethora of poetry at open mic Union Street Beat, 6:30 pm.

Tonight! Contributors to semi-annual literary magazine After Hours celebrate its 29th edition with a reading at the Book Cellar, 7 pm.

Tonight! Women & Children First hosts D. Bryant Simmons as she discusses her new book, How to Knock a Bravebird from Her Perch, 7:30 pm.

Saturday! Feast on franks with your favorite inter-dimensional travelers at Chowdown at Sundown(ers), Challengers Comics' cook out with special guests, and creators of the Sundowners comic series, Sean Dove, Tim Seeley, and Jim Terry, 4 - 8 pm.

Saturday! Make your way to Quimby's to enjoy Lane Milburn's new graphic novel, Twelve Gems, described by Robot 6 as "'80s-indie black-and-white space-opera," 7 pm.

Miden Wood

Events Wed Aug 27 2014

Indie Publication Stare Celebrated with Exhibit and New Issue

Stare was an independent publication released from 1976 to 1991 by artist, print maker, and teacher Kevin Riordan. The publication collected irreverent, arresting graphic art and writing with equal attention to how it was printed and bound. To celebrate Stare's legacy, Riordan approached Spudnik Press to host the exhibit Recombinant Stare. The show includes issues of the magazine as well as books, posters, press sheets, and photographs. It brings together recent and selected works by some of Stare's contributors, including Wayne Bertola, Mike Brehm, Elroy Christy, Peter Hannan, Jean Riordan and the late Fritz Wolfmeyer. The exhibit will also be the impetus for a new publication, the first in over two decades, curated by Riordan.

In order to fully understand the scope of Stare, I emailed its creator for an interview. Riordan discusses his printing process and the subsequent release parties thrown over the years. He talks of lofts spaces, early punk bands, and DIY printing. In doing so, he also provides a glimpse into the history of Chicago's independent print community. This is a tremendous story of a passionate artist and how he made his publication come to life.

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John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Aug 21 2014

What Feminism Is Doing Wrong

cover_bad_feminist.jpgGlancing at Roxane Gay's latest title, Bad Feminist, I cannot help but imagine someone with a rolled up newspaper, whapping well-meaners on the nose: "Bad feminist! Baaad feminist. Look what you did!"

Now take that picture and imagine that, instead of a newspaper, Gay is wielding a rolled up zeitgeist: all the news, TV, film, music, and literature that have managed to slip through the cracks. (To pull an example from the book, Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines" became a song. A popular song. Let's all take a moment to wonder how that happened.)

Wrapped in hilarious prose, Bad Feminist is a lab experiment in media dissection. Throughout the anthology, Gay employs dry wit to pick apart thirty-plus essays worth of cultural phenomena; and when not making case studies of Girls or The Help, she analyzes feminism as a whole and its exclusionary tendencies. What does it mean, she asks, to be a woman of color and a feminist? What does it mean to be queer and be feminist?

This Wednesday, August 27th, Roxane will be reading and discussing Bad Feminist at Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark St.) at 7:30 pm. Stop by to chip away at those pieces of culture that subtly undermine feminism -- and maybe to love-bash The Bachelor.

Miden Wood

Events Mon Aug 11 2014

"Second to None" Broadcasts and Archives the Voice of Queer Chicago

second to none color cover.jpgThroughout a number of works, local writer and artist H. Melt has made a project of documenting the intersections of Chicago's history with the lives of its often overlooked transgender and queer communities. Just last year they (Melt's preferred personal pronoun) published SIRvival in the Second City, a collection of poems that emerged from within and around queer institutions such as Dyke March and Big Chicks. This month, Melt opens up the floor with the release of compilation zine Second to None: Queer and Trans Chicago Voices. It debuts with a reading and celebration this Wednesday, August 13, at Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark), at 7:30pm.

Melt seems to have curated Second to None from a place of both love and frustration. They note in the preface that "While Chicago is home to many organizations that provide social, medical, and legal services for queer and trans people, there is not enough support for writers and artists, which often forces them to move elsewhere. Our thriving, underground culture is often overlooked outside of the city." And yet, in the experience of assembling this collection, "a critical queer, nonfiction literary voice has emerged that is strongly rooted in Chicago. Several themes connect these pieces, including the need to talk more openly about race, class, and privilege, the power of community support, and of course, the experience of living in Chicago itself."

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Daphne Sidor

Events Mon Aug 11 2014

Get on This, Daryl Brown (son of James Brown) at City Lit Books

On the heels of the new James Brown biopic, Daryl Brown, the son of James Brown, comes to Chicago to promote his new book, My Father, the Godfather, Thursday, Aug. 14 at 6:30pm, at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie.

As the child who got to know James Brown the most, Daryl released his memoir (co-written by Michael Chabries) which takes an in depth look at the life of his father and their relationship. Waldorf Press released the book just before the James Brown biopic hit theaters this August. The book addresses issues not touched upon in the movie, such as drug usage, adultery, and religion. "How can Universal Studios distribute a movie about my dad without even talking to those that were closest to my dad, including me?" said Daryl Brown in press for the book. As son of the famous Godfather of Soul, Daryl toured with his father for eight years and traveled the world with him. The books includes intimate details and stories from his perspective.

The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available at the event.

John Wawrzaszek

Bookmarks Fri Aug 08 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Quimby's hosts Vice Versa's Breakup Party: an evening of lady-powered zine readings and lectures, featuring Julia Arredondo, Melissa Smith, and Vanessa Viruet, 7 pm.

Tonight! Are you a girl with a passion for literature and birthday suits? Naked Girls Reading is having an open call for performers at Everleigh Social Club, 7 pm.

Tonight! Meme seen round the world, Grumpy Cat, will be begrudgingly presenting The Grumpy Guide to Life at a Skokie Barnes & Noble (55 Old Orchard Center), 7 pm.

Saturday! Brain Frame Comix Reading hosts the very last installment of some truly Punk Rock Shit. You won't want to miss the grand finale at Thalia Hall, 6 pm.

Saturday! Rebecca Makkai reads from her new novel, The Hundred-Year House at the Book Cellar, 7 pm.

Sunday! Catch author Michael Goldstein at Women & Children First, where he'll be discussing his book Return of the Light.

Sunday! Leslie Perrine comes to CHI PRC for another installemtn of Zines 101: Jam Comic FunFest! $3, 1 pm.

Miden Wood

Author Wed Aug 06 2014

Some of the Most Punk Rock Shit I've Ever Seen In My Life

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Lyra Hill, creator of the anarchic and elaborate live comics series Brain Frame, has dark hair and round eyes. She often looks tired as she is, often, tired these days.

She speaks with her hands clasped, and looks at those who speak to her with expectation and attention. Standing atop the stage at the historic, newly restored Thalia Hall she is unmistakably a person in charge.

The interior is massive and neo-gothic. The theater chairs that make up its balcony once belonged to a middle school auditorium. The folding chairs above, rumor has it, were at one point courtside seats for the Lakers. Its stage recalls the Phantom of the Opera and Amadeus - in fact, the entire structure has the feel of Prague's neo-everything city center. No mistake, as it was modeled in 1892 after the Prague Opera House, a romantic, expensive-looking venue in the midst of a burgeoning, colorful neighborhood - in this case, Pilsen. Lawn chairs, plastic cones and colorful rope often impede parking on side streets.

Soon the theater will fill with people of all ilk and experience. Fans of Brain Frame are diverse: in the hour Lyra and company scout the space, most mention is made of whose parents are coming (5 of 8 performers present). However, Brain Frame's 3rd Anniversary/Grand Finale show (Brain Frame 19) will likely draw a crowd larger than the average middle school recital. This "homage to ancestral experimentation" is a sort of rite in Chicago. Commonly acknowledged as a "live comix reading", BF nevertheless doesn't shy from ambiguity.

At lunch months earlier, I offer Gertrude Stein as a comparison.
"It's like a salon," I propose. She shrugs.
"Yeah."

Continue reading this entry »

Alex Thompson

Events Wed Aug 06 2014

Baltimore Breakin' Up Is Hard to Do

For all the lonely hearts who've experienced summer romance go south for the winter, don't fret. This Friday, Aug. 8, Quimby's Bookstore at 1854 W. North hosts a Break Up Party with Vice Versa Press author Julia Arredondo and her new zine Baltimore Breakups: A Pop-Up Memoir.

breakups4.jpgBaltimore resident Arredondo is no stranger to writing about dating, as her past works include zines: Guide to Dating Gangsters Vol. 1 and Guide to Being Alone. Her casual tone delivers the straight dish on heartbreak. This memoir zine, constructed as a pop-up book, resonates a little deeper with imagery jumping out as you flip through the pages.

Also reading will be local fashion icon Vanessa Viruet and relationship eulogist Melissa Smith.

Zines will be available for sale. The event is free and all ages. The tears begins to fall at 7pm. Its BYOT (Bring your own tissue).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Aug 05 2014

How to Trick a Writer

"A writer," Thomas Mann once noted, "is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people." For me, at least, the blank page is a tundra, inhospitable and endless, and one inches toward it only while calculating escape routes -- I can go back to this minimized Chrome window at any time; if I get stuck I can stop at 9 o'clock.

page.jpgTo help generate the courage needed to charge across it, local author Jac Jemc (My Only Wife) has devised a workshop called Fooling Ourselves (Into Writing), which she'll offer this Saturday, August 9, at the Chicago Publishers Resource Center (858 N. Ashland) at 1 p.m. Over the course of three hours, she'll delve into tactics such as creating "language banks" and accessing "gluts of memory" to get unstuck. The workshop fee is $25, although another generous source of writerly bravery -- Jemc's own rejections blog -- is free.

Daphne Sidor

Events Mon Aug 04 2014

Two Cookie Minimum Kicks Off its 4th Year Tomorrow

Reading series Two Cookie Minimum kicks off its 4th year tomorrow, Tuesday August 5th, 9pm at Hungry Brain 2319 W. Belmont.

For the last four years, this series has provided a stage for emerging talent, notably those who self-publish books, zines and indie comics. This month's lineup features the talents of writer Franki Jo Beckwith, sketch comedy performer Tom Simmons, indie comic artist Ian McDuffie, writer John Wilmes, and zinester Josh Piotrowski (aka GAS MASK HORSE).

Keeping with the series' name, there will be free cookies. Get there by 9 so you can snag a seat and a plate (and bring some friends to share with). There is no cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Bookmarks Fri Aug 01 2014

Bookmarks

Another weekly installment of what the weekend has in store for lit lovers:

Tonight! Author Tom Lukas will be at the Book Cellar reading from his debut novel, Special Operations, 7 pm.

Saturday! Beloved weekly live lit show Paper Machete introduces some new players this Saturday with the first show of their Fresh Meat series. Head over to the Green Mill to check out the new blood's debuts. (Don't worry, although he's a regular Chad the Bird will still be making an appearance.) 3 pm.

Saturday! Live lit show You're Being Ridiculous returns to Mary's Attic (above Hamburger Mary's) for their August show. This month, expect a fantastic line-up of readers who promise to be absurd, over-the-top, and absolutely positively ridiculous, $15, 7:30 pm.

Sunday! The Book Cellar brings us more authorial goodness with readings from The Hundred-Year House, a new novel by Rebecca Makkai, 7 pm.

Sunday! Test your judgment of fact or fiction with the Truth or Lie reading series. This weekend's show, to be held at Firecat Projects, features six readers presenting either a true story or total hooey. Is it true? That's up to you, 7:30 pm.

Sunday! Formerly known as Here's the Story, live lit show and potluck dinner Here, Chicago will return to Stage 773 for an evening of tales and tapas. Check out their website to learn more about the readers in store, and try your hand at cooking up a dish for the potluck! $8 or free with a potluck dish, 7:30 pm.

Miden Wood

Bookmarks Fri Jul 25 2014

Bookmarks

All Weekend! Check out the Newberry Library's 30th Annual Book Fair. All 120,000+ titles will be available for $2.00 or less, with a half-off day on Sunday.

Tonight! Author Catherine Fitzpatrick presents her novel Going on Nine at the Book Cellar, 7 pm.

Tonight! Itching for graphic novel goodness? Get Over It! with artist and author Corinne Mucha's reading at Quimby's, 7 pm.

Saturday! Newberry brings you the Bughouse Square Debates. Held in Washington Square Park, the freedom-of-speech-fest promises debates, speeches, and heartily encourages heckling, 12 - 4 pm.

Saturday! Ever dream of cycling across the country? It may do you good to hear the tale from the horse's mouth: Brian Benson presents his book Going Somewhere: A Bicycle Journey Across America at City Lit Books, 5 pm.

Saturday and Sunday! Catch bookstore Women & Children First's Used Book Sale at Andersonville Sdiewalk Sale.

Sunday! The Museum of Contemporary Art hosts Word Weekend, a celebration of all things wordy including a book fair, live readings, hip-hop performances, a play premiere, and graffiti workshops, 12 - 5 pm.

Sunday! Head to the Podlasie Club, 2918 N. Central Park, for therelease of Images of America Avondale and Chicago's Polish Village, 6 pm.

Miden Wood

Books Thu Jul 24 2014

Find Book Bargains at the Andersonville Summer Sidewalk Sale

Aville_WineWalk_Small_Banner_FA.jpgBargain Hunters, point your vessels north: this weekend the stores of Andersonville take to the streets to offer discounts on all their wares!

We at Book Club are suckers for books (duh), which is why one participating business catches our eye. Feminist bookstore Women & Children First will be holding their used book sale this Saturday, July 26 from 10:00am - 6:00pm and Sunday, July 27 from 11:00am - 5:00pm.

The sale -- which will feature fiction, nonfiction, children's books, LGBTQ titles, CDs, DVDs, and collectibles -- benefits the Women's Voices Fund, a nonprofit arm of WFC dedicated to fostering discussion of feminist issues and culture, and to nurturing children's delight in books. Support women's issues, children's literacy, and your hungry bookshelves by coming out this weekend and seeing what Women & Children First has to offer!

Miden Wood

Events Thu Jul 24 2014

August is Nigh; Time to Funk Up Your Tuesday

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"Wait, it's already almost August?" you holler at your computer screen, already pre-mourning the impending end of summer. Almost-August means almost-fall means soon the outdoors will again be closed off by a wall of dreaded, frostbiting, withering cold! There was so much you wanted to do! So much you wanted to see! Winter is coming.

Alright, alright, take a breath. The onset of August also means one whole month of summer remains, so it's time to hit the town and soak in all the city has to offer! Our suggestion? Ring in your month with the 72nd installment of eclectic live lit series Tuesday Funk. Swing by Hopleaf at 7:30pm on Aug. 5 to see featured readers Hannah Gamble, David Daskal, Christine Simokaitis, Britt Julious and Leah Thomas, all co-hosted by Eden Robins and Gapers Block editor Andrew Huff. RSVP on Facebook here, and we'll see you in August!

Miden Wood

Events Thu Jul 24 2014

Near Ye, Near Ye! Your Weekend in Words

Did you enjoy Chicago's first Independent Bookstore Day, or take in a reading at the Book Fort at Pitchfork? Well, the literary love fest continues in Chicago this weekend, thanks to the efforts of The Newberry Library. You'll have a chance to shop--and shout--till you drop. Never has "you can't have too much of a good thing" seemed like a real possibility.

The Newberry Library kicks things off with its 30th Annual Book Fair, which runs from July 24 through July 27. Thursday is the Preview Night for members only, but don't worry, there will be plenty of books left for Friday through Sunday. Most books are $2 each, and psst, become half off on Sunday. It's the perfect time to build your personal library with fiction, cookbooks, or art books, as well as to track down rare collectibles: you could snag a first edition of The Lord of the Rings, or get an autographed copy of one of President Obama's works.

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Books Thu Jul 24 2014

Avondale and Chicago's Polish Village Celebrated in Book Release this Weekend

Join others to say, "Na zdrowie!" this Sunday July 27th, 6pm, in celebration for the book release of Images of America Avondale and Chicago's Polish Village (on Arcadia Publishing) at the Podlasie Club, 2918 N. Central Park. The book catalogs the neighborhood's rich cultural history, supported by over a hundred photographs (see below) and a foreword from notable Chicago biographer Dominic Pacyga. The book was co-authored by Jacob Kaplan, Dan Pogorzelski, Rob Reid and Elisa Addlesperger.

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I connected with one of the authors, Dan "Pogo" Pogorzelski, to discuss this book and how the writers encapsulated the cultural relevance of this neighborhood. Pogo holds authority when telling the story of the Polish Village, the neighborhood where he was born. His professional career has allowed him to stay active in the community. He can be seen at neighborhood farmer's markers as a community outreach assistant for a state Senator, online as a writer for Forgotten Chicago, and as a preservationist with his appointment as Vice President of the Northwest Chicago Historical Society. He is no stranger to authoring books about beloved Chicago neighborhoods as he was involved two books in Arcadia's Images of America series documenting Bridgeport and Portage Park (which was co-authored by John Maloof, director of Finding Vivian Maier).

To begin, what was the initial motivation to write this book, one centered on Avondale and Chicago's Polish Village?

"The neighborhood that built Chicago" has a charm that intrigued all four of us co-authors. In my case, I was born in this neighborhood, and I still remember my father helping collect donations for POMOST, a local anti-communist organization, outside of St. Hyacinth Basilica every week after mass. This aspect of the history of Avondale and Chicago's Polish Village is just one facet of what makes this area interesting. While the heart of Polish Chicago certainly has beat strong in this neighborhood during Poland's struggles for independence, other ethnic voices have always been a vital part of its evolution and development, just like in every other hallowed ethnic enclave in our city. Industry, Labor, the Progressive Movement, the Interstate Highway System have all left a visible mark here. The person whom we chose to dedicate our book to, a longtime community activist by the name of Joe Jurek, had political guru David Axelrod run his campaign for public office well before Axelrod sprang to fame (thanks to electing Barack Obama as President). Our aim was to weave all of these intriguing strands into one narrative, one that intersects with notable figures such as Street Photographer Vivian Maier, First Lady Hillary Clinton, Pope John Paul II, the elites of Polish Rock music, as well as Wayne Campbell and Garth Algar from the film Wayne's World.

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 21 2014

Holy 75th Birthday, Batman!

batman day.jpgThis Wednesday, July 23 will be Batman Day, marking the 75th anniversary of the caped crusader. The bat symbol has become an internationally recognized icon and to celebrate, Batman publisher DC Comics will be releasing a special anniversary issue of Detective Comics #27, Batman's first appearance way back in 1939 (thanks Bob Kane for creating this legendary symbol). The book will be available for free while supplies last.

The dark knight has seen his share of successes over the years, from the campy Adam West television show to print fame with Frank Miller's the Dark Knight, to the big screen with Michael Keaton and Christian Bale (not really gonna mention others cast in the role, ahem). DC is also releasing a timeline poster highlighting these and other various major events in Bat-history.

Locally, Challengers Comics and Conversations, at 1845 N. Western Ave., will be celebrating Batman Day all day long from 11am to 7pm. They'll have comics giveaways, discounts on all Batman merch (hint, if you sport the batman logo anywhere on your person, you'll get an even bigger discount), and other tricks up their sleeves.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Jul 17 2014

Launch Party and Reading: Lori Rader-Day at the Book Cellar

RaderDay_Lori-s-300x300.jpgLocal author Lori Rader-Day, crime writer extraordinaire and vice president of the Midwest Chapter of the Mystery Writers of America, will be celebrating the launch of her new novel, The Black Hour at the Book Cellar in Lincoln Square -- 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave. This event is as homegrown as it gets -- the novel is a dark mystery that takes place on a Chicagoland college campus, is written by a Chicago native and celebrated at a Chicago independent bookstore.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 19, starts at 7:00pm, and is free! Support your local bookstores and your local authors!

Photo courtesy of the author's website.

Eden Robins

Events Tue Jul 15 2014

Writing Around the Edges of Chicago's Art Scene

Local arts organization Sixty Inches from Center has been busy lately. The band of archivists, writers, and allied creative folks--always attuned to, as they put it, "art as it exists outside of mainstream institutions in Chicago"--has steadily been building steam since their founding a few years ago, and just last month they launched the first issue of an eponymous new magazine (online only, at least for now).

The theme of that collection was "Margins," a topic they're by no means done exploring. On Thursday, July 17, at 6pm in the Zhou B Art Center's Centerline Cafe (1029 W. 35th St.), they'll convene a panel discussion titled "Margins--Who Do You Write For?" As you might expect, the featured speakers tend to define themselves equally as writers and as artists or activists. Among them: Jenny Lam, whose playfully conceptual pieces have tended to invite viewers to help in their creation; poet and Chicago Latino Writers Initiative founder Diana Pando; and visual journalist Sophia Nahli Allison, just to name a few. Preregistration and a $5 donation are both appreciated but not required.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Jul 09 2014

Show Your Indie Spirit on Chicago's First Independent Bookstore Day

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Image courtesy of Chicago Independent Bookstore Day

Chicago works, Chicago writes, and Chicago reads, which is why we don't need any calls (or hashtags) to "Cut down the Amazon" and support our local bookstores, even if they do come from one of our favorite adopted sons. Nine local bookstores have banded together to bring you the first Chicago Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday, July 12, so get ready for the best kind of treasure hunt.

The nine participating bookstores have put together a day of events that will appeal to book lovers from all over the city, and will move book lovers all over the city. Head from Andersonville to Hyde Park, from Lakeview to Logan Square, and make a pit stop in the South Loop to scoop up free (sometimes book-filled) tote bags and take advantage of special discounts and promotions. You can also meet some of your favorite local authors and take in a reading or two, as well as graze on tasty pastries and veggie treats.

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Events Sun Jul 06 2014

"Lecture, Argue, Proclaim, and Complain" at Napkin Poetry

napkin poetryIt's a truism that much of the audience at any given literary reading will consist of other writers. The organizers of the Napkin Poetry reading series don't just acknowledge this--they force the issue, encouraging the audience to take part in the performance whether they're on the lineup or not. Their manifesto reads, in part:

We highlight working writers embedded in community performances. We engage many dialogues -- to this end all can lecture, argue, proclaim, and complain . . . . Because poetry is only alive in conversation, our community talks back . . . . For us to live with poets we have to be them too.

To that end, many of their events include an open mic (although not this one) and Q&A segment.

Continue reading this entry »

Daphne Sidor

Events Thu Jul 03 2014

Stuart Dybek, Chicago's Very Own, At City Lit Books

Next Tuesday July 8, Chicago author Stuart Dybek reads at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie. at 6:30pm. Dybek released two story collections this year, Ecstatic Cahoots and Paper Lantern, the latter focusing on love stories. Chicago is fortunate to have one America's top writers right in our backyard. Don't miss this opportunity.

The event is free. Books will be on sale at City Lit. Hang around after and look to get your book signed or meet the author.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Sun Jun 29 2014

Freedom of the Press: CHIPRC Celebrates a Year This Weekend

Sure, you could fill your whole Fourth of July weekend with sunshine, barbecue, and beer. But if you ask me there's no better antidote to a day of sunburn and crowd fatigue than retreating to a nice, cool indoor space that smells like paper for the next couple days. This Saturday and Sunday, July 5 and 6, the Chicago Publishers Resource Center provides just such an oasis and celebrates its first birthday with a pair of all-ages events.

tumblr_n639ctXvPm1raiyxjo1_1280.jpgAs CHIPRC frames it, self-publishing means something far more hands-on than sending your book off to a vanity press--it's likely to involve stapling, collating, maybe even illustrating. On Saturday at 4 p.m., a lineup of local zine-makers takes the stage: Jim Joyce (Or Let It Sink), Collin Brennan (Continental Interlude), Jonas Cannon (Cheer the Eff Up and story collection The Greatest Most Traveling Circus), and Ben Spies (No More Coffee). There'll also be zine-themed door prizes for the audience, and the blackboard will display an ultra-limited-edition comic in chalk by Alex Nall.

On Sunday, guests can stop in to explore an even smaller format of self-expression: buttons. Amy Gooch will give a hands-on workshop on designing and producing buttons in two different sizes. A $5 donation is requested for each event.

Daphne Sidor

Events Sat Jun 28 2014

Two Cookie Minimum Is Now a Hungry Preschooler

This Tuesday, July 1, Chicago's own more-than-a reading series Two Cookie Minimum celebrates four years bringing together writers, musicians, artists, and representatives of the local indie publishing community. In that time, it's moved from Fritz Pastry (hence the name) to the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont) and built a 200-strong roster of alumni. Starting at 9pm, they'll add to it this month with a typically eclectic lineup.

Performance-oriented poet Kevin Kern holds down the more traditionally writerly end of things, and from there the event takes a more visual turn. Leslie Perrine and Keiler Roberts present comics, zine publisher Eric Bartholomew invites the audience to join an interactive game, and sister duo Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood put on one of the spooky, literary-minded shadow-puppet shows that have become their trademark. The (vegan) cookies are free, as is admission.

Daphne Sidor

Bookmarks Fri Jun 27 2014

Bookmarks

Saturday! Grow your brain all day long with the first installation of Learn-a-Palooza in Wicker Park! Make a Zine, Keep some Bees, Produce a Play, or try your fist at Self Defense! The day, which lasts from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm, holds those workshops and more. Check out learnapaloozachi.com for more classes.

Saturday! Richard N. Cote will Skype in to discuss his career and book In Search of Gentle Death: The Fight for Your Right to Die With Dignity at the Edgewater Branch Library, 2 pm.

Saturday! Printers Ball returns for its tenth anniversary of readings, workshops and featured artists, all under the theme of "Chatter." Be sure to RSVP to attend, 4 pm - 8 pm.

Saturday! Kam Oi Lee reads from her work of speculative fiction at Bucket o' Blood Books and Records, 5 pm.

Sunday! Author Jonathan Lethem discusses his book Dissident Gardens with Printers Row editor Jennifer Day at Logan Square Auditorium, 3 pm.

Sunday! Make your way to Block Rock Pub for Salon Chicago, a live lit series featuring readings from Arnie Bernstein, Tessa Mellas, Kate Milliken, and Ben Tanzer, 7 pm.

Miden Wood

Events Fri Jun 27 2014

Tuesday Funk on the First

Tuesday Funk for July 1, 2014

Three days before Independence Day, Tuesday Funk will celebrate its independence from genre! The 71st edition of Chicago's eclectic monthly reading series will feature Norman Doucet, Lisa Kirchner, Evan Okun, Sheri Reda and Lisa White. Gapers Block's own Andrew Huff and Eden Robins will stand defiant as cohosts.

The reading gets underway on Tuesday, July 1, 2014, at 7:30pm in the upstairs lounge at Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St., Chicago. Doors open at 7pm sharp -- but not earlier, as much as we'd like to l et you in. Arrive early for a table and grab a beer from Mark at the bar. Arrive even earlier or stay afterwards for a full meal downstairs. Admission is free, but you must be 21 or older.

RSVP on Facebook and bring a friend. See you on the first of July!

Andrew Huff

Printers Ball Wed Jun 25 2014

Creatives Convene at Printers Ball this Saturday!

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Grab your tuxes, grab your gowns, the Printers Ball is coming to town! The printmaking and poetry celebration's big tenth anniversary is upon us this Saturday; the schedule is jam-packed, and it isn't difficult to see why. With contributors and curators from the likes of Spudnik Press Cooperative , MAKE Magazine, Black Lodge Press, The Post Family, and the Chicago Humanities Festival involved, it seems that every creative in Chicago has a tie to the event.

As any attendee of Zine Fest or Chicago Alternative Comics Expo will tell you, the culmination of so much talent in one place can inspire a glee akin to ADHD, making this year's Printers Ball theme of "Chatter" an appropriate choice. The festivities promise to be abuzz with staccato pop-up performances, featured artists, book swaps, and hands-on workshops. To name just a few, reading series' Brain Frame*, Danny's, Dollhouse, The Swell, Salonathon, Guild Literary Complex, Next Objectivists, Artificial Ear, Young Chicago Authors, and Urban Sandbox all promise to make appearances.

Between shorter performances, drop into a workshop with featured Brooklyn-based performer and artist Tim Fite, where you will dream up the next big smartphone innovation, create an App Development Template on the Vandercook Press, and then use pencils, crayons, markers, and rubber stamps, to bring the inevitable entrepreneurial goldmines to life!

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Miden Wood

Events Wed Jun 25 2014

Learnapalooza Hits Wicker Park this Saturday

learnapalooza.pngIts officially summer which is the perfect time to get out of the house and check out your neighborhood. That's the idea behind Learnapalooza, a neighborhood festival that partners organizations and community members together to bring free classes to you!

This weekend, Saturday June 28th, Learnapalooza comes to Wicker Park bringing with it dozens of opportunities for learning a new skill. Classes range from dancing, cooking, self defense, and even bee keeping. For our literary friends, there are some great free workshops we wanted to share with you.

At Quimby's Bookstore, award winning comics artist Edie Fake will be leading a zine making workshop.

At Chicago Publishers Resource Center, Learnapalooza staff member Caro Griffin will lead a book binding workshop, poet Sid Yiddish will lead a haiku writing session, and zinester Eric Bartholomew will lead an interactive writing workshop that uses items from his traveling Junk Drawer.

Other writing centric events include a resume makeover, telling your personal story, and how to produce a play.

Register for classes today before they fill up. Then mark your calendar for 2 more Learnapalooza neighborhood events in Lakeview on July, 19 and Logan Square on August, 16.

All events are free, yet donations do help plan for future festivals.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jun 16 2014

Don't Miss Out on Miss Spoken

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Art by Sean Dove, courtesy of Miss Spoken.

Guess what, Chicago? The third Wednesday of the month is now Ladies' Night. Not the type of ladies' night that abounds on Rush Street, that's more about consuming watered down drinks and diluting the douche factor than fostering any real sense of community among Chicago women. No, third Wednesdays are Miss Spoken night at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley Ave., where "girls talk" and everyone listens.

Created and hosted by Carly Oishi (who also co-founded Solo in the 2nd City) and former Book Club editor Rosamund Lannin, Miss Spoken is a newcomer to Chicago's flourishing live lit scene. The reading series will be similar to established shows, with changing themes and speakeasy environs, and will of course feature local writers and performers. However, Miss Spoken's monthly lineup will be made up of only female performers, and with a debut show that included Samantha Irby and Alicia Swiz, the fellas aren't being missed.

But they are absolutely welcome! Seriously, everyone (21 and over) should head to Gallery Cabaret this Wednesday to see what this month's readers have to say about debt. You'll hear about the monetary musings, or perhaps the emotional investments, of writer and performer Gwynn Fulcher, Gapers Block music editor Anne Holub, Natasha Mulholland and Rachel Collins. The show starts at 7pm, and although you don't need to bring a girlfriend to get a two-fer since admission is free, you wouldn't be much of a friend if you let someone miss out on Miss Spoken.

Danette Chavez

Bookmarks Fri Jun 13 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Author Susan Jane Gilman reads from her debut novel The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street at Women & Children First, 7:30 pm.

Tonight! The Book Cellar hosts monthly comedic Live Lit show The Kates, 8 pm.

Saturday! The Book Table hosts author Leah Hager Cohen in a discussion of her career, including such works as No Book but the World and Train Go Sorry: Inside a Deaf World, 7 pm.

Saturday! Metal Fans, make your way to Quimby's for a discussion of Mike "McBeardo" Padden's Heavy Metal Movies: Guitar Barbarians, Mutant Bimbos & Cult Zombies Amok in the 666 Most Eye- and Ear-Ripping Big Screen Films Ever! 7 pm.

Saturday! Tamale Hut Café puts up another installment of the Tamale Hut Reading Series, featuring Robert Rodi, Regina Buccola and Tina Jens, 7 pm.

Sunday! Curbside Splendor's very own live lit series The Marrow returns to The Punch House, 7:30 pm.

Miden Wood

Contest Thu Jun 12 2014

A High-Stakes, Historic Open Mic for Poets

043012-national-gwendolyn-brooks.pngTwo decades ago, Gwendolyn Brooks--Pulitzer winner, Poet Laureate of Illinois, and creator of all-around astonishing verses--founded a very personal and unusual poetry contest. The winner would be decided in a public reading; the check, says Guild Literary Complex, would be cut by Brooks herself. Brooks died in 2000, but Guild Complex has picked up the tradition, and submissions are open for this year's Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Award.

The details: you have until June 30 to submit your poem. The only stylistic guideline? You have to be able to read it in under three minutes. (So epicists should also be auctioneers.) And you have to be willing to perform it live, in front of a paying audience, at the Chopin Theatre on Wednesday, July 23--the audience will decide who gets the $500 prize from a field of 20 semifinalists. There's a $5 entrance fee, which, the organizers note, gets you into the performance even if your work isn't selected.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Jun 11 2014

Go "Pa'lante" this Friday with the Culture Creators

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Image courtesy of Reyespoetry.com

This weekend marks the annual Fiestas Puertorriqueñas, or Puerto Rican Festival and Parade, one of the largest Latino events in the country. Centered around the gorgeous Humboldt Park, the festival lasts for four days, and includes a parade on Division Street, as well as food, music, and games in the park.

In the midst of all the festivities, local artists and community activists hold events to educate residents and address social justice issues and cultural identity. On Friday, June 13, the Culture Creators will host a Pop-Up Shop (and Bar) at 2628 W. Division St. Founded by Michael Reyes, Culture Creators is an online label "dedicated to highlighting alternative, radical, and progressive Latino forms of cultural expression, and a platform for those who create it."

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Events Thu Jun 05 2014

826CHI Presents Even a Lion Can Get Lost in the Jungle @ Printers Row LitFest

Thumbnail image for Even a Lion.pngIf you definitely don't want to meet any undercover super-duper top secret spies, then you definitely shouldn't not not partake in the imaginative and thoughtful story-somersaults that emerge from tutoring center 826CHI.

Since its founding in 2005, 826CHI has worked tirelessly to provide Chicago area students with free programming geared towards developing their writing skills. Currently nestled in Milwaukee Avenue's The Boring Store (though they are soon to relocate), the text spanning their front window reflects the non-profit's playful style:

"The Boring Store is absolutely, positively, unmistakably, beyond a shadow of a doubt, certifiably, fahrenheitally, categorically, conspicuously, trans-fat-freely, quite obviously, prehensilely, indubitably, most certainly NOT A SECRET AGENT STORE."

In short, it is an organization that really, truly makes learning super cool.

Embedded within this sense of play is a commitment to the community. Frequent readings and publication of students' work strengthens a sense of personal voice; encourages students to tell their stories, tell them loudly, tell them thoughtfully. This weekend, Printers Row LitFest will host the debut of 826CHI's latest Young Authors Book Project, Even a Lion Can Get Lost in the Jungle. Composed by 7th and 8th graders at the Harvard School of Excellence, this compelling collection of narrative journalism depicts positive forces within the Englewood community and surrounding neighborhoods. "This vivid collection of short narrative pieces captures the neighborhood and lives of the young writers who participated in the project," Audrey Petty, editor of Voice of Witness's High Rise Stories: Voices from Chicago Public Housing, said of the collection. "The authors tackle the questions at the heart of community, and they explore them in remarkable depth."

Though 826CHI will have a tent open and eager for visitors all weekend, this Saturday, June 7 at 10:30am Even a Lion's authors will read excerpts of their work in the LitFest's Mash Stage. Come out to support these young authors, their neighborhoods and their identities.

Miden Wood

Events Tue Jun 03 2014

Sh*t Just Got Real: Story Club's Crosstown Classic Extravaganza

Forget the Cubs versus Sox showdown--seriously, it already happened, and no one really cares who won (cough, White Sox won, cough). Do you want to see Chicagoans, hailing from north and south of Madison Street, throw down...on the north side? Story Club Chicago celebrates its fifth anniversary with its own Crosstown Classic Extravaganza on Thursday, June 5 at the Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan Rd.

Story Club O.G. and founder, Dana Norris will lead a North Side team, and share hosting duties with South Side captain, Andrew Marikis. And that is as amicable as it gets, people--Will Hindmarch will be on hand to referee this fight for money, glory, and a tiny trophy.

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Bookmarks Fri May 30 2014

Bookmarks

All Weekend! Don't forget that CAKE: Chicago Alternative Comics Expo will be holding events throughout this upcoming week! Check out the schedule here to peruse an array of events, all free and open to the public.

Tonight! City Lit books hosts Diane Raptosh and Roger Bonair-Agard in a poetry reading, 6:30 pm.

Tonight! Daisy Rockwell reads from her new novel, Taste at Women & Children First, 7:30 pm.

Saturday! Powell's Bookstore receives a visitb from author Bonnie ZoBell to discuss her debut short story collection, WHAT HAPPENED HERE, 7 pm.

Sunday! Woman Made Gallery's reading series returns with poets Renny Golden, Vandana Khanna, Mary McMyne, Janeen Pergrin Rastall, Yunuen Rodriguez, and Erika Sanchez; all discussing a theme bound to send you spinning in Derrida logic circles: "The Other," 1:30 pm.

All Weekend! For those James Joyce fans out there, a theatrical adaptation of one of his classic novels entitled ULYSSES 101 goes up this weekend at Cafe Logan. (Don't worry -- the 265,000 words have been slightly abridged, so it shouldn't be 8 hours long.)

Miden Wood

Events Tue May 27 2014

Before Dessert: The Week Leading Up to CAKE

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If you haven't yet befriended Charles Cake, you should. Not only is Charles a top-notch Facebook friend and all around stand up guy, but he also has the full scoop on his not-to-be-missed namesake, CAKE: the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo.

10373729_10203688071384407_7886899377359811501_n.jpgChicago has long been a hub of underground comics, and this week CAKE is rolling out a schedule of events -- all of which are free and open to the public -- that will do that history proud. The expo's third year kicks off with a live comic reading sponsored by Minneapolis-based comics publisher 2D Cloud. These works, imagineered by Edie Fake, Anna Bongiovanni, Sam Alden, Andy Burkholder, Mark Connery, Sarah Ferrick, John Holden, Scott Longo and Annie Mok -- liberally linked here for your viewing pleasure -- are intricate, expressive and beautiful. Head over to Galerie F (2381 N. Milwaukee Ave.) this Thursday at 7 pm to hear these stories told in the authors' own voices.

10306721_876359759047975_7327892387866606507_n.jpgAfter the 2D reading, gear up for whole other slew of CAKE-sponsored goodness this Friday. Artist Tony Millionaire will be doing a signing at Graham Cracker Comics (77 E. Madison Ave.) from 5 - 7 pm. According to advertising, he'll sign anything, so get creative. Quimby's Bookstore (1854 W. North Ave.) will host three of CAKE's exhibitors: Elisha Lim, MariNaomi, and Mike Dawson. These critically acclaimed authors and illustrators will read from selections of their latest work. In case that isn't enough hooplah for one evening, the third option for your Friday is an Artist's Panel at DePaul's School of Cinema (14 E. Jackson St.), featuring the story artists of beloved late-night cartoon nonsense, Adventure Time: Jesse Moynihan, Michael DeForge and, making a second appearance, Sam Alden. The panel, which begins at 6 pm, will discuss how Adventure Time's collaboration with alternative comic artists has breathed new life into the form and content of animated narrative.

Continue reading this entry »

Miden Wood

Events Tue May 27 2014

Dark House Press Bets on "The New Black"

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Image courtesy of Dark House Press
On May 13, Dark House Press, an imprint of Curbside Splendor Publishing, released its very first book, The New Black: A Neo-Noir Anthology. Edited by Richard Thomas, with a foreword by Laird Barron, The New Black is "a mixture of horror, crime, fantasy, science fiction, magical realism, the transgressive, and the grotesque", featuring writers who "represent the future of genre-bending fiction." The collection includes works by Lindsay Hunter, Roxane Gay, Paul G. Tremblay, Antonia Crane, and Joe Meno. Dark House is hoping that the anthology, which also boasts "interior illustrations" by Luke Spooner (Carrion House), will help pave the way for more speculative fiction works of its kind.

This Thursday, May 29, take "noir" for an answer at City Lit Books, as Dark House and Curbside host a release party for their latest title. There will be readings by Chicago authors, and The New Black contributors, Lindsay Hunter (Don't Kiss Me, Daddy's) and Joe Meno (Office Girl, Demons in the Spring. The event is free and open to the public (you can purchase the book on site). The fun starts at 6:30pm, and your host will be none other than Dark House Editor-in-Chief, Richard Thomas.

Danette Chavez

Events Tue May 27 2014

Confessing at the Liar's Contest

Maybe I was too in the spirit of things. I'd already told someone my name was Richard Cabernet.

"Is it French?" a nice woman asked me in line.

"Yes," I told her. She smiled. "Yeah, it's French." I couldn't explain where Cabernet came from, or whether Richard was my father's name, or his father's. But I was standing outside the Liar's Contest, wasn't I? A carnival of lies, I'd been told; probably the only truth in its advertising.

Inside I'd be lied to again and again, I was sure. There's not much else to do at a Liar's Contest, I imagined. Small talk was more fun as Mr. Cabernet, anyway. We'd all arrived early only to find a line stretching down the block.

"The email said doors open at 6:30pm," murmured a suspicious contest-goer behind me. It seemed that, too, was a lie.

Scott Whitehair, the event's founder, had told me to look for details, so I had my eyes peeled for everything: actors, miniature dramas, clever minute props and set dressing. Everything that happened, everything I saw, was pregnant with the possibility of a much younger imagination. As I listened to the lie-debunkers around me explaining to each other who Scott was, what happened last year, and what was supposedly coming to us during this year's contest, I was rocked into alertness by every movement from the church.

Continue reading this entry »

Alex Thompson

Events Mon May 26 2014

Zine-Making: Easier Than Ever with 3rd Language's Help

When I was a young punk, rubber cement and a stolen Kinko's copy key counted as top-of-the-line tools of the zinester's trade. These days, there are more elegant options. Chicago queer artist/writer collective 3rd Language produces exceptionally lovely collaborative zines, which, happily for anyone lacking the patience to get their hands on a paper copy, they also reproduce online.

s0031831_sc7.jpgAs much as zine-making springs from a cut-and-paste culture, the collective is clearly excited by using the possibilities of modern DIY publishing technology to expand on, rather than supplant, than zine format. In true collaborative spirit, they're holding an Insta-zine-ing workshop this Wednesday, May 28, at the Chicago Publisher's Resource Center (858 N. Ashland) to share their techniques and ideas. Molly Berkson and Hiba Ali will demonstrate tech tricks to make collaging, layouts, and assembly easier, and the workshop will culminate in the insta-publication of a group zine to take home. The event runs from 6pm to 9pm, and a $5 donation is requested.

Daphne Sidor

Books Mon May 26 2014

What You Can Do for Printers Row Lit Fest

for-webbizbash3.jpgThis June 7th and 8th, the intersection of Polk and Dearborn will be overflowing, bubbling, bursting with books. That's right, Printer's Row Lit Fest is back, and its 30th year features a schedule that would whet any literary palette. With all that to offer on top of featuring over 200 booksellers (for the low, low price of Free), Printers Row is going to need a little help.

Get involved with the festival by signing up to volunteer here! With tons of positions available, you may find yourself greeting visitors, escorting authors-- or just sticking by the good eats. Either way, a day spent surrounded by books sounds like a good day to Book Club!

Miden Wood

Bookmarks Fri May 23 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Author James Fearnley discusses his book, Here Comes Everybody at the Book Cellar, 7 pm.

Saturday! JaQuavis discusses his new book Whitehouse at CPL's West Englewood Branch, 2 pm.

Saturday! Take your self-started project to the next level with The Propeller Fund, an organization dedicated to stimulating creative growth in Chicago. Attend a workshop at Mana Contemporary Chicago to learn how to apply, 2233 S. Throop St., 1 pm to 6 pm.

Saturday! David Grubbs reads from his book Records Ruin the Landscape: John Cage, the Sixties, and Sound Recording, featuring musician John Corbett, at Corbett vs. Dempsey, 3 pm.

Sunday! Mike O'Flaherty reads from his new novel Where do You Run? at 57th Street Books, 3 pm.

Miden Wood

Events Thu May 22 2014

Northwestern University Shares The "Terrible Beauty" of The Iliad

Make this Memorial Day especially memorable by watching the sun rise along the lake while listening to the "terrible beauty" of one of poetry's most enduring works. It might be a little short notice, but with a three-day weekend looming, you can probably find the time to head out to Evanston on Friday night for an all-night reading of Homer's The Iliad. Inspired by The Readers of Homer and hosted by Northwestern University's Classics Department, the marathon (hey, that's Greek, too!) reading of the epic poem will be held at the James Roscoe Miller Campus, more commonly known as The Lakefill. You can join the audience for free, but the readers, who are members of the Northwestern community, have already been selected.

The reading of The Iliad will begin at 10pm, and will likely last until dawn. Performers and guests will gather at the Lakefill's firepit. The night kicks off at 6pm with "The Iliad Across Time, Translation, and Imagination" at Harris Hall, 1881 Sheridan Rd, Evanston. Both events are sponsored by the Department of Classics, the Alumnae of Northwestern University, and the Graduate Classics Cluster. Please call 847-491-7597 for more info.

Danette Chavez

Events Mon May 19 2014

Do You Have a Face -- and a Tale -- for Radio?

If you do, then head to Pilsen on Wednesday, May 21 at 7pm for Vocalo Music & Stories: Balls of Confusion at The Chicago Urban Art Society, 600 W. Cermak Rd. Hosted by Vocalo host and producer, Luis Perez, with music by Ayana Contreras, Music & Stories combines a lineup of live lit vets with an open mic for novices, and offers a chance for all to be heard on the radio.

Wednesday's featured storytellers are Natasha Samreny, a writer, stand-up, and storyteller who has performed at Write Club and Lifeline's Fillet of Solo, and Drew Anderson, a Chicago actor and writer who has worked with Collaboraction and About Face Theatre, and who regularly performs at iO Chicago and Laugh Factory. After the headliners have shared their stories, there will be a music break courtesy of Ayana Contreras, host of Vocalo's Reclaimed Soul.

Here's where you come in: after the intermission, the stage will be opened up to audience members. To participate, you must tell a true story (music acts and poetry are wonderful, but not on the event's agenda), and you must tell this story in six minutes. If you can't wrap up in time, you probably won't get pulled off stage by a giant cane, but you can bet the ending of your anecdote will end up lost in post-production. This event will be recorded for broadcast on Vocalo Radio 90.7 FM/89.5 FM WBEW and 91.5 FM WBEZ, so take advantage of your chance to be heard on the radio, and maybe give the folks at Snap Judgment a run for their money.

This is an all-ages event that is free and open to the public.

Danette Chavez

Bookmarks Fri May 16 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Naked Girls Reading brings a little literary spice to your everyday nude show. $20, 7 pm.

Saturday! Head to the University of Chicago Logan Center for the Arts, where Freakonomics authors Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner will be discussing their new book, Think Like a Freak, $30, 3 pm.

Saturday! Red Rover Reading Series at Outer Space Studio presents Kristy Bowen, Ladan Osman, Davis Schneiderman, and Keith Wilson, 7 pm.

Saturday! You won't want to miss comic artist and CAKE rep Edie Fake as he discusses his new book, Memory Palaces at Quimby's, 7 pm.

Saturday! Tamale Hut Café Reading Series returns with featured writer Alice Vedral Rivera, 7 pm.

Saturday! Bucket O'Blood Books & Records welcomes author Bill Hillmann in presenting his new novel with Curbside Splendor, The Old Neighborhood, 7 pm.

Sunday! Celebrate the latest issue of december magazine at Zolla/Lieberman Gallery with readings from Marvin Bell, Susanna Lang, Dina Elenbogen, and Abby Ryder-Huth followed by a reception, 6 pm.

Sunday! Reading series Excited Utterance comes to Uncommon Ground for its second installment of LiveLit goodness! This week's show features readings from Larry O. Dean, Kenyatta Rogers, and Kathleen Rooney, 7 pm.

Sunday! Salon Chicago comes to Black Rock Bar, with readings by Edward Kelsey Moore, Paulette Livers, Phong Nguyen, and Randy Richardson, 7 pm.

Miden Wood

Readings Thu May 15 2014

Four Far-Flung Corners of Chicago Fiction at The Book Cellar

The Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln) describes its monthly Local Authors Night as one of the shop's "most satisfying and eclectic events." This Wednesday, May 21, at 7 p.m., they'll present four writers who have, at least, a broad genre (fiction) and a general location in common--beyond that, it's hard to say. (And picking up on unexpected connections should be half the fun.)

9780544300460.jpgEric Charles May's debut novel, Bedrock Faith, sets the newly religious ex-con Stew Pot Reeves back in the South Side neighborhood where he grew up--a neighborhood which, May told the Chicago Tribune, is based on his own native Morgan Park. In her own entree into the form, Kathleen Rooney takes on a higher-profile part of the city's landscape in O, Democracy!, the tale of an aide to Illinois's Democratic senator (not that one) watching the events of 2008 unfold from a surreal distance. Lynne Raimondo's Dante's Poison--the second in her Mark Angelotti series--amps up the drama with a murder mystery concerning a controversial psychotropic drug. Finally, Kodi Scheer breaks from realistic convention in her volume of stories Incendiary Girls, filled with humans morphing into animals and even less-recognizable beings.

Daphne Sidor

Events Thu May 15 2014

The Road To Printers Ball Is Paved With Good Receptions

The Printers Ball is a little more than a month away, and the literary community in Chicago is gearing up for the annual celebration of all things print. Spudnik Press Cooperative leads the way with an opening reception for its newest exhibition, In Clipping Signal, on May 17, from 6pm-9pm, at 1821 W. Hubbard St.

Curated by Luke Daly of Spudnik Press Cooperative and April Sheridan of Columbia College's Center for Book and Paper Arts, In Clipping Signal features new and selected works by poets who are pulling double duty: writing poetry as well as making visual collage. Guests will be treated to "visual works as well as a publication consisting of images and writings exploring the intersections of poetry and visual art" by local and national artists, such as Brandon Downing, Krista Franklin, David-Baptiste Chirot, and Rosmarie Waldrop.

The reception and exhibition, which are free and open to the public, are made possible by Poetry magazine. If you leave the event especially inspired, you can always sign up for one of Spudnik's upcoming classes.

Danette Chavez

Events Wed May 14 2014

Egg on Dave Eggers Next Tuesday at 826CHI

Next Tuesday, May 20, Dave Eggers will be in town for a book signing at 826CHI's The Boring Store, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. Eggers is not only an award award-winning author, notably for his best-selling memoir A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, but also a co-founder of the 826 organizations (there are eight across the country).

He will be signing books which will also be on sale at the Boring Store. The event begins at 6:30pm and is free and open to the public. And don't forget to check out how to become involved with 826CHI, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting students ages 6-18 to work on their creative writing skills.

John Wawrzaszek

Readings Tue May 06 2014

Megan Milks and Cris Mazza at Women & Children First

9780989473606.jpgWriters Megan Milks and Cris Mazza both have ties to UIC, but more importantly, they both do strange things with genre. In her debut collection, Kill Marguerite and Other Stories, Milks gets messy with forms including erotica, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Sweet Valley High series, just to name a few. On Thursday, May 8, at 7:30pm, she'll join Mazza for a reading at Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St. As for Mazza, she's celebrating a new edition of the novel Various Men Who Knew Us as Girls and this year's Something Wrong with Her, a "real-time memoir" exploring anorgasmia through musical scores and a companion CD in addition to more straightforward diary entries. Audiences shouldn't be surprised if the evening strays a bit from the standard literary reading.

Daphne Sidor

Events Tue May 06 2014

Raise a Glass, RUI Turns Nine this Wednesday

Reading Under the Influence celebrates its 9 year anniversary this Wednesday May 7 at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., at 7pm. Each month for almost a decade this reading, held in the back room at Sheffield's bar, will welcome a live reading unlike any other in the city.

They will turn off the flat screen televisions playing the game (don't worry, there's no Hawks game on the 7th). The bartender will serve up a few more drinks, the special being $2 domestic bottles. Then one of the hosts will begin with an introduction and rules. There will be two rounds of readers. Each will take a shot of their choice prior to reading. Trivia questions will be asked by the reader, but you must wait until the entire question is read before you can answer.

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John Wawrzaszek

Bookmarks Fri May 02 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! The Book Cellar hosts a reading by local poets Tim Hunt and Susanna Lang, 7 pm.

Saturday! Head over to Concordia University Chicago to engage in Movement through Words, a discussion of possible intersections between literature and dance, 10 am.

Saturday! Seminary Co-Op Bookstore hosts Saskia Sassen in a discussion of her book, Expulsions: Brutality and Complexity in the Global Economy, 3 pm.

Saturday! US Senator Elizabeth Warren discusses her book A Fighting Chance at the Spertus Institute, 4 pm.

Saturday! ESPN The Magazine contributor Chris Hollenback discusses his novel Sleep When You're Dead at City Lit Books, 5:30 pm.

Saturday! Get duped at Chicago's "25th Annual" Biggest Liar Contest, held at The Ravenswood United Church of Christ, 7 pm.

Sunday! City Lit Books hosts a discussion of novel The Walls of Delhi with author Uday Prakash, 3 pm.

Miden Wood

Events Fri May 02 2014

LitMash Mixes It Up Next Monday

Next Monday May 5th, Chicago Slam Works presents the LitMash, a combination of poetry, comedy, storytelling and music at the Haymarket Pub and Brewery, 737 W. Randolph, 7:30pm.

lit mash.png

This unique performance slam pits various mediums against each other to compete for the audience favorite. Performers have six minutes to impress the judges, who are comprised of five audience members chosen at random.

Competing this month are featured performers, Ian Belknap (host of Write Club), Gage Wallace (founding member of Red Theater Chicago), Angela Vela (host of Seven Deadly Sins reading series), Shannon Matesky (slam poet), Nicole Bond (member of Chicago Slam Works), and Erica Dreisbach (writer and web designer). The night is moderated by Chicago Slam Works Executive Director J.W. Basilo.

There is an $8 cover at the door. Come on out for a night of great entertainment and a chance to vote and be part of the experience.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Apr 30 2014

Indie Comics Represent on Free Comic Book Day

free comic book dayFree Comic Book Day is celebrated this Saturday, May 3. For a chance to see some local talent represented during this year's free comic book day, here are a few events showcasing Chicago's rich community of independent comics artists.

Start the afternoon with a workshop, Make a Minicomic Challenge at Chicago Publishers Resource Center, 858 N. Ashland Ave., at noon. The workshop will be led by Chicago comics artist Neil Brideau, who is also an organizer of the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE).

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John Wawrzaszek

Books Wed Apr 30 2014

Chicago Romance Novelists Tease and Titillate

lady-of-winter-_bg_042.jpg"It's hard not to think about other things," she said. We're exposing ourselves, she had mentioned, and the other women had laughed. Their husbands had laughed, too, maybe a bit less emphatically. They've certainly noticed each other, being five, in total; and they are certainly husbands, though one wiry twenty-something had been standing in a corner with his hands in his pockets, slouching like a deflated Fabio in a graphic tee. He had the hair, though. He looked hungry where these husbands looked proud, and careful.

"We're exposing ourselves..." began Shannyn Shcroeder, author and the night's organizer. "Exposing" got a laugh. Shannyn couldn't help herself. "It's hard not to think about other things." She's right about that. In general, since grade school, it's hard not to think about other things. But we were all sitting in the company of Chicago's premiere romance novelists. We were looking for other things. Regardless, Shannyn shook her head, "it doesn't have to be body parts! It could be secrets." This elicited a laugh, as well; it's true that not all romance writing is lusty members and taut buttocks, but Sheffield's had a playful tension that no one could call tame. It wasn't the barbeque, though the wait staff didn't quite know what to do.

"Shots?" they whispered. The bartender poured Jameson into three glasses. "Cheers," they mumbled, and made a broad gesture of discretion before gently throwing back their necks.

An earnest MC took the small stage and announced a few rounds of earnest romance novel Bingo (only one was scheduled, but it went by so quickly a second round was demanded - all the cards were the same). Instead of numbers there was a five-by-five grid of the sexy men and pearl necklaces that graced the covers of each authors' novels.

"Great cover," someone murmured.

"Lots of man chest." Laughter. The authors do not choose their own covers. They come to publishers with ideas and are often present at the photo shoots, but rarely do they have a say.

"Honey, how old are you?" asked Julie Ann Walker, at one such photo shoot. "19," he replied. The room groaned. She nodded knowingly and seemed to wink at the husbands present. "Of course only a 19-year-old has abs like that."

Next were readings from each published author. The atmosphere of the optimistically titled "Spring Into Love With Chicago's Romance Authors" (it's snowing in April) was like a modestly-sized sleepover. There was a conspiratorial edge to pronouncements of each author's style and personality, a bit of a hierarchy between published and debut authors that felt like the sort of sniping and smiling begrudging that goes on between eager underclassmen and their wise contemporaries.

"I don't have an assistant," declared Sonali Dev, who began writing romance novels after her first grey hair appeared. Adrienne Giordano and Julie Ann exchanged knowing glances that doubled as scoffs. "Once you sell, you're on deadline," said Kate Meader. "Take as much time as you want on that first book..." She trails off as if to prove her point. Being a romance novelist is like being a small business, selling oneself. Nobody snickers at this double entendre.

It seemed to me that the romance novel was the catch-all of a distinctly heroine-based genre, rather than a distinctly trashy or accessible one. Authors write what they want, in most cases (though Harlequin romance, among others, has a very specific brand that doesn't fit for many of the authors I heard read at Sheffield's).

Julie Ann Walker warned (or invited) before her reading, "there will be nipples involved!" A glance at the microphone, coupled with a certain bemused smile, was enough to lubricate the audience.

Julie Ann's selection was eloquent and coy. The heroine, boldly sexual, remarks at one point that "if it wouldn't have ruined the mood, she would have pumped the fist." Julie Ann demonstrates. "Heavy pectoral muscles," and "wonderfully crooked noses" though expected details, are rendered in a conversational and semantically aware prose that rides along smoothly like a backpack Henry Miller.

Kate Meader, on the other hand, is literally a sexy librarian. She has a bachelor's in law ("useless", her website declares), a master's in history ("not-as-useless") and another master's in library and information sciences ("yay, using!").

Her excerpt was a sexualized childbirth scene. The soon-to-be mother imagined her husband longing at her "ballooned" and sensitive breasts, "visible from the International Space Station". I described this in my notes as a "sexy-surprising" pregnancy. Some clever allusions were made; to silent screaming, pushing, throttling...as the second reader, Kate was diversifying, to say the least. With no facetiousness, I began to see the niche and clichés I expected expand before my eyes. Crown, if you will.

Jennifer Stevenson took the stage with the promise to "find new uses for old sex demons." I didn't know what this meant, and still don't, but her cathartic and violently sexual reading centered around a "slacker demon" whose tongue is large enough to attack two nipples at once. His "Greek sledgehammer" came out only after an elongated, inspired sequence wherein a tiny woman is dipped into a lobster pot full of dark chocolate and licked clean. Or dirty, I suppose.

The romance novel's world is a world unconcerned with political correctness, describing work as "European-lite", or a dog as a "Buddy the Wheaton Terrorist"; its authors are highly educated, though - often in fields as diverse as architecture, communications and political science (not to mention, in Kate Meader's case alone, degrees in law, history and library sciences).

Their processes are diverse and self-aware. Sonali Dev ("super-mom", "domestic goddess" and "world traveler") tells nonsexual stories of true love and Indian culture. Remi Hunter, a tenured Chicago police officer, writes Windy City Heat, an opportunity, she says, to "be someone else." Adrienne Giordano uses screenplay structure to achieve an energized momentum; she's cofounded the Romance University Blog and a salon in Naperville that reminded me, typically, of Gertrude Stein's own gatherings. Shannyn Schroeder writes the O'Leary series, "contemporary romances" that center around a large Irish-American family in Chicago. There's romance in all, but the genre seems designed more for the sake of selling books rather than writing them. The freedom of expression on display is staggering, as well as the freedom from pretension and "literary" expectation.

Jennifer Stevenson, the night's most explicit reader (of the sex demons), spoke about her "phoned-in" heroines who slowly turn into "raging bitches" because "I would never be so stupid as to get into the situations they do." After writing "in order of explosions" she inevitably throws out the first 100 pages.

Kate Meader "fast-drafts", pounding out the first iteration of a story within weeks. They all spoke on Julie Ann Walker's hat. "What's with the hats?" asked an audience-member. "Do you wear it in the bedroom/when you write?"

Even with a hat, it was hard not to think of other things. It was easier to imagine these women living the lives of their heroines, under covers and behind automatic weapons, diverse and empowered as they were. It was harder to imagine them writing for 8 hours a day, as many of them do.

I walked out of Sheffield's with a copy of Kate Meader's "Hot in the Kitchen" series and a novel with prominent pearl-imagery on its cover. As I checked my dating profile at the bar, I wished that the openness and camaraderie I'd seen inside - double gin and tonics, dark chocolate and all - were on display here, in the palm of my hand.

There was something very 1984 about my OKCupid profile and its percentages, micro-rejections and mass-objectification. There was something undeniably modern about a group of female authors speaking about their preferred forms of empowerment, something very Anais Niin about these women of romance, secret Dostoyevsky's of Chicago, working through sex-demons between baked cookies and family dinners. Running s-corps and readings with "nipples involved."

I brushed past a familiar face down the bar and realized I'd swiped her "right" on Tinder. She hadn't swiped me back, I guess. Maybe if my nose was pressed between the pages of a romance novel instead of my iPhone, I thought. Maybe I'd give a better, more worldly impression of my interests. It would be hard, then, not to think of something else.

Alex Thompson

Events Tue Apr 29 2014

Break Bread with the Guild Literary Complex Tomorrow

Wednesday, April 30, the Guild Literary Complex andGraze magazine host Breaking the Bread Divide, a live Guild podcast at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., from 7pm to 9pm.

The topic of sustainable food has sparked a movement on agriculture, food production, and consumption. There is an existing disparity between production and consumption in terms of access to healthy food and education. This Guildcast discussion will focus on the ability to provide quality food to all and not to just those that can afford it.

Hosted by journalist Debbie Carlson, the event welcomes a dialogue with guests Robert Nevel, urban farmer and founder of KAMII; Dave Snyder, poet, writer and member of Chicago Rarities Orchard Project; and Angela Taylor, founder of Fulton Street Flower & Vegetable Garden.

This event is part of the University of Chicago's Studs Terkel Festival Let's Get Working. Soup and bread will be served, provided by the Jane Addams Hull-House. Admission is free.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Apr 29 2014

Not to Be Missed! or, This Saturday: The 25th Annual Liar Contest

5547587.jpg This coming Saturday the Biggest Liar Contest will grace Chicago with its presence once again. Held at 7pm in Ravenswood United Church of Christ (2050 W. Pensacola Ave.), Chicago's only tall tale contest promises "ridiculous surprises, top secret special guests, and lies of all sizes throughout the evening."

I spoke with Scott Whitehair, the event's creator, and he described the night as a theme park of lies. "Eleven of the city's most skilled storytellers will unleash their tallest tales and biggest whoppers in a Battle Royale of Bullshit for the legendary Hogwashe Cup," says the press release. WBEZ's own Don Hall is returning to claim the title once again, defending himself against such bald-faced liars as recent Moth StorySlam winner Archy Jamjun; social worker and stand-up comic Marta Lee; best-selling poet and radio host GPA; Yale Drama grad and Chicago actorJason Lindner; Miami's self-proclaimed worst dancer Craig Fitzgerald; yoga enthusiast Adam Ziemkiewicz; Emmy-award winning writer and Second City instructor Joe Janes; stand-up comedian and host of Seven Deadly Sins Angela Vela; 30-year professional storyteller Oba King; and Karen Genelly, retired CPS teacher and world traveler.

With a history dating over 100 years, this is not your typical Saturday night.

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Alex Thompson

Events Mon Apr 28 2014

May Comes In With A Kapow! With Free Comic Book Day

On the heels of World Book Night and C2E2 comes Free Comic Book Day: founded in 2002, Free Comic Book Day is celebrated in participating comic book shops across North America (and around the world), and is observed on the first Saturday of May (May 3 this year). And it's Stan Lee-approved!

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Danette Chavez

Events Tue Apr 22 2014

To Our Fair Friend, Who Can Never Be Old

It's easy to lose track of birthdays after a while, and when you've passed the 400 mark, even the actual date comes into question. We don't know the exact date of William Shakespeare's birthday, so it is observed on April 23, and this year marks his 450th (take that, Bilbo Baggins). Chicago has long been a Bard kind of town, so for Shakespeare's 450th, The Newberry has partnered with Chicago Shakespeare Theater and The Shakespeare Project of Chicago on a couple of events that bring to life--and bring new life to--some of the Bard's best known works.

On April 21, The Bard Is Born opened at The Newberry. This new exhibition of 40-plus items, curated by Jill Gage, focuses on items related to Henry V, which was the first play performed by Chicago Shakespeare Theater (and which will be performed once more unto the breach, er, stage later this April). It includes a First Folio, 19th century engravings, and a musical score. The exhibition is free and runs through June 21.

And this Saturday, professional actors from The Shakespeare Project of Chicago will stage a reading of All's Well That Ends Well from 10am-12pm at Ruggles Hall, 60 W. Walton St. You can jog your memory with a pre-performance "informative talk", and stay for a Q&A after the show (don't worry, it's not a quiz!). This event is also free and open to the public (no ticket or RSVP necessary).

If you're taking a long view of the Shakespeare Quadricentennial Celebration (which continues through 2016, to include his death "anniversary"), check out this preview of Our City, Our Shakespeare. The documentary--featuring Chicago Shakespeare Theater, along with many of the city's cultural and civic leaders--explores Shakespeare's lasting influence on our city.

But if you're somehow questioning whether or not there's still a reason to celebrate, take the Will's 450 is the New 30 quiz to see just how well Shakespearean quotes fit into contemporary contexts. (And maybe think about picking up a book.)

Danette Chavez

Events Mon Apr 21 2014

Giving You The World, One Book At A Time

April 23 is a hallowed day for the literati: it is the (observed) birthday of William Shakespeare, and the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Book and Copyright Day. It is also World Book Night. First celebrated in the UK and Ireland in 2011, World Book Night aims to spread the love of reading, from person to person, with an emphasis on sharing books with casual or non-readers in your community.

The event is the result of efforts from individuals involved in every part of the publishing and reading process: the books are chosen by an "independent panel of librarians and booksellers"; authors waive royalties, publishers cover the costs of specially-printed World Book Night (US) editions; and bookstores and libraries volunteer to host the volunteer book givers. This Wednesday will see 25,000 volunteers give out half a million books in 6000 towns and cities.

You can see the complete list of books being given away here. You'll have to keep your eyes peeled for book givers while out and about, especially after 4pm (this is, after all, World Book Night). You can also check out one of these events right here in Chicago:

Finally, follow World Book Night US on Twitter and Facebook, and share your volunteer experience--or good fortune as a recipient--with #WBN2014!

Danette Chavez

Bookmarks Fri Apr 18 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Author Rosalind Cummings-Yeates and musician Billy Branch come together at City Lit Books to discuss book Exploring Chicago Blues, 6:30 pm.

Saturday! Tribune reporter Liam T. A. Ford discusses his book Soldier Field: A Stadium and its City at Logan Square Library, 1 pm.

Saturday! Join New Yorker musica nd rock critic Sasha Frere-Jones as he discusses his work. 3 pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey.

Saturday! Enjoy bite-sized musings with 20x2! A transplant from SXSW, 20x2 features 20 writers, artists, musicians, filmmakers and even chefs, each with two minutes to answer the same question: "Where are we?" 7 pm at Schubas, $10.

Saturday! Quimby's Bookstore hosts Hillary Chute, long-time interviewer of contemporary cartoonists, in a discussion of her new book, Outside the Box, wherein she dishes all her insider's scoop. 7 pm.

Saturday! Unearth The Secret History of Chicago Zines with Steve Krakow, Jake Austen, and Chris Ware as they discuss the music industry's relationship with the local zine world. 7 pm at Powell's Books.

Saturday! Tamale Hut Café Reading Series returns with featured writer Aaron Longoria, 7 pm.

Sunday! Brain Frame and Chicago Alternative Comics Expo combine to create: CAKEFRAME (2)! Come out to bid on original artwork by Chicago's finest, see live music and drawing, and parteee, all to raise funds for CAKE 2014. 6 pm at the Co-Prosperity Sphere.

Miden Wood

Chicago Public Library Wed Apr 16 2014

In the Stacks: My Night with Frederico Garcia Lorca (and others)

I felt myself walk into a strange wilderness that cool night in early April when I stepped through a side entrance to the Harold Washington Library and joined a group of older patrons in an elevator. They were dressed "to the nines", as they might say. I had received an email informing me that cocktail attire was encouraged, if not required. I had on a new brown speckled sweater, formal slacks and a blazer I'd borrowed from my friend Julian nearly nine months prior for an event in Los Angeles. Rather than iron or dry-clean them, I put them on and did squats in my Boystown apartment kitchen before packing them in an overnight bag and heading downtown for dinner.

I smoothed the wrinkled slacks and smiled to the others in my grand gold elevator car. My car keys were jammed uncomfortably in my front pocket and my wallet, hulking with Belly cards and Subway gift certificates (but little cash), stuck out from my inner jacket pocket. I sucked at my teeth and rolled my tongue up and across my gums, trying to find the source of some odd smell I knew was coming from me. I hungered for a drink, some cologne to wash away my twentysomething strangeness. I smiled graciously again as a woman with a boa caught my eye wandering up the floor.

"What floor?" she asked.

"Nine," I said. We were going to the same place. Night In the Stacks was the only event in the library that night.

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Alex Thompson

Events Mon Apr 14 2014

Talented Women of Indie Presses Showcase this Thursday

Thursday April 17th, three established publishers get together to celebrate women authors at the Hopleaf Bar 5148 N. Clark, at 7pm. Local publisher Curbside Splendor Publishing, partners with New York publishers Black Balloon Publishing, and Open Letter Books to present Talented Women of Indie Presses. Each publisher is represented with authors on the bill.

The lineup includes Albena Stambolova, author of Everything Happens as it Does (Open Letter Books). Stambolova lives in Bulgaria and when not penning novels or short stories, she works as a psychological consultant.

Joining is fellow Bulgarian writer Virginia Zaharieva, author of Nine Rabbits (Black Balloon Publishing). The book is the first of Zaharieva's to be made available in North America. It details her struggle growing up in poverty during communist rule in 1960's Bulgaria. She overcomes the odds by finding a love of cooking. Manifested in the book amidst the chapters you'll find various recipes including ones for an apple tart, potato dumplings, and borscht.

The local lady in the lineup is poet Daniela Olszewska, author of Citizen J (Artifice books, an imprint of Curbside Splendor). Book Club reviewed this collection, read our review.

Book will be on sale at the event courtesy of the bookstore Women and Children First. The event is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Sun Apr 13 2014

Two Bulgarian Writers, in Translation and in Person

It's safe to say that practically none of us in the U.S. are reading enough literature in translation. And should you protest, well: what's the last novel you read from, say, Bulgaria? (For real, tell me about it in the comments!) This Friday, April 18, at 6pm, Seminary Co-op Bookstore (5751 S. Woodlawn) and the University of Chicago's Center for East European and Russian/Eurasian Studies bring together two prominent Bulgarian authors with their translators. In addition to reading from their novels, Virginia Zaharieva and Albena Stambolova will discuss what it was like to collaborate on their translations with Angela Rodel and Olga Nikolova, respectively.

18406293.jpgZaharieva's Nine Rabbits came out in Bulgaria in 2008, and immediately won praise for its eclectic blend of memoir, feminist meditation, and even recipes, letting ambitious readers can experience the story in a sort of taste-o-vision. It tells the story of a middle-aged artist and her childhood being raised by her grandmother, a woman of "monstrous energy," on the coast of the Black Sea.

Stambolova is a somewhat weirder writer. Her debut novel, Everything Happens as It Does (originally published in 2002), does the opacity of its title justice with quotations from Wittgenstein, psychoanalytical archetypes, and elements of fairy tales. Her prose, at least as filtered through Nikolova's, is both destabilizing and humorous--for instance: "Wearing glasses had the effect of calming the vague fears the family harbored about Boris. Not that now they knew him better than before. But an introvert boy with glasses was less worrying than an introvert boy without glasses." It ought to be a joy to hear in person.

Daphne Sidor

Events Thu Apr 10 2014

Northwestern University Creative Writing Spring Grad Reading

On Sunday April 13, Northwestern University's Masters in Creative Writing program welcomes three of their graduating students for an afternoon reading at the Norse Bar, 6334 N. Clark, at 2pm.

Spring grad readers include nonfiction major Amber Peckham, fiction major Jesse Eagle and poetry major Adam Lizakowski (Director of the Polish Arts and Poetry Association in Chicago). Joining these grads will be NU alum Adrienne Gunn (fiction).

The reading is in the afternoon, so to get you going early, there will be free pizza! Then enjoy various drink specials at the bar. The reading is free and 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Apr 09 2014

Chicago Humanities Festival Presents Alice Waters and Ruth Reichl

The Chicago Humanities Festival presents chef and restaurateur Alice Waters in conversation with James Beard award-winning food writer Ruth Reichl at the Art Institute on Thursday, April 10.

Waters will be discussing her new book, Art of Simple Food II: Recipes, Flavor, and Inspiration from the New Kitchen Garden, and the Edible Schoolyard Project, whose mission is to build and share an edible education curriculum for kindergarten through high school.

Both Waters and Reichl began their culinary careers in 1970s California at the beginning of a food revolution based on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Waters is often credited as the mother of American food, starting with Chez Panisse, one of the most highly regarded restaurants in the world. Waters is also recognized for bringing the Slow Food Movement to the United States, as well as being an advocate for organic foods for more than 40 years.

Reichl is the past editor of Gourmet magazine and a former restaurant critic for the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, as well as the author of numerous memoirs and cookbooks. Her most recent book, a novel set for release in May 2014, is titled Delicious!.

Although tickets to the program are sold out, tickets to a reception following the event are still available here.

This presentation is given in collaboration with Green City Market, the Edible Schoolyard Project, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Tue Apr 08 2014

Rahm Emanuel's Favorite Poems

favoritepoemchicago.jpgIf you've ever wondered what Mayor Rahm Emanuel's favorite poems were, this Friday the Favorite Poem Project and Chicago's own Poetry Foundation will lift that veil. His favorites and those of five other Chicagoans will be featured in this national video initiative, begun by Chicago poet and former U.S. poet laureate Robert Pinsky. It celebrates poetry as "a vocal art" and documents the role of poetry in Chicagoans' lives.

"A favorite poem," writes Poetry Foundation president Robert Polito, "can be a talisman or mantra, a clue, landmark or guiding star, and dwells deep down in our psyches. The readings on the videos are investigative, probing, revelatory, and ultimately autobiographical and moving. Chicago possesses a rich poetry tradition, and we invite our fellow citizens to join us in launching this poetry initiative."

During the initiative's first year-long open call for submissions, over 18,000 Americans, ranging from age 5 to 97, from every conceivable vocation and background, volunteered to share their favorite poems. Those initial ranks fostered several anthologies and collections and 50 mini-documentaries, which are available for viewing at favoritepoem.org.

This perfect pairing of city and expression will be held this Friday, April 11 at 7pm at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., Chicago.

RSVP for this event is mandatory due to limited space, so be quick to make the list -- this is surely not an event to miss. Call Ashley Sheehan at (312) 799-8026, or in person at the Poetry Foundation.

Alex Thompson

Events Sun Apr 06 2014

Sister Spit at 20: Still Touring, Still Fresh

When Michelle Tea and Sini Anderson first started Sister Spit in San Francisco in the 1994, it was an all-women, mostly-queer open-mic series. Eventually, they took it on the road, cycling in emerging writers and even eventually opening it up to, as they put it "emerging queer and queer-influenced artists of all genders." Throughout it all, the show has remained a fiercely feminist, often funny showcase for energetic poetry, prose, and spoken word.

SISTERSPIT2014POSTER_fb_versionamillion.jpgThis year's tour lands at The University of Chicago's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 5801 S. Ellis, on Monday, April 14, at 7pm. Here's a quick look at the performers:

* Jerry Lee Abram: filmmaker who'll be screening his chapter of Tea's collaborative film Valencia: The Movie/s
* Rhiannon Argo: longtime Sister Spit vet and author of The Creamsickle and Girls I've Run Away With
* Dia Felix: filmmaker (who also directed a chapter of Valencia: The Movie/s) and author of the just-out novel Nochita (which, for the record, this writer adored)
* Chinaka Hodge: poet and occasional rapper seen on Def Poetry
* Chase Joynt: a multimedia artist whose Resisterectomy exhibition was mounted at U Chicago last fall
* Beth Lisick: comedy writer and author, most notably of counterculture chronicle Everybody Into the Pool
* Lenelle Moïse: a performance-oriented poet whose work often incorporates jazz, hip hop, and musings on Haitian-American identity
* Virgie Tovar: sex educator, fat activist, and editor of the anthology Hot & Heavy: Fierce Fat Girls on Life, Love and Fashion

Admission is free.

Daphne Sidor

Bookmarks Fri Apr 04 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! The Interview Show comes to The Hideout for its April installment, and the lineup this month looks dee-lightful. 6:30 pm, $8 at the door.

Saturday! Alexander Eisenschmidt and Jonathan Mekinda discuss Chicago's architectural future through their essay, "Chicagoisms," at the Graham Foundation, 2 - 4 pm.

Saturday! Make your way to City Lit Books to join author Scott Jacobs as he discusses his latest book, Famous Ski Hills in Wisconsin (And Other Delusions of Grandeur), 5 pm.

Saturday! The Book Cellar presents the second annual "Ladder to the Moon" reading, featuring readings by Andrew Squitiro, Naomi Washer, Howard Simmons, Amy Giacalone, and Joe Meno, 7 pm.

Sunday! Stop by Logan Squre's Uncharted Books to lend an ear to Napkin Poetry, an open mic and reading, surrounding this month's theme: "EXILE." 7 pm, free.

Sunday! Stage 773 brings you another installment of LiveLit series and potluck, "Here's the Story." Listen up and then chow down with featured readings from Irv Levinson, Angelique Nelson, Nick Johne, Kelsie Huff, and Tim Witting. 8 pm, $8 OR free with a potluck dish!

Miden Wood

Chicago Public Library Wed Apr 02 2014

The CPLF Junior Board Takes the Library by Storm

Screen Shot 2014-04-02 at 11.14.43 PM.pngWe've all wondered what happens in the library after hours. Do the books' stories come to life and suck you in for wild adventures? Do the ghosts of self-help books past roam the corridors? Does it just look like a really dark library? The Chicago Public Library Foundation's Junior Board aims to find out!

This Friday, the Junior Board hosts fundraising event "Night in the Stacks" in Harold Washington Library's Winter Garden. The event will be the first major Junior Board fundraiser of this kind -- but hopefully not the last. While this night of beverage and books is now sold out, you can still donate here to support Chicago Public Libraries, and convince the Junior Board to bring Night in the Stacks back once again! If only so we can all see for ourselves what really happens in the stacks after hours.

Miden Wood

Poetry Tue Apr 01 2014

A Poem A Day: National Poetry Writing Month Gets Underway

Rejoice, ye wordsmiths, for National Poetry Writing Month, is upon us! Founded by Maureen Thorson, as an offshoot of National Novel Writing Month (or NaNoWriMo), NaProWriMo is an annual project, spanning the month of April, in which participating poets strive to write a poem a day. The site hosts hundreds of participants and their entries, as well as posts prompts for inspiration, and features poems and presses of the day throughout the project's run.

NaPoWriMo, or "30/30", is a challenging exercise for novices and veterans, but one Chicago (by way of Detroit) poet, Stephanie Lane Sutton, is helping to make it a little easier. Sutton created NATIONAL POETRY WRITING MONTH: 30/30, a forum that "offers a private, user-driven space to promote accountability for daily writing. Additionally, this is a place for poets to connect to an online community and support each others' writing." Poets of all levels are welcome, but please note that users must register to view and/or content.

Continue reading this entry »

Danette Chavez

Submissions Mon Mar 31 2014

Goreyesque Wants Your Edward Gorey-Inspired Writing and Artwork

Edward Gorey fans abound in Chicago, the author's hometown, and yet Elegant Enigmas: The Art of Edward Gorey at the Loyola University Museum of Art (from February 15-June 15, 2014) is the first exhibition dedicated to his work. Over 170 of Gorey's collected works (on loan from the author's charitable trust) are on display, including "original pen-and-ink illustrations, preparatory sketches, unpublished drawings, sketchbooks, illustrated envelopes, book-cover ideas, theatrical costume designs, and ephemera."

Goreyesque, the online literary journal that features contemporary work inspired by Gorey, celebrates this "homecoming" with a reading at LUMA on April 29, 2014 at 6pm. Created by Kenneth Gerleve, Todd Summar, and Sam Weller, in collaboration with editors Howard Simmons, Jess Millman, and Corey Klinzing, and co-sponsored by Columbia College Chicago's Department of Creative Writing and Loyola University Chicago, the journal seeks to highlight the author's "cross-disciplinary influence." With two issues under their belts, they are putting together an event that will feature local authors, and Goreyesque alums, Joe Meno and Adam McOmber.

You can help round out this roster by submitting your Gorey-inspired writing and artwork to goreysubmissions@gmail.com. To be considered for participation in the reading event on April 29th, you must submit your work by April 4, as well as be in Chicago on the night of the event. Poems, essays, short stories, photographs, and illustrations will all be considered. Click here for more info. Please note that the literary journal accepts Gorey-inspired submissions on an ongoing basis for future publication, so feel free to mine your macabre side even as the seasons (attempt to) change.

Danette Chavez

Chicago Public Library Sat Mar 29 2014

Dayo Olopade Talks About How Africa Gets Stuff Done

tumblr_inline_n0ib7rqHpm1qdh5ld.jpgIn The Bright Continent: Breaking Rules and Making Change in Modern Africa, Nigerian-American journalist Dayo Olopade trains her sights on "the gap between foreign perception and African reality." In the Western media, Africa often exists primarily as an "underdeveloped" destination for foreign aid, with little attention paid to the ways in which Africans are already shaping their countries. From a temporary home base of Nairobi, Olopade spent time observing everyone from modest urban farmers to Ushahidi, a Kenya-founded company that develops web tools for communities to map things like incidents of violence or election fraud. Indeed, The Bright Continent frames what she learned in terms of various "maps"--the different kinds of networks that give modern African ingenuity its character and context.

On Thursday, April 3, at 6pm, Olopade will visit the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State, to discuss what the rest of the world might be able to learn from these novel methods of progress. Admission's free, and books will be available for signing afterward.

Daphne Sidor

Bookmarks Fri Mar 28 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Free Street Theatre presents an open mic for poetry, lit, music, anything! Doors open at 5 pm.

Tonight! Author Jenny Bowen discusses her new book, Wish You Happy Forever at The Book Cellar, 7 pm.

Saturday! the Nelson Algren Committee celebrates the author's birthday with readings, discussions, and multimedia homage. The event is $10 and starts at 8 pm at the Bloomingdale Arts Building. Merry Birthversary, Nelson!

Sunday! Peggy Shinner discusses her book, You Feel So Mortal: Essays on the Body at Women & Children First, 4:30 pm.

Sunday! Stop by Black Rock Pub for reading series "Sunday Salon," featuring seasoned writers Janice Deal, Gina Frangello, Alan Grostephan, and Kelly O'Connor McNees. 7 pm, free!

Miden Wood

Author Fri Mar 28 2014

A Bon Motley Crew Joins LA Author Amelia Gray at Cole's this Sunday

We may not be able to import West Coast temperatures, but we can certainly "borrow" some of their talent. LA writer Amelia Gray visits Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave., this Sunday and joins some great local authors for a night of readings. Gray is the author of the story collections AM/PM (featherproof) and The Museum of the Weird (FC2), which won the Ronald Sukenick/American Book Review Innovative Fiction Prize. Her first novel, Threats (FSG Originals), was nominated for the PEN/Faulkner award.

Lindsay Hunter (Don't Kiss Me) hosts the event and describes Gray as "brilliant and insane. She's mesmerizing. She's fashionable and a huge nerd. She's a bona fide literary celebrity who'll flick her eyes at a new zit you're cultivating in the same way your own mother would, then offer you the perfect salicylic-acid soaked organic face-moisturizing cloth. No one writes like she does. She knows the right word for everything you could imagine. I've selected local writers who I think have a prayer of keeping up with her--the surreal and crazy charming Beau Golwitzer and the hilarious, surprisingly-soulful-at-times, great-haired Mason Johnson. And me, the Midwestern-by-way-of-Florida mom-writer who can't wait for Sunday. It's going to be a very fun reading, Chicago."

The event is free and starts at 6pm. 21+.

Danette Chavez

Events Tue Mar 25 2014

The "Writes of Spring" at StoryStudio Chicago

Spring hasn't sprung so much as limped into action, which means we're all still dealing with cabin fever. Get out of the house and get inspired this Thursday at StoryStudio Chicago's Open House & Free Class from 6pm-8pm at the Chicago Studio at 4043 North Ravenswood, Suite #222.

Join StoryStudio Chicago staff and prospective students for refreshments and conversation, and then stay for True or False, a free class that will have you experimenting with fiction and nonfiction. You can check out the studio and classrooms and, most importantly, the spring course catalog.

Unsure of what class to take? There's a handy "questionnaire" to help you choose. Trying to find your muse? Sign up for the Art + Object = Poetry workshop. Prefer to keep it short and sweet? There's James Tadd Adcox's Quick Stories, which begins on April 16. Or, hone your comedy chops with Kelsie Huff at Techniques of Humor. The spring session also offers an intro to live lit and performance with Ian Belknap, a course on writing for change, and so much more.

Writers of all levels and genres are encouraged to attend. To RSVP, please email info@storystudiochicago.com.

Danette Chavez

Author Tue Mar 25 2014

Book signing by former President Jimmy Carter at Swedish American Museum

Women and Children First hosts former President Jimmy Carter for a signing of his new book, A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power, at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St. on Thursday, March 27 at 6pm.

Mr. Carter has spent much of the last thirty years on diplomatic missions and in humanitarian work. He is also the author of over twenty books on subjects such as his presidency, his faith, and his work in the Middle East. His latest book, A Call To Action, focuses on the subjugation of women, which he deemed the "worst and most pervasive and unaddressed human rights violation on Earth" in a recent interview with NBC News' Andrea Mitchell.

Please note that this is a book signing only; Mr. Carter will not be giving a talk. Pre-order the book online for admission to the event, or call 773-769-9299.

Danette Chavez / Comments (2)

Events Tue Mar 25 2014

Of Gertrude Stein & Chicago Zine Fest

drugwar.jpg"I am afraid that I can never write the Great American Novel," she wrote. Her characters were "very simple and very vulgar and I don't think they will interest the American public."

She is Gertrude Stein, author of the Great American Novel Three Lives,and many others, many greater. She wrote "Three Lives" in Paris, inspired and nested amongst contemporaries and peers Pablo Picasso, Gustave Flaubert and Paul Cezanne. She was hostess to the Parisian salons of our bourgeois dreams; she was Ernest Hemingway's dear friend and first editor. She was of the cultural class that added the "ing" to vacation; promoting a new flavor of leisure that seemed to go on and on, continuously. Her life was large, but intimate.

Unable to find a dedicated publisher, Stein published 1,000 copies out-of-pocket, only 500 of them bound, in July 1909. By February 1910 only 75 had been sold, less than the number she had distributed on her own to reviewers, friends and idols. I would posit that, including postage, she made perhaps enough profit to buy Cezanne a new paintbrush.

Stein was entering into a genre, but only in its physical form — the loose-fitting genre of "books," rough pages bound together by clothette, stiches and glue. In all other ways, though, she was in a classification of her own — a niche-less niche, really, since she was the only one who occupied it. There was Gertrude Stein, and there were those who read Gertrude Stein. She did not confer with a movement; her most influential contemporary was Cezanne, a painter who's brush strokes she imitated in her clipped and repetitive prose and her desire to "use everything."

I was reminded of Ms. Stein last weekend at Chicago's own independently run Zine Fest.

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Alex Thompson

Book Club Sun Mar 23 2014

Two Cookie Minimum Celebrates Polish Writers

The tacitly-titled Two Cookie Minimum (Is it a band? An improv troupe? A deep-dish pizza? No, no, much better...) is back this month with a celebration of Polish Writers and (you guessed it) cookies. The zinesters-only reading series has been a staple of Chicago's self-publishing community since 2011, bringing together emerging writers and self publishers for a conversation that cannot be rivaled on a Tuesday night at 9pm.

Literally. New City rated Two Cookie Minimum 2013's "Best Reading Series at 9pm on a Tuesday".

This April, TCM is celebrating local Polish writers. No joke, the reading will be on April 1st at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave for those approaching by land by-way-of car, bus, bike, biped or skateboard.

Readers include Kate Sierzputowski, co-founder of InsideWithin; Daniella Oiszewska, author of poetry chapbook Citizen J; Adam Lizakowski, Director of the Polish Arts and Poetry Association in America; Joshua Piotrowski, zinester and musician; Columbia College creative writing students Alison Grabowski and Karolina Stepek; and JoAnne Gazarek Bloom, writer of Bridgeport on Arcadia Publishing.

The evening will be hosted by the indomitable Johnny Misfit aka John Wawrzaszek, one of Gaper's Block's own staff writers.

After last week's Story Week at Columbia and Zine Fest the weekend prior, surely some of you have caught the self-publishing bug. This is a showcase of one of Chicago's most interesting and independently minded publishing communities.

Not a night to miss - no fooling.

Alex Thompson

Events Sun Mar 23 2014

Well Read: A Solo Exhibition from Tracie Ching

gatsby.pngWhy not judge a book by its cover, just this once?

D.C.-based artist Tracie Ching's new exhibition, "Well Read" at Chicago's Galerie F, asks visitors to do just that.

Ching's work explores the different filters that the film industry imposes on literary classics in the process of adaptation and promotion. Undoubtably, for example, the advertising campaign for Baz Luhrman's "Great Gatsby" included broad strokes of 1920's-era pastiche; similarly Darren Aronofsky's "Noah" has been advertised with Old Testament associations. However, both campaigns operated with little fidelity to the source material; pains were made to produce material that read as "roaring twenties" and "biblical", in lowercase and with quotation marks.

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Alex Thompson

Events Thu Mar 20 2014

Editors Speak: Literary Magazine Panel at StoryStudio Chicago

Chicago is home to a thriving independent press scene, and StoryStudio Chicago wants to help you make the most of it with Editors Speak: Literary Magazine Panel. Join publishing insiders at the Chicago Studio this Saturday, March 22 for a free Q&A; you can ask for advice on getting your submissions accepted (or at least an upper-tier rejection letter), or just chat about the literary community.

Three local editors/writers will be on hand to answer all of your "why me?" and "why not me?" questions: Brian Solem of Graze, Sarah Dodson of MAKE Magazine, and Ben Tanzer of Curbside Splendor.

The panel discussion is from 12pm-1pm at 4043 North Ravenswood. Admission is free with a canned good donation (all collections will go to a local food pantry). Please RSVP by email to info@storystudiochicago.com. If you're unable to make the event, but have a burning question, you can tweet it to @storystudio, and the moderator will do his/her best to have it answered for you.

Danette Chavez

Events Wed Mar 19 2014

Story Week: Midweek Update

It's Wednesday, and it's after 5pm, so we're already 60% done with the work week--congratulations! To celebrate, consider taking in one of tonight's Story Week events, or get a jump on your Thursday plans by checking out the schedule.

Story Week 2014 has already seen workshops and readings by Columbia College Chicago instructors Julia Borcherts and Patricia Ann McNair; conversations with authors Stuart Dybek and Roxane Gay, and publishing boot camps with Donna Seaman and Anitra Budd.

We'll close out the festival this Friday with two amazing events: first up, Jeff Toth hosts the "Come One, Come All" open mic at 11am at Columbia College Chicago, 623 South Wabash. And from 6pm-8pm, Rick Kogan presents "Chicago Classics," with special guests who will read works by their favorite Chicago authors. "Chicago Classics" will be held at the Chicago Cultural Center Preston Bradley Hall, 78 East Washington. Both events are free and open to the public.

Danette Chavez

Author Wed Mar 19 2014

The Open Door Series: March

The reading room at the Poetry Foundation is filled a quarter-way with quiet reverent conversation.

It is March's Open Door Series, featuring Brett Foster and Srikanth Reddy and the room seems intentionally wanting. An open podium stands dramatically lit at its head; scattered lights give the illusion of luminescence but it's a dim, half-hearted brightness, and the blue dusk outside seems brighter.

Beyond the podium stands a courtyard of saplings that further indict anticipation itself as the prologue to the evening. Beyond that, an impossible wall of books.

Under their seats, the March issue of the Foundation's poetry magazine. A cleaner exits a distant doorway guiding a wheeled trashcan and disappears once again, marring and complicating the shelf of numerous journals and novels and anthologies and likely many editions of To the Lighthouse.

When Robert Polito, the Poetry Foundation president, took the stand to introduce Mr. Foster and Mr. Reddy, we were at attention.

The monthly Open Door series is a means of focusing the community and celebrating specific mentors and students from Chicago's many graduate and undergraduate programs. Tonight's event attracted a fair crowd -- the applause was loud and filled the space; the laughter was real and complete; the silences were heavy and concentrated. There seems no better mascot for events like these than the Pegasus of the Poetry Foundation's logo: muscle, winged and flying.

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Alex Thompson

Author Tue Mar 18 2014

Story Week: Barry Gifford

barry.jpg

I watched the man I thought was Barry Gifford talk to another, much quieter man, who really was Barry Gifford. The first Barry Gifford moved his hands eloquently and drew curtains in the air with his fingers. The real Barry Gifford said nothing and blinked politely.

A moment later, Barry looked me in the face.

I was a staff writer for Gaper's Block, I said. "A web publication," Joe Mino intoned with a smile.

"I'll only have a few minutes," Barry said, glancing with apology to Joe, then Kara, then me.

"That's alright," I said. "I won't need long."

His eyes are milk-white in places; not cataracts, I am sure. He gazes harder in spite of them; perhaps to spite them. As I shake his hand my wrist is limper, my voice more boyish, my smile less genuine than I'd like. I am struck by Barry Gifford. I struggle for words and thank him.

"Thank you, Mr. Gifford," I say, and age myself. I shuffle into the anonymous deck of the auditorium and hide with my iPhone set to record. I listen to Barry Gifford and I watch him, and this is what I see and hear:

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Alex Thompson

Events Mon Mar 17 2014

Saints be Praised -- It's Essay Fiesta!

Yes, it's Saint Patrick's Day, but it's also the third Monday of the month, which means it's time to clean up your act and go to Essay Fiesta.

Tonight's event, dubbed "The Most Sober and Solemn of Essay Fiestas," is hosted by Willy Nast and Karen Shimmin, who will also be your guides to reining in the revelry. The teetotaling lineup is made up of Janna Sobel of Here's The Story; storytelling pro Erin Kahoa; the "knitting master," Maura Clement; Neo-Futurist Dina Marie Walters; and the one woman show that is Jen Bosworth.

Show starts at 7pm at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Get there early to snag a seat, a drink, and/or a book. Admission is free, but donations are accepted on behalf of 826Chi.

Danette Chavez / Comments (1)

Events Mon Mar 17 2014

A Deadly Encyclopedia Show, 3 More to Go

This Wednesday, March 19, monthly live extravaganza the Encyclopedia Show presents the theme Nightshades at 7:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. The themes is loose, for it could reference Corey Hart's "Sunglasses at Night" or the common tomato. The only way to know for sure is to check out the show.

Host Robbie Q. Telfer welcomes this month's lineup: writer and performer Gwynn Fulcher, shadow puppet show by sister duo Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood, poet Eric Gaston, author of Reasons to Leave the Slaughter (Write Bloody) Ben Clark, Providence, Rhode Island poet and fiction writer Laura Brown-Lavoie, and visual artist and photographer Brett Neiman.

The series ends its run this year with only three more performances left. General admission is $9; students with ID are $6.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 13 2014

Short and Sweet: A Conversation with Chicago Writer Stuart Dybek

Next week marks the return of one of Chicago's most beloved literary events, Columbia College Chicago's Story Week Festival of Writers. Beginning on March 16 through the 21, Story Week aims to build "a city of words" says Randy Albers, founding producer of the festival and writing faculty at Columbia College, in the Story Week welcome message. This year's theme is DiverCity, the connection between diversity and the urban landscape and how they come together to celebrate the power of urban stories.
StoryWeekLogo.jpg
Chicago has a great many writers who exemplify this festival's theme. One of Chicago's notable writers Stuart Dybek, will be featured at the festival. He is author of the fiction Childhood and Other Neighborhoods, The Coast of Chicago, I Sailed with Magellan, and the poetry collections Brass Knuckles and Streets in their Own Ink. He has two upcoming story collections, Ecstatic Cahoots and Paper Lantern, which will be released in June. In his writing, the city acts as a back drop, a kinetic character. Dybek will help Albers vision this year in building a 'city of words'.

I got to ask Dybek a few questions about his new books, his events at Story Week and about the short story in general.

You will be on the Story Week panel, "Why the Short Story". You're definitely an authority on the subject with your previous fiction collections and your upcoming releases. What draws you to writing in that format?

Let me preface my answer by saying that some of the aspects that draw me to the short story are certainly not exclusive to the short story. There's a considerable overlap between literary genres and its far more accurate to see genres as arranged along a continuum rather than to treat them as if they inhabit separate gated communities. For me the short story is a good form in which to work with a kind of literary version of chamber music. Because of the scale of the story one can crank up and try to sustain intensity without fatiguing the reader. One might, of course, say the same about poetry, and an often heard observation about the short story form is that the compression it demands gives it a closer kinship to the poem than to the novel. I've long been fascinated by story collections that have some kind of unity--unity of place like Dubliners or Winesberg, Ohio , for instance, or unity of characters and action such as The Things They Carried. Sometimes such collections are given the paradoxical name, the novel in stories, which is misleading. The so called unity of such books actually emphasizes the fragmentary nature of personal life and of community. That sense of finding order, or at least patterns, within fragmentation is central to modernism.

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Mar 12 2014

Chicago Zine Fest is Back for its Fifth Year!

czf.jpgDon't let green sprouting up around the city fool you; there's much more going on this weekend than St. Patty's Day. Friday, March 14th marks the beginning of fifth annual self-pubstravaganza Chicago Zine Fest, a weekend-long showcase dedicated to celebrating the work of small presses and independent publishers.

There are few instances in which so many creatives occupy a single space, and the effect at Zine Fest is awe-inspiring, as one might guess just taking a look at the Fest's impressive exhibitor line-up; bursting with stories, illustrations, and the powerful perspectives unique to zine work. Absorb their work through readings and exhibitions throughout the weekend, and jump into the process yourself with any of the many workshops and discussions scheduled for Saturday, March 15!

The festival kicks off this Friday at 1 pm at Columbia College's Conway Center (1104 S. Wabash Ave.) with an opening panel entitled In it for the Long Haul: A Discussion on Longevity in Zines with Cindy Crabb (Doris), Tomas Moniz (Rad Dad), and Alex Wrekk (Brainscan). The panel will be moderated by Quimby's Bookstore's own Liz Mason (Caboose)

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Miden Wood

Poetry Wed Mar 12 2014

The Open Door Presents Brett Foster & Srikanth Reddy

Screen Shot 2014-03-12 at 5.11.04 PM.pngThere's something magical about a live reading. This one will not disappoint. The Open Door series, produced by Chicago's own Poetry Foundation, is a unique showcase of both students and mentors, nicely highlighting Chicago's diverse avenues of recognition, publication and growth. This Tuesday, March 18th, Open Door showcases Brett Foster, his recent student Dayna Clemons and Srikanth Reddy and his current student Clara Mitchell.

Foster is the author of two poetry volumes, The Garbage Eater (Triquarterly Books/Northwestern University Press, 2011) and Fall Run Road (recipient of Finish Line Press' 2011 Open Chapbook Prize); he is a professor of Renaissance literature and creative writing at Wheaton College, where Clemons studies.

Reddy's poems have appeared in the anthologies Asian American Poetry: The Next Generation and Isn't It Romantic: 100 Love Poems by Younger american Poets. He has received awards from the Whiting Foundation, the Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing and the Mellon Foundation. He is the literacy director for the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Trust and teaches in the creative writing program at the University of Chicago, where Mitchell studies.

Readings will begin at 7pm, and are held at The Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.). Admission is free to these hour-long readings.

Alex Thompson

Events Mon Mar 10 2014

Chicago Humanities Festival Hosts a Read so Rich it's Filthy

HOW TO GET FILTHY RICH IN RISING ASIA.jpgWant to get filthy rich in rising Asia? Step One: Read the book.

Wrapped in the guise of a self-help book, New York Times best-selling author Mohsin Hamid's latest novel How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia follows the rise of one man from utter poverty to vast fortune. The only twist is, that one man -- the nameless protagonist -- is you.

One of the rare novels to tackle second person narration, Hamid's text harnesses the latest life-hacking trend to turn how-to on its head. "Don't Fall in Love," one chapter begins; "Be Prepared to Use Violence." These guidelines build an arresting tension between format and content. Hamid cleverly injects a precarious and tumultuous life with certainty and determinism: you are, after all, only following the rules. Hamid's writing operates on the same plane of crisp certainty, to a point so factual you feel as though you could crack the sentences in half. He writes with the vise-tight confidence necessary to pin down the accusing, assuming "you."

"Look," the novel begins, "unless you're writing one, a self-help book is an oxymoron. You read a self-help book so someone who isn't yourself can help you, that someone being the author." If you're seeking the guidance of a self-help author, you may want to drop into First United Methodist Church (77 W. Washington St.) this Tuesday, March 11, where the Chicago Humanities Festival will be hosting Hamid in a discussion with WBEZ's Alison Cuddy. Tickets for the 6 pm talk are $15 for the general public, $10 for CHF members, and $5 for students; copies of Filthy Rich will also be available at a 10% discount, thanks to a partnership with Unabridged Bookstore. Sit in on the talk, or pick up a copy and try out the author's Get-Rich-Slow scheme for yourself!

Miden Wood

Author Mon Mar 10 2014

Rad Dad Tomas Moniz Visits Chicago for a Reading Tour and Chicago Zine Fest

For the last five years March has brought the Chicago Zine Fest, a celebration of independent self-published work. Being the fest's fifth anniversary, the programming commemorates other zinesters who have been publishing zines for a even longer. The festival begins with a Friday afternoon panel entitled, In it for the Long Haul: A Discussion on Longevity in Zines. Among the panelists is Tomas Moniz, writing faculty at Berkeley City College and publisher of the zine Rad Dad. He has been putting out that title for 10 years. In it, he deals with the ideal of radical parenting from various perspectives outside of the societal norms of parenting. And he should know what he's talking about, Moniz is a father of three. He has a new novella Bellies and Buffalos, a tender though chaotic story about friendship, family and Flammin Hot Cheetos.

I got to talk with Moniz and ask him a few questions about his writing and his upcoming visit to Chicago.

Rad Dad 23 cover credit Tomas Moniz.jpg

What was the initial motivation that prompted you to write Rad Dad?
I was going through a difficult time with my then teenage son, and reaching out for information that didn't repeat the same conversation around punishment and discipline all the books were talking about. Then I discovered The Future Generation by China Martens, a zine about parenting and anarchism. It changed everything. I wrote a letter, she answered, and then I just started a zine for fathers to talk about fathering in meaningful, feminist, anarchist ways. I started the zine I longed to read.

Recently you've decided to re-launched Rad Dad. What did was that process?
Rad Dad is relaunching as a full-color, large-format magazine to push past the patriarchy with even more stories from the frontier of radical parenting. There is so much more than the mainstream representations of fathering, which are mostly white and middle class. I've learned so much from queer fathers, from trans fathers, fathers of color. Through Rad Dad, I am trying to represent fathering as a holistic, vulnerable thing. Fathers need to change--not just diapers.

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Sun Mar 09 2014

AIDS Activist Sean Strub Stops Through Town with a New Memoir

cvr9781451661958_9781451661958_hr.jpgOne of my earliest memories of consuming media is watching barely-understood but scary news reports about AIDS in the late 1980s; today, it's conceivable that many young people might not learn about the disease until they have to take sex ed. The lower profile of AIDS today is, of course, due largely to vastly improved treatment options, but it's also dangerous, says activist Sean Strub in his new book, Body Counts: A Memoir of Politics, Sex, AIDS, and Survival. He contracted HIV right around the time the epidemic hit America, and spent the next years simultaneously battling the disease and, through activist organizations such as ACT UP (where, as he puts it, "high camp and high seriousness [were] uniquely compatible"), the indifference or hostility of the institutions that might have been able to help. As he sees it, allowing this history to fade from view interferes with effectively treating a disease that is still far from cured.

Body Counts is more given to lively narrative than to polemic, but Strub's seriousness of mission is clear even in his choice of reading venues: on Wednesday, March 12, he'll discuss the book at Center on Halsted (3656 N. Halsted, at 2pm) and then at the Test Positive Aware Network (5050 N. Broadway, at 6:30pm). Attendees can expect to hear not only about the battle against AIDS, but about the contours of an energetic life that's included working the elevators at the U.S. Capitol, running as the first HIV-positive candidate for the U.S. Senate, and crossing paths with figures as diverse as Keith Haring and Jesse Helms. Both events are free.

Daphne Sidor

Author Thu Mar 06 2014

Chicago Welcomes Back Zero Fade Author Chris L. Terry

Last year marked the release of author Chris L. Terry's debut novel Zero Fade with Curbside Splendor publishing. Though Terry has since left Chicago for sunny California, this Saturday March 8th, the city welcomes him back for a leg of his Midwest book tour. (Touring is nothing new to Terry, he writes in his guest post for Gapers Block).

Terry will be part of a Curbside Splendor sponsored Meet the Authors panel at 826CHI, 1331 N Milwaukee Ave. at 5:30pm. The panel is geared towards students grades 7-12, giving young writers the opportunity to hear from established authors about the publishing process. Students will then work on their own writing, with time for feedback from the panelists. Joining Terry on the panel will be fellow Curbside authors Ben Tanzer (Lost in Space) and Bill Hillmann (The Old Neighborhood). Registration is required.

The tour doesn't end there. Terry and Tanzer follow up 826 CHI with a reading at Uncharted Books, 2630 N Milwaukee Ave. at 8pm. Stick around to buy a book, or chat with the authors and get them to sign a copy.

John Wawrzaszek

Poetry Wed Mar 05 2014

James Franco, Behind the Celluloid Curtain

All the people came to see James Franco. But the James Franco who showed up wasn't who anyone had come to see. Some people were happy and some people were sad, and some people didn't know what to do.

Upon arriving at the poetry reading, brought to Chicago by the joint efforts of the Chicago Humanities Festival and The Poetry Foundation, I could feel the excitement in Northwestern Law School's Thorne Auditorium; one of those stiletto-shaped rooms that scoops down into a proscenium stage. It was filled with chatter like a shook box of cicadas. Making my way towards a seat near the front I stepped through three languages, many perfumes, many levels of sincere excitement and faux disdain, disinterest and ambivalence.

franco_james_461x250.jpgIn front of me, folding chairs were filled by people who, I posited, had waited a long time, out in the cold, maybe, to get in before anyone else. They were a mix of twentysomethings and teenage girls, but the mean age ran on the younger side. They were James Franco Fans, with a capitol F. They'd brought glossy photographs with them and I recognized the need to clarify in the program that Franco would only be signing copies of his book of poetry, Directing Herbert White.

A door opened and Poetry Foundation president Robert Polito stepped on stage. We screamed and cheered because we knew who was coming next; and in he walked, just after Robert and just before Frank Bidart, James Franco.

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Alex Thompson / Comments (4)

Events Thu Feb 27 2014

In Like a Lion: Start March Right with Paper Machete

chad-brad-300x166.jpgWeekly reading series Paper Machete rings in a new month this Saturday afternoon, March 1st, at the Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway Ave.

Paper Machete, "Chicago's Weekly Live Magazine," prompts featured performers with current events and pop culture buzz, then lets them loose on the Green Mill. The resulting responses, which can range anywhere from essay readings to sketch comedy to vaudeville revue, never disappoint. Saturday's lineup includes Maggie Andersen and Sam Bailey, Sean Cusik and Dave Urlakis, Mike Lebovitz, Casey Ley, Tim Ryder and Jill Summers. Regular Chad the Bird will also make an appearance. And, as a reading at a jazz club could never be complete without music, the Machete welcomes musical guests the Modern Sounds. 3 pm, free.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Feb 24 2014

The Moth StorySLAM comes to Martyr's!

Get ready, storytellers: The Moth StorySLAM holds court at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., this Tuesday, Feb. 25.

If you're bursting with a story to tell, then this night is for you. If your tale is true to theme (this month's is "Happy"), then feel free to sign up to perform any time after doors open at 6 pm; or if you'd rather a seat of power, sign up to be a judge for the night. Then at 8pm, storytellers will be picked at random for five minutes of stage time. To be clear, this is not a reading. Storytellers are sharing true experiences. Who knows what you'll hear; it could be side-splittingly funny or totally heart wrenching.

If performing isn't your thing, join the crowd for a night of great stories you'll likely be sharing with friends at work the next day. Help cheer readers along as judges will vote on who becomes the next StorySLAM winner. This event will be a preliminary for the Moth's GrandSLAM Championship.

Tickets are $8 at the door. The venue is 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 19 2014

Bilingual Dialogue w/ Author Mario Bellatin

This Saturday, February 22nd, Chicago's Guild Literary Complex partners with publisher 7Vientos to support the work of one the greatest contemporary Latin American authors, Mario Bellatin, 7 pm at The Chicago Urban Art Society, 600 W. Cermak Rd.

7Vientos is launching two works of Bellatin's: Flowers/Flores (which won the 2001 Premio Xavier Villaurrutia award) and Mishima's Illustrated Biography/Biografía ilustrada de Mishima. The hard cover edition will include the original works in their Spanish version, and for the first time will also feature the English translation.

This event celebrates Bellatin's work with readings from the author, a performance by Laboratory Dancers, and an installation by visual artist Christian Saucedo. It is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Feb 17 2014

Two for Wednesday: Lit Events You've Gotta Check Out

This Wednesday, Feb. 19, Chicago's lit scene is blowing up with two hot events. Calm down, contain yourself, and read on to find out more. Then, get pumped and get out to them!

Not for the faint of heart, the live lit series Guts and Glory is back at their new home, Schuba's Tavern, 3159 N. Southport at 7pm. Hosts Samantha Irby and Keith Eckert welcome the talented line up of Ozzie Totten, Cara Brigandi, Monte LaMonte and Katy Maher. It's totally free so there's no excuse not to be there.

If that wasn't enough, the Guild Literary Complex welcomes the monthly bilingual poetry reading Palabra Pura at the oldest Puerto Rican restaurant in Chicago, La Bruquena, 2726 W. Division St. in Humboldt Park. Curator and host Teresa Vázquez touches upon the night's theme, "Greater Than The Sum Of Parts", with writers Lucrecia Guerrero, Emmanuel Ortiz, Elizabeth Marino and Paul Martínez-Pompa. The readings begin at 7:30pm and are also free. Get there early to grab some dinner and settle in for some great readings.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Feb 11 2014

Author Karen Russell Brings Vampires to The Chicago Humanities Festival

lemongrove.jpgMany readers know author Karen Russell as their tour guide through a more whimsical Florida Everglades, both in her Pulitzer-Prize-nominated novel Swamplandia! and the preceding short story collection, St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves. Her most recent collection Vampires in the Lemon Grove may leave the swamps, but it certainly does not stray from Russell’s signature style.

Featuring protagonists like 19th American president Rutherford B. Hayes reincarnated as a horse, a factory worker transformed into a human-silkworm hybrid, and a titular lemon-grove-dwelling vampire, Russell’s collection asks readers to surrender the distinction between animal and human, and enter worlds so confidently magic that one cannot help but suspend disbelief. Whimsical premises aside, Russell’s prose packs such punch that single sentences will stop you in your tracks.

Many wonder how Russell manages to concoct such clear and earnest fantasies, and now we get to hear the word from the non-presidential horse’s mouth. This Thursday, February 13th, the Chicago Humanities Festival will be hosting Karen Russell in a discussion of Vampires in the Lemon Grove. Make your way to the First United Methodist Church at The Chicago Temple (77 W Washington St.) at 6 pm, and you may find yourself transported.

Miden Wood

Chicago Public Library Sun Feb 09 2014

Writers: Get Deeper into Your Characters with the Help of Popular-History Author Jonathan Eig

Writer Jonathan Eig's taken on some big personalities in the course of his career: Jackie Robinson, Lou Gehrig, Al Capone. Sure, those guys all happen to be real, but the New York Times best-selling author's insights on bringing characters to life on the page ought to apply just as well to fiction writers. On Thursday, February 13, at 6:30pm, he'll visit the Lincoln Belmont branch library's monthly writer's group (1659 W. Melrose St.) and present a workshop complete with handouts and writing exercises, all focused on building characters that are both compelling and realistic. After the presentation, attendees can stick around for a free-writing session. The event is free and open to all.

Daphne Sidor

Events Sat Feb 08 2014

Lynn Povich Talks Gender Bias in Journalism with The Good Girls Revolt

book_jacket-210.jpgLynn Povich started work at Newsweek as a secretary fresh out of college in 1965, when a woman's career trajectory in journalism might take her from the mailroom to the fact-check department, but rarely further. Increasingly fed up with the magazine's continual refusal to promote women, in 1969 she and some fellow female colleagues sought the help of the ACLU and got (young, black) attorney Eleanor Holmes Norton to represent them. (Norton's a fascinating figure in her own right: having come of age as a civil rights activist before becoming a lawyer, she's been the District of Columbia's delegate to Congress since 1991.) The group sued in 1970, and one measure of the suit's success is the fact that five years later Povich became Newsweek's first female Senior Editor.

Now Povich has written an account of the experience, entitled The Good Girls Revolt: How the Women of Newsweek Sued Their Bosses and Changed the Workplace. On Thursday, February 13, she'll appear at Kirkland & Ellis (300 N. La Salle Dr., 6th floor) in a reading and discussion sponsored by Women Employed. She won't be presenting the Newsweek 46's fight against gender discrimination as a fight that's been fully won: former Newsweek writer Jesse Ellison will join Povich to discuss the subtler forms in which sexism impacts journalism and other careers today.

The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, with time for drinks and hors d'oeuvres included. Admission is $10, or make it $25 and get a copy of the book to boot.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Feb 05 2014

Don't Start Me Talkin' Book Release Feb 9

Curbside Splendor is prepping for the spring with a packed catalog of books. Join them at the Hideout 1345 W. Wabansia, on Sunday February 9th, 8pm for the release of Tom Williams' Don't Start Me Talkin'.

In addition to being the published author of numerous short stories, reviews, and essays, Williams is an associate editor of American Book Review and the Chair of English at Morehead State University.

Joining Williams at the event will be authors Cris Mazza, Ben Tanzer and Davis Schneiderman.

Don't Start Me Talkin' follows the fictional character Brother Ben, a Delta blues musician, on the road during his final tour. It's fitting then that there will be live music after the readings provided by writer turned musician Marvin Tate (who also has an upcoming book release with Curbside).

The event is $10, which includes of copy of the book.

Williams will also be supporting his novel on Saturday, February 15th at 57th Street Books, along with a reading from writer and professor at Columbia College's Creative Writing Department, Eric Charles May.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Feb 04 2014

Gina Frangello Discusses A Life in Men @ Women & Children First

gina.pngGina Frangello is something of a powerhouse in Chicago's literary scene. She's co-founder of Chicago-based publisher OV Books, where she's edited novels by local authors like Zoe Zolbrod and Billy Lombardo; runs Other Voices Querétaro, an international writing program; is the Sunday editor for The Rumpus and the fiction editor for The Nervous Breakdown; teaches at Columbia College and Northwestern University; and is writer of three works of fiction, the novel My Sister's Continent, the short story collection Slut Lullabies, and her latest novel (published today), A Life In Men.

Impressed? Or at least curious about how she does it all? You can ask her in person this Friday, February 7 at Women & Children First at 7:30pm for a release party for A Life in Men, a book that explores love, sex and illness through the lens of best friends Mary and Nix. Refreshments will be served.

Image courtesy of the author's website.

Lara Levitan

Events Sun Feb 02 2014

Chicago Indie Publishers Talk Shop @ The Cliff Dwellers Club

A look around at the wealth of Chicago small presses doing interesting things these days is almost enough to make you think that the reports of print media's demise have been widely exaggerated. On Tuesday, February 11, the Society of Midland Authors brings representatives of four indie publishers to The Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan, to divulge how they do it. Some even seem to be benefitting from the condition of the larger industry: in an August interview, Curbside Splendor founder Victor David Giron noted that the current publishing climate allows the Logan Square-based upstart to work with "some really strong Chicago authors who, 10 years ago, might have been published by a New York publishing house."

465px-Printer_in_1568-ce.pngGiron also estimated that about half Curbside Splendor's roster will always be composed of Chicagoans. His fellow panelist Emily Clark Victorson's Allium Press is more narrowly targeted: she publishes only fiction with a Chicago connection, and often with a historical bent. Meanwhile, Everything Goes Media will be represented by Sharon Woodhouse, who's just launched a new imprint for titles treating "ideas, history, trends, and current events," and Ian Morris reps the not-for-profit publishing sector with a look at the eclectic Fifth Star Press. A reception with snacks and a cash bar starts at 6pm, with the discussion itself at 7pm; admission's free.

Daphne Sidor

Bookmarks Fri Jan 31 2014

Bookmarks

Tonight! Stop by City Lit Books to hear Charles Finch discuss his new novel, The Last Enchantments, 6:30 pm.

Tonight! Head over to The Book Cellar to hear from local authors Mark Brand, Giano Cromley, Ben Tanzer, and Joseph Peterson, as they read from and discuss their latest works, 7 pm.

Saturday! You’ve finally perfected that short story collection, polished up the novel, edited the poetry down to one concise word; what next? CHI PRC hosts a submission workshop that will cover every step along the way to publishing your work, 3 - 5 pm, $10.

Saturday! Muscle your way into the sold-out 90-Second Newbery Festival, and enjoy young readers’ creative adaptations of Newbery-Award-winning books, 1.5 minutes at a time. Show goes up at the Vittum Theatre at 3 pm.

Saturday! Cole’s Bar hosts Back to Print in their 4th anniversary Jubilee, as they release their latest collection “Weather or Not”. Drop in to enjoy readings, followed by music, and, most importantly, cake. 9 pm.

Sunday! Theatre Wit presents Here’s the Story, a livelit series featuring seasoned storytellers as well as five open mike slots, all accompanied by a potluck dinner. Bring a dish, dish the dirt, $8 at 8 pm.

Miden Wood

Events Thu Jan 30 2014

The Best 90 Seconds You'll Ever Spend

Screen shot 2014-01-31 at 8.39.58 AM.pngImagine a short film, a minute and a half long, wherein little kids reenact their favorite children’s books. Now imagine watching a multitude of these shorts, back-to-back-to-back. Kind of triggers your ‘awww’ reflex doesn’t it?

Well such a festival isn’t hypothetical; it exists. It’s called the 90-Second Newbery Festival, and through it founder and The Order of Odd-Fish author James Kennedy challenges children to re-create Newbery-award-winning books within strict time constraints. The festival, which is only now entering its third year, has been a massive success, drawing in hundreds of submissions from around the world, all of which James watches and posts on his blog.

Screen shot 2014-01-31 at 8.21.01 AM.png

Even from its initial inception the concept was a hit. After losing the Newbery to Neil Gaiman in 2009, Kennedy was “embittered”. “I really wanted to win the Newbery. I really felt, in my heart of hearts, that I really deserved it [Author’s sarcasm].” After staging a fake battle with a friend dressed as Gaiman—including a series of physical challenges and ending with Kennedy’s own sacrifice at the altar of Newbery—Gaiman took notice, and took to social media about the whole spectacle. Then, when Kennedy posted the first Newbery adaptation, a 90-second A Wrinkle in Time, the concept exploded in popularity— and Neil Gaiman re-tweeting the video didn’t hurt.

After sitting down with Kennedy to discuss the upcoming festival on February 1st, it became apparent that this event is not just in it for the awww’s. “When you adapt a piece of literature, you take ownership of it,” he says of the 90-second challenge. By encouraging kids to not only read Newbery award winning books carefully, but also to pick and choose key narrative moments, they will inevitably develop opinions about that literature.

Continue reading this entry »

Miden Wood / Comments (1)

Events Tue Jan 28 2014

Witness the Matrix of Technology and Writing at Notes from the Mainframe

This Wednesday, Jan. 29, the Guild Literary Complex hosts the first of a two-part series, Applied Words: Notes from the Mainframe, at FreeGeek Chicago, 3411 W. Diversey.

The series, which invites writers employed in technology to read their work and discuss the interplay between creative writing and art and science, will include readings from the director of digital programs at Poetry Foundation, Catherine Halley; executive director of Smart Chicago Collaborative, Daniel X. O'Neil; and the founder of Chicago Literary Map, Stephanie Plenner. Readings will be book-ended by a warm-up open mic and a post-reading Q&A.

Applied Words: Notes from the Mainframe is co-sponsored by FreeGeek Chicago and us here at Gapers Block. Our co-founder and editor Andrew Huff will host the event, sharing a few technology-themed haiku poems.

The second part of this series, curated by Dr. Stephanie Levi, founder of Science is Sexy, will be scheduled in March.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Wed Jan 22 2014

Take Pride in Midwestern First Ladies with The Historic Pullman Garden Club

ng4.jpgFor gardeners especially, Chicago winters have to be tough: all the gleaming polar vistas of the lakefront can't entirely make up for the months of bare branches and frozen ground. Normally devoted to beautifying its neighborhood, The Historic Pullman Garden Club keeps itself and the public busy this time of year by putting on an annual Winter Lecture Series. The first of the year will be held Sunday, January 26, at 3pm at the Historic Pullman Center, 614 E. 113th St. Local author and public historian Cynthia Ogorek will shine a spotlight on first ladies with Midwestern roots and trace their connections to Chicago. The series will continue on February 28 and March 28 and refreshments will be served at each event. Those who plan to attend should RSVP by calling 773-568-2441 or emailing historicpullmangardens@gmail.com.

Photo/reminder of what flowers look like courtesy of The Historic Pullman Garden Club.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Jan 22 2014

First Up at the Cliff Dwellers Book Club: The Cliff-Dwellers

cdbooks.jpgThe Society of Midland Authors has made something of a specialty of celebrating lesser-known corners of the Midwest's literary heritage, and with the new Cliff Dwellers Book Club series, they open up a few more--not least of which is the penthouse digs of The Cliff Dwellers (200 S. Michigan), where meetings will be held. Since 1907, the private club has been an aerie above the city for makers and supporters of literature and the arts.

Only natural, then, that the first meeting--slated for Saturday, January 25, from 11am to 2pm--will focus on William Blake Fuller's 1893 novel The Cliff-Dwellers. Fuller did not find the cliffs and canyons of Chicago's ever-busier streets particularly hospitable, and in the book he catalogues the inhabitants of one particular skyscraper with a sardonic eye.

The novel, being in the public domain, is available for free on Google Books if you don't have a copy lying around. But if you miss this meeting, you'll have other chances: the club's set to meet monthly, with upcoming reads from the likes of Ring Lardner and Richard Babcock; selected authors who are still living will be invited to attend. Throughout the series, Cliff Dwellers member Richard Reeder will keep the discussion rolling. Attendees may reserve a spot by emailing reservations@cliff-chicago.org.

Daphne Sidor

Events Mon Jan 20 2014

There's No Shame in Going to the Encyclopedia Show

The Encyclopedia Show hits 2014 hard this Wednesday, January 22, 7:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. The theme "shame" will be addressed by all featured readers, which include a variety of spoken word, storytelling, music and comedy performers.

Each reader will dissect a topic relating to shame. Writer Natalie Edwards will address the unflattering and universal "walk of shame". HBO Def Poet Dan Sullivan goes back to syndicated television to recall the Batman villain Shame. Adam Moshe Levin, founder of the Young Chicago Authors' workshop Emcee WreckShop, gets serious about racial shame. Two Louder Than a Bomb college champions will read: Jasmine Alexandria Barber lives through vicarious shame, and Susie Swanton will address slut shaming. Poet Alison A. Ogunmokun invokes elementary school shame with her piece on dunce caps. Write Club host Ian Belknap will be wearing and reading about the Elizabethan Collar. And blogger Berto Saldana will speak of the shame of The Scarlet Letter heroine Hester Prynne.

The show is all ages, $9 for adults, $6 for students. This is the last season of The Encylopedia Show, so enjoy this while you can!

John Wawrzaszek

Awards Wed Jan 15 2014

Third Annual 2013 Book of the Year Awards @ The Book Cellar

The Chicago Writers Association presents its third annual Book of the Year Awards on Saturday January 18, 7pm, at The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave.

The annual award chooses selections in the categories of traditional and non-traditional fiction and non-fiction. The winning books of 2013 are Susan Nussbaum's Good Kings Bad Kings, Jay C. Rehak's 30 Days to Empathy, Bree Housley's We Hope You Like This Song, and David W. Berner's Any Road Will Take You There. All winning authors will read selections from their books. The event will be emceed by Tori Collins, President of Chicago Writers Association.

The event is free and open to the public. Authors will sign copies of their winning books, which will be sold at the event.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 15 2014

Gary Shteyngart Drops in on the Chicago Humanities Festival

shteyngart.jpgFun facts about Gary Shteyngart, author of The Russian Debutante's Handbook, Absurdistan, Super Sad True Love Story and most recently, the memoir Little Failure:

He was born Igor Steinhorn (which means "stone horn") in the city formerly known as Leningrad in 1972. After he and his parents moved to America his name was changed to Gary so he wouldn't be mistaken for "Frankenstein's assistant."

Shteyngart has been likened to everyone from Anton Chekhov to Judd Apatow to Alexander Portnoy, but he is perhaps best know as the excitable blurber behind The Collective Blurbs of Gary Shteyngart: A Catalogue of Promiscuous Praise.

And perhaps the most fun fact of all, Shteyngart will be appearing in conversation with another brilliant writer of the immigrant experience, Aleksandar Hemon, in our fair city next week!

As part of a great line-up of winter author talks, the Chicago Humanities Festival, in partnership with Unabridged Bookstore, hosts Shteyngart and Hemon on Wednesday, January 22 at 6pm at First United Methodist Church at The Chicago Temple, 77 W. Washington St. General admission is $15, and book and package deals are available (see the website for more info).

To whet you appetite, view the hilarious book trailer for Little Failure featuring James Franco, Rashida Jones and a few more famous hotshots.

Photo of Shteyngart courtesy of WSJ.com

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Jan 13 2014

Call for Submissions: Participate in the Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival!

tumblr_static_nerd-comedy-fest-2014-v02-4x6__2_.jpgIf you're a Chicago nerd who needs a creative outlet, Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival may just be your jam. Stage 773 is currently putting together the second annual Nerdfest, inspired by their popular recurring event Hey, I'm a Big Fan, which showcases readings of original fan fiction.

The festival itself will take place from March 19-22 at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont (kicking off on the 19th with Hey, I'm a Big Fan), but applications to perform at the festival are due on Wednesday, January 22. You can download the application from the Chicago Nerdfest Tumblr and follow them on Facebook for even more updates.

Image courtesy of the Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival Tumblr

Eden Robins

Author Sun Jan 12 2014

Science Fiction, Serial Killers, and Flaubert: Two Days of Samuel Delany at U of C

1456552_10151788600847047_2052672162_n.jpgYou may know him best as the author of sci-fi classics such as Dhalgren and the Return to Nevèrÿon series. Or you may have encountered him (as I did) through works that provocatively mix memoir and queer theory, such as Times Square Red, Times Square Blue. (His beard alone probably qualifies as a major artistic contribution to American society.) Chicago audiences get to see a few of Samuel R. Delany's many sides with a pair of upcoming public readings at the University of Chicago's Harper Memorial Library, 1116 E. 59th St. They're sponsored by Critical Inquiry, the interdisciplinary journal of theory based at U of C.

The first reading, held on Friday, January 17, will focus on Delany's recent fiction. Then, on Friday, January 31, he'll return to share insights from the writing course he's been teaching, entitled The Mirror and the Maze: Scenes and Sentences in Flaubert's 'Sentimental Education' and Moore/Campbell's 'From Hell.' Both lectures start at the somewhat inconvenient hour of 4:30pm, perhaps banking on the likelihood that some people will be curious enough to find out what connects Gustave Flaubert to a graphic novel about Jack the Ripper to sneak out of work early. Both events are free.

Photo courtesy of the author's Facebook page.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Jan 08 2014

Red Rover Series: A Vulnerable Rumble of Collaborative Reading

rrs.jpgRed Rover Series, an experimental live lit show, is sponsoring a collaborative reading with the theme "Vulnerable Times," to coincide with the MLA Convention's theme for 2014. Readers will present writing (by themselves or others) which bears some mark of vulnerability: forgotten work, work that nearly didn't exist, denied or discouraged work, etc.

This event will feature Amaranth Borsuk, Amy Catanzano, BK Fischer, Chris Glomski, Alan Golding, Rob Halpern, Carla Harryman, Lyn Hejinian, Douglas Kearney, John Keene, Philip Metres, Laura Moriarty, Ladan Osman, Danielle Pafunda, Lily Robert-Foley, Kenyatta Rogers, Jennifer Scappettone, Evie Shockley, Divya Victor, Barrett Watten, Christine Wertheim, Keith Wilson, Ronaldo Wilson, Kate Zambreno, Kazim Ali and Jonathan Stalling. Red Rover series is curated by Laura Goldstein and Jennifer Karmin with special guest Laura Mullen.

The reading will take place on Saturday, Jan.11 at Outer Space Studio, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave, (third floor walk up, not wheelchair accessible). There's a suggested donation of $4.

Photo courtesy of the Red Rover Series Facebook page.

Eden Robins

Events Tue Jan 07 2014

Wasted Pages Workshop Reading @ Chicago Publishers Resource Center

Thursday, Jan. 9, the Chicago Publishers Resource Center (CHIPRC), 858 N. Ashland Ave., hosts the Wasted Pages Fiction Reading at 8pm.

This fall, CHIPRC held the inaugural Wasted Pages Writers' Workshop, a weekly meetup operating outside of the academic writing framework and allowing writers to work on their craft. Writers of all skill levels shared work and gave feedback. The evening will showcase the short fiction generated at the workshop.

Readers include Montserrat De Frutos, Adam Rohacs, Miden Wood (one of our own Book Club contributors), Khadi King, Ben Spies (publisher of No More Coffee zine), Ariane Kenney and Collin Brennan (poet and publisher of Continental Interlude zine).

Learn more about the Wasted Pages Writing Workshop and sign up for their any of their upcoming writing workshops on the CHIPRC website. The event is free, but donations are appreciated.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jan 07 2014

Chicago Writers Conference Hosts Writers Night Out Workshops @ Lillstreet Loft

Chicago-Writers-Conference4.jpgYou may know that the Chicago Writers Conference (CWC) happens annually each fall, but did you know it also holds Writers Night Out workshops throughout the year? Catch the latest, Query Letter 101, on Monday January 13, 6:30-9pm at Lillstreet Loft, 4437 N. Ravenswood Ave.

Literary Agent Joanna MacKenzie of Chicago's Browne & Miller Literary Associates and CWC Founder and Executive Director Mare Swallow will lead an hour-long discussion and ensuing Q&A covering the definition of a query letter, why it's necessary for getting published, how to write one effectively and what an agent sees when they read your letter. (A glimpse into an agent's brain? Not impossible after all!)

The $65 registration ($60 per if you register two folks at once) also includes snacks, a prize-drawing and plenty of opportunities to hobnob with fellow writers. (Take heed: according to QueryTracker, MacKenzie specializes in commercial fiction, family saga, middle grade, romance, women's fiction and young adult--those whose book falls into that genre may be extra-interested in attending.)

Future Writers Night Out workshops include: Writing Sex in Fiction on Monday, February 3, and Breaking into Self-Publishing on Monday, March 3. All workshops are held from 6:30-9pm at Lillstreet Lofts. To stay in the know, sign up for the CWC email newsletter.


Lara Levitan

Events Mon Jan 06 2014

Warm Up with Two Cookie Minimum @ The Hungry Brain

Cookie Crumbs cover.jpgThis Tuesday, Jan. 7, shake off Monday's hibernation with monthly live lit series Two Cookie Minimum as it returns to kick off 2014! In addition to the promised presence of cookies, Two Cookie always showcases talented emerging writers, and this month features readers guaranteed to wake you from your wintry slumbers:

Mason Johnson, author of Sad Robot Stories on CCLaP

Jason Fisk, author of self-published novel, Hank and Jules

Cassandra Greenwald, member of Chicago Woman in Publishing, runner, vegan and author

Kevin Budnik, cartoonist and author of collections Our Ever Improving Living Room and Dust Motes

and Jessica Scott, creative writing student at Columbia College Chicago.

On top of edible and literary goodies, a Two Cookie commemorative zine will be available at the event, composed of cartoonist Alex Nall's caricatures and doodles of readers and scenes depicted at Two Cookie Minimum readings of 2013. As usual, the reading will be held at The Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont Ave.) at 9pm. Both the event and zine are free, though donations are always appreciated!

Miden Wood

Events Wed Jan 01 2014

Support Chicago Zine Fest with a Scream

58481_10150257304180372_1482693_n.jpgPunk rock, zines, and karaoke: there are some mutual affinities here. They're open even (or especially) to the untrained, they celebrate vigor and enthusiasm more than technical skill, and they're tons of fun to make. Fitting, then, that Chicago Zine Fest's first fundraiser of the year will be a night of Punk Rock Karaoke, held at Beauty Bar (1444 W. Chicago) on Thursday, January 9, at 8pm. (If you're wondering how come Bikini Kill and Black Flag don't show up in the songbooks at Spyner's or Lincoln Karaoke, it's because Punk Rock Karaoke Chicago records many of its backing tracks from scratch.) There's a $5 cover, which goes directly to the Fest--slated for March 14-15 this year, if you've unwrapped your 2014 calendars already.

Daphne Sidor

Books Mon Dec 23 2013

Housing History Repeats Itself in Lawrence J. Vale's Purging the Poorest

Cabrini_Green_Housing_Project.jpgI've been paying closer attention, lately, to the tail end of my morning commute: west along North Avenue from the lake to Larabee, then south. Of course, I'd always noticed the yellow-brick row houses of the Cabrini homes hunched across from my office building, behind the luxury condos and parking garages--fewer than 150 of them occupied, since the Chicago Housing Authority cleared hundreds of the units with an as-yet-unfulfilled promise that residents would return to a full-scale renovation. And although it's not on my way, the former site of the William Green Homes' last towers still shocks me with its emptiness when I happen to pass by. Lately, if I approach from the east past the shiny new Target, it even takes a moment for me to remember what that land was emptied of.

But thanks to Lawrence J. Vale's Purging the Poorest: Public Housing and the Design Politics of Twice-Cleared Communities, these days I've been looking not just at the negative space of the former Cabrini-Green area; I've also been paying attention to what, and who, has filled in the blanks. There's a strange feel to these mostly market-rate developments, swept clean of the obvious history that permeates the built environment of the other central neighborhoods. There are not a lot of public spaces and not a lot of people on the residential streets, just stretches of new brick and still-raw-looking landscaping occasionally punctuated by the profounder silence of a grass or gravel lot. The facades seem almost part of a set, unobtrusive scenery to sail past as our main characters take a drive downtown.

Continue reading this entry »

Daphne Sidor

Events Mon Dec 23 2013

Celebrate NYE with 2nd Story's Annual New Year's Eve Event

Welcome the New Year with 2nd Story as they celebrate their 6th annual end-of-year reading on Tuesday, December 31, 9:30pm at the Den Theater, 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tickets are $50 and provide a packed NYE experience.

The evening's entertainment, curated by 2nd Story contributor Nicholas Ward and directed by Liz Rice, includes wonderfully crafted stories from student Margaret Marion; Laura Krughoff, author of the novel My Brother's Name; and civil rights activist and writer Shaun Sperling. The storytellers have worked with musicians under the direction of Eric Hazen to craft a soundtrack to their stories. There will also be live music throughout the night.

To make this an extra happy New Year, the ticket price includes delicious bites, a champagne toast at midnight and a free first drink. There will be a limited number of "Pay What You Feel" tickets at the door starting at 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 19 2013

Sleep Over at Quimby's this January

Last year Quimby's Bookstore did something a bit zany (ziney?): a 24-hour zine challenge inviting zinesters to spend the night in their store and create. To capitalize on the success of year one, Quimby's is back with new antics for a second zine slumber party, as well as a new name devised by store manager Liz Mason. The Zlumber Party begins on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 9pm and runs until 9am on Sunday, Jan. 12. Participants will be calling Quimby's at 1854 W. North Ave. their home for the night.

ZlumberParty.png"We realized that people don't want to be here for 24 hours, ourselves included," said Mason, who is also the creator of Caboose zine. "Really they just want to be here overnight. The novelty of being here after hours, like a big creative slumber party, was really the attraction."

All zinesters and mini-comics artists are welcome to work on their projects. This year the challenge aspect has been toned down, focusing more on stirring up creativity (and maybe some coffee). It's about having a good time. "Instead of challenging people to make a whole zine in one night, we merely supply the space, supplies and inspiration to get them started on something, and ideally that would motivate them to complete a zine," Mason said.

Participants can work on a one-page zine, a comic strip, a work in progress, or the start of something bigger. There will be materials including paper, writing supplies, staplers, tables, and even snacks to help you create your masterpiece. You simply need to bring your ideas (and any specialized resources you use like laptops, ink, drawing utensils, etc.). It's like a four-star hotel for zinesters. (Jammies and sleeping bags are optional.)

This isn't like a high school lock-in. Participants can go as they please. "Some people don't stay the whole night," says Mason.

Space is limited so registration is preferred. Send an email to info@quimbys.com or call the store at 773-342-0910.

Photo provided by Quimby's Bookstore.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 12 2013

Tea-Infused Cocktails and Educated Vampires @ Local Root on Tuesday

jilly langlan.jpgSo we have vampire boyfriends, vampire slayers, vampire babies and vampire brides. But what about vampire oncologists? Look no further. The hero of local author Jilly Langlan's debut novel, A Mile of Mayhem, is Dr. Ian Bennett, a respected oncologist at a top Chicago hospital, despite his proclivity for blood sucking...

Langlan, who wrote the self-published novel while caring for her husband during his lymphoma treatment at Northwestern Hospital, will sign copies of A Mile of Mayhem at farm-to-table restaurant Local Root (601 North McClurg Court) during their Afternoon Tea special on Tuesday, December 17 from 2-5pm.

Continue reading this entry »

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Dec 09 2013

Sign Up for the First Annual Christmas Letter Swap

4960373.jpgAre you tired of seeing yet another engagement photo on Facebook this holiday season? Do you say "bah, humbug!" when everyone on Twitter seems to be planning the #most #amazing #newyears #ever? Then, the First Annual Christmas Letter Swap might be the writing project for you!

Live Lit performer and producer Scott Whitehair (This Much Is True, Story Lab Chicago) came up with the concept after his own misfortunes. "The idea stems from a conversation with friends last December," he said. "I was telling them that I wished I had sent out a weird family newsletter the year I got divorced. It would have been from 'The Whitehairs,' but with the 's' scratched out, and would have included a picture of me, clearly drunk, in an apartment that was empty except for a poorly decorated tree." From there, the idea of swapping funny and fictional Christmas newsletters began to take shape.

How does it work? Participants sign up on the website and write a letter on behalf of a completely made-up family. They then send it to five strangers and, in return, they'll receive news from five other fictional families. You can be as goofy and creative as you want, though there are samples on the site to inspire you. Pictures are strongly encouraged. Letters will be displayed on the website, and there will even be a Hall of Shame for those Scrooges who did not honor their commitment.

The deadline for signing up is Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5pm. Participation is free, the laughs are priceless.

Image courtesy of the Christmas Letter Swap website.

Ines Bellina

Events Sun Dec 08 2013

Warm Up This Tuesday at "Chicago's Most Intimate Storytelling Event"

1301244_orig.jpegAs the snow starts coming down and the nights grow longer, it's hard to think of a more appealing way to spend the evening than holing up in a warm, softly lit pub and listening to the true tales of seasoned storytellers. This Tuesday, December 10, monthly series This Much Is True takes its usual place at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro, 3905 N. Lincoln, at 7pm.

Headed by two of its founders (those would be improviser and farmer Stephanie Douglass and Scott Whitehair, who also runs Story Lab Chicago), this month's lineup presents a diverse mix of subjects and storytelling styles. Mama Edie Armstrong weaves together English, Spanish, and sometimes percussion to continue the storytelling traditions of her African and Native American ancestors. LeVan D. Hawkins draws on theatrical and spoken-word techniques to render explorations of family history and community. Other performers include Tekki Lomnicki, a theater artist who works with kids and adults with and without disabilities; librarian and connoisseur of awkwardness Amy Rood; and 2nd Story company member Ozzie Totten. Admission's free.

Photo of Stephanie Douglass courtesy of This Much Is True's website.

Daphne Sidor / Comments (1)

Events Thu Dec 05 2013

Revel in the City's Storied Past with The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame

The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame is an institution that feels a little bit misplaced in time. Most of its nominees passed from the city into literary fame or footnote long ago. And yet it is not an elderly institution: it held its first induction ceremony only in 2010. Its mission is to add layers to our experience as Chicagoans by reminding us how the city has been reflected and reshaped in the works of its writers. It wishes to make sure we recall that not only did columnist Ben Hecht spend One Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago and L. Frank Baum write The Wizard of Oz from his family home on Humboldt Boulevard, but also how Leon Forrest overlaid his fictional Forest County atop our own and that Thornton Wilder taught at the University of Chicago for six years.

Along with these four luminaries, a ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 7pm in Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall (430 S. Michigan) will honor Edna Ferber (Giant, Showboat) and Jet and Ebony publisher John H. Johnson. The program will also explore the ways that the honorees' visions of the city reverberate with its current writers and other assorted arts-adjacent figures--presenters range from Joe Meno and Thomas Dyja to Sex and the City actor David Eigenberg.

Enhancing the sense of eras colliding, the awards themselves will be accepted by relatives, descendants, and friends of the inductees, including Baum's grandson and Wilder's nephew. Guests can reserve a seat at the strange and wondrous festivities for free online.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Dec 04 2013

Face the Seven-Headed Birkensnake 6 at Uncharted Books

1460007_10202787023500876_1058427813_n.jpg"We hope for strong inhuman voices. We are weary of stories that present luminous dialogues between men and women. We hope for less luminous dialogue. More biology." So, in part, reads Birkensnake's submissions/mission statement. It's only natural, then, that the annual fiction journal's latest production seeks to defamiliarize the very forms of the lit mag and the public reading.

To break it down by numbers: this is Birkensnake's sixth issue. Of which there are seven versions entirely different in theme, design, and content. Each of which was co-curated by two guest editors, strangers at the time they were assigned to work together. Each variant has been hand-bound by a different artist, and they are lovely objects, packaged variously inside boxes or between bright covers resembling a child's board book.

They're also not for sale. To get one, you'll have to work a little. Chicagoans get their chance this Friday, December 6, at Uncharted Books, 2630 N. Milwaukee, at 7pm. Under the guidance of guest editor Megan Milks (who helped put together a volume of "Neverending Tales"), audience members choose the version they'd like to take home and then are assigned to read a piece from it. They--and you?--will also be joined by contributors James Tadd Adcox (The Map of the System of Human Knowledge) and Wyatt Sparks. Admission's free.

Photo by Megan Milks.

Daphne Sidor

Events Tue Dec 03 2013

Crime Writer Jeffrey Siger in Discussion @ National Hellenic Museum

You may not be able to jet over to the Greek island of Mykonos anytime soon, but international mystery writer Jeffrey Siger's latest novel, Mykonos After Midnight, just might be the next best thing. (As Mary Schmich said, reading is your discount ticket to anywhere!)

Siger will be in town on Thursday, Dec. 5 to promote Mykonos at the National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., 6:30-8pm.jeffrey siger.jpg

The novel is the fifth installation in the author's series featuring Chief Inspector Andreas Kaldis. (The first, Murder in Mykonos, was Greece's #1 best-selling English-language novel.) After the murder of a legendary Mykonos nightclub owner, Inspector Caldis must prove there's a far more complex solution to the murder than robbery. Caldis's ensuing struggle with a powerful, clandestine international force mirrors Greece's own struggle, amid its economic crisis, between its past and present.

Siger, a former New York lawyer who graduated to writing full time about Mykonos, is also a weekly contributor to Murder is Everywhere, a blog about the venues where ten mystery writers place their novels. (Read his post on Greek Thanksgiving cooking. Octopus and potatoes? Yes! I think?)

The event is free with museum admission ($10 for adults, $8 for seniors, faculty, students and museum members are free), light refreshments will be served, and books will be signed. Make your reservation here.

Photo of Jeffrey Siger courtesy of thedreamliveson.ch

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Nov 20 2013

Preview: Charles Blackstone @ The National Hellenic Museum

17654685.jpgThere's a lot to like about Charles Blackstone's latest novel, Vintage Attraction. The semi-autobiographical story of the romance between English teacher Peter Hapworth and world-renowned sommelier Izzy Conway invites the reader to speculate on Blackstone's own relationship with Alpana Singh. It name-drops some of Chicago's culinary haunts. There's a pug. However, one could argue that the most seductive aspect of Vintage Attraction is its depiction of the ripe vineyards of Greece, where the star-crossed lovers must face their uncertain future together.

Appropriately enough, Charles Blackstone will present his novel at The National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., this Thursday, November 21 at 6:30pm. He'll be joined by Jessa Crispin, editor-in-chief of Bookslut, who will lead a Q&A session. The discussion will center on Blackstone's work as well as his knowledge of Greek wines. A book signing will follow the presentation.

The event is free with museum admission. Light refreshments are provided.

Image courtesy of Goodreads.

Ines Bellina

Events Wed Nov 20 2013

Chicago Book Expo is Back!

book expo 2013.jpgThe Chicago Book Expo, a day to celebrate all things literary, returns after a two year hiatus this Sunday, November 24 at St. Augustine College, 1345 West Argyle. The expo showcases local authors, organizations, book sellers and more from 11am-5pm.

Tabling literary organizations include 826CHI, the Guild Complex, Chicago Women in Publishing and the Society of Midland Authors. Alongside will be local presses University of Chicago Press, Curbside Splendor, Other Voices, Switchback Books and more. Plus you can visit over 30 authors, most of who are self-publishers, who will be selling and signing books.

Over the course of the afternoon, six tracks of simultaneous programs with presenters that include Aleksandar Hemon, Samantha Irby, Christine Sneed, and Dmitry Samarov. There will be sessions with an emphasis on bilingual and nonfiction Chicago-related programming. Make sure to grab a program upon entering the expo as there are more readings and workshops not to be missed.

The expo is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Nov 19 2013

Zine Fest Fundraiser This Friday @826CHI

l84044-1.jpgWhat better way to fundraise for good-old-fashioned paper and ink than with good-old-fashioned Bingo? Chicago Zine Fest, the annual celebration of small press, indie publishers and self-published artists, is holding its third annual Bingo Night fundraiser this Friday, November 22, 7-9pm at 826CHI, 1331 North Milwaukee Ave.

Gather your lucky trolls and a $10 entry donation for a chance to win prizes from Handlebar restaurant, Laurie's Planet of Sound, Uncle Fun, and much more. Comic artist (of the graphic, not comedic sort) Rachel Foss will be hosting and snacks will be available, but you can BYOB. All proceeds will benefit Chicago Zine Fest, scheduled for March 14 & 15, 2014.

Photo courtesy of TusconCitizen.com.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Nov 18 2013

Do You Have the Heart of a Lion?

guts.jpgThis Wednesday, November 20, Powell’s Bookstore (2850 N. Lincoln Ave.) hosts a swarm of storytellers, a gaggle of galvanizers, a PRIDE of POETS, in this latest monthly installment of Guts & Glory: Live-Lit for the Lion-Hearted.

This week, escape the rain with hosts Keith Ecker and Samantha Irby, as they are joined by local story-tellers Diana Slickman, Ian Belknap (Who just this weekend closed his solo show, Bring Me the Head of James Franco, So That I May Prepare a Savory Goulash in the Narrow and Misshapen Pot of His Skull), Katie Prout, Jennifer Anne Coffeen, and Jeremy Owens (who you may have seen this weekend hosting live lit show You’re Being Ridiculous, due for a repeat performance on the 23rd).

The line-up’s glorious, the hosts deemed “obsession-worthy,” and perhaps the trophy of James Franco’s head will actually make an appearance (#celebritysighting) (#decapitationnation)! So come on out and see for yourself. Show starts at 7pm, and is BYOB and free!

Miden Wood

Poetry Thu Nov 14 2013

Savoring Syllables at the Poetry Foundation's Sijo Celebration

If you happen to have a simultaneous hankering for poetry and free Korean food this weekend, you're in luck. The Poetry Foundation's Poetry off the Shelf: Sijo Poetry with David McCann (held at their headquarters at 61 W. Superior) will explore the pleasures of the Korean poetic form sijo before a reception with traditional snacks, held at 3pm this Saturday, November 16.

urban_temple.jpgThe event will be more workshop than lecture--attendees will include students who entered the Sejong Cultural Society's sijo contest this year--and all participants are encouraged to apply what they learn to an original work of poetry during class. That shouldn't be as daunting as it may sound: sijo is something like a roomier haiku, its three lines containing 14-16 syllables each instead of haiku's 5-7-5 pattern. That leaves a lot more space for stormy human emotion alongside images borrowed from the natural world, and for humor as well as heartbreak in the signature "twist" of the poem's final line--as in the gentle 14th-century joke on aging in the earliest known sijo (tr. Larry E. Gross):

The spring breeze melted snow on the hills then quickly disappeared.
I wish I could borrow it briefly to blow over my hair
And melt away the aging frost forming now about my ears.

You can find some of McCann's own takes on the form in his collection Urban Temple: Sijo, Twisted and Straight.

Daphne Sidor

Events Thu Nov 14 2013

Happy Birthday Essay Fiesta!

228596_10150290562957538_6724086_n.jpgEssay Fiesta is turning 4, which according to them "is about 72 in Live Lit years." Over the years, the monthly reading series has given a voice to over 100 artists, hosted nearly 200 guests, and raised close to $6,000 for 826Chi.

To celebrate their longevity, Essay Fiesta is holding an actual fiesta of first-person, non-fiction essays on Monday, November 18 at The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Their top-notch line up includes Moth Grandslam Champion Shannon Cason, 826CHI Director of Education Zach Duffy, solo show performer Natasha Tsoutsouris, This Much Is True co-host Stephanie Douglass, and the return of Essay Fiesta founder Keith Ecker. Join hosts Karen Shimmin and Willy Nast, of All Write Already! fame, for this special birthday bash. Here's hoping a piñata will be part of it .

The event is free, but donations to 826CHi are much appreciated. Show begins at 7 pm.

Image courtesy of Essay Fiesta's Facebook page.

Ines Bellina / Comments (1)

Events Thu Nov 14 2013

The Tatra Eagle Soars Sunday at Polonia Bookstore

tatra.jpgFor fans of historical fiction, catch J. Victor Tomaszek, author of The Tatra Eagle, on Sunday, November 17, 2pm at Polonia Book Store, 4732 N. Millwaukee Ave.

The Tatra Eagle is set in 1683 during the Ottoman Turks invasion of Vienna, Austria. Boleslaw Radok, a young Polish boy living with his family of shepherds in the Tatra Mountains, learns of his father's death and is faced with the decision to join the fight against the Turks. Like the white eagle of the Tatra Mountains, the young warrior flies into battle.

Tomaszek will read from the book and discuss with attendees, and books will be available .

John Wawrzaszek

Author Wed Nov 13 2013

Donna Tartt Talks Art, Inspiration and Process at the Chicago Humanities Fest

donna tartt.jpgDonna Tartt's three novels have been published across the span of three decades--one for each. Her first novel, the wildly successful A Secret History was published in 1992, and her second, The Little Friend, rolled around in 2002. (Almost) right on time arrives her latest, The Goldfinch, which Tartt was in town to discuss with Jennifer Day, editor of Printer's Row literary journal, for the Chicago Humanities Fest on Saturday, November 2.

When discussing why it takes 10 years to write a book, Tartt partially attributed it to her willingness to wait for surprises. "[Some of the best ideas] come quietly to the back door," she said onstage at the Thorne Auditorium at Northwestern University Law School. (We can only hope that Tartt will deliver yet another masterpiece of moody genius come 2020-something.)

Continue reading this entry »

Lara Levitan / Comments (2)

Events Wed Nov 13 2013

Black Violet Joins Animated Live Lit and Music

For a unique experience that joins graphic art and live music, look no further then Black Violet, a performance by Fifth House Ensemble this Sunday, November 17 at
Constellation, 3111 N. Western Ave., 8:30pm.

Black Violet Act I: Leagues of Despair, follows the life of a black cat named Violet in 17th century London during the outbreak of the bubonic plague. The story is written, illustrated and animated by Ezra Claytan Daniels, known for his critically acclaimed graphic novel series The Changers, and a digital animated graphic novel Upgrade Soul, which was released on Opertoon. Daniels is also the creator of the Comic Art Battle, a live art event that pits artists against one another before a crowd.

Black Violet follows the protagonist through the streets of London as she looks for her owner while staving off capture; black cats were suspected plague carriers. The beautifully drawn artwork is complemented with musical accompaniment by Chicago's Fifth House Ensemble, a versatile and dynamic chamber music group. The score celebrates the works of Brahms, Walter Piston, and Jonathon Keren, among others.

I spoke with Daniels to learn more about Black Violet's partnership of music and art. He discussed collaborating with Fifth House and preparing his graphic art and text for the show.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Nov 12 2013

Graveyards of Chicago Comes to the Nisei Lounge

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Halloween has come and gone and you're still not spooked? Head to the Nisei Lounge for the Graveyards of Chicago book release party and Bachelors Grove cemetery restoration fundraiser. Local authors and taphophiles Matt Hucke and Ursula Bielski will be signing books and guest bartenders will be slinging festive drinks. The first 50 people to purchase books will receive a gift bag of other Lake Claremont Press titles.

Paranormal enthusiast Bielski is best known as the author of the Chicago Haunts book series, as well as the founder of Chicago Hauntings ghost tours. Photographer Hucke has visited and taken pictures of over 1,000 graveyards and mausolea.

The event takes place on Thursday, November 14, from 6 to 9 pm. The Nisei Lounge is located at 3439 N. Sheffield. A portion of the drink and book sales will support the restoration efforts of the historic Bachelors Grove Cemetery. The event is free, but please RSVP here.

Image courtesy of Lake Claremont Press

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Author Tue Nov 12 2013

Author Jacob M. Appel in Town for a Workshop and Reading

BioofLuck_COVER_Final.jpgMove over, James Franco. He might not be an A-list Hollywood celeb, but Jacob M. Appel holds nine graduate degrees, is a bioethicist, a physician, a lawyer and a social critic, not to mention a licensed NYC tour guide. And if that isn't enough to make you wonder what you've been doing with your life, he's an extremely prolific and award-winning author of plays, short stories and novels. His latest, The Biology of Luck (Elephant Rock Books), tells the story of Larry Bloom, a NYC tour guide who writes a book about his first date with a woman named Starshine Hart before actually going on that date. (We've all been there, right?)

Donna Seaman says The Biology of Luck is a "nimbly satiric variation on Joyce's Ulysses....In Appel's clever, vigorously written, intently observed, and richly emotional tale, hilarious mishaps are wildly complicated by the intersections between life and Larry's novel about Starshine."

Appel will be in town to host a discussion on the literary marketplace at The Writers WorkSpace, 5443 N. Broadway on Sunday, November 17 from 2-3:30pm. The $18 ticket gets you a copy of the book and the opportunity to submit 500 words of your own prose for Appel's take on where you might submit your work. Tickets are limited, so get yours now. (Coffee and light refreshments will be served.)

If you can't make Sunday, catch Appel reading alongside Allison Lynn, author of The Exiles, at City Lit Books, 2523 North Kedzie Blvd., on Saturday, November 16 at 4pm.

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Nov 07 2013

Allergy Season Hits Ray's Tap Reading Series

rays.jpgThe Ray's Tap Reading Series returns from the brink this Saturday, November 9 at the Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston Ave., but now it has allergies.

Sniffling through performances on the theme of allergies and the glories of the immune system will be Natalie Edwards, David Isaacson, Charlotte Hamilton, Dave Snyder, Matt Test, Ruth McCormack, Erin Kahoa, Daniel Shapiro, Mark Chrisler, Tim Racine, Mason Johnson, and Margaret Chapman. Along with the cacophony of nose blowing, live music will be provided by Tijuana Hercules. The event is hosted by the nasally congested master of ceremonies, Chris Bower.

Commemorative event buttons and posters (with artwork by Susie Kirkwood) will be available for purchase. You must, however, bring your own tissues and nasal spray. The show is $15,10pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Wed Nov 06 2013

Elizabeth Gilbert Dazzles @ Printers Row

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Photo by Megan Bearder for the Chicago Tribune

On Wednesday, Oct. 30, Elizabeth Gilbert visited Trib Nation's Printers Row to promote her new book -- and her return to fiction -- The Signature of All Things. The event took place in the Grand/State ballroom at the Palmer House Hilton and Gilbert was interviewed by Manya Brachear Pashman, the Chicago Tribune's religion reporter.

Signature tells the tale of Alma Whittaker, a 19th century botanist. At the time, botany was one of the rare sciences to which women, society's own beautiful flowers, had access. However, it was also the science of explorers, men who risked life and limb on the high seas to bring back plants from the darkest corners of the earth, especially tropical orchids. Whittaker, however, specializes in the decidedly unsexy study of moss. That's right. Moss. Gilbert realized that as a single woman, Alma wouldn't have had the freedom to travel to exotic locales. So she arranged for Alma to stumble on a great scientific discovery right outside her father's door, something that was "manageable and also enormous" and eventually allows Alma to reach the same conclusions about evolution as Charles Darwin before Darwin ever published his theories.

Continue reading this entry »

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Book Club Tue Nov 05 2013

Forms of Fiction: The Novel in English @ University of Chicago

The University of Chicago presents a three-day conference, Forms of Fiction: The Novel in English this week from Wednesday, November 7 through Friday, November 9. Literary heavy hitters A.S Byatt (Possession: A Romance), Tom McCarthy (C), and others will discuss the novels Middlemarch, Pride and Prejudice, Ulysses, and The Golden Bowl (sample Pride and Prejudice discussion: "A Pudding or a Machine". TELL ME MORE). Readings, book signings, and "coffee and light breakfasts" will also be on offer. The event takes place at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 East 60th St. Advance registration is suggested for each event; the conference is free and open to all. Seriously: A.S Byatt breaking it down about Middlemarch? Stars in my eyes, you guys. Stars.

Emilie Syberg

Events Fri Nov 01 2013

All American Horror Stories @ City Lit Books

All American Horror.jpg For those not ready to be done with Halloween, drop by City Lit Books , 2325 N. Kedzie, for readings from All-American Horror of the 21st Century on Tuesday November 5 at 6:30pm.

Released this year on Wicker Park Press, the anthology features short fiction published in the first decade of the millennium. Edited by Mort Castle, professor of creative writing at Columbia College, the collection celebrates the unique style of American horror fiction.

At the event will be readings from contributors Sam Weller, biographer of Ray Bradbury; Wayne Allen Sallee, author of Holy Terror; New York Times bestselling author Jay Bonansinga; Wormfood author Jeff Jacobson; and Bram Stoker Award-winning author John Everson.

Books will be available, and authors will likely be signing the work, just not in their own blood. (Or will they?)

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Oct 30 2013

Friend. Follow. Text. Book Release this Weekend

cover-friend-follow-text_large.jpgWriting and social media intersect in the new book Friend. Follow. Text. #storiesFromLivingOnline. Celebrate the book launch this Saturday, November 2 at 5:30pm at City Lit Books, 2325 N. Kedzie.

Friend. Follow. Text. is an anthology exploring the connection between social media and literary fiction. As the digital age drifts further from the printed word, it also provides the opportunity for massive amounts of published personal narratives. The book showcases work inspired by all forms of social media.

Reading will be contributors Ben Tanzer, Operations Manager of This Zine Will Change Your Life, Director of Publicity and Content Strategy at Curbside Splendor Publishing, and author of the novel Orpahns; Wyl Villacres, writer and blogger you can find on Twitter at @wyllinois; Lisa Mrock, writer and student at Columbia College's Fiction Writing Department; Steve Karas, reviewer at Review Review; and Megan Stielstra, author of the story collection Everyone Remain Calm and Literary Director of 2nd Story.

Books will be available at the reading.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Oct 29 2013

Elizabeth Gilbert Speaks About The Signature of All Things at Printers Row

Most people know Elizabeth Gilbert as the author of Eat, Pray, Love, a memoir that recounts her globe-hopping recovery from a devastating divorce. However, before Gilbert became an icon for women seeking greater self-awareness (or a self-indulgent navel gazer, depending on who you ask), she was an award-winning fiction writer. Her short story collection Pilgrims was the winner of a Pushcart Prize, as well as a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award. Her first novel, Stern Men, garnered rave reviews from the likes of the New York Times. Tomorrow, Gilbert will discuss her return to fiction after more than a decade with her new novel, The Signature of All Things.

A work of historical fiction set in the 19th century, The Signature of All Things tells the story of botanist Alma Whittaker. Whittaker's devotion to an as-yet-unstudied phylum of moss, as well as the decidedly unscientific pursuit of love, takes her and the reader around the world from London to Peru, to Amsterdam and Philadelphia and finally Tahiti. Gilbert conducted three years of research to create Alma's world, and skillfully weaves historical events, such as the murder of Captain Cook, into the narrative. Barbara Kingsolver in her New York Times book review describes the novel as "a bracing homage to the many natures of genius and the inevitable progress of ideas, in a world that reveals its best truths to the uncommonly patient minds." And for the naysayers who have relegated Gilbert strictly to the domain of chick lit, Aimee Levitt of the Chicago Reader grudgingly admits, "All this would be worth nothing, of course, if Gilbert couldn't write. But she can. Extremely well. Goddamn it."

Elizabeth Gilbert will appear on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 7pm as part of Trib Nation's Printers Row series. The event takes place in the Grand/State ballroom at the Palmer House Hilton (17 E. Monroe St). Admission is $25 per ticket or $53 for a ticket plus a copy of the new book.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Author Mon Oct 28 2013

Hooker Ghosts and Baby Roasts: The Book Cellar's 7th Annual Witty Women Writers Night

Last Wednesday's 7th Annual Witty Women Writers Night opened with a song. More specifically, it began with Book Cellar owner Suzy Takacs welcoming Stacey Ballis (Good Enough to Eat, Off the Menu), Amy Guth (Three Fallen Women), Jen Lancaster (Bitter is the New Black, Here I Go Again: A Novel, The Tao of Martha) and Claire Zulkey (AN Off Year) with an original composition set to the tune of The Archies' "Sugar, Sugar":

"Witty, ah, witty women,
You are my author girls,
And you've got me readin' you."

Continue reading this entry »

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Author Mon Oct 28 2013

Reza Aslan Visits the Chicago Public Library Wednesday

REZA ASLAN author photo (Credit Malin Fezehai) (1).jpgReligious Scholar Reza Aslan made headlines last summer when Fox News anchor Lauren Green asked him, essentially, why on earth a Muslim would write a book about Jesus Christ, the founder of Christianity. According to The Nation, "the story was quickly framed as a battle between the right-wing Islamophobes of Fox News and Aslan, the defender of intellectual life and scholarship"-- and the author of those words has her own opinion of Aslan's credentials.

The book in question is Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth, and you can form your own opinion of Aslan and his work this Wednesday, October 30 at the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, Lower Level, at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. at 6pm.

Aslan will discuss the #1 New York Times Bestseller Zealot, which frames Jesus as a rebel in the "age of zealotry" in first-century Palestine, a wandering miracle worker whose mission was "so threatening to the established order that he was captured, tortured, and executed as a state criminal."

The event is free.

Photo © Malin Fezehai

Lara Levitan

Book Club Mon Oct 28 2013

Nikky Finney @ Poetry Foundation

Nikky Finney, whose poetry collection Head Off & Split won the 2011 National Book Award for poetry, will read her work at the Poetry Foundation this Wednesday, October 30. Finney's powerful poems often explore the intersection between art and the political; one poem, "The Condoleezza Suite", brings Condoleezza Rice to life, while another, "Left", evokes scenes from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Finney is also a founding member of The Affrilachian Poets, a collective of writers committed to illustrating the diversity of the Appalachian region. The event takes place at the Poetry Foundation, 61 West Superior Street, at 7pm (admission is free).

Emilie Syberg

Events Mon Oct 28 2013

Trick or Treat at Laydeez Do Comics this Thursday

Laydeez Do Comics, a reading and discussion series that celebrates graphic work from local female artists and writers, returns to Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., on Thursday October 31, 7pm.

The event began in London and has moved across the pond, finding roots at Quimby's, Chicago's headquarters for independent publications. Each event welcomes a different panel of speakers who present their work and discuss their process. A Q&A follows, allowing fans, fellow creators and aspiring artists a chance to become part of the event.

The October lineup features cartoonist Beth Hetland, whose releases include the titles Fugue and Half Asleep. Joining Hetland is Jacyln Miller, cartoonist and Chicago Zine Fest organizer. Miller's newest work, Rememberies, documents her adventures as a kid growing up in Central Florida through her move to Chicago.

I interviewed Miller asking questions about her process, her inspirations and her work.

What initially prompted you to express yourself and your stories through comics?

A good friend of mine from high school made a post about Hourly Comic Day (every February 1st, where you make and post a small comic for every hour you're awake in that 24 hour period) back in 2010, and I decided to give it a go. It was difficult, and it took me way longer than that day to finish, but I completed the task and I was pretty much hooked on making my own auto-bio comics from that point forward.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Oct 23 2013

StoryCorps Celebrates Tenth Anniversary with Book Release Party

How many times have you used the old "dust in my eye" excuse after listening to a StoryCorps interview? Keep those hankies handy because StoryCorps has released a book in honor of its tenth anniversary titled Ties That Bind: Stories of Love & Gratitude from the First Ten Years of StoryCorps. StoryCorps founder, Dave Isay, dug into the archives to find stories that celebrate the human connection through one-on-one conversations. (StoryCorps has archived 50,631 of them - and counting!)

Isay's U.S. tour will stop in Chicago to celebrate StoryCorps' anniversary and promote the book on Friday, October 25 at 7pm. The event will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center's Preston Bradley Hall (78 E. Washington St).

Story Corps is an independent nonprofit whose mission is to provide people of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share, and preserve the stories of our lives - and make us cry.

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Image courtesy of StoryCorps website.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Mon Oct 21 2013

New Comic Series Delia Awesome Launches @ the Hideout

1395381_199602003558519_1902217580_n.jpgDelia Awesome is a disappointment to her parents, a puzzle to her friends, and a problem for her boss...The super powers just make things worse.*

Sound like your kinda gal? If so, check out the launch party for the new Delia Awesome comic book series by writer/illustrator Michael Schneider and editor Jane Huh on Wednesday, October 23 at 6pm at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. DJ Phantom Power will perform a set.

The location of this party is key, seeing as Delia's "journey as a hesitant, mildly neurotic superhero" begins at the Hideout, and continues at various music venues across Chicago.

Issue #1 of the comic, described as homage to photocopied zines and underground comics by an artist who claims John Waters, Peter Bagge, and R. Crumb as his inspiration, will be available at the event; but if you can't make it, pick up a copy at Graham Cracker Comics, saki, G-Mart Comic, or more locations listed here. Or, you can view it online.

*From the comic's website. Image courtesy of Delia Awesome's Facebook page.

Lara Levitan

Interview Fri Oct 18 2013

Interview: Rebecca Skloot Discusses Life Beyond Lacks

Rebecca Skloot is best known for her #1 New York Times bestseller, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. But before becoming a writer, Skloot earned a degree in biomedical sciences and worked as a veterinary technician. For more than a decade, she worked in private practices, research labs, veterinary schools, animal morgues, and emergency rooms, among other places. Rebecca_Skloot_Thumbnail.jpg

Inspired by these experiences and the ethical questions they raised, Skloot is currently working on an as-yet-untitled second book that will explore the science and ethics of the roles animals play in our lives and we in theirs. Skilled at combining science with a compelling narrative, Skloot intends to show how our relationship with animals is both beneficial and complicated - and not nearly as clear-cut as it first appears. Would someone who refuses to wear leather decline a cancer treatment based on animal research? What makes one animal a suitable service animal while another is deemed inappropriate? Why do we rescue some animals and kill others?

Rebecca Skloot will be sharing more about her new project in the program "Rebecca Skloot: Creatures Great and Small" as part of the Chicago Humanities Festival on Sunday, October 20 at 1pm at the University of Chicago. For tickets and more information, visit the Chicago Humanities Festival website.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Rebecca about her upcoming book, tricking people into learning science, wild dogs, and frontal lobes.

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Kathryn Pulkrabek / Comments (1)

Chicago Public Library Thu Oct 17 2013

When Was the Last Time You Went to the Library?

imagescpl.jpgWhen you think about it, the library really shouldn’t have to advertise. Essentially it’s an institutionalized version of that friend who’ll always loan you a good book, except in this case that friend has the best book collection ever. Harold Washington alone houses 9 stories of resources, both literary and technological. And have I mentioned the entire operation is free? Yet findings continually show that between the ages of 22 and 40 library patronage plummets.

So what is it going to take to put libraries back on the map for post-grads? Chicago Public Libraries have found a young-adult-advocate in the Junior Board, a sect of the Chicago Public Library Foundation composed of volunteers dedicated to bringing young professionals back to the library. Acting and founding president Suraj Patel helped to concoct the idea during consulting work he did for the Foundation. “I did a year-long project with them, and then we were asked for a five-year strategic plan,” he says, “and part of that plan was to create the Junior Board.”

“I think a lot of people use the library when they’re students, when they’re in school, and then they don’t for a while,” says Paul Bruton, Junior Board president-elect. “Then they use the library again because they’ve got kids. But in between, there’s people who aren’t taking advantage of all the library has to offer… [The Junior Board is] trying to raise awareness about the programs that the Foundation promotes, and also getting young professionals or twenty-and-thirty-somethings involved in library programming.”

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Miden Wood

Events Thu Oct 17 2013

Hybrid Forms: Columbia College Celebrates Creative Nonfiction

Creative Nonfiction Week at Columbia College Chicago, the annual celebration of creative nonfiction and literary journalism, returns next week on October 21-24.

The schedule is packed with visual artists, storytellers, poets and writers showcasing a spectrum of forms of written expression. All events are at Columbia's Stage Two, 618 S. Michigan Ave. unless otherwise noted.

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On Monday, October 21 at 4pm, theLatina Voices reading includes current and former students of the Latina Voices course, and is hosted by assistant professor in Columbia's Journalism department Teresa Puente. At 7pm, poet, writer and Emmy award winner Kwame Dawes will read.

On Tuesday, October 22 at 4pm, expect a panel on Graphic Storytelling and Nonfiction Comics. Guest include comics artists and organizers of the Chicago Alternative Comic Expo Neil Brideau, writer and academic Anne Elizabeth Moore, Darryl Holliday and Erik Rodriguez, moderated by creative writing department staff member Greg Baldino.

At 7 pm a second panel, Telling Live Stories: Performance and Discussion will feature 2nd Story members Megan Stielstra and Bobby Biedrzycki, along with Shannon Cason and Andre Perez, moderated by associate professor Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin from Columbia's journalism department.

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John Wawrzaszek

Author Thu Oct 17 2013

Author Natalie Bakopoulos Reads The Green Shore @ National Hellenic Museum

To put it mildly, Greece is a country in chaos. As a result of its severe debt crisis, it struggles with austerity measures, labor strikes, bloated government institutions, and an unemployment rate of 27.6 percent.

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But this is not the first time Greece has encountered political pandemonium. Natalie Bakopoulos' debut novel, The Green Shore, harkens us back to a similarly tumultuous time in Greek history. In 1967, a group of Greek military colonels executed a coup d'etat under the cover of night. Democracy would not be restored until seven years later.

The aftermath of the coup is seen through the eyes of four characters: French literature student Sophie, her doctor mother Eleni, her poet uncle Mihalis, and her younger sister Anna. Each character copes with the sweeping and often brutal political changes while continuing their personal stories, following dreams and passions, and experiencing new vistas physically, emotionally and politically.

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Kathryn Pulkrabek

Book Club Wed Oct 16 2013

Helen Fielding Talks Bridget Jones for Trib Nation Presents: Printers Row

Mad About the Boy.jpgAfter a 14-year hiatus, Bridget Jones is back in book form. This Friday, October 18, Helen Fielding--the author of Bridget Jones's Diary and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason--will speak about the most recent addition to the Bridget Jones verse, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in an event presented by Trib Nation Events: Printers Row; Fielding will be featured in conversation with the Chicago Tribune "Lessons for Life" columnist Jenniffer Weigel.

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy follows Bridget as she navigates the modern dating world, with all its shiny new bells, whistles, and ways to communicate (it's not the '90s anymore). I can't bring myself to discuss the major plot twist that's been revealed online in the past few weeks; suffice it to say that, if you'd like to remain unspoiled and un-heartbroken, don't ask the Internet. The event takes place in the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Intercontinental, 505 N. Michigan Avenue, at 7pm. Tickets for this event are $25; tickets for the event plus a copy of the book are $48.50.

Emilie Syberg

Events Wed Oct 16 2013

Artist Ann Hamilton Talks About Installing Words in Public Places

VERSE_Kris_reading.jpgAnn Hamilton's words fill several libraries, but she's not primarily an author. The artist is known for plastering floors, walls, and other surfaces with fields of words and letters, and her work is on prominent display in the public libraries of San Francisco (in the form of old catalog cards overlaid with notes and drawings) and Seattle (where a wooden floor is carved with sentences from books in the collection).

On Thursday, October 17, at 7pm at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior, Hamilton will talk about where those words come from and how they function in the context of art with two highly appropriate panelists. Sculptor, painter, and installation artist Jessica Stockholder also tends to view surfaces as part blank page, part canvas. Chicago native Srikanth Reddy, on the other hand, is a poet, but one who arranges his words in visually arresting ways. Admission is free.

Photo © Fredrik Marsh/Jenny Fine.

Daphne Sidor

Poetry Wed Oct 16 2013

Turkish Poet Bejan Matur Reads @ Poetry Foundation

Bejan_Matur_Thumbnail.jpgTurkish poet, author and columnist Bejan Matur will read her work at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.) on Wednesday, October 16. A reception will be held from 6pm to 7pm and the reading will follow. The event is co-sponsored by the Poetry Foundation and Amnesty International.

Born in Southeast Turkey, Matur was raised speaking Kurdish, which was officially banned in the region for many years. Though she writes in Turkish, she says that her writing is strongly influenced by the cadence and rhythm of her mother tongue. Her award-winning poetry has been described as shamanist, dark and mystic, and draws heavily from her experiences of village life. Her poems have been translated into 24 languages.

Trained as an attorney, Matur never practiced law and instead found her way to journalism. She regularly tackles issues such as Kurdish politics, Armenian news and women's issues. Matur is also the former director of Diyarbakır Cultural Art Foundation, and in 2011 joined the Council of Experts for the Democratic Progress Institute, whose main focus is conflict resolution.

Image courtesy of the Poetry Foundation website

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Tue Oct 15 2013

Brief Wondrous Hour with Junot Diaz at The Chicago Humanities Festival

Thumbnail image for Junot_Diaz_461x250.jpgLast Sunday evening, as part of this year's Chicago Humanities Festival, Pulitzer-Prize winning author Junot Diaz sat down with Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me! host Peter Sagal to a packed audience at Northwestern's Cahn Auditorium. "Welcome to the presentation of two bald guys from Jersey," said Sagal.

If only conversations with bald guys from New Jersey were always this intellectually stimulating.

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Ines Bellina / Comments (1)

Events Mon Oct 14 2013

Travel Writer Kathleen Wheaton Reads @ Evanston Public Library

Kathleen Wheaton knows how it feels to be an outsider. She spent twelve years in Spain, Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico working as a journalist and travel writer before returning to the U.S. with her husband, NPR reporter David Welna, and their two sons. Wheaton now resides in Bethesda, Md., and has released a book of travel-inspired short stories called Aliens and Other Stories.
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Aliens and Other Stories is a loosely linked collection of tales about characters in exile, whether it be physical or emotional. They were inspired by the time Wheaton spent writing a guidebook in Argentina, which was then still emerging from the shadow of its Dirty War, a brutal military dictatorship during which as many as 30,000 people disappeared. She was struck by the nonchalance with which people recounted the traumatic experiences of being arrested, going into hiding or having relatives disappear; she wrote short stories based on these interactions.

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Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Mon Oct 14 2013

Whiskey Women Book Release @ Hungry Brain

There's a common misconception that whisky is a drink reserved for Don Draper, bros in finance, and the occasional mustached hipster. Whiskey Women: The Untold Story of How Women Saved Bourbon, Scotch, and Irish Whiskey will blow that stereotype out of the firewater. The book focuses on the ladies in the spirits industry from Mesopotamia beer brewers to American bootleggers to Bessie Williamson, the greatest female distiller in post-war America. Best-selling author Fred Minnick will present his latest at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., on Wednesday, October 16 at 6pm. Monique Huston of Stoller Wine & Spirits, "still stoker" Karen Sisulak Binder of Southern Sisters Spirits, Brand Ambassador of Death Door's Spirits Meg Bell, and Koval Distillery's Sonat Hart will join Mr. Minnick for a panel discussion. The event is free and open to those of legal drinking age. The author will sign books available for purchase at the event.

Ines Bellina

Events Mon Oct 14 2013

Indie Publisher Chicago Review Press Celebrates 40 Edgy Years, Plans for More

CRP_logo.jpgLike a rock n' roll band, Chicago Review Press started in a garage. And with a rock n' roll attitude, the independent press has published quirky and controversial books since 1973. (Sample titles: Working While Black: The Black Person's Guide to Success in the White Workplace by Michelle T. Johnson, Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction: Build Implements of Spitball Warfare by John Austin.)

Currently publishing 65 new titles a year under four imprints, CRP has not only survived but thrived in a tumultuous era for the industry. This year, the River North press celebrates its 40th anniversary. Book Club caught up with Publisher Cynthia Sherry, who started her career at CRP as an accountant, moved on to editorial director in 1995, and publisher in 2004. Sherry shared insights on CRP's success, what hopeful authors need to know about submitting, and plans for the future (hint: more intriguing books!).

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Lara Levitan

Chicago Public Library Sun Oct 13 2013

John Freeman, Aleksandar Hemon Talk About Novelists, The Novel

There's clearly an accord between John Freeman (until recently editor of Granta) and Aleksandar Hemon--the latter gets one of the longest profiles in the former's new collection of interviews with modern authors, How to Read a Novelist. On Tuesday, October 15, at the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State) at 6pm, the two will convene to talk about the book and other literary matters. Of course, any book entitled How to Read a Novelist is bound to touch on the question of why to read a novelist, and Freeman plans to make a forceful case for why "the novel is far from dead"--if the presence of the masterful author of The Lazarus Project wasn't evidence enough.

Daphne Sidor

Author Thu Oct 10 2013

Jhumpa Lahiri Discusses New Novel The Lowland @ Printers Row

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An audience of around 500 people gathered last Tuesday to hear Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri discuss her new novel, The Lowland. Lahiri, whose works include The Namesake, Interpreter of Maladies, and Unaccustomed Earth, spoke at the Palmer House Hilton as part of Printers Row, a year-long series of literary programming offered by the Chicago Tribune. Lahiri was interviewed by her fellow Pulitzer winner, Tribune columnist Mary Schmich.

Cultural duality is a common theme in Lahiri's work, and The Lowland is no exception. The Lowland follows the divergent paths of two brothers who were once inseparable, one an earnest college student who ends up in the U.S. and the other a revolutionary with the Naxalites, a far-left radical communist movement originating in West Bengal. Lahiri's inspiration for the novel came from a story she heard as a teen from her father about a pair of brothers who were killed due to their Naxalite affiliation. The movement was particularly active -- and violent -- in Kolkata, where Lahiri often visited relatives and would overhear gossip about the Naxalites.

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Kathryn Pulkrabek

Book Club Tue Oct 08 2013

Robert Pinsky's PoemJazz @ Harold Washington Library

This Thursday, October 10, former poet laureate Robert Pinsky and musician Laurence Hobgood come together to present PoemJazz for the 59th annual Poetry Day, a reading series founded by Robert Frost. (Previously featured Poetry Day poets include W.H Auden, Gwendolyn Brooks, Seamus Heaney, Anne Sexton, et al.-- in other words, you're in good company.)

PoemJazz blends music and poetry, playing off their commonalities and exploring the dynamic that's created when the two forms become one (click here to watch a video of Pinsky performing).

The event will take place at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 South State Street; admission is free, on a first come, first served basis, and doors open at 5pm. Come and get down.

Emilie Syberg

Author Tue Oct 08 2013

Nick Offerman Woos Crowd with Song, Reading & the Occasional Plié

Paddle Your Own Canoe.jpgPromotional material for last week's Nick Offerman event at The Music Box Theatre was hesistant to call it a reading. Unabridged Bookstore, one of the organizers, went so far as to say it was "in support of his forthcoming book, Paddle Your Own Canoe" but gave little detail as to what that entailed. After the Friday evening event, it was easy to see why. Unlike most book presentations which follow a predictable template of introduction-reading-applause, the Parks and Rec star offered, in true patriotic form, an American vaudevillian experience that included music, stories, and a little bit of dance.

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Ines Bellina

Readings Mon Oct 07 2013

Ellie June Navidson Brings Spider Teeth and Trans Performance Artist Pals to Quimby's

In her new zine Spider Teeth, Ellie June Navidson calls it simply "the surgery"--an operation she traveled to Thailand to obtain, and which other similarly situated women might call gender confirmation surgery or medical transition. But for Navidson, those terms suggest a straight-line journey that doesn't reflect her own messier experience. In Spider Teeth's 90 pages, she has plenty of space to complicate the cultural picture of trans womanhood with precise descriptions of the shifting gender boundaries she inhabits.

Navidson will read from the zine at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 W. North) on Thursday, October 10, at 7pm, joined by other trans women with deep roots in performance art. Anyone who's attended the Northern Lights queer variety show at Parlour more than a couple of times is likely to recognize A.J. Durand, who only recently hung up the otherworldly mantle of her character Trandroid. Also on the lineup is Kokumo, a South Side native who's not only a writer but a musician, publisher, and community-builder focusing on black transfeminine perspectives.

Navidson's been doing some impressive community-building herself--this will be the second Spider Teeth reading she's put together in a week, with different supporting readers each time. One suspects they're just beginning to build momentum toward bringing a profusion of complex, underexplored perspectives on femininity to a wider audience.

Daphne Sidor

Author Sun Oct 06 2013

Barry Gifford Dishes on Working with David Lynch, Then Shares His Own Stories

Thumbnail image for RoyStories_TEMP_large.jpegIf you convened a Barry Gifford fan club, the members might not have much to say to each other. Throughout his long career, the Chicago-born writer has worked in many different--sometimes startlingly different--modes. He's probably best known for the surreal American violence of the seven-book Sailor and Lula saga, the first of which, Wild at Heart, caught the eye of David Lynch and sparked a collaborative friendship that went on to produce the screenplay for Lost Highway.

It's this side of Gifford audiences will see on Wednesday, October 9, at 8:15pm when he stops by the Gene Siskel Film Center (164 N. State) for a screening of the two episodes of Lynch's miniseries Hotel Room he wrote. Mysterious deaths, dark secrets, and mistaken (or are they?) identities will abound. After the screening, he'll stick around for a Q&A with Huffington Post arts writer Elysabeth Alfano, then sign books, including the recently collected Sailor & Lula: The Complete Novels.

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Daphne Sidor

Book Club Fri Oct 04 2013

The Wild Things Are at Open Books

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Max and the Wild Things will be wreaking delightful havoc at Open Books (213 W. Institute Place) on Saturday, October 5, from 10am to 1pm. Wild Things Day is a one-day event for children and families. It celebrates Maurice Sendak's classic tale, Where the Wild Things Are, with art projects, face painting, story time, raffles, and cake. Special guests include The Big Draw Chicago and art studio The Paintbrush. This event is recommended for kids ages three and over.

Image courtesy of Open Books.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Tue Oct 01 2013

Writers, Publishers Gather for The Chicago Literati Networking Event

Thumbnail image for networking-p.com-120905825 (1).jpgHave a novel to pitch? Copy editing skills to flaunt? Break out your biz cards and polish your pearlies. The quarterly Chicago Literati Networking Event, hosted by Kaye Publicity, welcomes writers, booksellers, publishers and media professionals to the Goose Island Brewery (1800 N. Clybourn Ave.) on Tuesday, October 8 from 6-9pm.

Wondering exactly who composes the Chicago Literati (and if you're one of them)? The event website makes it clear: "If you live in Chicago and you're involved in the written word, you are a part of Chicago's Literati."

Publicist and owner of Kaye Publicity Dana Kaye says she started the networking nights because many writers she encountered weren't aware of Chicago's vast literary community.

"I put on these events to bring people together and out of isolation," Kaye says. And bring people together she does. A graduate of Columbia College Chicago's fiction writing department and a native Chicagoan, Kaye (and her team) represents authors in several genres, 30 percent of which are Chicagoans.

Featured attendees at the October 8 event are novelist Sophie Littlefield and freelance writer, editor and storyteller Molly Each.

Registration is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Drink specials and appetizers will abound. The first 30 people to register will receive a swag bag. Now go out and get connected!

Image courtesy of thininc.com.

Lara Levitan

Events Sun Sep 29 2013

Rookie Celebrates a Second Year @ Unity Temple

480111_292358647499577_100001763319735_707432_1416701025_n.jpeg"Rookie is a website for teenage girls," says the About page. That makes sense considering that it's edited by distressingly precocious high schooler and Oak Park native Tavi Gevinson, who first caught attention as the 11-year-old fashion maven behind the blog The Style Rookie. A look at the comments section of just about any article makes clear that it's finding its intended audience, but I also happen to know plenty of adult women who aren't embarrassed to admit they read the site. That's probably due to an editorial voice that's earnest, inclusive, and fun, as well as a penchant for topics likely to resonate with children of the '80s. (Bikini Kill, The Golden Girls, and Madonna are frequent cultural touchstones.)

So expect a mixed crowd at the release party for Rookie Yearbook Two--a print collection of pieces from the past year--on Tuesday, October 1, at 7pm at Unity Temple (875 Lake St., Oak Park). Gevinson will read, sign books, and generally make audience members of all ages feel like the coolest girls in school. She'll be joined by other contributors from the Chicago area, including Effing Dykes creator Krista Burton. Admission is $10, but you can apply the ticket price toward a copy of the book.

Daphne Sidor

Book Club Fri Sep 27 2013

Chefs Sign Books at Chicago Gourmet

If you're heading to Bon Appétit's Chicago Gourmet this weekend, be sure to stop at the Barbara's Book Store tent for book signings by some kitchen masters. Chefs scheduled to appear include Takashi Yagihashi of Takashi and Slurping Turtle, Art Smith of TABLE fifty-two, Fleur de Lys's Hubert Keller, Tru's Gale Gand, and many others. For a complete schedule of author appearances, visit the Chicago Gourmet website. bon appetit.png

Image courtesy of the Illinois Restaurant Association.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Poetry Wed Sep 25 2013

Come Watch: Red Rover Series and 100 Thousand Poets for Change Explore Surveillance Culture

LS019486.jpgThis Saturday will see a poetic event of truly epic proportions: the many, many writers of 100 Thousand Poets for Change will speak up on the changes they'd like to see in the world around them.

True, they won't all be reading in the same place. Still, Chicago's offshoot, a reading on the theme "Private Eyes (They're Watching You)," has a pretty numerically impressive lineup. 24 local poets will address issues of surveillance, censorship, and other topics likely to make you look over your shoulder at Outer Space Studio, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave, on September 28 at 7 p.m. To name just a few: the just-profiled-by-Gapers-Block Daniela Olszewska; Language-affiliated eminence Barbara Barg; performance poet Noël Jones; and Nina Corwin, who curates readings at Woman Made Gallery.

The Red Rover Series and the Chicago Calling Arts Festival are cosponsors. A $4 suggested donation benefits microlending organization Kiva--letting attendees turn pocket change into real-world change while taking in some stirring words.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Sep 25 2013

New Project Aims to Support Literary Culture Makers

Navigation1.pngFrom small presses to reading series' to countless author events, Chicago pretty much eats, sleeps and breathes literary culture. And a new project called the Chicago Publishers Resource Center (CHIPRC) aims to "support these [literary] endeavors by helping those that work tirelessly to produce them."

At an open house on Saturday, September 28, 12-6pm, get a taste of the programming CHIPRC has up its sleeve; presentations include button-making, book-binding, zine-making, chalk art, and a FAQ about membership and other ways to support the project (view the complete schedule).

Located at the new facility at 858 N. Ashland, the event is open to the public, and programming is suitable for all ages. A suggested donation will benefit the new space and future programming.

Lara Levitan

Author Tue Sep 24 2013

Extraordinarily Ordinary: Author Alice McDermott @ Music Box Theatre

someone-photo.jpgIf you’re anything like me, you’ll pounce on any chance to set foot in the awesomely elegant Music Box Theatre. But, seeing as you’re here perusing Book Club, you may think that you’d rather cozy up with your latest tome than sit in the dark and watch a movie.

Well it’s time these worlds collided! This Thursday, September 26, at 7:30pm The Book Cellar will be hosting National Book Award recipient Alice McDermott at none other than the Music Box Theatre. McDermott will be discussing her latest book, Someone, a chronicle of protagonist Marie Commeford’s lifelong search for, well, someone. The book has been hailed as masterful in its account of human life as at once ordinary and miraculously intimate; to quote The New York Times, “Almost pointedly unremarkable”. Devoid of bells and whistles, the narrative is a refreshing diversion from novels overwrought with twists, turns, and the occasional vampire.

Sound like a good read? Grab a copy of Someone at the event, available for purchase courtesy of The Book Cellar. Tickets are a well-spent $5.

Miden Wood

Author Tue Sep 24 2013

Who to Read Next: Local Author Hannah Pittard

"It was like swimming with a whale shark."

This is how Hannah Pittard describes learning that her first novel, The Fates Will Find Their Way, (Ecco, 2011) was being published. Sounds dangerous, but Pittard is a dangerously talented writer.

Fates tells the story of a missing teenage suburban girl and the group of neighborhood boys who becomes enraptured by her disappearance. It's been compared to The Lovely Bones and The Virgin Suicides (not bad, especially for a first novel).

Pittard's fiction has won several awards. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago, got her MFA at the University of Virginia, teaches at DePaul, and is currently at work on her second novel, Reunion, (Grand Central) out in 2014. Read on, and get to know Hannah Pittard.

Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia
Star sign: Sagittarius

What drives you to write?

A feeling in the pit of my stomach. A feeling in my chest. You know that time of night when it's pink? It's not every night, but some nights there's this pinkness in the air and I can feel it my chest -- this bigness, this need to capture it. Which isn't to say I'm trying to capture the night or its beauty. There's just a similarity between that feeling of pinkness and the need to write.

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Lara Levitan

Events Mon Sep 23 2013

You're Welcome, Chicago @ morseL

1235370_10152171058654972_661125686_n.jpgOn Tuesday, September 24 at 7:30pm the newest edition of a new-ish Live Lit show will hit the stage at morseL, 1406 W. Morse Ave. You're Welcome, Chicago showcases the importance of personal voice in storytelling with an ingenious premise: each piece has to begin with the same first sentence, but the storyteller is free to take the opening in surprising and unprecedented directions.

Hosted by Amy Sumpter, this month's performers--Kendra Stevens, Maggie Jenkins, Mary Pat Bohan, Kristin Clifford, and Kim Morris-- will offer five unique, first-person stories that begin with "The door closed, and then the window opened." morseL will have $5 burgers and martini specials, which you can gorge on guilt-free since a portion of the proceeds from food and drink will go to the Alzheimer's Association. There is also a $5 suggested donation at the door. As a special treat, the ladies of You're Welcome, Chicago will draw next month's first sentence from audience suggestions AND the name of an audience member who'll be invited to participate in the October 22 show.

Photo courtesy of You're Welcome, Chicago's Facebook Event page.

Ines Bellina

Book Club Thu Sep 19 2013

When Hot Dogs and Pie Collide

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As evidenced by potluck favorite hot dog pie, hot dogs and pie are two great things that go great together. The Book Cellar seems to think so, too. Join Doug Sohn (Hot Doug) and Paula Haney (the owner of Hoosier Mama Pie Company) as they promote their respective new books, Hot Doug's: The Book and The Hoosier Mama Book of Pie at the Book Cellar at 7pm on Thursday. There will be samples of recipes from the books (but, alas, probably no hot dog pie).


Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Wed Sep 18 2013

What's Next for the Rust Belt? Three Chicago Authors Discuss

september.jpgAs a Chicagoan of about six years' standing and a Michigander by birth, I've lived most of my life on the slightly shinier edges of the Rust Belt. That's meant watching with interest as some of its old industries have coughed out their final breaths and others (tech for Chicago, medicine for Grand Rapids) started to gain force. The institutional memory of The Society of Midland Authors, of course, reaches back much farther--all the way to 1915, when it was formed by a Chicago-centered group of writers including Clarence Darrow, Harriet Monroe, and Vachel Lindsay. On Thursday, September 19, at 6pm, president Robert Loerzel brings together three writers with a lot to say about the region's economic machinery at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State, in a discussion on the theme "Reviving the Rust Belt: The Future of the Industrial Midwest and Chicago."

Longtime Gapers Block readers might recognize panelist Edward McClelland--in 2006, parts of his book The Third Coast were serialized here. His most recent release is Nothin' But Blue Skies: The Heyday, Hard Times, and Hopes of America's Industrial Heartland, which traces not only the Midwest's industry but the way it's shaped the character of its residents. Larry Bennett's The Third City: Chicago and American Urbanism uses a similar lens to focus more closely on the town whose very nickname evokes reinvention. And going broader than either of the two, Edward E. Gordon's Future Jobs: Solving the Employment and Skills Crisis looks for the root causes of the entire country's declining economic power and finds it in a failure to educate workers for the kinds of jobs that are most needed now. With Loerzel as moderator, the three authors will combine their perspectives to try to sketch a picture of the Midwest's economic landscape as it will look in future decades.

Daphne Sidor

Events Wed Sep 18 2013

Hollywood Said No!: Bob and David Do a Book Tour

mrshow.jpgYou young whippersnappers might be most familiar with David Cross and Bob Odenkirk from Arrested Development and Breaking Bad (respectively), but us old fogies know them best as comedy duo Bob & David from the glorious mid-'90s HBO sketch comedy show Mr. Show with Bob and David. You wee toddlers may think it strange to see Tobias and Saul hit the road together on a book tour, but we octogenarians are squealing and clapping our hands like little children.

Cross and Odenkirk and Mr. Show guest star Brian Posehn are coming to Chicago to promote their book Hollywood Said No!: Orphaned Film Scripts, Bastard Scenes, and Abandoned Darlings from the Creators of Mr. Show. The subtitle says it all, really. Lovers of Mr. Show will undoubtedly enjoy the comedy stylings of rejected film scripts Bob and David Make a Movie and Hooray for America! as well as sketch ideas that never quite made it to production... not to mention the incomparable joy of getting to see Bob and David together on stage again.

The Hollywood Said No! tour will be at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave, 3rd floor, on Saturday, September 21 at 1pm. Doors open at noon. Tickets are $22 and include a copy of the book.

Image courtesy of Ain't It Cool News

Eden Robins

Events Tue Sep 17 2013

Three Feminist Writers Talk Fashion @ Women & Children First

Thumbnail image for Women-Employed-Panel-March-2013.png"Feminism--and feminists--have a bad rap when it comes to fashion," notes Marjorie Jolles in the 2012 collection of essays Fashion Talks: Undressing the Power of Style (co-edited with Shira Tarrant). But whether she assiduously follows current feminine trends or tries to distance herself from them entirely, a modern American woman has no real way to opt out of the world of fashion--any look is invariably read as a statement. The writers in Jolles' and Tarrant's collection touch on the statements made by subjects ranging from Andrea Dworkin's trademark overalls to Japan's "Lolita" subculture to the plight of the nontraditional bride. At a talk titled "Gender and Style, Fashion and Feminism" at Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark St.) on Thursday, September 19, at 7:30pm, Jolles will join fellow panelists and writers Deborah Siegel and Veronica Arreola for an equally wide-ranging "conversation about the politics of what we wear, from birth on."

Siegel is equally steeped in the gender symbolism of clothing--the writer and public speaker's current project is called Tots in Genderland, a multimedia rethinking of the way children's genders are (over)determined by their guardians and cultures from infancy on. (As she related in a TEDx talk and an interview with Gapers Block earlier this year, her thinking has been informed by her own kids--twins, a boy and a girl.) The third panelist, Arreola, has been blogging for more than a decade on Latina feminism, currently at Viva la Feminista.

Photo of Deborah Siegel courtesy of the author's website.

Daphne Sidor

Book Club Mon Sep 16 2013

Dear Elizabeth Play Reading @ Poetry Foundation

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It's an oft-repeated refrain these days, but it bears repeating nonetheless: the art of letter writing is slipping inexorably away from us, and in many ways--alas and alack!--it may be gone already. Future generations just won't be able to peruse a stack of Grandma and Grandpa's love letters. (Cue my cantankerous, pre-emptively elderly fist-shaking.) For the time being, however, all's not lost; we're still within striking distance of the days where handwritten letters were the standard, so they're still around to access and enjoy.

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Emilie Syberg

Author Mon Sep 16 2013

Get Your Paws on Chicago Humanities Festival Tickets

Tickets to the Chicago Humanities Festival go on sale to the public today. The theme this year is "Animal: What Makes Us Human", and we're going ape for the literary line-up (sorry, couldn't resist). Here's a quick rundown of the superstars shooting our way this October and November. (This list is not exhaustive, so check the site for deets, and grab your tix before they sell out!)

Lara Levitan

Book Club Mon Sep 16 2013

September Essay Fiesta at the Book Cellar

Willy Nast and Karen Shimmin host September's edition of the live lit series Essay Fiesta at the Book Cellar on Monday, September 16 at 7pm.

Readers include:

Write Club Overlord Ian Belknap
8BitBro Writer Jackie Koester
Social Psychologist (and Gaper's Block Book Club Staffer) Erika Price
Comedian Dave Stinton
Actor/Storyteller Paul Whitehouse

All voluntary donations from Essay Fiesta benefit 826 CHI, a nonprofit writing and tutoring center.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Chicago Public Library Sun Sep 15 2013

Calling All Lady Leaders: Women in Politics Panel @ Harold Washington Library Center

Politician and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton once said, “Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world.”

Fictional Parks and Recreation politician Leslie Knope once said, “Maybe it’s time for more women to be in charge.” And then probably said something about waffles.

While perhaps the real-world influence of these two women is disparate (one a fictional* television character, the other a diplomat who has traveled to and managed relations in over 112 countries), the messages of both ring true. As of 2011, only 18.3% of the seats in Congress were held by women; a percentage whose growth has slowed significantly over the last decade. Considering that women constitute more than half the U.S. population, it’s past time that we achieved proportionate representation.

Looking to be a part of the change?

Continue reading this entry »

Miden Wood

Author Thu Sep 12 2013

Believe Launch Party Puts Faith in Curt's Cafe

photo-2010-1.jpgSarah Aronson is presenting her new novel, Believe, at an event that doubles as a fundraiser for Curt's Cafe. Though new to the Chicagoland area, YA aficionados might recognize her as the author of the acclaimed novels, Beyond Lucky and Head Case. Her latest book tells the story of Janine Collins, who is thrust into the spotlight for being the sole survivor of a suicide bombing. Ten years after the terrible attack, and much to Janine's discomfort, she has become a symbol of hope. Friends want her to use her fame for a cause and the media is eager to revisit her story. Even worse, Dave Armstrong, the man who saved her from the rubble, believes she has healing powers. Could he be right?

The launch party is on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 11am at Curt's Cafe, 2922 Central St. in Evanston. There will be readings by Laura Ruby, Jenny Mayerhoff, Brenda Ferber, Penny Blubach, Natalie Wainwright, Ellen Reagan, Ken Krimstein, Rachel Wilson and Ilene Cooper. If that's not reason enough to get up early on a weekend, then the raffle should do the trick. Guests have a chance to win a one month gift certificate to Bikram Yoga Evanston, Hot Spices, books, a beaded necklace, and a Believe silver necklace. The Book Stall will also be doing what it does best (i.e. sell books), and the café will provide tasty treats. All proceeds support Curt's Café, a non-profit organization provides training and job placement for at-risk-youth.

Let's give Aronson a warm Chicago welcome by helping this beloved local eatery!

Photo courtesy of Sarah Aronson's website

Ines Bellina

Author Thu Sep 12 2013

What Are Your Live Lit Pet Peeves?

If you're an avid reader of the GB Book Club, you probably are a fan of storytelling and live lit events in Chicago. Perhaps you also read memoirs and creative nonfiction, or enjoy storytelling podcasts like The Moth and This American Life.

But with a love of live literature and personal storytelling, there also comes an aversion to certain topics. We've all been there. One minute you're laughing along to a hilarious, madcap story from a talented storyteller, the next you're rolling your eyes and uncomfortably shifting in your seat while someone blubbers creepily about stalking their ex-boyfriend or describes a bodily function in stomach-churning detail. Whether we are sick of a topic because it is too common or because it's just personally off-putting, we all have some storytelling pet peeves. So let's talk about a few, and then open the floor for you to share yours in the comments.

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Erika Price / Comments (7)

Author Wed Sep 11 2013

Author Christopher Bakken Discusses New Culinary Memoir

9780520275096.jpgIf you're like me, anything you know about Greek cuisine comes from My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Do yourself a favor, put down the remote and crack open Christopher Bakken's new book Honey, Olives, Octopus: Adventures at the Greek Table. You won't find ruminations on pedestrian hummus or cheesy saganaki in these pages. Instead, Bakken takes readers on a journey around the archipelago that gets into the nitty-gritty of Greek staples: olives, bread, fish, cheese, meat, beans, wine, and honey. The result is a mouthwatering romp around the country, which never fails to celebrate the simplicity of ingredients nor the painstaking labor that makes that simplicity possible.

Bakken will present his book at the National Hellenic Museum on Thursday, September 12 at 6pm. The event is free with museum admission ($10 for adults, $8 for seniors/students, $7 for children over 3). Light refreshments will be served, and one can only hope that they're even half as good as the dishes he describes. Before his visit to Chicago, Book Club caught up with Bakken. We discussed impractical recipes, the Midwestern and Greek value system, the importance of grandmothers and, of course, his book.

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Ines Bellina

Book Club Tue Sep 10 2013

Poetic Muses: Britten, Auden and Sitwell @ Poetry Foundation

The Poetry Foundation kicks off their fall season of programming on Wednesday, September 11 at 7pm (reception at 6pm) with an evening devoted to the music of the British composer Benjamin Britten; specifically, music inspired by the poets W.H Auden and Edith Sitwell. Presented in partnership with the Collaborative Arts Institute of Chicago (kicking off their own second annual Collaborative Works Festival, "The Heart of the Matter: 100 Years of Benjamin Britten"), performers include soprano Kiera Duffy, pianist and CAIC executive director Shannon McGinnis, and tenor and CAIC artistic director Nicholas Phan. John Wilkinson, a poet and professor at the University of Chicago, will be on hand to provide some context. The event is free, though the limited number of advance tickets are now gone, so make sure to arrive early for this one, music and poetry lovers. And did I mention that there are refreshments being served? It's all happening at the Poetry Foundation, 61 West Superior Street.

Emilie Syberg

Book Club Mon Sep 09 2013

Peter Orner Discusses New Short Story Collection at Sulzer Library

Peter Orner.jpg The Book Cellar and Sulzer Regional Library co-host Chicago native Peter Orner for a discussion and book signing of his second collection of short stories, Last Car Over the Sagamore Bridge. The event takes place at Sulzer on Monday, September 9 at 6:30pm.

Described by Booklist as "an undisputed master of the short short story," Last Car Over the Sagamore Bridge consists of 51 stories, ranging in length from a paragraph to several pages. Though Orner skips through different cities and eras, the question of the reliability of memory provides the stories' unifying thread.

Orner is a past Guggenheim fellow and two-time Pushcart Prize award-winner whose recently reissued debut collection of short stories, Esther Stories, was a 2001 New York Times notable book. He has also written two novels and two works of non-fiction, and has appeared in Atlantic Monthly, the New York Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, The Paris Review, Granta, and McSweeney's.

Photo of Peter Orner courtesy of peterorner.net.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Events Sat Sep 07 2013

This Much Is True Storytelling Event

whitehair.jpgBilled as Chicago's "most intimate storytelling night," This Much Is True features readers both seasoned and novice, telling true stories that are humorous and heartbreaking and everything in between. Hosted by one-man storytelling juggernaut Scott Whitehair, this popular event is tucked away in a cozy lounge and has an open and friendly atmosphere, so even if you can't drag your friends along with you, you'll undoubtedly meet a new friend once you're there. TMIT is a curated show, but you can sign up to be a reader at sister show Story Lab Chicago, sharing your wonderful, embarrassing, hilarious and tragic stories... prior storytelling experience (or lack thereof) unimportant. This month's readers include Whitehair, Stephanie Douglass, Bron Batten, Ken Krimstein, Jeff Miller, Natasha Tsoutsouris, and Megan Wells.

You'll find TMIT in the second floor lounge of Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro, the second Tuesday of every month. This month's show is on September 10 and starts at 7:30pm, but doors open at 6:45pm so get there early for a good seat. The show is free, but donations are always appreciated.

Photo courtesy of the TMIT website

Eden Robins / Comments (2)

Author Sat Sep 07 2013

Romance Writers' Collaboration was Written in the Stars

Thumbnail image for WrittenInTheStars_HighRes.jpgAs veteran authors of the romance genre, Chicago-based Sherrill Bodine and Patricia Rosemoor have been crafting entangled love affairs for over two decades. Rosemoor has written 90 (that's right, 90) novels, many for the Harlequin Intrigue imprint (among others); and Bodine has written 19 novels, as well as a co-written comic book called Whispers From the Void.

In celebration of the release of the authors' first co-written novel, Written in the Stars (available in ebook format only), the duo will host a digital launch party at McNamara's restaurant (4328 West Irving Park Rd.) on Tuesday, September 10 at 6pm. The free event will also be streamed online, and viewers may download their copy at the same time (the goal is to reach 5,000 downloads in one hour.) To watch online, tune in here at 6pm on September 10.

Book Club caught up with Bodine and Rosemoor before the big event.

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Lara Levitan / Comments (3)

Author Thu Sep 05 2013

Kevin Smokler Makes for a Case for the Classics @ The Book Cellar

smokler.jpgAfter attending his 20th high school reunion, Kevin Smokler realized he hadn't paid "a lick of attention" to his teachers or the books they taught-- not helpful to someone who'd always planned on writing books.

"Knowing that I hadn't read or barely remembered some of the basic greats felt like wanting to be the world's greatest florist and not knowing what photosynthesis was," Smokler said. "It was a giant hole in my education I wanted to patch up."

Hence Smokler's latest book, Practical Classics: 50 Reasons to Reread 50 Books You Haven't Touched Since High School.

Continue reading this entry »

Lara Levitan

Book Club Thu Sep 05 2013

Jane Austen's Parade of Homes

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"There is nothing like staying home for real comfort."
- Jane Austen, Emma

From Mr. Darcy's Pemberley to Fanny Price's Mansfield Park, the homes in Jane Austen's novels are nearly as important as the characters themselves. Growing up on the fringes of the landed gentry and relocating frequently as an adult due to uncertain financial circumstances, Austen observed and absorbed the details of homes that would become cornerstones of her novels.

Iris Lutz, President of the Jane Austen Society of North America, elaborates on the topic in an illustrated lecture, "...in proportion to their family and income: Houses in Jane Austen's Life and Fiction." The event takes place at the Harold Washington Library Center at 400 S. State Street on Saturday, September 7 at 2pm. It's hosted by the Jane Austen Society of North America - Greater Chicago Region. Bonnets recommended, but not required.

Photo of Jane Austen's house in Chawton courtesy of alresford.org

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Book Club Thu Sep 05 2013

Chicago Architecture Foundation Partners with One Book, One Chicago

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is offering a series of discounted tours and free lectures in collaboration with One Book, One Chicago through spring 2014. The tours and lectures are in support of the 2013-14 One Book, One Chicago selection, The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, and the theme, "Migration - how has it shaped Chicago?"


The first tour is a Ukranian Village Walking Tour on Saturday, September 21, at a discounted rate of $5, while the first free lecture is a Discover Pilsen Talk on Saturday, November 16. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the Chicago Architecture Foundation or One Book, One Chicago.

Kathryn Pulkrabek

Book Club Tue Sep 03 2013

The Return of Write Club

Ian Belknap at the Mic (Cropped).jpgKnuckles will soon be bare again. Trouble will once more be eaten and money once more shat. That's right, Book Clubbers. Starting on Monday, September 9 at 7pm, Write Club will return to Chicagoland for another season of literature as bloodsport, hosted by founder and "Overlord" Ian Belknap.

One of the driving forces behind the local and international "live lit" movement, which is growing fast, Write Club was named earlier this year the "Best Literary Event" by the Chicago Reader and the "Best Reading Series" by Chicago magazine, and for good reason. Back when the show first started in 2010, Belknap told TimeOut Chicago, "I want the show to take a can opener to my skull and punch me in the brain." And he meant it. Write Club packs one hell of a gray matter wallop.

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Alba Machado

Events Tue Sep 03 2013

Pop Goes Alicia Live! Will Burst Gender Issues Wide Open

1157572_10153160583515096_1725995775_n.jpgLet's face it, in a summer chock full of news, you've probably spent more time debating Skyler White's virtues than, say, discussing Syria. This might seem like another sign of humanity's imminent demise, but the truth is pop culture influences our society beyond meme creations. When you consider that Americans consume 1.27 TRILLION hours of media, you can't help but wonder the effect these messages have upon our psyche, especially when it comes to issues of gender and sexuality.


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Ines Bellina

Events Tue Sep 03 2013

Words and Music to Celebrate Fall Curbside Releases

This fall is going to be busy for Chicago publisher Curbside Splendor as they are releasing six titles. The release party is part of the fourth installment of Words and Music this Thursday, September 5 at 9pm at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western. The event pairs reading with live music (hence the name) featuring authors of upcoming Curbside titles.

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Readers and their associated books include Samantha Irby/Meaty, Joseph Bates/ Tomorrowland, Daniela Olszewska/Citizen J (on Curbside imprint Artifice Books), and Chris Terry/Zero Fade.

As for the music portion of the night, settle in for sets by Al Scorch, Tomorrow Kings and, DJ Nagasaki.

Words and Music is free with an RSVP. Books will be available for purchase.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Sep 03 2013

Book Club with a Twist at Oak Park's Buzz Café

Cicero_Green_Line (1).jpgEver been embroiled in a book-club debate and wish you could just call up the author to ask what she was thinking? Oak Park's Buzz Café (905 S. Lombard) will go you one better: why not simply invite the author to the book-club meeting in person? On Thursday, September 19, at 7pm, the inaugural Community Book Club Night welcomes local author E.C. Diskin to chat about her Chicago-based legal thriller The Green Line with readers.

As readers nibble on a spread of appetizers and desserts, they'll delve into a discussion of naive lawyer protagonist Abby's quest to unravel a mystery she stumbles into late one night when she accidentally gets off the train in the Austin neighborhood. $10 gets you admission and snacks, or stop in ahead of time and pick up the book for an extra $14. The plot moves along at a clip, so attendees should still have plenty of time to read up.

Photo courtesy of Zol87/Wikimedia Commons.

Daphne Sidor

Books Mon Sep 02 2013

Bree Housley & Ophira Eisenberg Read Between the Wines

Housley_Eisenberg.jpgIn We Hope You Like This Song, author Bree Housley writes about the untimely death of her childhood best friend to preeclampsia. In Screw Everyone: Sleeping My Way to Monogamy, comedian and Ask Me Another host Ophira Eisenberg chronicles her sexy journey to romantic commitment.

Catch both of these whip-smart memoirists on Wednesday, September 4 at The Wine Goddess, 702 Main St. in Evanston at 6pm. The authors will read from and sign books at an event appropriately titled Read Between the Wines; the $5 cover includes a glass of wine that pairs with the reading. Who needs cheese when you've got great lit?

Image courtesy of Bree Housley's website.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Aug 28 2013

We Need the (Tuesday) Funk, Gotta Have that (Tuesday) Funk

funk.jpgWith a monthly lineup as lovingly crafted as its host establishment's beer list, there is always something to love at Tuesday Funk... whether it's the fiction, the essays, the booze, or some combination thereof. Your hosts William Shunn and GB's own Andrew Huff keep the crowd entertained with poems about dogs and Chicago-themed haiku, and did I mention there's beer? This is Hopleaf, after all.

September's lineup includes Aleksandar Hemon, MacArthur Genius and acclaimed author of The Book of My Lives, as well as Virginia Konchan, Lania Knight, Norman Doucet and series co-host William Shunn.

Tuesday Funk is on Tuesday (duh), September 3, and the first Tuesday of every month, at Hopleaf Bar, at 5148 N. Clark St., upstairs lounge. Show starts at 7:30 pm and is free. You must be 21+ to enter. Insider tip: the doors open at 7:00 pm, and you may just want to show up early to get a good seat. Readings are often standing room only.

Image courtesy of the Tuesday Funk website

Eden Robins

Events Tue Aug 27 2013

Pre-PostHumanists Present: Paranoia @ Strawdog Theatre Company

601408_581637588514397_1226795242_n.jpgAfter a summer of leaks, government surveillance, and Miley's terrifying army of giant teddy bears, we might have to explore our feelings of persecution. The Pre-PostHumanists Present: have your back. (Or do they???) The new reading series debuts on Wednesday, August 28 at 8:00 pm at Strawdog Theatre Company, 3829 North Broadway.

Unlike most Live Lit events in which the author is also the performer of his or her own piece, The Pre-PostHumanists Present: rework accepted submissions to bring the piece to life. After initial edits, the story is given to a director and cast of actors who will stage a performance based on the written work. The first installment will showcase stories by James Tadd Adcox and C. James Bye. Adcox is the author of The Map of the Systems of Human Knowledge, and his work has appeared in TriQuarterly, Barrelhouse Magazine, and n+1. Bye is the co-founder/Managing Editor of Knee-Jerk Magazine, and the co-editor of The Way We Sleep, an anthology of prose and comics about sleep published by Curbside Splendor in 2012. Brandon Eells and Eleni Pappageorge star; Sara Gorsky, Matt Kahler, John B Leen, Kayla Pulley, Benjamin Vigeant, and Johnard Washington round out the cast. The show is directed by Alex Huntsberger.

Tickets are $10. Doors and bar open at 7 pm. This month's topic is "Paranoia." This intriguing collaboration between Live Lit and theater could very well ease our suspicion of others through the power of story. (Or will it make it worse????)

Photo courtesy of The Pre-PostHumanists Facebook Page.

Ines Bellina

Readings Tue Aug 27 2013

Sheila Scobba Banning Reading @ the Book Cellar

This Thursday, August 29 join author Sheila Scobba Banning for a reading from her new novel Terroir at The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. at 7pm.

Published by Winter Goose Publishing, Terroir follows a female protagonist who runs a winery. During a perfect growing season, the character's life begins to unravel-- to find out why, you'll have to come to the reading.

The Book Cellar offers bar service, so get there early to grab a seat and a glass of wine, an apt pairing for this story. Books will be available with a signing to follow. There is no cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Mon Aug 26 2013

Breaking into Live Lit: An Amateur's Guide

If you regularly attend live lit events in Chicago, you've probably considered contributing your own work at least once. Maybe you've been lurking in the back of the audience for years, longing to join in. Maybe you're an aspiring writer with no performance experience. Maybe you're a fan of a particular series, but just have no clue how to get involved.

If you fall into any of these categories, this guide is for you. No matter your level of experience or expertise, you can break into Chicago's live lit scene. All it takes is a little persistent effort and an intelligent use of your time. Here are some pointers.

Step #1: Find a "Home"

There are many, many live literary events in Chicago spanning a variety of topics, settings, and audiences. If you're new to the scene, it's tempting to adopt a scatter-shot approach, applying willy-nilly to any and every show you can think of. But if you're a new writer/performer, cool your jets. Focus on shows that are amenable to your own style and topics of interest.

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Do you like to write personal creative essays? Story Club, Essay Fiesta, or This Much is True might be the place for you. Do you prefer to tell a story off the cuff, free of notes? Go for The Moth or Do Not Submit. Do you prefer nonfiction that covers current events or pop culture? The Paper Machete is your bag. Do you have a gritty, explicit tale to tell? Guts & Glory or The Sunday Night Sex Show are your spots. Choosing an appropriate setting for your work is absolutely essential.


Step #2: Become a Regular

Establish a rapport with the show (or shows) you'd like to submit to. Each show is its own microcosm within the live lit community, and to become a member of that community you must show your face. Hang around and chat with contributors after the show, or send the show's organizers a nice email or Facebook post.

Attend a show multiple times before submitting your work to its hosts. This will improve your chances in two ways. First, it will allow your to learn the show's unique style, and second, it will convince the show's hosts that you are a thoughtful, decent member of the live lit community (and not a foaming psychopath)-- both of which will vastly improve your odds.

Step #3: Learn the House Style

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Every live lit series has its own unique style, and the only way to master the style is to attend regularly and pay close attention. Before submitting work to a series, ask yourself the following: How long is the average piece? Do contributions ever contain explicit content? Do contributors use the first person, or is it more journalistic? Do readers use notes or do they speak extemporaneously? Is work laugh-a-minute, or more subdued and serious? How irreverent are the stories? How conversational are they?

Once you have a good sense of a series' style (and what distinguishes it from other shows), you are ready to start writing. As you write your piece, never lose track of the desired tone, length, and style. The ideal submission should be a perfect amalgam of the show's overall sensibility and your own unique voice.

Step #4: Find the Appropriate Submission Channel

Live lit shows accept new work in a variety of ways. Make sure you play by a show's particular rules so you don't irritate the hosts and organizers with emails or in-person queries that don't follow the standard procedure. Usually you can find the appropriate submissions method on the series' website or on their social media pages.

Some shows, like Do Not Submit, Story Club, and The Moth run on an open-mic basis, in which case the only way to participate is to show up early, put your name in, and wait for the opportunity to share. Other shows, like Essay Fiesta, Fictlicious, and Write Club accept online submissions. In some cases, shows have dedicated open mic nights that are distinct from the main show, but give new writers the opportunity to try out material and eventually snag a spot at the main event. For example, The Paper Machete, runs an open-mic writing group the first Wednesday of every month that occasionally feeds new writers into the main show. do not submit.jpg

Step #5: Be Not Afraid!

Even if you carefully study the show you are submitting to, attend it often, schmooze with the hosts, and craft a piece you are utterly happy with, you might face disappointment. Before you swear off live lit entirely, remember that work is rejected for all kinds of reasons. Maybe your story wasn't appropriate for the venue or the event. Maybe the hosts have a big backlog of performers on their schedule. Maybe you're close to the appropriate style or tone, but haven't quite perfected it.

A rejection does not mean that your writing is terrible or that the hosts dislike you. Try again! Almost no one gets a story into a show the first time they try. Learning to respond to criticism or rejection is a crucial stage of development as a writer or a performer.

Anecdote in point: Earlier this summer, I sent a few samples to Karen and Willy at Essay Fiesta. At first they gave me the kindest, most encouraging rejection ever. The pieces I sent just weren't right, but they were close, and I was encouraged to submit again. I spent more time editing some other work and attending Essay Fiesta, then I submitted two more pieces a few months later and got into the show. I'm sure most writers have had similar experiences with live lit shows (or lit mags). Tenacity and sensitivity to criticism can really pay off in both cases!

Step #6: Do it! Now!

There you have it! You now have the tools to begin a foray into live lit. Actually, you probably had all of these tools before you even clicked on this piece. If you're an avid attendee of lit events in Chicago, you already know a great deal about what works and what doesn't in live storytelling. So use your knowledge, write a piece, and take it out on the town.

Photo of Larry Kerns at This Much is True by Jill Howe is courtesy of the This Much is True website.
Photo of JH Palmer at a recent Story Club event by Jill Howe courtesy of Story Club's website.
Do Not Submit postcard image is courtesy of Do Not Submit's website.

Erika Price / Comments (3)

Events Mon Aug 26 2013

Uncalled-for Reading Series @ Uncharted Books

Thumbnail image for 1236595_10201971194585663_1711324500_n.jpg'Tis the season for beloved old reading series of yore to revisit us as briefly and brightly as the one last 90-degree week before fall. Apparently. Along with Quickies' visit to The Hideout tonight, Uncalled-for Readings Chicago will return for a one-off version of the "mostly queer, mostly prose" event on Friday, August 30, at Uncharted Books (2630 N. Milwaukee) at 7pm.

Past installments have achieved a blend of the experimental and the ultra-personal--sometimes in the same piece--and Friday's lineup seems poised to stay true to form. Series cofounder Megan Milks hosts four readers that includes other cofounder Tim Jones-Yelvington, whose phenomenally entertaining performances draw on celebrity culture and a sort of teen-idol-from-outer-space sartorial style. Jackie Wang also works in many modes--her many projects include, intriguingly, an in-the-works book about "revolutionary loneliness" for Semiotext(e)--as does Jillian Soto. Finally, there's Vicky Lim, whose zines have included Dear Jaguar and the newer Abstract Door.

Daphne Sidor

Events Sat Aug 24 2013

Quickies Returns for a Minute

Hunter,Lindsay(c)ZachDodson_Tumblr.pngBy the time it went on hiatus in 2011, Quickies seemed to have perfected the reading-series formula. First: get lots and lots of readers, and you're guaranteed a good crowd. Second: favor an edgy, funny sensibility that makes the crowd sit up and pay attention. Third: have it at a good bar (usually the Innertown Pub). And finally: strictly enforce a limit of four minutes of prose to cut any potential boredom off at the pass. It all made for a laid-back, exceedingly accessible night out on the town.

Mary Hamilton, Lindsay Hunter, and company will try to recreate that magic in a one-off event at The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) on Monday, August 26 at 8pm. The lineup is packed with Quickies alums and other local-lit movers and shakers. Hunter herself has just published short-story collection Don't Kiss Me, and she'll be joined by readers including Samantha Irby (Meaty), Jac Jemc (My Only Wife), Jonathan Messinger, and Chris Terry. Plus a half-dozen others. Time your trips to the bar or the bathroom wisely so as not to miss your favorites.

Photo of Lindsay Hunter © Zach Dodson.

Daphne Sidor / Comments (2)

Readings Thu Aug 22 2013

Story Sessions Gets Schooled

Schooled Poster.jpgNo matter how old I get, the end of summer will always mean the sound of school bells, the smell of sharpened pencils, and the thrill of tearing open a shiny new Trapper Keeper. It's back-to-school time! What better way to celebrate than with an installment of Story Sessions that is themed "Schooled"? Story Sessions is a monthly storytelling series that presents true personal stories, and it's been selling out since it debuted in April. (We Chicagoans like our stories.) Hosted as always by Deanna Moffitt, this month's show will feature performances by Heather Schwartz, Darwyn Jones, Arlene Malinowski, Linda Montgomery, Shannon Cason, Stephanie Rogers and Molly Meacham, as well as house band Dog 1 and the artistry of Betsy Cypert. If you're interested, don't just show up The Dog's Bollox on Sunday, August 25 at 7pm. Buy your $7 tickets in advance, get there early, and be prepared to laugh and aww and maybe even learn something.

Alba Machado

Author Wed Aug 21 2013

Mason Johnson Celebrates his Debut Sad Robot Stories, and You're Invited

In the lit scene, Mason Johnson's is one of those faces that seem to be everywhere. The next place you might run into him is at Cole's, 2338 N Milwaukee Ave., on Saturday, August 24 for the release of his new book, Sad Robot Stories. Read a review of the novel on Gapers Block by Book Club's own Alba Machado.

Sad Robot flyer.jpg

Johnson started his journey at Columbia College studying fiction writing. As a student he hosted Columbia's Silver Tongue student reading series. This was the start of his love of being on stage and commanding an audience. After graduation, he started P. Fanatics, the now-defunct monthly reading series held at Cole's. His day job is writing content for CBS Chicago online, but he still finds ways to get on stage, most recently to address audiences as a co-host and judge of the Curbside Splendor sponsored Karaoke Idol.

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John Wawrzaszek

Author Mon Aug 19 2013

Solo in the 2nd City @ Beauty Bar

tumblr_mrbsytE6io1rn8lamo1_1280.jpgIt's August in Chicago, which means everyone is sweating. Unfortunately, there are also those among us (ehem) who not only perspire in the heat but do so in front of a prospective date, potential lover, or unrequited crush. Lucky for us, we can find solace in Solo in the 2nd City: Sweatin' in Chicago on Tuesday, August 20 at 8:00 pm at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue. The reading series, hosted by bloggers and storytellers Carly Oishi & Melinda McIntire, will highlight personal essays about summer dating, sex, and relationships. This month's readers include Tequila Tales host Isaac Paul, comedian Bobby Hill, storyteller Dena Saper, and local author Joe Meno. Meno is a fiction writer and playwright who's won multiple awards including the Nelson Algren Literary Award and a Pushcart Prize. Author of six novels and two short story collections, Meno's work has been published in the likes of McSweeney's, TriQuarterly, Chicago Magazine, and The New York Times.

The event is 21 and over and free. Donations are collected for Chicago Women's Health Center. Who knows? You might find the love of your life sitting in the crowd. At the very least, you'll fall head over heels for the night's amusing tales of woe.

Picture courtesy of Solo in the 2nd City website

Ines Bellina

Author Mon Aug 19 2013

Two Authors Talking Wednesday at City Lit Books

Chicago meets Brooklyn this Wednesday August 21 with Two Authors Talking at City Lit Books 2523 N. Kedzie. Presented by City Lit Books and MAKE Literary Productions, the two authors representing their perspective cities are NYC based author Amy Shearn and hometown author of The Slide and Logan Square resident Kyle Beachy. Shearn is promoting her newest novel The Mermaid of Brooklyn. Beachy is a contributing editor at MAKE who's collaboration with Chicago comics artists Anders Nilsen will appear in the magazine's upcoming issue themed 'Visual Culture'.

The event will feature readings from the authors followed by a conversation covering topics such as their process and writing in their perspective cities. Gapers Block got to ask Beachy a few questions in prep for this event.

BeachyShearn_MAKE.jpg

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John Wawrzaszek

Books Fri Aug 16 2013

Greenhouse Book Drive for Upcoming Drama Bookstall

The Greenhouse Theater Center is hosting a book drive on Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18 from 10 am-6pm to benefit the creation of a drama bookstall to be opened in October.

The idea for a bookshop that catered to the Chicago theater community was prompted by--what else?--a Facebook post back in June. When local writer, performer, director, and producer of The Gogo Show Mary Rose O'Connor asked on Facebook why there was no drama bookshop in the city, she received 60+ comments on the subject. Clearly, a niche needed to be filled. Fortunately for her (and all of us), the Executive Director of the Greenhouse Theater Center Jason Epperson expressed interest in housing the project.

"First and foremost, we want to serve as a literary hub for theatre makers in Chicago," said O'Connor about the bookstall's goals. "Right now, our biggest thing is making The Greenhouse Theater THE place where artists can access research materials, work, meet, rehearse, and hangout." In addition, she also hopes the bookstore is the first step to creating an academic environment where writers and directors can collaborate and foster new plays.

The Greenhouse is looking for gently used plays and books on theater, performing arts, film, dance, music, and design. Donation receipts are available. Free coffee and donuts will be served. The address for the Greenhouse Theater is 2257 N Lincoln Ave.


Ines Bellina

Author Fri Aug 16 2013

James McBride Talks Jazz and History @ Tribune Tower

chi-aug-20-printers-row-james-mcbride-20130611.jpegJames McBride's newest historical novel is called The Good Lord Bird, which sounds like it might be a paean to Charlie Parker. It's not, but the jazz connection is no illusion. In addition to staying busy as an author and screenwriter (Miracle at St. Anna, adapted from his own novel), McBride maintains serious saxophone chops and has written material for luminaries including Anita Baker. All that will likely come out in McBride's talk at Tribune Tower (435 N. Michigan) on Tuesday, August 20, at 7pm.--he'll have Chicago Tribune jazz critic Howard Reich as an interlocutor on stage. The audience may also get a taste of Bird, a rousing tale of a young escaped slave accidentally forced into maintaining his disguise as a girl after he's taken on as a sidekick by abolitionist John Brown. Those who purchase tickets online can enter the code "BIRD" and get $5 off.

Daphne Sidor

Chicago Public Library Thu Aug 15 2013

Historian Illuminates the Life of Civil Rights Revolutionary Bayard Rustin

Rustin_interior.jpgAs a civil rights activist in mid-century America, Bayard Rustin was ahead of his time. The organizer of the monumental 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Bayard is credited with counseling Martin Luther King, Jr. in the non-violent modes of protest he learned by studying Gandhi. In 1947 Rustin organized a group of interracial men to challenge segregated seating on interstate buses, 14 years before the renowned Freedom Riders of the 1960s. And if he wasn't enough of a renegade already, Rustin was openly gay at a time when being gay usually meant being (deep) in the closet.

So why don't more people know about Bayard Rustin? This is the question posed by UIC historian John D'Emilio, who will explore the answers at Modern Lives & Movements: A Conversation with John D'Emilio on Saturday, August 17 at 2pm at the Chicago Public Library Edgewater branch, 6000 N. Broadway Street.

Now's the time to discover and celebrate the life and work of Rustin; in this month of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, the White House announced this week that Rustin, along with 16 others, will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Honor, the highest civilian award in the country.

Rustin died in 1987 of a perforated appendix and was survived by Walter Naegle, his partner of ten years. To bone up on Rustin before the event, read this fun-to-read profile by Steve Hendrix for the Washington Post, and check out Brother Outsider, a 2003 documentary directed by Nancy D. Kates and Bennett Singer.

D'Emilio studies movements for social justice, the history of sexuality, and gay/lesbian politics. The author or editor of nine books, he is best known for Intimate Matters: A History of Sexuality in America and Lost Prophet: the Life and Times of Bayard Rustin, which was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2003.

D'Emelio will answer questions, and copies of his books will be available for signing and sale.

Photo courtesy of the Human Rights Campaign.

Lara Levitan

Author Wed Aug 14 2013

Chicago Lit Mags Currently Open for Submissions

Writers, rejoice! As the summer days dwindle, the dreadful season of literary magazine "reading periods" is finally ending, too. Usually spanning the months of May-September, reading periods give editors the opportunity to shutter their doors, shut down their online submissions pages, and catch up on the manuscript backlog. For aspiring authors, summer means a dry spell of no submission opportunities and numerous rejection emails from magazines they don't even remember sending work to.

But fear not! The following awesome Chicago-based lit mags are now open for business and accepting new work:

No Assholes! is a zine-like publication based informally out of DePaul, featuring poetry of all styles and the occasional smattering of fiction. The editors also hold relaxed, approachable reading events in their personal residences, and I've always been dazzled by the caliber of their work and the speed at which they churn out new issues. They are currently accepting submissions for their sixth and seventh issues; check out their Tumblr for more info.

Chicago Quarterly Review is a slightly more highbrow but still very accessible publication seeking full-length short stories, creative nonfiction, poetry, and even photography! They've recently switched to online submissions and are now open, so float them a piece of up to 5,000 words.

Literary Orphans is completely online, but don't let that deter you: their taste is top-notch. Each month's issue is named after/inspired by a prominent author of days gone by (this month is Wordsworth), and the work they publish is contemporary yet classic. Submissions are always open for new flash fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, and there is currently a call out for superhero-inspired stories.

Curbside Splendor is a gritty, witty press that publishes long works as well as its own monthly e-zine. In fact, they're about to release Samantha Irby's new book of essays, Meaty, in September (and eleven other titles this fall). This is definitely a wagon you want to hitch yourself to. Submission are currently open for their magazine, including poetry and fiction under 3,000 words.

Inkwell Mag is a relatively young lit mag that focuses each issue on a theme, and within that theme, anything (including medium) goes. This month's theme is Fantasy vs. Reality, and the editors are open to nearly anything that fulfills that theme-- including book excerpts, short stories, creative nonfiction, poetry, illustrations, videos, and flash fiction.

Chicago Review is also welcoming new work, so if "traditional" literary fiction is your bag, it's time to polish up a story of under 5,000 words and ship it off for consideration. Since this magazine is among the top 50 literary publications in the country according to EveryWritersResource.com, it's definitely not one to pass up. Submit poetry and fiction under 5,000 words.

Of course, this is a small selection of the numerous fantastic literary magazines produced in Chicago. Which excellent publications (large or small) did I overlook? Any tips for writers looking to find a home for their work? Hit me up with comments.

Erika Price / Comments (4)

Book Club Tue Aug 13 2013

On the Wall: Zine Art Meets Gallery Art @ Strange Beauty Show

I don't know about you, but to me, an event that combines art, complimentary cocktails, and--by virtue of the venue--the potential for a bro-down about experimental hairstyles essentially sounds like the white-hot center of the universe. Salon Strange Beauty Show and Quimby's Bookstore are partnering up to present On the Wall: Zine Art Meets Gallery Art on August 15th from 7-10 pm (take heed, readers: the event is at Strange Beauty Show [1118 N. Ashland] and not Quimby's). Check out work from artists Jami Sailor, Danielle Chenette, Lyra Hill, and Book Club's own John Wawrzaszek, and--if the spirit moves you!--sing a song with Shameless Karaoke. I know I'll be there.

Emilie Syberg

Events Mon Aug 12 2013

Thelma T. Reyna, Jennifer Dotson, Lucia Blinn @ Women and Children First

Poets Thelma T. Reyna, Jennifer Dotson, and Lucia Blinn will be reading at Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark) on Wednesday, August 14 at 7:30pm. Reyna's most recent publication, Hearts in Common, features "poems about the dreams, labors, and heartbreaks of immigrants from Mexico, Vietnam, and other parts of the world" (author's website); Jennifer Dotson's collection Clever Gretel, published by Chicago Poetry Press, was awarded their first Journal of Modern Poetry Book Award. Lucia Blinn is the author of We Called it "The Country", in addition to her previous collections, Passing for Normal and Navigating the Night.

Emilie Syberg

Events Fri Aug 09 2013

Stories from Around the Way @ Cole's Bar

Thumbnail image for ChiLit_Logo.JPGNever mind downtown. We all know that the heart and soul of Chicago lies within its neighborhoods.

In celebration of these enclaves to which we fiercely claim allegiance, 1,001 Chicago Afternoons and Anthology of Chicago (both fascinating 'hood-centric projects) present Chi Lit: Tales of the Neighborhoods on Tuesday, August 13 at Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Hosted by Rachel Hyman of Anthology of Chicago and Paul Dailing of 1,001 Chicago Afternoons, the night features a lit-star-studded line-up, including: Bill Savage, writer and Chicago literary scholar, on Rogers Park; Dmitry Samarov, author of Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab, on Beverly; Shannon Cason, storyteller with The Moth and NPR's Snap Judgment, on Bronzeville; Kimberly Dixon-Mays, poet and audience strategist, on Hyde Park; Paul Durica, founder of "Pocket Guide to Hell" tours and reenactments, on Pilsen; Robert Loerzel, author of Alchemy of Bones, on Lakeview; Sarah Gonzalez, co-founder of Brown and Proud Press, Xicana poet, and educator, on Pilsen; Molly Meacham, Chicago Public Schools teacher, on Roscoe Village; and Melanie LaForce, sporadic writer of internet essays, on Logan Square

The free event is a benefit for literacy programs at Open Books, so drink all you want--it's for the children.

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Aug 08 2013

Writing Workshops at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

jedi mario.JPGIf you've had a hankering to geek out over your favorite comic books, get gussied up as Jedi Mario, and rub elbows with the likes of Stan Lee, Robert Rodriguez, and various WWE Superstars, well, brother, you're in luck. This weekend is the Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, and it is a four-day parade of delectable, nerdy madness.

However, if hiding in a basement with a typewriter and a tumbler of whiskey is more your speed, don't worry, the Con also features a number of writing and publishing workshops. Find out how to maintain your creative streak, learn the ins and outs of self-publishing, get tips on designing fictional fantasy worlds, and even discover the "pitfalls of writing." As if you didn't already know.

The complete schedule of events, lectures, workshops, and sci-fi speed dating interludes is available online for your perusal. Wizard World Chicago Comic Con runs from Thursday, August 8 through Sunday, August 11 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 9301 Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont, Ill. A ticket to all four days will set you back $90 online or $100 at the door, and one-day tickets range from $50-$70, depending on the day. Check out the Tickets page for more information.

Photo courtesy of UGO.com and credited to Bill Watters.

Eden Robins

Events Wed Aug 07 2013

Topside Press's Trans Storytellers @ Powell's Bookstore

imb_04.jpg"There is a tendency for trans people to write autobiography, or semi autobiographical stuff, or basically tell their own life story, as though it weren't real, because trans people have no other stories they know of. There are no archetypes or narratives constructed for trans people," author Red Durkin told Lambda Literary in April. With an ambitious lineup of fiction that's centered on fresh, engaging storytelling as much as it is on transgender characters, Topside Press is changing that. A quintet of authors from its roster roll through Powell's Bookstore (1218 S. Halsted) for a free reading on Saturday, August 10, at 7pm.

Along with Durkin, the readers include nun-turned-genderqueer-comic Kelli Dunham, novelist Imogen Binnie (Nevada), Katherine Scott Nelson, and Riley Calais Harris. If their work for Topside is any indication, audiences can expect frequently funny stories on topics such as the world of competitive eating (Durkin) to worries about "getting kicked off the Internet" for breaches of message-board etiquette (Binnie).

Photo of Imogen Binnie © Julie Blair and Topside Press.

Daphne Sidor

Readings Tue Aug 06 2013

Art, Lit and Conversation Hook Up at Slippery Slope

If art is highbrow, pornography--conventional wisdom would have it--is so lowbrow as to be practically simian, a distant and disreputable evolutionary relative. And yet there's much in its cultural condition for any artist to envy. Art is looked at, literature is read, but porn is consumed. It commands and engages the senses directly and deeply; its utility, at least, is never in question.

Curated by writer, artist and sometime sex worker Robin Hustle, Slippery Slope takes porn aesthetics and plasters them on the walls of Woman Made Gallery (685 N. Milwaukee). The show's been garnering rave reviews since it opened in mid-July, and on Thursday, August 8, at 6 pm, it expands its gloriously messy genre-mixing in an event that will include a reading from Megan Milks, chats with multimedia artists Sarah Weis and Noelle Mason, and a screening of stag-film title sequences drawn from the Chicago Film Archives' collection.

Milks plans to read from her collaborative project-in-progress Traumarama, inspired partly by the collections of fluid-centric girlhood embarrassments familiar to any reader of Seventeen magazine. (The project will soon debut on Tumblr, adding to a body of work that so far has included the Sweet Valley High riff Twins and the short book/long story Kill Marguerite, which will anchor Milks' forthcoming first collection of fiction.) Stop by what she calls "a cool mixed-media, mixed-mode feminist/queer event" and get seduced, grossed out, or moved to thought. Probably all three.

Daphne Sidor

Events Fri Aug 02 2013

Catch Two Cookie Minimum @ The Hungry Brain

Last month, reading series Two Cookie Minimum celebrated its third anniversary.Tuesday, August 6th brings another year of author, comics artist, and zinester readings to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont at 9pm.

The show features an impressive lineup: Dave Reidy (Captive Audience), Jeffrey Brown (Darth Vader and Son, recent recipient of an Eisner Award), Patricia Ann McNair (Temple of Air), Paul Durica (Pocket Guide to Hell), and Jim Donaldson (Peehole zine).

The show is free, 21+.

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Aug 01 2013

2nd Story's "Cruel Summer" Ends Up Sweet

IMG_0454.JPGThe night's theme may have been "Cruel Summer: Stories of Learning the Hard Way," but 2nd Story's first-ever appearance at City Winery last Monday gave audience members the giddy feeling of a summer fling. Combining storytelling and live music against the backdrop of the gorgeous City Winery stage, the event was perhaps one of the most carefully crafted storytelling soirees of the season. Director and curator Jess Kadish turned a mundane Monday evening into one hell of a summer bash.

"Cruel Summer" started off with a bang as the first storyteller, Sarah Zematis, regaled us with the tale of losing her virginity at the local Renaissance Faire (pardon the pun). Any piece containing the phrase, "I had been carrying this burden, otherwise known as my hymen, for far too long," will be received with great cheer by an attentive crowd. The joyous ruckus continued as Zematis owned up to any fake British accent, ridiculous madrigal or Medieval pick-up line that her performance required. Mike Przygaod and The Przmatics, who provided original material between each set, added a rich layer to the story by accompanying the action with a precise soundtrack. In fact, these two elements were what stood out the most to a 2nd Story newbie like myself: the performer's commitment to the theatricality of their work and the use of music as a storytelling device.

Take the second storyteller, Khanisha Foster. Her heartbreaking (and often laugh-out-loud funny) account of trying to make it as an actor despite her ethnically ambiguous looks showcased her chameleon-like ability to imitate everyone from a shady theater director to Gilda Radner. Foster's performance was easily the most bittersweet of the night. Her vulnerability was palpable as she described the struggles of wanting to be seen as a talented thespian while being obscured by her "Latina" looks. (Foster's mother is white and her father is black.) Her versatility as an actor allowed her to easily transition from one character to another, making the piece even more poignant.

Bobby Biedrzycki was the last storyteller to take the stage. At that point, the evening had taken a melancholy turn and Biedrzycki delivered a performance to match the mood. His exploration of love as defined by moments, interspersed with reflections about his drug-addiction, was a satisfying though slightly subdued end to the evening.

2nd Story has been part of Chicago's Live Lit scene since 2002, making it one of the longest running storytelling events in the city. Ozzie Totten, company member and the night's MC, repeated 2nd Story's mission statement a few times during the show: "We share the first story so you can share the second story." It is, of course, impossible to gauge how many audience members will do that. However, as I saw the enraptured and oftentimes interactive audience, I have little doubt that the stories heard that evening demonstrated "the power to educate, connect, and inspire."

Photo by Ines Bellina

Ines Bellina

Events Thu Aug 01 2013

Writing Workshop: Get Past the Slush Pile

Chicago-Writers-Conference4.jpg Much like the literal spring slush we all must endure to reach Chicago's few blissful summer months, so must the writer tromp through the gloomy "slush pile" if she ever wants to see her work published. The way out of the literary slush, however, is much muddier than even a Chicago April. Luckily, the Chicago Writers Conference is hosting a workshop called "Get Past the Slush Pile", in which editor, writer, and founder of Chicago's own Story Club, Dana Norris, will guide you through all its peculiarities, including what editors are really looking for, who's reading your stuff, and how to better read their minds. Spots are limited, so hie thee hence. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, August 5, at 6:30pm near Foster & Broadway (exact address will be disclosed to registered attendees via email). Cost is $45.

And once you've got all those new skills and insights under your belt, why not register for the Chicago Writers Conference eponymous conference (September 27-29), too? You'll get to rub shoulders with editors, agents, and writerly luminaries from near and far. Take a peek at the schedule and see if it don't whet your whistle.

Graphic courtesy of the Chicago Writers Conference website

Eden Robins

Events Wed Jul 31 2013

Not Your Typical Reading: Meno & The Caribbean @ City Lit

For a different kind of reading, join Chicago author Joe Meno and D.C.-based band The Caribbean for a conversation and performance on Saturday, August 3 at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie Ave., at 6pm.

The evening will be recorded for the Labor, a new podcast hosted by The Caribbean featuring interviews with authors and artists who share their work and process. For attendees, it'll be like you're part of a live literary studio audience.

Joe Meno latest book, Office Girl, was released last year.

John Wawrzaszek

Printers Ball Fri Jul 26 2013

Printers Ball Preview: BiblioTreka Mobile Library

biblioTreka3.jpgIt might look like an ice cream cart, but instead of soft-serve, BiblioTreka offers scoops of Chicago-related print media. Adopted by Read/Write Library after Gabriel Levinson's Book Bike project came to a halt, the pop-up library's goal is to showcase the city's cultural history. At Printers Ball, the BiblioTreka will present materials such as community newspapers, artist books, intriguing self-published books of cocktail recipes from the '30s, and much more.

"[We hope to] get the publications and the history out there directly in the form of the words and images of the people who created it," said Nell Taylor, founder of Read/Write Library. "The experience of interacting with the BiblioTreka and encountering media in an unusual, hands-on form is also important to making it feel more accessible to the public. Giving people something fun and approachable is a great way to get them interested in the kinds of materials we have-- things that they may never notice or value otherwise."

In addition to Printers Ball, you can catch BiblioTreka this Sunday at The Parlor, and most Sundays and Thursdays at Comfort Station Logan Square.

Photo by Amanda Meeks

Ines Bellina

Printers Ball Fri Jul 26 2013

Printers Ball Preview: Poetics Theater with Danny's Reading Series

Joel Craig, a founder of the Chicago literary stalwart Danny's Reading Series, has created a poetry reading for Printers Ball centered around experimental writing and poetics and the independent local presses who make such work their focus. From 2 to 3pm, audiences will hear from Devin King, editor of Green Lantern Press and author of CLOPS; Holms Troelstrup, from Bloomington, Indiana's co-im-press and author of Within Mutiny; and Jeanette Gomes, editor at Love Symbol Press and author of Small Breaks of Light.

After their individual readings, the poets will join forces in a "collaborative performance" of "Mostly About the Sentence" from Hannah Weiner's Open House, which features an array of mostly-unpublished work from Weiner, including (according to the publisher's website): "performance texts, early New York School influenced lyric poems, odes and remembrances to/of Mac Low and Ted Berrigan, and later 'clair-style' works." "Clair-style", put simply, is a term Weiner applied to poetics written using clairvoyance. In other words, it's rock and roll time.

Emilie Syberg

Printers Ball Fri Jul 26 2013

Printers Ball Preview: Hornswaggler Arts

Plenty of bartenders on the craft cocktail circuit might consider what they do an art. But for drink-slingers Joseph Rynkiewicz and Graham Hogan, what goes in the glass isn't their only artistic concern. As they'll likely share if you strike up a chat at their bar station during Printers Ball, all the tips they collect go directly to fund the lending art library that is Hornswaggler Arts.

It works like this: at arts events around town, the Hornswaggler crew designs and serves a one-of-a-kind menu of craft cocktails--at Printer's Ball, the theme is "summer spritzers." Then, they sink the proceeds into their unusual collection: a gallery of more than 50 pieces, including the creepy-cute organic wooden squiggles of Sighn, and the bright, intricately geometric prints from Delicious Design League, to name a few. If you like a piece in the collection, you can take it home--but not for good. Instead, you pay a small fee to cover things like transportation and installation, hang it on your wall for three months or longer, and then return it to the collection. The program, as they say on their Facebook page, is "designed to directly stimulate and activate the art community." Their refreshing drinks and conversation should help stimulate and activate anyone who stops by Printers Ball as well.

Daphne Sidor

Author Thu Jul 25 2013

Chicago's Best Literary Podcasts

Let's say you live in Chicago, and you'd like to go get a taste of the city's abundant literary culture, but it's oppressively hot or mind-numbingly cold outside. Thankfully, you can take in some of Chi-town's best literary events without ever leaving your apartment. How? Through the magic of podcasting. Shut-ins, rejoice! Here's a list of some of the city's best literary podcasts.

All Write, Already!
Hosted and curated by Essay Fiesta hosts Willy Nast and Karen Shimmin, AWA! is a delight for aspiring writers and devoted readers alike. The bi-monthly podcast consists of three parts: first, Karen and Willy discuss a piece of recent literary news; then the hosts throw the mic to a Chicago author, who reads an excerpt of their work; finally, the cast closes with an interview with the author. This show is enlightening, inspiring and informative.

The Paper Machete
Each week, WBEZ podcasts a selection from The Green Mill's weekly, rip-roarious live magazine, The Paper Machete. Each week's episode features a short snippet from the previous week's live music performance, followed by a short, select essay from the show's full program of humorous, on-point cultural criticism. It's a great way to keep up with the show if you miss a week, and the music recording and mixing is high caliber.

Fictlicious
Chicago's one-and-only fiction reading series, Fictlicious had a delightful podcast covering the full length of each live show. Since the show only occurs four times a year, this is a fantastic way to stave off your cravings until the next live event. The show's awesome live music is included, too!

Chicago Humanities Festival
Every year, the Chicago Humanities Festival delights and frustrates the city's denizens with a massive list of amazing events headed by famous authors, artists, and commentators. While the selection is always dazzling, the sad reality cannot be ignored: no one has the money or time to attend every event. Thankfully, the Chicago Humanities Festival podcast makes it possible for the broke or time-starved Chicagoan to catch up on their culture.

Which podcasts did I miss? Hit up the comments section with suggestions.

Erika Price / Comments (1)

Events Thu Jul 25 2013

Author Discusses Great Mexican Migration to Chicago as part of "One Book, One Chicago" Program

Author and scholar Michael Innis-Jiménez will discuss his book, Steel Barrio: The Great Mexican Migration to South Chicago, 1915-1940, at the Vodak-East Side branch of the Chicago Public Library, 3710 E. 106th Street, on Saturday, July 27 at 1pm.

Innis-Jiménez's presentation of Steel Barrio, a history of the thousands of Mexican-Americans who lived, worked, and formed communities in South Chicago's steel mill neighborhoods in the 20th century, is sponsored in partnership with the Southeast Chicago Historical Society and the City's popular "One Book, One Chicago" program. This year's "One Chicago, One Book" selection, Isabel Wilkerson's Pulitzer Prize-winning The Warmth of Other Suns, explores the Great Migration, when millions of African-Americans moved out of the rural South to Chicago and other urban areas in the Northeast, Midwest, and West between World War I and the 1970s.

Innis-Jiménez is assistant professor and director of graduate studies at the University of Alabama. His research focuses on Latino/a immigration to the American Midwest and South, Latino/a labor, and urban studies.

Matt McCarthy

Events Wed Jul 24 2013

Saturday Strip: Comics Day @ MCA!

bubbleheads.jpgThis Saturday, July 27, celebrate Saturday Strip: Comic Day at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free with museum admission, events are scheduled from 10am-5pm. Comic Day comes on the heels of current exhibit Modern Cartoonist: The Art of Daniel Clowes showcasing the work of the legendary comic artist.

There's artwork, film screenings, and performances all day long. It begins right upon entry to the museum. The cartoonist collective Trubble Club will work on a large chalk drawing on the front plaza over the course of the day. As you step into the lobby, Quimby's Bookstore and the MCA bookstore will present a small scale comic fair with publications for sale until 6pm.

Image: Paul Hornschemeier: Bubbleheads, courtesy of the MCA website.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Printers Ball Wed Jul 24 2013

Printers Ball Preview: Print Shop Demos with Brad Vetter and Alex Valentine

Sometimes it's not what you write but how it looks on paper. Paper arts are an undervalued form in our era of HTML and CSS coding, so come out to Printers Ball this Saturday for some free print shop demos with Brad Vetter and Alex Valentine.

"Alex and I will be doing rotating demos. I will be there in the afternoon (2-5:30pm) cranking out some letterpress prints. I will be using both alternative and traditional letterpress techniques to create a multiple color letterpress print. Using the 1950's era Vandercook #4 letterpress, I want to showcase that such an archaic process can still be innovative and progressive in modern times," said Vetter, who creates letterpress posters at the renown Nashville print shop, Hatch Show Print.

Co-host Valentine, a local print designer who consistently shows work around town, will be demonstrating offset printing, a type of printing done with custom made rubber stamps. Catch these two and maybe make some new art for your walls.

John Accrocco / Comments (2)

Printers Ball Wed Jul 24 2013

Printers Ball Preview: Tony Fitzpatrick

Algren Song Bird_300.jpgChicago artist Tony Fitzpatrick is a man of many talents. If you've laid eyes on one of his stunning, layered collages, you know the feeling of falling down a beautiful rabbit hole, but poetry, playwriting, and acting are all in his wheelhouse.

At this Saturday's Printers Ball, from 5pm to 6pm, Fitzpatrick will be in conversation with Fred Sasaki, associate editor of Poetry magazine, on the subject of art and friendship. (The February 2009 issue of Poetry showcased Fitzpatrick's work in response to Hurricane Katrina; check it out for some soul-stirring, eye-popping works of art.) Per a recent chat with Fitzpatrick, topics could range from the concept of collaboration--"communal energy"-- to what we can learn from our friendships artistically, to the idea that engaging in "good will" can enhance our creative lives. Artists of all stripes can identify with these themes, so the exchange is sure to provide food for thought (and friendship). As a special bonus, Fitzpatrick will be showing some new work as a part of the presentation.

Emilie Syberg

Events Tue Jul 23 2013

Newberry Book Fair Starts Thursday

The 29th Annual Newberry Book Fair kicks off on Thursday, July 25th, and runs until Sunday the 29th at the Newberry Public Library, 60 W. Walton Street. The event will offer over 120,000 donated books spread out across six packed rooms, as well as DVDs, tapes, CDs, and records. The library asks that you bring your own shopping bag. But, since most of the books are priced at $2 or under, we suggest bringing your lucky wheelbarrow or sidecar.

Fun fact: At the sale two years ago I found a handwritten note stuffed in a book that was in the Old & Collectible room. It was dated 1938 and from a high school girl warning a high school boy not to get involved with her friend, because her friend was not "smart and astitute," while she, the note writer, was very smart, very astute, and really thought the beau was handsome. Gold.

The sale goes from 12-8pm Thursday & Friday, and 10am-6pm Saturday & Sunday. Admission is free and all proceeds go to the Newberry.

Steve Kline

Book Club Mon Jul 22 2013

Acts of Love to Distribute 10K Books to Under-Served Chicago Neighborhoods

This Thursday, Acts of Love, an international book-giving charity, will be kicking off its second-annual "Love Young People" tour by distributing over 1,000 books to children and young adults in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. This event is the first of twelve such occasions slated to occur in Chicago throughout this month and August, in which 10,000 total books will be given to residents of various troubled communities.

Beginning at 6:30pm in Hamilton Park (513 W. 72nd Street), a team of volunteers will scour Englewood, one Chicago's most under-privileged communities, giving out book bags full of donated books to local residents. Adult residents will also be asked to take the "Acts of Love" pledge to support children in their communities and promote reading in their homes. According to the organization's Facebook page, volunteers for this kick-off are still needed, and are welcome to check-in at the Hamilton Park Play Lot at 6:30pm the night of the event.

In addition to its neighborhood visits, Acts of Love will have tents set up at several festivals in the next month, including Family Fun Fest and the Chicago Westside Music Festival. The organization will be accepting book donations at all these events, as well as distributing book gifts to local children and families in attendance.

Here is Acts of Love's full schedule:

July 25th - Englewood (Hamilton Park)
July 27th - Taste of WVON
July 28th - Garfield Park
August 1st - North Lawndale
August 9th - Humboldt Park
August 10th - Altgeld Gardens
August 11th - Roseland
August 12th - Washington Park
August 13th - Bronzeville
August 14th - Dearborn Homes
August 17th - Family Fun Fest
August 25th - Chicago Westside Music Festival

Visit the Acts of Love site for more information on the project or to make a donation of books or cash.

Erika Price

Author Mon Jul 22 2013

Poetry Foundation Exhibit Glimpses Lives of Afghan Women

The photography exhibition currently at the Poetry Foundation gallery (61 West Superior Street), Shame Every Rose: Images of Afghanistan, combines poetry and imagery in a compelling way. Seamus Murphy, an award-winning photographer and filmmaker, traveled to Afghanistan with journalist Eliza Griswold, and the results of their work--featured in the June 2013 issue of Poetry, in addition to the exhibit--are both arresting and important. These aren't images you've ever seen.

Poetry's June 2013 issue is devoted entirely to a form of poetry from Afghanistan called a landay, which functions as a couplet; it's comprised of twenty-two syllables, with nine syllables in the first line and thirteen in the second. The landay is chiefly the province of the women who belong to the Pashtun people--an ethnic group within Afghanistan--and its existence goes back centuries. Accompanying these landays are images from Afghanistan captured by Seamus Murphy over an eighteen-year period. Eliza Griswold leads the reader through the history behind the landays, and the world of the women she encounters, which is often one of subjugation and silence. Landays, however, are strong stuff--the word means "short, poisonous snake", which speaks volumes about their tone and content. death, sex, sorrow, love, Americans, the Taliban--universal and specific themes alike combine to create brief, powerful poems. Poetry becomes a form of protest.

The photography exhibit pairs the pictures in twos in order to emulate the landays, and the results are beautiful (and unnerving). In one set of images, the first shows a man peeking at a woman who watches him over her shoulder from a short distance; the second shows a blood-red slab of meat slung over someone's back. In another, stacks of scrolls are paired with birds in flight. Blood, flowers, burqa-clad women: all of these and more make appearances, and the viewer is challenged to connect the emotional dots between the words of a poem and the images of a photograph. Part of the response to any work of art is an attempt to relate, and in this instance--confronted not only by the intersection of poetry and photography, but by the existence of a world so different from our own--time must be taken to stop, look, and process. The results are rewarding.

The exhibit is free and open to the public through August 24. I highly recommend not only making the trip to see it; make sure to read the June issue of Poetry, and to watch Snake, a short film Seamus Murphy created while in Afghanistan. Appreciate the artistry behind the photographs and the beauty of the landays, but appreciate, too, the opportunity to learn more about the stories that lay behind them. These are faces that should be seen and voices that should be heard.


Emilie Syberg

Printers Ball Fri Jul 19 2013

Printer's Ball 2013 Preview Begins Next Week!

PrintersBallImage.gifSpudnik Press Cooperative hosts the 9th annual Printer's Ball on Saturday, July 27 from 12pm-6pm, taking the reins from the Poetry Foundation, the event's founding organizer. This year's celebration of literary culture and printmaking, entitled "Trip & Return", will occupy seven gallery and studio spaces at the Hubbard Street Lofts, 1821 W. Hubbard Street.

In anticipation of this juicy affair-- which features readings and performances, live printmaking demos and workshops, exhibitions and food and drink tastings-- Book Club will be featuring "Printer's Ball Previews" beginning next week. These brief sketches will offer background on the artists and writers exhibiting at the Ball, and fill you in on what they plan to share.

Get excited! (And stay tuned!)

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Jul 18 2013

Oak Park Celebrates Hemingway's Birthday This Weekend

Big goings-on for Papa's 114th birthday (July 21) this weekend in the author's home town of Oak Park, Ill.

The Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park's "Hemingway Birthday Celebration" will feature a weekend of events including a sidewalk Hemingway book sale, tours of the Victorian house where Hemingway was born, and a program Sunday by guest speaker and scholar Liesl Olson that promises to shed light on the little-known part of Hemingway's history that took place in downtown Chicago.

Festivities will culminate at a reception Sunday evening where the Foundation's first Writer in Residence will be announced. The winner will work on his or her next work in the attic of the home where Hemingway lived until he was five years old. Tickets are $30 for adults and are good for events both Saturday and Sunday.

Matt McCarthy / Comments (1)

Author Thu Jul 18 2013

Kate Christensen Reads from Her Memoir, Blue Plate Special

On July 17th, author Kate Christensen read from her book Blue Plate Special at Women and Children First Bookstore. I'm going to be honest and say I've never read a food memoir. And again when I admit I've never read Kate Christensen's work, although she's published seven books now.

Attending readings is the perfect way to find out if you want to hear more of what the writer has to say, and when it comes to Kate Christensen, I most definitely do. Kate was engaging and hilarious. Before she began reading, she spoke about living in East Village in New York City. She was post-MFA, working crappy jobs and had no book published. Her thirtieth birthday was approaching and having accomplished none of the things she'd hoped for, she was depressed. This is when she began reading food memoirs, and she says reading about food made her feel safe.

Kate talked about the process of turning a blog about her life and love of food into a book, and about telling her story as if she herself were a fictional character. One of the chapters she read described her time in France as an eighteen year old. She was fresh out of high school and became an au pair to four boys. Learning to cook French food when she didn't know the language was a challenge. When baking a birthday cake, she put in salt instead of baking soda because she couldn't read French labels.

Kate told the audience, "My relationship with food has been rocky. It has gone back and forth from aestheticism to overindulgence many times throughout my life." She said Blue Plate Special is "what food has been and is for me."

This book is not just a food memoir. It's about the life of a passionate and funny writer struggling toward success. It's about family and being abandoned by a parent. It's about sex, alcohol, writing, and yes, it's about food. And who doesn't love food?


Mikaela Jorgensen

Events Wed Jul 17 2013

Five Powers of Poetry @ Poetry Foundation

There's still time to register for this weekend's Five Powers of Poetry seminar at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.). A three day intensive held this Friday, Saturday and Sunday (July 19, 20 and 21), this program is designed to provide secondary school teachers with a greater comfort level in the reading and teaching of contemporary poetry. Registration is free and limited to 30 attendees. You must be able to attend all three sessions.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 17 2013

Funny Ha-Ha is Back at the Hideout

The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., presents Funny Ha-Ha this Friday, July 17 at 6:30pm. This edition's theme is "Hot and Bothered."

Hosted by Claire Zulkey, featured readers include Erin Shea Smith, Homer Marrs, Kate James, Keith Ecker, Steve Delahoyde, and Carly Oishi. $5; proceeds benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 17 2013

Fan Interference, Zisk Zine Release at Quimby's

faninterference.png'Tis the season to celebrate America's Pastime, so join Zisk Zine in the release of their anthology Fan Interference: A Collection of Baseball Rants and Reflection on Friday, July 19 at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 North Ave. at 7pm.

Zisk Zine, a "baseball magazine for people who hate baseball magazines", has been published since 1999. Edited by longtime writers Mike Faloon (Go Metric zine) and Steve Reynolds, the anthology covers the last 15 years of the publication. Contributors range from punk musicians, writers and, of course, fans of the 3-2-6 double play. The issue includes work by Sean Carswell and Todd Taylor (founders of Razorcake magazine), Brian Cogan (The Encyclopedia of Punk), John Shiffert (author of Base Ball in Philadelphia), Charlie Vascellaro (the Washington Post, the Chicago Sun-Times), and Rev Norb (musician and former writer of Maximum Rocknroll).

Faloon and Reynolds will be joined by Jake Austen (know locally as the face behind Roctober magazine, as well as the author of TV-A-Go-Go: Rock Music on Television from American Bandstand to American Idol) for a reading and discussion that is sure to cover baseball from past to present.

Books will be available at the event.

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Tue Jul 16 2013

Where are all the fiction readings?

Chicago is replete with live lit events and reading series. Nearly any weekday of the month, you can spit and land on a bookstore, bar, coffee shop, or combination thereof full of writerly-performery people reading things they've created. These events span all topics and probe all levels of analysis: there's the personal but professional-grade creative nonfiction of Essay Fiesta; the witty sort-of journalism of The Paper Machete; the personal, confessional narratives of Story Club, Guts & Glory and The Moth; there's the eclecticism of Seven Deadly Sins and Tuesday Funk; the vigorous debate of Write Club. Hell, there's poetry too, in the form of Uptown Poetry Slam.

But in this performative literary oasis, there are barely any fiction reading series to be found. The one exception is Fictlicious, which delivers original fictional work from Chicago-area writers with a side of live music, but sadly, it's only a quarterly event. You can find fictional pieces in, for example, Seven Deadly Sins; there is character work in The Paper Machete. And if you really are starved for fictional narrative, you can always go to a book signing at Women & Children First or The Book Cellar and find an author reading a snippet. But there is no regularly-schedule sample platter of fictional literary creations.

Continue reading this entry »

Erika Price / Comments (6)

Events Tue Jul 16 2013

NY Based Blonde Art Books Tour Comes to Chicago

New York-based Blonde Art Books is sponsoring a summer tour with a stop at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., this Thursday, July 18 at 5:30pm.

Blonde Art Books promotes independent publications by artists and small presses with their blog and bookstore. The tour looks to begin dialogues and make connections with artists and writers working on self publications. To spark the discussion, there will be a traveling collection of materials curated by Sonel Breslav, the founder Blonde Art Books.

"The tour allows me to share the books that I have curated into exhibitions, written about on my blog and sold out of my shop in Brooklyn," says Breslav. "I am physically bringing the books to a new audience that may otherwise not have access to them. In turn I am gaining insight into print and self-publishing culture in cities outside of New York."

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 15 2013

One Thousand and One Words: Kid Friendly Event at City Lit Books!

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Calling all kids (and parents)! Join local author, illustrator and teacher Erica Weisz on Saturday, July 20 at 11am for an afternoon of "One Thousand and One Words" at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie.

Weisz's book One Thousand and One Words tackles the tough subject of bullying in schools. Her character, Theodore, deals with bullying issues and devises solutions on overcoming them.

This free event is suitable for children aged 5-9. It's a great way for parents to start a discussion with their kids, and to enjoy a summer afternoon out.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jul 09 2013

DIY Summit @ Quimby's

Does what you do for a paycheck match what you daydreamed of doing as a kid? If not, head to Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) this Friday, July 12 to hear Eleanor C. Whitney read from Grow: How to Take Your Do It Yourself Project and Passion to the Next Level and Quit Your Job. Whitney is a writer, rock musician, educator, and arts administrator who has led various workshops on zine making, social media, grant writing and fund raising. Amy Cuevas Schroeder of Venus Zine and the DIY Business Association says, "Eleanor Whitney breaks down the daunting process of earning a living as a creative person into chewable, bite-size bits. With easy-to-digest, step-by-step tips and tangible examples from working artists, Eleanor's expert advice is some of the most sought-after content."

Whitney will be joined by local creative professionals Selena Fragassi (Boxx Magazine), Rebecca Ann Rakstad (Rarrar Press), and Bradley Adita (PopPunk.com). 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Books Tue Jul 09 2013

Book Review: The Night Gwen Stacy Died by Sarah Bruni

Sarah-Bruni_THE-NIGHT-GWEN-STACY-DIED.jpgWhile reading Sarah Bruni's debut novel The Night Gwen Stacy Died, I remembered, quite wistfully, all the stupid things I did when I was 17. Granted, I was no Sheila Gower, Bruni's bored teenage protagonist who allows herself to be kidnapped at gunpoint by a restless, cab-driving stranger who calls himself Peter Parker (as in Spider-Man). But thanks to Bruni's thoughtful prose and carefully-drawn characters, I can understand why she goes for it, absconding with him for weeks in Chicago, where neither knows exactly what they're doing, or why (until a wild coyote Sheila is drawn to begins to clear that up for them).

I like Bruni's Sheila -- she has no friends (except for the equally marginalized Anthony Pignatelli ("The 'G' is fucking silent anytime it comes before an 'N'," he says; I wished there was more of him!), she works in a gas station in small-town Iowa, and she confides in a taxidermied museum coyote, whom she'll probably miss when she finally delivers herself to Paris after graduation. She's the quintessential unimpressed-romantic-loner-teenage girl, and if a movie based on this book is ever made, Christina Ricci should totally teleport the 1998 version of herself to play the role.

One of Bruni's deftest moves was her choice of title. The Night Gwen Stacy Dies is also the name of issues #121-122 of The Amazing Spider-Man comic book series, in which Spider-Man battles the Green Goblin and -- spoiler alert! -- his girlfriend Gwen Stacy dies at the end. When Peter begins to refer to Sheila as Gwen Stacy and she goes along with it, even wearing a Gwen-esque dress and doing comic book-y things, my concern for her fate kept me turning the pages right through an unpredictable, impressionistic, and lyrical denouement.

You don't have to know the Spider-Man story, or even be curious about it, to enjoy this book. Read it if you have a soft spot for teenage loners and star-crossed lovers, or for coming-of-age novels that are not your typical coming-of-age novel.

You can pick up a copy of The Night Gwen Stacy Died this Friday, July 12 at 7:30pm at Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St., where Bruni will read and sign books.

Photo courtesy of the author's website.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Jul 08 2013

This Wednesday Celebrate as RUI Gains Dependence (finally)

Reading Under the Influence didn't party too hard last week so they could host their July reading, themed "dependence," on Wednesday, July 10 at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield.

As they do, RUI mixes two all-American activities: drinking and writing. Each reader takes a shot and then reads twice: once from original work, once from published work relating to the theme (followed by a round of trivia).

Featured readers this month include Newcity editor Brian Hieggelke, Write Club host Ian
Belknap, author Tina Jens (The Blues Ain't Nothin'), and Germania Solorzano, an adjunct faculty member at Columbia College Chicago.

The $3 cover supports a friend of RUI, author and co-founder of The Handshake magazine Kevin Kane, who is battling cancer. RUI encourages you to to donate whatever you can to help.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jul 03 2013

Chicago Humanities Fest 2013: The Scoop

The theme of the 24th annual Chicago Humanities Festival is (drum roll)..."Animal: What makes us human?" animal-and-human.pngMore than 100 programs exploring that theme will take place throughout October and November in addition to the following speakers:


  • Jonathan Safran Foer author of Everything is Illuminated, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Eating Animals

  • Daniel Handler (aka Lemony Snicket), author of A Series of Unfortunate Events and the All the Wrong Questions series (also, he's an accordionist)

  • Poet and fiction writer Anne Carson

  • Latin Grammy® Award-winning soprano Ana María Martínez

  • Conceptual artist Mark Dion

  • Yale Law Professor and authority on crime prevention and community capacity building Tracey L. Meares

  • Barbara Natterson-Horowitz and Kathryn Bowers, authors of Zoobiquity: The Astonishing Connection between Human and Animal Health

  • Craig Packer, leading expert on African wildlife and founder of the Serengeti Lion Project

Tickets go on sale to CHF members on Tuesday, Sept. 3 and to the general public on Monday, Sept. 16. Tickets range from $5-28, with free and reduced-price tickets available for students and teachers (with valid ID). The full schedule and a listing of all programs will be available at chicagohumanities.org in August.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Jul 03 2013

Once you Pop, You Can't Stop: Pop-Up Book Fair Returns

The folks at Curbside Splendor Publishing are back with their third Pop-up Book Fair Sunday, July 7 at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western.

The fair welcomes back over 40 local independent publishers, presses and organizations for an expo market from 12:30pm until 5pm. Quimby's Bookstore will be on hand with a selection of self-published books and zines. Other expo participants include 826chi, Another Chicago Magazine, Chicago Zine Fest, Haymarket Books, Criminal Class Press and more. There will something for every lover of the printed word.

To complement the visual component of the expo, there will be audio accompaniment throughout the day. Live DJ Sets are scheduled by DJ Nagasaki, DJ Goldie Bear, DJ "2nd Cousin, Twice Removed", DJ Kale Party, KRUBREDNUF, DJ Heavy Inspinuation, & DJ DG.

Don't forget, the bar will be open for those early afternoon cocktails. There is a $5 cover, but free if you RSVP. 21+ unless minors are accompanied by an adult.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 01 2013

Irvine Welsh Puts his Dukes Up Tuesday (sorta)

On Tuesday July 2 the Put 'Em Up series at Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, showcases a live reading from Scottsman turned Chicagoan Irvine Welsh. Welsh will read from a work-in-progress called Creatives (working title). The piece, said to be a dark comedy thriller, is co-written by fellow Chicago author Don De Grazia (American Skin). Both authors are known for gritty, slice-of-life storytelling.

The reading begins at 7:30pm, a $7 cover includes a free drink.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jun 27 2013

A Very Lady-like Exhibit on Sex. Money. Race. Gender.

The Chicago comics collective known as the Ladydrawers will be running their exhibit Sex. Money. Race. Gender. at Columbia College Chicago's A&D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash from June 27 through July 27. Art and visual work exploring those themes will be open to the public during regular hours. Supplemental programming will run weekly, including the following workshops geared toward addressing the exhibit's themes.

ld_workshop_poster.jpg On June 29 join May Summer Farnsworth, Jamie Davida Lee, and Fran Syass for Radical Noticing: Riot Grrrl Press and Contemporary Comic with hands-on demonstrations on making comics and zines.

July 11 Esther Pearl Watson and Terri Kapsalis lead the discussion Lexicon of Sexicana exploring sexual health and language.

July 18 Delia Jean Hickey and Sarah Jaffe talk about Life and Labor exploring making an honest living with a focus on the service industry.

To round out the exhibit's workshops, join Việt Lê and Morgan Claire on July 25 for a Boi Band Poser Poster Workshop looking at identity through pop culture.

All events are free and open to the public. Poster art by Joyce Rice (Symbolia magazine).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jun 26 2013

Michael Penkas @ Tamale Hut Cafe

This Saturday, June 29, the Tamale Hut Cafe (8300 W. Cermak Rd. in North Riverside) Reading Series presents Michael Penkas. A mainstay at local readings such as Bad Grammar Theater and the Gumbo Fiction Salon, Penkas is the website editor for online fantasy magazine Black Gate. His story collection Dead Boys came out this past May. The reading is at 7pm; an open mic follows. BYOB.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Tue Jun 25 2013

Pulitzer Prize-Winner Sonia Nazario to Speak at DePaul University

EnriquesJourney.jpegImagine that you’re riding on top of a freight train. Behind you, rampant gang warfare, a constant threat to your life and your family. Ahead, a foreign country, where you know no one, have no prospects. You will most likely be put on trial and, if so, be expected to represent yourself.

Now imagine that you’re 15 years old. Younger.

These are the circumstances journalist Sonia Nazario describes in her recent New York Times article, “Child Migrants, Alone in Court”. The accounts within are just the latest in a long career of immigration research for Nazario, with particular emphasis on the international borders that all too often separate mothers and children. Her 2003 feature, “Enrique’s Journey,” details a Honduran boy’s Odyssean journey to find his mother in the U.S. The story earned her, among other considerable acclaim, the Pulitzer Prize for feature writing. Once adapted into a book, Enrique’s Journey went on to become a national best seller, as well as required reading at a number of colleges and high schools across the country.

Immigration is a contentious subject, especially now. What better way to gain a more informed viewpoint than to learn from the journalist herself? This Thursday, June 27 from 6 to 8 pm, DePaul University’s College of Education hosts Nazario in a public discussion on the subject of immigration. The talk is an installation in DePaul’s second annual Facing History and Ourselves Summer Institute, and will be held at Cortelyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont St. Free!

Miden Wood

Book Club Tue Jun 25 2013

The Librarians are Coming! ALA Conference Kicks off Thursday

I love the library. Always have. I love rows and rows of books and the silence, pierced by the occasional beep of a scanned barcode. When Chicago library hours were reduced, I was really, really sad, and still am. Perhaps irrationally, I worry for the future of libraries. That's why it's heartening to know that the American Library Association will bring its annual conference and exhibition to McCormick Place this Thursday, June 27 through Tuesday, July 2.

But let's face it, if you're not already registered, you're probably not going to pop $150 for a one-day pass. It's still pretty awesome to recognize that this conference signals a thriving library industry. This week the Tribune's Christopher Borrelli wrote a nice article on the flourishing reference desk at the Mount Prospect Public Library.

It's also pretty cool to note that Alice Walker (read Donna Seaman's interview), Oliver Stone, Temple Grandin, Giada De Laurentiis and a whole lot more will be in town for the Auditorium Speaker Series-- but even cooler to know that local authors like Chris L. Terry (who I previously interviewed here) and Samantha Irby will be present at "Meet the Author" events.

For more details visit the ALA Conference website at www.ala.org/annual.

Lara Levitan / Comments (5)

Events Mon Jun 24 2013

Class, Scandal and Coming of Age During the Great Depression

Thumbnail image for Anton.jpgThis Thursday, June 27, Anton DiSclafani will visit the Tribune Tower (435 N. Michigan Ave.) to read from her debut novel The Yonahlossee Riding Camp For Girls in discussion with the Tribune's Heidi Stevens. Set in 1930, the novel tells the tale of 15-year-old Thea Atwell as she arrives at an all-girl, Southern equestrienne boarding school full of complex social strata. Thea leaves behind a family scandal in Florida that slowly unspools throughout the narrative.

Michiko Kakutani of the New York Times calls it, "this summer's first romantic page turner. By cutting back and forth between the events that took Thea to Yonahlossee and her experiences in school, Ms. DiSclafani methodically builds suspense. The reader's attention rarely wavers, thanks to Ms. DiSclafani's knowledge of how to keep her foot on her story's gas pedal, and her sympathy for her spirited, unbridled heroine."

Sounds like it might give Mad Men fans a bit of a Sally Draper fix now that the season is over. DiSclafani is reported to have earned a $1 million advance for the publishing rights, and the book was chosen as a most anticipated book for summer 2013 by The Wall Street Journal, Publishers Weekly and NPR. 7pm, $15.

Photo by Whitney Curtis, Chicago Tribune.

Rebecca Hyland

Bookmarks Fri Jun 21 2013

Bookmarks

Tonight! Bernard Harcourt and W. J. T. Mitchell discuss Occupy: Three Inquiries in Disobedience (written with Michael Taussig) at Seminary Co-Op Bookstore.

Tonight! Nathan Rabin, formerly of the Onion A.V. Club, discusses You Don't Know Me but You Don't Like Me: Phish, Insane Clown Posse, and My Misadventures With Two of Music's Most Maligned Tribes at the Book Cellar.

Saturday! City Lit Books in Logan Square hosts story time bright and early at 10:30am.

Saturday! Red Rover Reading Series Experiment #64: Coda Chroma, at Outer Space Studio.

Saturday! Quiet Writers Riot, a weekly writing group, meets at Uncharted Books in Logan Square.

Any time! Support local independent bookstore Transistor, previously profiled in Gapers Block.

If Saturday's Blackhawks game inspires you, submit a written ode to Stymie online magazine, a sports and games themed literary journal with a penchant for David Foster Wallace.

All weekend! Half Off Sale at Open Books.

Lara Levitan

Author Wed Jun 19 2013

Love Savage Style Thursday at Lincoln Hall

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Unabridged Bookstore welcomes Dan Savage of the internationally syndicated sex advice column and podcast Savage Love on his book tour this Thursday June 20 at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. Savage, a Chicago native, returns to his home town for two shows at 7pm and 10pm to support his new book American Savage: Insights, Slights, and Fights on Faith, Sex, Love, and Politics. Savage's trademark wit and sarcasm shine through in his new book concerning subjects such as healthcare, gun control, parenting and marriage equality.

Tickets grant entry and a copy of the new book. If you have a ticket and want to pick up your copy of American Savage before Friday, bring your confirmation email to Unabridged Bookstore, 3251 N. Broadway Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jun 18 2013

Performance Poets: Submit to the Oak Park Poetry Exchange

The Oak Park Regional Housing Center is hosting the first annual Oak Park Poetry Exchange. Twelve poems and three short films will be selected for a culminating performance/viewing at Oak Park's architecturally significant Pleasant Home on Friday, July 19.

Performance poets, submit your work revolving around "Diversity and CommUNITY." From the event press release: "In a society that is divided too often along racial lines, we are requesting expressions of unity. Poems should focus on aspirational or inspirational themes around diversity and integration."

Performances should not exceed five minutes in length, and a video demo is required for submission. Filmmakers are also invited to submit short films that are no longer than ten minutes in length and revolve around the same theme.

Panel judges include Kartemquin Film's Steve James; author, jazz performer and Columbia College professor George Bailey; community human rights activist and artist Abdi "Fuerza" Maya; and lead singer of the jazz fusion group Organic Flow Liam Bird.

Submission deadline is July 5. Click here to learn more about categories, cash prizes and submission guidelines. Click here to submit.

UPDATE: The Pleasant Home Foundation announced that the Poetry Exchange has postponed. The statement read, in part, "The Housing Center remains committed to bringing this dynamic event to Oak Park and the region. However, we have realized that we did not provide enough advance outreach to hold the event this summer. Look for the event to be held next year with an even more exciting format!"

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Jun 17 2013

Another Chicago Magazine Issue 51 Release Party

ACM 51.jpgThis Wednesday June 19, Another Chicago Magazine, an imprint of Curbside Splendor Publishing, is celebrating the release of their latest issue at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont at 8pm. ACM issue #51 showcases a mix of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.

The night will include readings by issue contributors Jeffrey Allen, Okla Elliott, Baird Harper, Colleen O'Connor, Dawn Tefft and Russ Woods.

This issue's print run is limited with sales only available through Curbside's website and a few select Chicago outlets. Copies will be available for sale at the reading, so get one before they're gone.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jun 13 2013

Chicago Live! Encourages Chicagoans to 'Explore the City'

Living in a city, it’s sometimes easy to let an exciting event slip by unnoticed. I had heard of the TribunePress variety show Chicago Live! in passing, but it was mentally categorized in the column entitled “Should Go to That One of These Days.” Now, having attended the program firsthand at Printer’s Row Litfest, it has rightfully relocated to the “Must-See” list.*

With features ranging from live jazz to Second City sketches to political interviews, it’s hard to pinpoint which quality of Chicago Live! proved so engaging. Perhaps it was the nimble fingers of blues guitarist John Primer, or the refreshing candor on the part of interviewed Chicago Aldermen. Perhaps it was the wry musings of MC Rick Kogan, or his intermittent reminders to “keep in mind that it’s free” (thanks to sponsorship by Nielsen). So free in fact that you can watch a webcast of the whole show here!

Continue reading this entry »

Miden Wood / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jun 12 2013

Susan Schorn @ Thousand Waves Spa

This Saturday, June 15, the Book Cellar hosts an off site event at Thousand Waves Spa (1220 W. Belmont Ave.) for Susan Schorn, reading from her martial arts related memoir Smile at Strangers: And Other Lessons in the Art of Living Fearlessly. Author Mark Salzman says, "This is a memoir I'll be thinking and talking about for a long time. To begin with, the voice is unique - trust me, you've never heard anyone talk about coping with fear and anger the way Susan Schorn does. The writing is hilarious at times, dead serious when it needs to be, and always brilliant. I enjoyed this book thoroughly, and I will make sure never to get into a fistfight with its author." Does the venue change mean there will be karate lessons? Show up and find out. 4pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jun 12 2013

Kevin Coval @ Chicago Public Library, West Town

This Saturday, June 15, the Chicago Public Library, West Town branch (1625 W. Chicago Ave.) welcomes Kevin Coval. Coval is the co-founder of Young Chicago Authors and the Louder Than A Bomb teen poetry slam held annually throughout the Chicago area. He'll be reading from his latest poetry collection, Schtick Exploring themes of Jewish assimilation, its discontents and diaspora, comedian Marc Maron says, "Coval does for the Jews what Whitman did for America." 12noon.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 12 2013

Back for Seconds, CAKE 2013 this Weekend

CAKEPoster.jpgThe Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE) returns for its second year this weekend June 15 and 16 at the Center on Halsted, located at 3656 N. Halsted St. The event has now become one of the biggest independent comics festivals in the country.

The weekend's festivities begin with a slew of events on Friday, June 14. The first official event is a signing by special guest exhibitor Kim Deitch at Chicago Comics, located 3244 N. Clark St., at 6pm.

Break for dinner and then check out a signing with three visiting comics artists at Quimby's Bookstore, at 1854 W. North Ave., at 9pm. Michael DeForge and Patrick Kyle (Black Mass), both from Toronto (Very Casual, Koyama Press), and Lisa Hanawalt from New York (Drawn & Quarterly), will be signing their work before it is available at the expo.

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jun 05 2013

Printers Row Lit Fest This Weekend

This Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9, is the Printers Row Lit Fest, the Midwest's largest outdoor literary festival, at Dearborn from Chicago to Polk (click here for map). This year's highlights include the World's Best Short Story workshop with 826CHI, a cooking demonstration with Oprah's former chef Art Smith, Nathan Rabin reading from You Don't Know Me But You Don't Like Me, and YA fiction superstar Judy Blume. Click here for complete list of events.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 05 2013

Ray Bradbury Festival @ Strawdog Theater

This Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8, Strawdog Theater (3829 N. Broadway St.) celebrates the work of that late, great Waukegan native at the Ray Bradbury Festival. Events include panel discussions, live performances of Fahrenheit 451, live performances of The Ray Bradbury Radio Hour, and an artists gallery of Bradbury inspired work from Yusef Abonamah, Rebecca Dowsett, and Zach Sayers. Produced by OtherWorld Theatre Company, all events are free with suggested $5 donation. Click here for schedule of events.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 05 2013

Dethroning the Lizard King: Musician-Poet Reading @ Transistor

Rock musicians who also write poetry aren't always self-indulgent downers, says St. Louis musician-poet Ken Kase. Hence the title of the upcoming reading No Lizard Kings, featuring Kase and fellow musician-poets Larry O. Dean and Snežana Žabić.

"People tend to think of grandiose, depressing poetry like the stuff that Jim Morrison used to do," Kase says in the press release, and Dean agrees. "It's almost become a stereotype," Dean says. "Ken, Nana and I are doing something quite different. We're musicians who just happen to be writers."

The reading, happening Saturday, June 8 at 7:30pm at Transistor, 3819 N. Lincoln Ave.,
celebrates new releases from all three poets. Dean's Brief Nudity was published by the Ireland-based Salmon Poetry in February. Says Dean, the book is "concerned with the juxtaposition between elegy and irreverence...it also deals with popular culture's stranglehold on our collective unconscious."

Kase's debut, Seven Sonnets, features illustrations by St. Louis cartoonist John Blair Moore and is available for purchase as an ebook on Amazon. Žabić's Slovenian-English bilingual Po(jest)zija/Po(eat)ry is a collaboration with fellow feminist activist Ivana Percl. The poems are written in lyric, experimental and recipe formats with illustrations by comic book artist Dunja Jankovic.

The event is free and BYOB.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Jun 05 2013

Brooksday celebrates Chicago Poet Gwendolyn Brooks

brooks_day_logo_final-RESIZE1.jpgThis Friday, June 7, would have been the 96th Birthday of iconic Chicago poet Gwendolyn Brooks. To commemorate the occasion, the Guild Literary Complex, along with the American Writers Museum , and Chicago-based Third World Press (one of Brooks' primary publishers), is holding Chicago's first Brooksday. The event will celebrate Brooks' legacy by featuring more than 60 performers reading her work from 9am until 7:30pm at the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 E. Washington St.

"By creating a central event that is free and accessible to everyone, we expect to expose many newcomers to Brooks' writing, as well as welcome long-term admirers," says John Rich, Director of the Guild Literary Complex.

Brooksday was fathomed within the Guild Literary Complex by a board member who was inspired by Bloomsday, the annual marathon reading of James Joyce's Ulysses. The Guild has had a long history working with Brooks, including a Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Award, now in its twentieth year. The inaugural Brooksday event will set the stage for the Guild's city-wide celebration of Brooks' 100th birthday, set for 2017.

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John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Mon Jun 03 2013

Fiction Writers: Free Class at StoryStudio Wednesday

StoryStudio, a center for writing and writers located at 4043 N. Ravenswood Ave., #222, is hosting a free class Wednesday, June 5 as part of an Open House. The class, Create A Character, promises tips on creating vivid characters, a discussion of literary archetypes, and writing exercises to help develop your own memorable cast.

The Open House is from 6-8pm, class is from 6:45-7:15pm. All are welcome, but visit the registration page to RSVP.

The class is taught by historical romance novelist Jennifer Ann Coffeen, who is also an original member of the female-only comedy group, the kates.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed May 29 2013

Jordan Matter @ City Lit Books

This Saturday, June 1, Jordan Matter presents his new book, Dancers Among Us, at City Lit Books (2523 N. Kedzie Blvd.). A series of photos of dancers in everyday settings that celebrate the joy and possibility in everyday life, actor Alan Cumming says, "This book is something you should pick up every time you have forgotten that there is wit and beauty in the world - literally all around us." 3pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 29 2013

Chicago by Day and Night @ Newberry Library

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Is Chicago the Paris of America? Hear the case made this Saturday, June 1, as Paul Durica and Bill Savage present Chicago by Day and Night: The Pleasure Seeker's Guide to the Paris of America at the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St.). Durica (of Pocket Guide to Hell tours) and Savage (a Northwestern literary scholar) have edited, updated and provided historical context to a guidebook intended for visitors to Chicago's 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. "Paris" was not intended as a compliment, evidently. Chicago is presented as a wicked city full of "Traps Set by the Wicked for the Unwary." "With a wink and a nod," the press release says, "the book decries vice while offering precise directions for the indulgence of any desire." 1pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 22 2013

Annie Mok and Sam Sharpe @ Quimby's

This Saturday, May 25, Annie Mok and Sam Sharpe stop by Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.). Annie's minicomics have been archived in the Library of Congress' Small Press Expo Collection and her work has appeared in Ghost Comics, The Graphic Canon volume 3 and the upcoming DC/Vertigo anthology The Witching Hour. Sam Sharpe made the Best American Comic's "Notable Comics" list and the first collection of his work will be published next year by Carpet-Bugle Press. Mok (formerly known as Ed Choy) and Sharpe collaborated on the comic "Roosterlegs" that appeared in the anthology Little Heart: A Comics Anthology for Marriage Equality (click here for a sneak peek ). 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 22 2013

Volunteers still needed for Printers Row Lit Fest

Wanna rub elbows with YA legend Judy Blume, famed cartoonist Art Spiegelman, celebrity chef Rick Bayless and (no description required) Sting? Volunteer at the Chicago Tribune's annual Printers Row Lit Fest and you may get your chance. Follow this link to the the volunteer application-- it's the first step in getting a behind-the-book-flap experience at the Midwest's largest outdoor literary event, not to mention a free t-shirt and lunch.

The June 8 and 9 event is held at historic Printers Row, on and around the area of Dearborn Street, from Congress to Polk streets. Tickets will be available to the general public beginning May 27. More information about this year's presenters and other FAQs can be found at: printersrowlitfest.org.


Lara Levitan

Events Wed May 22 2013

Mark your Calendars: Summer Literary Events

The summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the comforts of a good book. But for something a bit more social, here are a few upcoming events and festivals scheduled you should know about:

1. The city's most recognized literary event Printers Row Lit Fest will be held June 8 and 9 in the historic Printer's Row section of the South Loop. Along Dearborn Street, tents and tables of vendors line up from Harrison to Polk Streets. The weekend is filled with panels, demonstrations, live readings, and discussions.

Some of the Saturday highlights include a conversation with newscaster Walter Jacobson and writer Keith Koeneman, hosted by Rick Kogan. Also check out a conversation with author Irvine Welsh, and a cooking demonstration with chef Rick Bayless.

Sunday's highlights include a panel on graphic novels with Anders Nilsen, Laura Park, Zak Sally, and Jeffrey Brown. Get there early to check out a conversation with notable children's book author Judy Blume at the Harold Washington Library. Events are free and open to the public, with some requiring advanced registration. Check the schedule for more details.

2. The Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE) on June 15 and 16 brings together creators and publishers of underground and alternative comics. In its second year, the expo will be held from 11am-6pm at the Center on Halsted, located at 3656 N. Halsted St. The expo will have over a hundred independent and self-published authors and artists selling their work. This year's special guests include Chris Ware, Phoebe Gloeckner, and Deb Sokolow.

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(photo of Printers Row Lit Fest, Antonio Perez, Chicago Tribune)

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John Wawrzaszek

Author Mon May 20 2013

Parenthood is Scary

“I won’t lie to you. Before your kid is born, you aren’t expecting it to be pretty. You know the birth will be a little messy. But it’s fairly shocking when the doctor holds up your baby and it looks like a prop from one of those horror flicks that gets called a ‘cult’ flick because 42 fat dipshits on the internet like it a lot. The baby was covered in blood, head to toe, screaming. Screaming, I assume, for a shower.”

Magary.jpgAccording to his first blog, Father Knows Shit, this is how, one day in 2006, Drew Magary became a father. And then proceeded to document said fatherhood in accounts both heartfelt and unflinchingly sassy*.

Though that blog has since been put on permanent hiatus, Magary’s parental musings took no such break. Rather—somewhere amidst two other books and extensive work as a writer for GQ and Deadspin—they’ve accumulated and make up his latest work, Someone Could Get Hurt: A Memoir of Twenty-First-Century Parenthood.

When it comes to honest accounts of parenthood, Magary is fearless. He is the parent brave enough to admit that, yes, being a father is hard. Yes, your baby’s crying will be just as annoying as every other baby’s crying. Yes, the pressure put on parents is enormous, and spanking is pretty weird for everyone involved. It is that very candor that allows Magary’s work to be both eye-opening and entertaining.

This Thursday, May 23, at 7 pm the father himself will be stopping into the Book Cellar (4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave.) to share some pearls of parental wisdom from his new book. Whether you are a parent, a babysitter, or have just seen a baby before in passing, Magary’s work is brimming with wit, and definitely worth a listen.

*”Sassy”, you may think, is a flippant or sarcastic choice here. But read any one of Magary’s GQ articles and you’ll find it’s the only word astute in assessing his deft mockery talents. I revere his sass. He is a SassMaster.

Miden Wood / Comments (1)

Author Fri May 17 2013

Statistician Nate Silver Speaks at Spertus Institute

thesignalandthenoise.jpgEvery few mornings, my mom will e-mail me my horoscope.

It's not that we take serious stock in the just-vague-enough-to-be-accurate predictions. We know it's silly. It's just a nice tradition; our kooky way of keeping in touch. I don't believe in what the horoscopes say, and that is the truth.

The truth, nine tenths of the truth, almost entirely true, so help me Libra.

Okay, I don't open those e-mails expecting to learn exactly what my day holds. It's only that, after reading them, they tend to sit in the back of my mind. If my horoscope tells me my "patience will be tested," and later that day I have to wait twenty minutes for the bus, a small part of me will think, "Oh! Thanks for the heads up, Mom/Universe!"

The reason my subconscious clings to the horoscope isn't that I actually believe it, nor is it a predictive measure comparable to data-based statistical forecasting (no offense, Cosmos). Rather, this behavior, and the popularity of astrology in general, is a prime example of the way in which we as a species tend to despise uncertainty.

In his book The Signal and the Noise: Why So Many Predictions Fail - But Some Don't, statistician Nate Silver pinpoints this very aversion to uncertainty as a major cause of faulty predictions. We are wired to detect patterns. We are predisposed to lean towards our subjective bias. We tend to see in the data what we want to see. And considering the ever-amassing amount of information available, it is not difficult to lose the signal (true, relevant data) amidst the noise (everything else).

Horoscopes may be a hoax, but when it comes to predictions, Mr. Silver is the next best thing. He has gained notoriety throughout his career for the astoundingly accurate predictions of the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections, various senatorial elections, as well as the performance of many Major League Baseball players. He was named one of "The World's 100 Most Influential People" by Time magazine, and his blog, FiveThirtyEight.com, was licensed for publication by the New York Times.

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Miden Wood

Events Wed May 15 2013

Fairy Tales and Coming of Age Stories at Bargain Prices

If you're looking to add to your cultural calendar this month the Chicago Humanities Festival is offering a special 25% discount deal on tickets to Stages, Sights, and Sounds --its international theater and performance festival.

You can get tickets to performances by any of the six international troupes by entering the code PROMO25 until Friday, May 17 at 9 am. At $5 for children and $11 for adults, tickets are already reasonable, especially considering the high quality performances the Festival delivers. unspeakable_461x250.jpeg

Stages, Sights and Sounds' May line-up includes a contemporary interpretation of Sleeping Beauty by award-winning playwright Amaranta Leyva. Also catch Theatre Un•Speak•Able in a performance riffing on the literary genre, the whodunit in Murder of the Midwest Express.

Claire Glass

Events Tue May 14 2013

Chicago Nerd Social Club Writer's Panel @ Open Books

This Sunday, May 19 is the science fiction writer's panel and networking event at Open Books Chicago (213 W. Institute Place). Hosted by the Chicago Nerd Social Club, the event features Q&A with authors Wesley Chu, Wesley and Brad Sun and Mark McClelland. Panel moderated by Jeff Smith with time for audience questions and chat about current projects. 3pm-6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 14 2013

Librarian Pub Crawl This Saturday

This Saturday, May 18, the Librarian Pub Crawl meets at at the Atlantic Bar and Grill (5062 N. Lincoln Ave.) at 6:15pm; click here for complete list of stops on the tour. Since 2010, the Librarian Pub Crawl has gathered librarians and literature fans of all stripes for fun and the support of a worthy charity (this year's is Bernie's Book Bank). Costumes encouraged; think literary character or sexy librarian. Prizes awarded for best costume (or winning raffle ticket if costumes aren't your thing). Wristbands are only $10 ahead of time, $15 day of (drinks not included but raffle tickets and other goodies are). Online registration encouraged.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 14 2013

Get Intimate with Salon Splendor this Thursday

The success of last month's Salon Splendor has prompted Chicago's Curbside Splendor Publishing to reprise the event with another night of readings, music, and world-class tea, on Thursday, May 16, at 7:30pm. The show will take place at Madame Zuzu's 582 Roger Williams Ave. in Highland Park.

Curbside Splendor has been a partner in many reoccurring literary events such as the monthly Karaoke Idol at Beauty Bar and the seasonal Pop-up Book Fair held at the Empty Bottle.

According to Jacob Knabb, senior editor at Curbside Splendor and host of Salon Splendor, "a focused, monthly reading series has been lacking from our lives."

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu May 09 2013

Eve Ensler @ Swedish American Museum

Tomorrow night, May 10, Eve Ensler will be at the Swedish American Museum (5211 N. Clark St.). Best known for her international stage smash The Vagina Monologues, Ensler's latest, In the Body of the World, is a memoir about her lifelong feeling of disconnect from her body, her struggles with uterine cancer, and her work in the Congo. Poet Mary Oliver calls it "astonishing" and Isabel Allende says, "[Ensler's] heart and body are broken, her anger is like fire, and the passion of her writing rattles your soul. This is true literature and true activism." Event sponsored by Women and Children First bookstore. 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Book Club Tue May 07 2013

A Symposium of Poets and Artists @ Poetry Foundation

Inspired by its current exhibition on Joan Mitchell, a 20th century abstract expressionist painter who collaborated with poets like Frank O'Hara and John Ashbery, The Poetry Foundation, in collaboration with Poetry magazine and theJoan Mitchell Foundation, present Sitting Between the Sea and the Buildings: A Symposium of Poets and Artists. The free event on Saturday, May 11 from 12pm-6pm at the Poetry Foundation, 61 West Superior Street, will include talks, readings, demonstrations and performances that investigate the intersections of art and poetry.

Taking its title from the first line of John Ashbery's "The Painter," the event will feature poets Bill Berkson, Douglas Kearney, and John Yau; visual artists Terry Adkins, Lesley Dill, and Mildred Howard; and April Sheridan and Stephen Woodall of the Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College Chicago.

Be sure to stick around for the 5pm announcement of a commissioned performance piece to be created collaboratively between artist Adkins and poet Kearney with a demonstration to follow.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon May 06 2013

Tuesday Funk Branches Out

Gapers Block is proud to be the new sponsor of Tuesday Funk, "Chicago's eclectic monthly reading series, where good writing and good beer mix" at the Hopleaf.

The next reading is this Tuesday, May 7, and features Suzanne Clores, Mary Beth Hoerner, Robert McDonald, Dion Walton and former co-host Sara Ross Witt. Hosts William Shunn and Andrew Huff will also read.

The reading begins at 7:30pm in the upstairs lounge at Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St.; doors open at 7pm and no earlier. Arrive early for a table and grab a beer from Mark at the bar (where credit cards are now accepted!) Admission is always free, but you must be 21 or older. And come early or stay late after for some great Belgian-style food downstairs. Hope to see you there!

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Andrew Huff

Events Tue Apr 30 2013

Loren Glass @ Seminary Co-Op

This Saturday, May 6, Loren Glass reads from Counterculture Colophon: Grove Press, the Evergreen Review, and the Incorporation of the Avant-Garde at Seminary Co-Op (5751 S. Woodlawn). An alternative press founded in 1951, and still around today as Grove/Atlantic, Inc., Grove went to court several times on obscenity charges (for Lady Chatterley's Lover, The Tropic of Cancer, and Naked Lunch). Grove was also the subject of the 2007 documentary Obscene. Of Glass' tome, Stanford University English professor Mark McGurl says, "I had such a good time reading Loren Glass's study of the Grove Press, I barely noticed that he had packed a whole education in the American reception of the European avant-garde into its pages. Brimming with as many colorful and brilliant personalities as it is with good ideas and cogent analyses, this book fills in a major gap in our knowledge of postwar American culture, and will appeal to anyone who has ever felt the lure of dangerously sexy ideas." 3pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 30 2013

Richard Hell @ The Book Cellar

This Thursday, May 2, the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) welcomes Richard Hell reading from I Dreamed I Was a Very Clean Tramp. A stalwart of the '70s New York punk scene, Hell was one of the founding members of Television; Patti Smith wrote one of the first reviews of the group. Book Forum says "There are many shivery, illicit pleasures in this louche memoir... Hell is a virtuoso of taste, a critic with a sensibility so fine and unconventional it bordered on its own form of art...weird and singular and superbly self-aware." 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 30 2013

Celebrate Eight Years of Reading Under the Influence

"Life changes, but stories live on, right?" poses Reading Under the Influence hostess Julia Borcherts. Along with Amy Guth, and Rob Duffer, Borcherts is one of the founders and current hosts of RUI, which celebrates its eighth year on Wednesday, May 1, at 7pm at Sheffield's, located at 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. The reading series has become a staple in the literary community, known for great monthly lineups and energetic hosts and that readers are, as the name suggests, under the influence.
June 2011 Sheffields.jpg
The series began in 2005 as a project to finance a formal thesis showcase by the hosts, then in graduate school in Columbia College Chicago's Fiction Writing Department. "And a way to legitimize going to a bar to have some drinks with our friends," jokes Borcherts.

The success of the series was modest at the start, garnering attention from friends and fellow classmates. Having a drink after class or work to share writing is something that others around the city wanted to be part of. These days, RUI books published writers, students, emerging talent, story tellers, and more, every month.

"We were having fun every month so we just kept it going," said Borcherts. "Good stories are a great way to bring people together and for strangers to become friends."

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John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Apr 25 2013

Its Time to Celebrate as SPOC Turns One!

Self Publishers of Chicago (SPOC) celebrates their one year anniversary on Friday April 26 at Uncharted Books, located at 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave. SPOC is a community organization sponsoring workshops and skill shares for writers, zinesters, and artists.

Founder Nicki Yowell will deliver the he State of SPOC Address and do some first year reflecting. In its first year, SPOC released publications including Fire Dogs, Ghostly Stories (their Halloween issue) and a collage zine. SPOC1Year.jpg

The evening kicks off at 7pm with a performance lineup that's as kooky as they come and worth nothing in full:

-Eric Bartholomew of Junk Drawer will regale the audience with an interactive survey of junk items the world over.

-Jonas Cannon will read his not-so-haunted tale from SPOC's second zine "Ghostly Stories."

-Meghan McGrath will bring back the glory of Fire Dogs, SPOC's first zine, with a fire dog career booth and performance.

-Grant Reynolds has a brand new SPOC theme song accompanied by a resplendent slideshow.

-Elizabeth Tieri of the Back to Print Publishing reads her poem from "Ghostly Stories" (about a black light poster).

-Jen Twigg clues the crowd in on the finer points of running Chicago Zine Fest .

The event is free and there will be cake and punch, too.

RSVP for the event on Facebook.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Apr 25 2013

Katherine Preston @ Lovely Bake Shop

This Sunday, April 28, Katherine Preston reads from Out With It: How Stuttering Helped Me Find My Voice at Lovely Bake Shop (1130 N. Milwaukee Ave.). A stutterer since age seven, Preston left her London home at 24 to travel around America in search of a cure. Along with her own story, Out With It includes interviews with speech pathologists as well as celebrities, writers, musicians and a host of others who shared her struggles. Carl Bernstein (author of A Woman in Charge: The Life of Hillary Rodham Clinton) says "Katherine Preston is an extraordinary new literary voice and a triumphant storyteller of her generation. How she got there is a captivating tale and we are all the richer for her experience and her arrival." Event sponsored by The Book Table. 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 24 2013

Double Up at Unabridged Books with a Pair of Readings

Lakeview's Unabridged Books, located at 3251 N. Broadway St., brings a pair of events your way that you won't want to miss.

This Friday, April 26, at 6:30pm, author Augusten Burroughs (Running with Scissors and Wolf at the Table) will be reading from his newest book This is How: Surviving What You Think You Can't. This unconventional self-help book addresses all of those areas you think you can't, and turns your self-defeating argument on its head. The book will be available with a signing to follow.

Next Monday, April 29, at 7pm, Unabridged hosts an exciting talk with Keith Koeneman, author of the forthcoming biography of former Chicago Mayor Daley First Son: The Biography of Richard M. Daley out on the University of Chicago Press. Koeneman is the foremost expert on all things Daley. The book showcases all sides of Daley's life, from childhood in Bridgeport to City Hall. There will be a short reading followed by an insightful discussion.

Seating at Unabridged is first come, first serve. Arrive early to catch either of these events.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Apr 23 2013

Robert Perišic @ Seminary Co-op Bookstore

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This Thursday, April 25, Robert Perišic reads from Our Man In Iraq at the Seminary Co-op Bookstore (5757 S. University Ave.). Set in Croatia in 2003, the book is a satiric novel about a jaded journalist who sends his eccentric, ne'er-do-well cousin to cover the Iraq War and the complications that ensue. Publisher's Weekly said "What's most compelling about Perišic's novel are the relentlessly insightful one-liners, offering poignant commentary on the unsettled day-to-day of a society trying to find its footing after devastating violence and in the throes of nascent capitalism...this smart, cutting book powerfully illustrates the horrible hangover of war." The book was one of themillions.com's most anticipated books of 2013.

Perišic is a best-selling author in Croatia; Our Man In Iraq is the first of his books to be translated into English. The event is cosponsored by the Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in Chicago and Asymptote Journal. 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Apr 18 2013

See Food, Read Food, Eat Food

Graze Magazine, a literary food publication with a personal essay bent, is throwing its issue 3 release party on Saturday, April 20, replete with delicious drinks and some serious culinary offerings befitting its food focused content. SEEFOODFBV1.jpg

Guests will have free reign over the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art's permanent collection, along with its special exhibit, "An Ill Wind Blowing." The museum, located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., is a unique experience in itself as the only non-profit organization showcasing outsider artwork. The setting feels connected with Graze's mission, too, as food can be very much intertwined with life on the margins, however individuals interpret that space.

The $10 ticket price includes a copy of issue 3, which explores radical urban farming, the sanctity of the meal, the deep sea, and the open road. And of course, the food. Burhop's Seafood, Peerless Bread & Jam, and Tres Jolie Patisserie, are set to dish up fine fare, plus there will be kombucha courtesy of ARIZE, and a cash bar.

Yum.

Claire Glass / Comments (1)

Events Wed Apr 17 2013

The Inaugural Salon Splendor Welcomes You This Friday

Curbside Splendor Publishing and Madame ZuZu's cordially invite you to Salon Splendor, a night of intimate reading and conversation this Friday, April 19. Madame Zuzu's Teahouse, located at 582 Roger Williams Rd., right by the Ravinia Metra station in Highland Park, is notable for its selection of teas (and its owner, Chicago alt-rock luminary, Billy Corgan).

The night's theme is Origins is befitting for the event's first installment. Reading original work based on that theme will be Kathleen Rooney, Okla Elliott, and James Tadd Adcox. There will be light tunes, too, by Good Evening, all hosted by Curbside Splendor's Senior Editor, the outlandish Jacob S. Knabb.

Space is limited so reservations are strongly recommended. RSVP at sarah@madamezuzus.com.

Festivities commence at 8pm. Get there early to grab a seat and to try Madame Zuzu's delightful teas and treats.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Apr 16 2013

Gilbert Hernandez @ Quimby's

MarbleSeason.jpg

Gilbert Hernandez, one-third of the Los Bros Hernandez trio of Love and Rockets fame, will be at Quimby's this Thursday, April 18. He'll be presenting his brand new (out today!) graphic novel Marble Season, a semiautobiographical tale of growing up in suburban California in the '60s and the redemptive power of childhood storytelling. Corey Creekmur (in the aferword) says, "Perhaps no other current creators of comics recognize (or vividly remember) the ways actual kids think, talk, or even stand and walk as accurately as the Hernandez brothers, and no other comics artists so delicately intertwine moments of childhood trauma with the goofy logic that otherwise sustains kids when they begin to sense that they live in an irrational world." Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 15 2013

A Glorious and Gutsy Reading this Wednesday

Newly formed storytelling series Guts and Glory returns this Wednesday, April 17, at Powell's Bookstore, located at Chicago 2850 N. Lincoln Ave. The series calls forth performers to tell-it-like-it-is in this series, which prides itself on being uninhibited. Hosts Keith Ecker and Samantha Irby welcome this month's readers Lara Levitan (a fellow Gapers Block Book Club staff), Gwynn Fulcher, Jacob Knabb (editor of Another Chicago Magazine), Ellie Navidson, and Luis Antonio Perez.

Donations, all of which go to either children's or animal care charities, are strongly encouraged. It's BYOB, so consider the donation money saved from avoiding a bar tab. The show starts at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Mon Apr 15 2013

Maria Semple Reads at Printer's Row

Semple.jpg “Paul,

Greetings from sunny Seattle, where women are “gals,” people are “folks,” a little bit is a “skosh,” if you’re tired you’re “logy,” if something is slightly off it’s “hinky,” you can’t sit Indian-style but you can sit “crisscross applesauce,” when the sun comes out it’s never called “sun,” but always “sunshine,” boyfriends and girlfriends are “partners,” nobody swears but someone might occasionally “drop the f-bomb,” you’re allowed to cough but only into your elbow, and any request, reasonable or unreasonable, is met with “no worries.”

Have I mentioned how much I hate it here?”

This excerpt, the first paragraph in a 15-page tirade against Seattle, is just a sample of the scathing witticisms Maria Semple has to offer in her recent novel Where’d You Go, Bernadette? The book is the latest in a long list of Semple’s accomplishments, including her first book, This One is Mine, as well as her work as a writer on a number of television series, including “Arrested Development,” “Mad About You,” and “Ellen.” Bernadette is also slated to be made into a motion picture, written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber ((500) Days of Summer) and produced by Nina Jacobson (The Hunger Games film series) and Brad Simpson.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Semple just before her reading and talk-back, “Printers Row: Maria Semple,” hosted at the Tribune Tower by Trib Nation. There we discussed Maria’s relationship with Seattle, her writing process, and her perspective on the success of her book.

As the bus pulls up to the curb outside Tribune Tower, I am nervous for two reasons. The first is, knowing I am about to meet face to face with a writer for “Arrested Development,” it will take every professional fiber of my being to not let this interview devolve into an episode of The Chris Farley Show. (“Remember Gob…? Yeah. He’s awesome.”)

The second reason I’m nervous I already acknowledge as ridiculous. But, having read Semple’s commentary on Seattle, I can’t help but wonder if her bite is as bad as her bark. I saw what she did to that city. Would she chew up Chicago with the same contemptuous mockery? I half expect Bernadette herself, enormous sunglasses atop her nose, to come marching in decrying our unpredictable weather and monochromatic wardrobes.

Continue reading this entry »

Miden Wood

Book Club Thu Apr 11 2013

The Way We (Lose) Sleep

Sleep and I are going through a rough patch.

I know I’m to blame for this recent rift. I’ve been absent, unavailable—and even when I am around, our encounters are brief and unsatisfying. I look back longingly on all those wonderful Sunday mornings we spent together; those brief, flirtatious meetings on the El; the five alarms I snooze most mornings just to be with it…

It’s not that I don’t love Sleep. It’s just that for the past two days I’ve been distracted by the latest book occupying my nightstand: The Way We Sleep. An anthology of short and flash fiction, comics, and interviews, Sleep examines those moments in which the waking and sleeping life collide. The collection, at once comical and poignant, contains stories dynamic enough to stand alone, yet all the more enticing in their juxtaposition. From page to page the reader unfolds a richer, more complex notion of sleep; what it means to us, and the culture that surrounds it.

Some say I need a solid eight hours; I say I need a less interesting book.

If you, like me, are looking to catch a good read about catching z’s, The Book Cellar (4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave.) will be honoring the recent publication of The Way We Sleep with a reading from the collection this Saturday, April 13, at 7pm. The reading will feature contributors Billy Lombardo, Ben Tanzer, Dakota Sexton, and Natalie Edwards, as well as a shadow puppet show presented by Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood.

Copies of the anthology, and other books by contributors, will be available for sale at the event. RSVP at their event page.

Miden Wood

Events Thu Apr 11 2013

Literary Events at the CPL Next Week

This week the Chicago Public Library hosts three events at the Harold Washington Library Center's Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, located at 400 S. State St.

First, on Tuesday, April 16, join academy award winning director of classic films "The French Connection" and "The Exorcist," William Friedkin, as he discusses his new memoir The Friedkin Connection. The book takes readers from the streets of Chicago to the suites of Hollywood, and through time from the sixties to today. Adam Kempenaar, host of the film podcast Filmspotting, will moderate the discussion. Books will be available with a signing to follow.

Check out One Book, One Chicago's panel discussion on Wednesday, April 17, entitled The New Chicagoans, on this year's One Book selection The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson. The panel includes Adolfo Hernandez, director of the Chicago Office of New Americans and Tuyet Le, executive director of the Asian American Institute. They will look at Chicago as a gateway for migrants today like Wilkerson's novel.

Close out the week's events on Thursday, April 18, with author Thomas Dyja's discussion of his new book The Third Coast: When Chicago Built the American Dream. The book tells the story of postwar Chicago and explains its profound impact on modern America. Books will be available with a signing to immediately follow.

All events begin at 6pm and are free and open the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Apr 10 2013

Writer's House Pop Up Book Store @ Empty Bottle

This Sunday, April 14, Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Ave.) transforms into the Writer's House pop up book fair. Hosted by Curbside Splendor, the event features 40 independent publishers, presses, and booksellers, including Another Chicago Magazine, Chicago Zine Fest, Quimby's, Rose Metal Prees and others. Live music by Mr. Mayor and the Highballers, Warm Bones, and If Trees Could Write. $5 admission or free with RSVP; 21 and over unless minors accompanied by adult; 1:30-7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 10 2013

Brain Frame Hosts a CAKE Fundraiser

Performance based comic reading Brain Frame hosts a fundraiser for CAKE (Chicago Area Comics Expo) on Friday, April 12 at Peanut Gallery, located at 1000 N. California Ave. Brain Frame supports the comics community giving artists a stage to perform their work, a natural collaboration with CAKE, Chicago's premier comics festival.

Host Lyra Hill will preside over performances by artists Andy Burkholder, Alyssa Herlocher, Paul Nudd, and Jeremy Pettis. There will be musical accompaniment by Alex Inglizian and Stephen Ptácek.

There will also be an artwork auction throughout the night including pieces donated by Lilli Carré, Edie Fake, Jeremy Onsmith, Aaron Renier and over two dozen other artists.

The event opens at 7pm and there is a $5 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Apr 09 2013

Society of Midland Authors Announces 2012 Winners and Finalists

The Society of Midland Authors announced its winners and finalists last week, marking its 55th celebration of authors who live in, were born in, or have strong ties to the Midwest.

The two winners in the adult fiction category are Nick Dybek (son of Stuart, a two-time winner of the same award) for his novel When Captain Flint Was Still A Good Man, and Jack Driscoll for his short story collection The World of a Few Minutes Ago.

Winners who live in the Chicagoland area include Chicago Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg for You Were Never in Chicago in the adult nonfiction category, and Jonathan Messinger, former books editor for TimeOut Chicago, receives the James Friend Memorial Award for Literary Criticism.

Click here to see the full list of winners past and present.

Lara Levitan

Events Fri Apr 05 2013

The Chicago Children's TV Show @ Gallery Cabaret

childrenshow_05.jpegThis weekend, Chicago historical reenactment group Pocket Guide to Hell honors children’s entertainment past and present with an afternoon of acts that will knock your big, floppy shoes off! Join Pocket Guide performers Fred Sasaki (the Magician); Kenneth Morrison (the Clown); Professor Justin Amolsch and his Big Brass Band; and Martin Billheimer (the Star) in their second installment of The Chicago Television Project: a variety hour homage entitled The Chicago Children’s TV Show. The 50’s-era-style revue, which includes everything from music to magic to mischief, goes up at Gallery Cabaret (2020 N. Oakley Ave.) on Sunday, April 14.

Amidst retrospective themes, Pocket Guide also aims to honor those groups in Chicago that educate and entertain children today. These include special guests from the Chicago History Museum, Chic-A-Go-Go, Adventure Sandwich, Barrel of Monkeys, Elephant & Worm, and Aloft Loft circus. And the festivities don’t stop there. The showcase will also feature music from Old Town School of Folk Music’s children’s group the Young Stracke All-Stars, alongside cartoons by acclaimed local artists Lilli Carre, Drew Dir, and Emily Kuehn.

Pocket Guide’s owner and proprietor Paul Durica says of the retro style and revue format, “Many early children’s shows, such as Super Circus, used the variety show format, which allowed for the program to stay fresh and flexible but also to highlight the talents of a range of groups and individuals… Each contemporary group will be linked to a historic show, such as Kukla, Fran, & Ollie or Garfield Goose, so that past and present will meet at this event. We want the event to be a celebration of local creativity and imagination.”

As if that weren’t enough incentive, there will also be an assortment of kids’ prizes, generously donated by Busy Beaver Button Company; Derek Erdman; Kathleen Judge; Hansen Mansion; Barrel of Monkeys; Poetry; Drinking & Writing Theater; the Haymarket Pub & Brewery; Victory Gardens Theater; Wee Hairy Beasties; Uncle Fun; and the Chicago History Museum.

So embrace your inner child and make your way to the Hideout for either of two performances: a 3 pm family-friendly run, and a 5 pm showing for everybody else. Free! RSVP to pocketguidetohell@gmail.com.

Miden Wood

Events Wed Apr 03 2013

Mary Driver-Thiel @ Women and Children First

This Sunday, April 7, Mary Driver-Thiel reads from The World Undone at Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark St.). It's the story of Sylvia, a woman who goes in search of her sister Callie, given up for adoption, and how their lives and their mother's are changed when Sylvia goes in search of Callie. 4:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 03 2013

Willow Books Lit Fest @ Chicago State University

This Saturday, April 6 is the Willow Books Lit Fest at the Gwendolyn Brooks Center at Chicago State University (9501 S. King Drive). Most events are free and open to the public but require registration. Events include workshops, manuscript sessions, panel discussions, an open mic and a Willow Brooks Literature Awards finalists reading and ceremony. Participants include social media expert Leslie McGraw and associate professor Quraysh Ali Lansana, among others. Radio personality Jay Scott Smith emcees. Event runs 8am-5pm; see full schedule of events here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 02 2013

Newberry Library celebrates zine culture, past and present

If you missed the Chicago Zine Fest last month, don't despair. The Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St., is hosting two programs this spring to help quench your thirst for underground, dissident and alternative publishing.

"Outsiders: Zines, Samizdat and Alternative Publishing" is a free panel discussion on Saturday, April 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Focusing on self-produced books and pamphlets that express individualized, unconventional, controversial, or prohibited messages, the panel will include alt publishing heavy hitters Anne Elizabeth Moore (New Girl Law: Drafting a Future for Cambodia), Lisa Gitelman (Always Already New: Media, History, and the Data of Culture) and Jenna Freedman (Pinko vs. Punk: a Generational Comparison of Alternative Press Publications and Zines), among others. Coffee will be provided, and Quimby's will be selling DIY and other alt press materials.

After the discussion, explore the historical roots of zine culture with the Newberry's "Politics, Piety, and Poison," an exhibition of French pamphlets from 1600-1800, through April 13. A highlight of the exhibit is a series of engraved scenes that depicts the crimes, trial and eventual execution of a Parisian grocer accused of poisoning the wife and son of an associate. This 18th century "zine" is a graphic depiction of a sensational case that captivated all of Paris. Mon dieu!

If you can't make it to the Newberry, you can view a digital version of the exhibit here. Also through April 13 is "My Life is an Open Book: Do It Yourself Autobiography" at the Special Collections Research Center Exhibition Gallery in the University of Chicago Library, 1100 East 57th St.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Apr 01 2013

RUI Pranksters are Back At It

Reading Under the Influence has to be one of the city's most outrageous reading series. Following April Fool's Day, RUI is back Wednesday, April 3, at Sheffield's, located at 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., with the theme the Transmogrifier. Go ahead, grab your dictionary or get to Googling, unless you're a fan of Calvin and Hobbes and already know that the Transmogrifier is Calvin's invention that turns one thing into another. RUI should have picked this theme years ago as each month its event transmogrifies from a reading into an all out party. transmogrifier.gif

The two-round reading begins with published works selected in keeping with the theme; in round two, readers present a piece of their original work and are encouraged to spice things up.

This month join Chicago writers Melinda McIntire (the host of the reading series Solo In The 2nd City and fellow Gapers Block Book Club staff), Shannon Cason (The MOTH Story Slam All-city Champion), Michael Meyer, and C.J. Arellano (of the comedy web-series, The Pathetic). The event begins at 7pm. Domestics are $2 and there is a $3 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Apr 01 2013

A Pink Thunder Rolls Through Chicago

Attention Lyrics-Lovers! Looking for your next poetry fix? Look no further: Join MAKE Literary Productions, Rational Park, Black Ocean, and Danny's Reading Series as they celebrate Mark Zapruder's song collection Pink Thunder: an amalgamation of poetry and music that tests the bounds of artistic disciplines, and confirms that one-hundred-plus heads may just be better than one.

Born on 50-day poetry tour Poetrybus, Pink Thunder represents the collected influence of hundreds of poets and contributions from over forty musicians. The tour stopped in fifty cities nationwide, and now, Pink Thunder hits Chicago in a multi-part collaboration celebration. The first of these opened at Rational Park (2557 W. North Ave.), on March 22 and features a display of 22 portmanteaus, each containing a song from Pink Thunder. This exhibit is by appointment only through April 12.

Rather listen live? This Tuesday, April 2nd at 7:30 pm, Danny's Reading Series at Danny's Tavern (1951 W. Dickens Ave.) will host Michael Zapruder in one of his premier Chicago performances of songs from the Pink Thunder collection, along with Billy Blake and the Vagabonds, also performing songs from their most recent album. The concert will be followed by a Q & A on the performers' work and the nature of poetic collaboration.

The Pink Thunder vinyl album and CD will be available at the performance, as well as the book of poems, published by Black Ocean.

Miden Wood

Events Thu Mar 28 2013

The 2nd Story "Briefly" Comes to Logan Square

It's hard not to get knocked unconscious by the 2nd Story, especially these days. These story tellers have been all over the city promoting the release of their first anthology, Briefly Knocked Unconscious by a Low-Flying Duck. Their next stop brings them to Logan Square where neighborhood, bookseller City Lit Books, is sponsoring a reading on Tuesday, April 2 at Revolution Brewing, located at 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Anthology contributors Bobby Biedrzycki (who is also the director of 2nd Story), Lott Hill, and Earliana McLaurin will read at 7pm but the drinks go until closing. The reading is free, but you can pick up a copy of the book if you like what you hear.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Mar 26 2013

Sheryl Sandberg @ Palmer House Hilton

This Thursday, March 28, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg will discuss Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead at at the the Palmer House Hilton (17 E. Monroe St.). Sandberg is one of Fortune magazine's 50 Most Powerful Women in Business. Building on her 2010 TED Talk in which she described how women unintentionally hold themselves back in their careers, Lean In aims to uncover the root causes that stall womens' paths to success. Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says "Sheryl provides practical suggestions or managing and overcoming the challenges that arise on the 'jungle gym' of career advancement. I nodded my head in agreement and laughed out loud as I read these pages. Lean In is a superb, witty, candid, and meaningful read for women (and men) of all generations."

Sandberg will be joined by Joycelyn Winnecke, vice president and associate editor of the Chicago Tribune. Presented by Trib Nation Events and sponsored by Nielsen. $40, begins at 6pm.

UPDATE: The event is sold out, and there is a considerable wait list (over 400), but a live stream will be available online beginning at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Tue Mar 26 2013

Food Writer Elissa Altman to Visit the Book Cellar Thursday

Acclaimed food writer Elissa Altman visits The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Avenue, on Thursday, March 28 at 7 p.m.

Altman will read from her freshly-released Poor Man's Feast: A Love Story of Comfort, Desire, and the Art of Simple Cooking (Chronicle Books).

In Poor Man's Feast Altman, who won a 2012 James Beard Award for Individual Food Blog for PoorMansFeast.com, tells the story of a childhood defined by "fancy." Altman writes: "In my family, we aim for the swank and the rococo, as if this way of living offers some sort of inherent security and protection from the...more unpredictable parts of life."

Replete with 27 recipes (from Poached Asparagus with Prosciutto and Duck Eggs to Warm Tomato Sandwich), the book chronicles Altman's evolution from the little girl who dined with her "food-fanatic" father at La Grenouille in secret from her "food-phobic" mother, eventually becoming a respected food writer and editor, to the woman who found love and, consequently, peaceful un-fanciness, in the kitchen and life.

Lara Levitan

Events Tue Mar 26 2013

Poetry Made of Lions on Thursday

This Thursday, March 28, poetry lovers rejoice as Poetry Made of Lions is at Uncharted Books, 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Join host Russ Woods and sponsor Love Symbol Press as they bring together poets, Laura Goldstein, Joshua Young, James Bakken, Erin Watson and Zack Baber (visiting from San Francisco). The words fly at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 21 2013

Brain Frame Comix Reading this Weekend

Brain Frame, a "peformative" comics reading, will be putting on its 11th show on March 23, at Heavy Gel, located at 2335 W. Lake St.

The lineup includes the talent of Bill Cleveland, Krystal DiFronzo, Ian Endsley, Marieke McClendon, Otto Splotch and Jim Trainor. Live musical accompaniment will be provided by by Tyson Torstenson.

Brain Frame aims to expand your perception of comix and live readings. There is a $7 cover and the show kicks off at 8pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 21 2013

Sara Ross Witt @ Tamale Hut Cafe

This Saturday, March 23, Tamale Hut Cafe Reading Series (8300 W. Cermak Road, North Riverside) welcomes Sara Ross Witt. Former co-producer and co-host of the Tuesday Funk reading series, Sara is a blogger, technical writer, New School MFA, and short story author. BYOB; open mic to follow. 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Mar 21 2013

Poetry As Comedy @ Poetry Foundation

This Sunday and Monday, March 24 and 25, the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.) presents Poetry As Comedy. This being the Poetry Foundation, don't expect to hear drunkards sharing limericks scribbled on the el that day, but the classics. Under the direction of Second City founder Bernard Sahlins, a trio of actors will bring to life bring the works of W. H. Auden, John Updike and Dorothy Parker, among others. Sunday program begins at 3pm; Monday program begins at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Book Club Mon Mar 18 2013

Poetry Night at City Lit with Jen Besemer, Robert McDonald, Richard Fox

Celebrate the official start of spring with poetry! Queer poets Jen Besemer, Richard Fox and Robert McDonald will read at City Lit Books, 2523 N. Kedzie Blvd., Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. The event is free.

Troubling the Line.jpgBesemer is featured in the new anthology Troubling the Line: Trans and Genderqueer Poetry and Poetics (Nightboat Books). The book, which features the poems and poetic statements of 55 poets, sold out at Nightboat's table at the AWP Conference last week. According to Besemer, Troubling the Line is the first anthology focused on "making space" for poets who identify as trans or genderqueer.

"This is a book that is not just for us, but for the young trans and genderqueer writers looking for mentors and role models," Besemer said. "It's important for our allies and families, too, because it helps to illuminate what being trans, being genderqueer, could mean."

Fox and McDonald are contributors to the 2011 Windy City Queer anthology.

The books will not be available for purchase at the event, but may be ordered through City Lit.

Lara Levitan

Author Mon Mar 18 2013

Gapers Block Interview with Gillian Flynn as part of Story Week's Literary Rock and Roll

Celebrate all things literary at the 17th annual Story Week festival March 17-22. As always, this weeklong tribute to the literary arts is sponsored by the Columbia College Chicago Fiction Writing Department with help from the Chicago Public Library and the Metro.

All events are free and open to the public. Check out one of Story Week's hallmark events, Literary Rock and Roll, on Thursday, March 21 at 6pm at the Metro, located at 3730 N. Clark St.

This "Girl Trouble" themed rock and roll extravaganza will feature readings by Gillian Flynn (Gone Girl), Jane Hamilton (Laura Rider's Masterpiece), and Joe Meno (Office Girl). Settle in for a post-reading set by the female-fronted The Right Now. Get there early to snag a seat.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Mar 18 2013

Guts and Glory Series not for the Faint of Heart (sorta)

The 'badass' storytelling series Guts and Glory is back on Wednesday March 20 at Powell's Bookstore, located at 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., at 7pm. Co-hosts Keith Ecker and Samantha Irby have prepared an envelope pushing line up that will no doubt bring the goods.

Featured guests include playwright Chris Bower, host of the literary series Essay Fiesta Willy Nast, writer Jill Summers, producer of Stoop-Style Stories Lily Be, and writer Amanda Glasbrenner. The event is free but donations will be accepted for charity (supporting puppies and children).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Mar 15 2013

Bathhouse John and Hinky Dink Kenna's First Ward Ball!

By Nicki Yowell

Want to avoid all things shamrock green this weekend and go for something a bit more high-minded? You are not alone. This Sunday, Pocket Guide to Hell is throwing a jubilant reenactment of the First Ward Ball at 8pm at the Hideout, located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. The ball unites aldermen, priests, madams, highfalutin' politician poets, and ladies of the night -- all long dead, of course. firstwardball_flyer_v1.jpg

Pocket Guide to Hell Tours maestro Paul Durica brings together steampunk and hobo-inspired musical acts (Spears and Gears, Meredith Axelrod, Jamie Alberts), Vaudeville comedy, burlesque (Lady Ginger), the scantily clad literati (Chicago Poetry Bordello), and history academics (Bill Savage), for his take on Chicago's most infamous turn-of-the-century celebration.

The First Ward Ball brought the Chicago underworld and political powerhouses together for a resplendent period from 1896 to 1909. Under the auspices of fundraising, the ball was a haven for characters like alderman "Bathhouse" John Coughlin and the Everly Sisters, Chicago's own impresario madams. Costumed partygoers took debauchery to new and epic levels, and converted the Chicago Coliseum into a palace of vice for one evening.

Durica, who has tackled other large-scale history-meets-performance events, including a reenactment of the Haymarket riots two years ago, is drawn to the ball's inherent contradictions.

"The ball was an event where high society rubbed elbows with the underworld," he said. "That social mixing is less common. [...] The same level of local corruption exists today but the characters aren't as colorful."

Several actors including Scott Priz, Elisa and Schoenberger will join Durica in bringing these figures back from the dead for schmoozing. To curb the cast of Victorian miscreants, Jerry Boyle will be playing a priest who busts the tawdry action.

Doors open at 7pm. The show commences at 8pm. Suggested donation of $10 to benefit Pocket Guide to Hell.

Book Club

Chicago Public Library Thu Mar 14 2013

Citywide Book Club Expands Length and Programming

You always meant to go to one of those One Book, One Chicago discussions, right? Now that the "citywide book club" has expanded from a monthly, twice-a-year offering to a yearlong event, you'll have no excuse not to check out some of the excellent programming offered by the Chicago Public Library sponsored initiative.

The new format kicks off this April with Isabel photo_IsabelWilkerson.jpgWilkerson's The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration. In Other Suns, Wilkerson, the first black woman to win a Pulitzer Prize in the history of American journalism, and the first black American to win for individual reporting, explores the Great Migration of black Americans from the American South to the North and West, changing the cultural and political landscape of America.

According to CPL Commissioner Brian Bannon, the book inspired the expansion of One Book, One Chicago. "The ideas and discussions [the book] sparks are simply too big to be contained in a single month," Bannon stated in a press release. "We look forward to engaging with all Chicagoans to hear their story, to hear how they helped to create the tapestry of our city."

Check out CPL's list of discussions, workshops, performances, and exhibits--many of which focus on migration in Chicago and civil rights-- for details on how you can get involved. (And save the date for October 1, when Wilkerson will speak at the CPL's Cindy Pritzker Auditorium.)

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Mar 13 2013

Superhero Expo @ Chicago Cultural Center

WonderWomen.jpg

This Saturday, March 16, stop by the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) at 2pm for Superhero Expo. WBEZ's Allison Cuddy hosts a panel discussion with comic artists Jill Thompson, Lyra Hill and Jenny Frison. In addition, there will be a screening of Wonder Women! The Untold Story of American Superheroines. Film Threat magazine says of Wonder Women!: "It's the personal stories that really got to me. I'm a tough nut to crack in terms of crying at a movie, but when the little girls started talking about what Wonder Woman means to them and how their moms are the real heroes, it was Niagara-fucking-Falls. If you have a daughter, it is a moral imperative that you show her this film as soon as possible."

The event is presented by WTTW Channel 11 and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events in partnership with Chicago Foundation For Women, Eileen Fisher Foundation, Project Onward and Quimby's Bookstore.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Mar 13 2013

Hair Lit, Vol. 1 Swaggers Over To Quimby's

This Friday, March 15, Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) hosts readings from Hair Lit, Vol. 1. Edited by Nick Ostdick and released by local indie publisher Orange Alert Press, it's a tribute to the rockers and power balladeers of '80s and '90s metal bands. Contributors Matt Rowan, Lindsay Hunter, and Mike Joyce read their contributions, tales of sex and drugs and how Tommy used to work on the docks. Reading starts at at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Mar 13 2013

Ray's Tap Reading Series Presents "Manners Please"

Ray's Tap Reading Series, produced and hosted by Chris Bower, will be presenting "Manners Please" at the Prop Theater (3502 N. Elston Ave.) on Saturday, March 16 at 9pm. The event is described as: "A show about Manners, Etiquette and Politeness and what other words might be out there to describe how we should behave and interact with each other and how we actually do."

The series is held twice a year and includes Chicago area writers, artists and musicians. Saturday's edition will feature Martha Bayne, Brian Nemtusak, Robin Cline, Ian Belknap, Mason Johnson, Dave Synder in tandem with Naomi Washer, Matt Test, Megan Larmer, Daniel Shapiro, Randall Colburn, Margaret Chapman, Chris Schoen, and the music of Tijuana Hercules.

The show is $15 or-pay-what-you-can. All proceeds go directly to the artists. A cash bar will be on hand, and audience members are encouraged to come and go as they please. The show should go late into the morning hours. A great lineup not to be missed!

Melinda McIntire

Events Wed Mar 13 2013

Shoplifting at American Apparel Book Comes to the Big Screen

Author Tao Lin's autobiographical novel Shoplifting at American Apparel has been turned into a documentary of the same name. The film is coming to the Logan Theatre, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave., on March 14 at 7:30pm as part of its national tour.

Lin, known for his unorthodox column in Vice magazine, worked with a crew of indie filmmakers to adapt his work for the screen. The film is a mix between Lin's novel and the crew's process of making the film. Presale tickets are available for $11.

A Q&A with director Pirooz Kalayeh and the film's screen writer, Brad Warner, will follow the screening, along with a reading in the theater's renovated lobby and bar. Readers include Cean Gamalinda, Dylan York, Scott McClanahan and Heiko Julien.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Mar 12 2013

Gapers Block Prepares for Story Week: an Interview with Jane Hamilton

The annual literary celebration Story Week Festival of Writers is next week March 17 through 22. Sponsored by Columbia College Chicago's Fiction Writing Department, the festival brings together talent from across the nation in panels, readings, and performances. The year's theme, Vision and Voice, paints writers as modern day visionaries.

Featured guests which include Saphire (Push), Joe Meno (Office Girl), Audrey Niffenegger (Her Fearful Symmetry), and T. Geronimo Johnson (Hold It 'Til It Hurts). All events are free and open to the public.
Thumbnail image for StoryWeek.jpg

Thursday, March 21, events feature author Jane Hamilton (Laura Rider's Masterpiece), whose work has been chosen by Oprah's Book Club, adapted to film, and named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. See Hamilton at a 1pm panel at Columbia College, located at 618 S. Wabash Ave., and later, at the festival's dynamic Literary Rock and Roll event at the Metro, located at 3730 N. Clark St. at 6pm.

Hamilton is as Midwest as they come, in fact, she grew up right in Oak Park. These days she lives Wisconsin, where most of her stories take place. Gaper's Block got to ask her some questions in preparation for her appearances next week.

The theme for Story Week this year is Vision and Voice. How did you find your voice as a writer?

I'm not a religious person per say, but in the larger realm, voice is a gift from god. In the more local realm, it's a result of a habit of being: reading, observing, listening.

How do you feel the Midwest has played an impact on your writing?

For the most part I've always lived in the Midwest. How can I step back and assess what even especially distinguishes the Midwest? I'm steeped in it; I am of it; it's in me. So, defining how it's impacted me is like having full self-knowledge, which I think is always somewhat impossible. I think one of the more defining pieces of my life is having been a deeply loved baby of the family. I am happy and trusting, and basically have the temperament of a golden retriever.

You were also a resident at the Ragdale Foundation in Lake Forest, IL. How did an experience like that help define and establish your process?

It made it possible for me to put my head down and write for weeks at a time, keep hold of the thread of the work, to sink into the pleasure of being in the work, and to feel, because of the peace and time, that all things were possible. A very heady feeling.

Having had the time to find your vision and voice as a writer, what would be one piece of advice you could share with emerging writers?

Throw away your smart phones.

What are you excited to experience during this year's Story Week?

The rock and roll night is bound to be riotous. The energy of the community will be beautiful.


John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 07 2013

Chicago Zine Fest Returns this Weekend!

This weekend, March 8 and 9, is the fourth annual Chicago Zine Fest. The Chicago Zine Fest is an independent event that provides an outlet for small press and independent publishers to showcase their work together in one place. CZF button NO LAAYERS.jpg

Events kick off Friday, March 8 at 1pm at Columbia College Chicago's historic Ludington building, located at 1104 S. Wabash Ave., with the panel Writing about Health, Disability, and Accessibility in Zines. Panelists include zinesters Kerri Radley (Deafula), Maranda Elizabeth (Telegraph), and Dave Roche (On Subbing).

Friday programming continues with a pair of youth readers, followed by a reading from festival exhibitors Zine at 826CHI 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. at 6pm. End the night with some fun at Zine, Lose or Draw event, hosted by Neil Brideau (Oh Boy! comics) at Quimby's bookstore at 9:30pm.

"We're excited about all the things we've put together and can't wait to enjoy the weekend with everyone!" says Leslie Perrine, a festival organizer since the inaugural year.

On Saturday, the festival's exhibition will be supported with workshops on various topics including self-publishing efforts, a hands-on kid's zine-making area, an art room full of exhibitor work, a photo booth provided by Glitter Guts, and demonstrations presented by Columbia's Center for Book and Paper Arts.

"It's great to see how many people are excited about CZF," says Lynne Monsoon, a first-time organizer for 2013. "We don't want anyone to think that the only way to enjoy CZF is by tabling. There's so much to do!"

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Eric Bartholomew of Junk Drawer zine from the 2012 fest (photo by Oscar Arriola)

The Chicago Zine Fest is sponsored by Columbia College Chicago's Silver Tongue Reading Series, Quimby's Bookstore, Spudnik Press, and 826CHI.

All events are free and open to the public. Friday afternoon's panel will have CART (Communication Access Real Time Translation) services available. Friday night's readings will have ASL interpretation.

2013 zine fest artwork above by Laura Berger

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 07 2013

Kevin Budnik @ Challengers Comics + Conversation

This Saturday, March 9, Kevin Budnik will be at Challengers Comics + Conversation (1845 N. Western Ave.). He'll be signing copies of his daily comic Our Ever Improving Living Room. Budnik is a recent Columbia College grad with a BFA in Illustration who scored a foreword from Ivan Brunetti for his recent collection. Event runs from 5-8pm; beer and wine will be served.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Mar 07 2013

Zine, Lose or Draw @ Quimby's

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Tomorrow night, March 8, kick off Chicago Zine Fest weekend with "Zine, Lose or Draw" at Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.). Neil Brideau, co-organizer of Chicago Alternative Comics Expo and creator of Oh Boy! Comics, hosts a Pictionary-style game with a self-publishing theme. Come mingle with the comics community and check out their spontaneous creations. Starts at 9:30pm. Quimby's is a co-sponsor of the Chicago Zine Fest; complete schedule of the weekend's events here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Mar 06 2013

DePaul Prof Reads from New Book about Post-Civil Rights Black Music

DePaul professor and author Francesca T. Royster will read from her new book, Sounding Like a No-No: Queer Sounds and Eccentric Acts in the Post-Soul Era (University of Michigan Press) at Women & Children First Bookstore Friday, March 8 at 7:30pm.

Highlighting artists like Michael Jackson, Eartha Kitt, Grace Jones and Meshell Ndegeocello, Royster explores how the eccentric, offbeat or queer performances of post-civil rights black musicians were influenced by the civil rights, black nationalist, feminist, and LGBTQ movements, and how they've consequently influenced pop music today.

Sounds heady, but Royster's writing style is accessible and often playful, so fans of these artists, pop music, or African American or queer theory studies, might enjoy Royster's spin.

Royster's previous book is Becoming Cleopatra: The Shifting Image of an Icon.

Stop by Women & Children First at 5233 N. Clark St. in Andersonville.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Mar 04 2013

Join the Madness of Reading Under the Influence

Reading Under the Influence encourages its readers to drink before they perform, so it makes perfect sense that the its March 6 reading should be "Madness" themed, right? Show up at Sheffield's, located at 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., at 7pm to partake in libations, literature and laughter.

Making sure madness ensues, featured readers include, 2nd Story member Darwyn Jones, author of Little Known Facts Christine Sneed, Columbia College fiction writing professor Shawn Shiflett, and Columbia College fiction writing undergrad Wyl Villacres.

Each performer will read twice, once from original work, and the second, from a piece of madness related published work. Following the readings, participate in a round of trivia for prizes including books and drink tickets. This usually consists of a free-for-all of shouts and half-joking responses. Come to think of it, every month at RUI could be construed as madness.

Drop in at 7pm and grab a drink. There is a $3 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Thu Feb 28 2013

Louder Than a Bomb 2013 Gears Up for Finals

louder than a bombLouder Than a Bomb, the city wide slam poetry festival with over 750 teenagers and college students participating, will be hosting the preliminary, semi-finals, and finals over the next week.

Louder Than a Bomb, or LTAB, was founded in 2001 by poet Kevin Coval and Ana West through Young Chicago Authors. It has now become the largest youth poetry festival in the world. The festival was created to give Chicago youth the stage and the space to tell their own stories. Both teams and individuals compete in the festival.

Continue reading this entry »

Melinda McIntire

Events Thu Feb 28 2013

Books, Beer, and Basketball at City Lit this Sunday

Logan Square's City Lit Books hits a three pointer with their night of Books, Beer, and Basketball at Revolution Brewing, 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave., on Sunday, March 3.

Sports editor and author Jonathan Eig will interview local authors Rus Bradburd (Make It, Take It) and Michael Lenehan (Ramblers: The Team that Changed the Color of Basketball) about their latest books, which deal with basketball, of course. Order up one of Revolution's craft beers and settle in for the discussion. For the game winner, pick up a copy of the authors' books. The trifecta begins at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 27 2013

Dr. Seuss Day @ Open Books Chicago

Bring your favorite small fry to Open Books Chicago (213 W. Institute Pl.) this Saturday, March 2 for Dr. Seuss Day from 10am to 1pm. There will be readings, face paintings, cake, crafts with Wishcraft Workshop, Seuss inspired acting games with Emerald City Theater and music with Marsha's Music. Oh, the things you can find if you don't stay behind! Suggested ages 3 and up. The day is in honor of Theodor Geisel's 109th birthday and Read Across America Day.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 26 2013

Laydeez Do Comics Back for More at Quimby's

Laydeez Do Comics, London's monthly comics salon now with a branch in Chicago, is set to host its next reading on Thursday, Feb. 28, at Quimby's Bookstore, located 1854 W. North Ave.

This will be the second Laydeez Chicago installment, bringing together female comics creators to discuss their past work, future projects, and creative process. Ladies this month include Laura Szumowski, David Mitchell, and MK Czerwiec.

The event is free and begins at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Feb 21 2013

The Funny Ha-Ha Reading Series is Back

After a being away for a brief second, this Friday, February 22, marks the triumphant return of reading series Funny Ha-Ha at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Host Claire Zulkey will usher in performances by Samantha Irby; host of Story ClubDana Norris; Megan Stielstra from the 2nd Story; Christopher Piatt, curator of Paper Machete reading series; Amy Sumpter and filmmaker Steve Delahoyde.

The event begins at 6:30pm with a $5 suggested donation. All proceeds will benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 20 2013

Hashbrown Chili Cookoff @ Spudnik Press

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This Saturday, February 23, is the Spudnik Press Hashbrown Chili Cookoff fundraiser held at their office (1821 W. Hubbard St., Suite 302). Twelve of Chicago's finest organizations devoted to printmaking and self-publishing will duke it out for the title of best chili. This year's participants include Chicago Printmakers Collaborative, The Printstitute, Center for Book and Paper Arts, Read/Write Library and Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, among others. In less than six years, Spudnik Press has enabled over 800 artists to create their own prints and has worked with many youths through field trips and in-school programs. This past fall, they added The Annex to serve Chicago's writing, comics and zine comunities. $10 gets you five tickets and $25 gets you a VIP package (five large chili portions, a golden spoon and a complimentary signature cocktail). Event runs 6pm-10pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Books Tue Feb 19 2013

Area Transgender Woman Featured in New Anthology by Out & Equal

After 20 years working as a Human Resources Director and Business Partner at a major corporation, Chicagoland resident Lori Fox quit her job. As a closeted transgender woman, she could no longer stand working in a business culture that didn't protect or support gender identity and expression.

After coming out at work in the corporate diversity office (which ultimately led to her
leaving), and also coming out to her family, Fox found success on her own terms--those that allowed her to be herself, completely. She started Lori Fox Diversity Consulting and now works with human resources and management departments at large corporations to create cultures of inclusion. She also consults with individuals to help guide their personal and professional transitions.

Continue reading this entry »

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Feb 18 2013

Go For Guts and Glory this Wednesday

The envelope pushing reading series Guts and Glory will hold its next reading on Wednesday, February 20, at 7pm at Powell's Bookstores, located at 2850 N. Lincoln Ave. The hosts, Samantha Irby and Kieth Ecker, stay true to the series tag line, "Live Lit for the Lionhearted," showcasing the raw and gritty side of storytelling.

The night's performers include comedian Kelsie Huff, poet Emily Rose, comic Adam Guerino, Funny Story Show producer Caitlin Bergh, and Patrick Allen Carberry.

This event is BYOB. Collected donations go to charity.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Feb 15 2013

LA Author Justin Maurer at Quimby's February 19

Author Justin Maurer reads Tuesday, February 19, at Quimby's Bookstore, located at 1854 W. North Ave. Maurer, an LA based writer and musician, will read from his book Seven Television (Vol 1 Brooklyn), a humorous portrayal of life from mundane dead-end jobs to family crisis. His tenure as a touring musician in bands like the garage rock outfit, Clorox Girls, provides a wealth of experience to cull from.

Maurer will be joined by Ear Eater host and author of Throne of Blood (Solar Luxuriance), Cassandra Troyan, and zinester, teacher, and author of On Subbing, Dave Roche.

The free event begins at 7pm. Quimby's will have the authors' books in stock, so stick around to pick up a copy and talk with the writers.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Feb 14 2013

Poetry Made of More Winter this Sunday

373171_319012451532202_1239971008_n.jpgIf you wanted diamonds for Valentine's day, but didn't get them, there's still a chance. Poetry Made of Diamonds' reading series returns Sunday, February 17, at 7pm at Uncharted Books, located at 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Join host Russ Woods and sponsor Love Symbol Press for this Logan Square poetry series, aptly titled, Poetry Made of More Winter.

Featured readers will include Quinn Stifler, Daniela Olszewska, Matt Rowan, Heiko Julien and Michelle Sinsky.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 13 2013

S. Bear Bergman @ Women and Children First

This Sunday, February 17, Women and Children First (5233 N. Clark St.) welcomes transgender author and activist S. Bear Bergman. The author (Butch Is A Noun), editor (Gender Outlaws: The Next Generation, co-edited with Kate Bornstein) and award winning solo performer promises "not just a reading; a Speakeasy is a whole show. Expect jokes, stories, smut, and rough drafts, plus Improv Storytime, where the audience provides the story topic and Bear tells a fresh, unrehearsed story." Doors open at 6pm. Cover is pay what you can (suggested donation $15).

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 13 2013

SEALAB @ The Book Cellar

Come back to the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) this Saturday, February 16, when Ben Hellwarth reads from SEALAB: America's Forgotten Quest to Live and Work on the Ocean Floor. The tale of the abandoned U.S. Navy program from the early '60s, author Neal Bascomb calls it "A remarkably stirring narrative filled with an awe-inducing cast of scientific adventurers who risked life and limb to not only explore the ocean's depths, but to make them their own. What Tom Wolfe revealed in such riveting detail of the space program in The Right Stuff, Ben Hellwarth matches here for underwater discovery." Reading starts at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 13 2013

Drinking With Men @ The Book Cellar

This Friday, February 15, the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) welcomes Rosie Schaap, reading from Drinking With Men. A memoir about time spent drinking in bars and partaking in the culture, it's no paean to new-found sobriety; rather, says author Kate Christensen, "there is so much joy in this book! It's a great, comforting, wonderful, funny, inspiring, moving memoir about community and belief and the immense redemptive powers of alcohol drunk properly." Schaap is a contributor to the This American Life radio show and npr.org and writes the monthly "Drink" column for the New York Times. Reading starts at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 12 2013

Single But Going Strong, Solo in the 2nd City Anniversary Celebration

Reading series Solo in the 2nd City has its one year anniversary tomorrow, Feb. 13 at 7pm at Beauty Bar Chicago, located at 1444 W. Chicago Ave. To commemorate the occasion, hosts Melinda McIntire and Carly Oishi, will welcome back guests who've appeared throughout the past year. This special b-day lineup includes performances by Samantha Irby, Charlotte Hamilton, Jasmine Davila, Chris Bower, and Blake Dinwiddie. Music will be provided by DJ Continental.

If that's not enough to celebrate, how about the fact that the first hour will have a free champagne reception with RSVP.

Stop by and raise a glass wishing this series another great year.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Feb 07 2013

Author Bree Housley Reads from Memoir at City Lit

Chicago author Bree Housley will read and sign her memoir We Hope You Like This Song: An Overly Honest Story About Friendship, Death, and Mix Tapes on Tuesday, February 12 at City Lit Books in Logan Square at 6:30 p.m.

Housley's book details her best friend Shelly's early death from complications of preeclampsia a week after giving birth to her daughter, and the ensuing adventure Housley and her sister undertook in Shelly's memory. The adventure--choosing a "Shelly-like" resolution each week and completing it in seven days--formed the premise for the blog fifty2resolutions, and eventually the memoir.

Read Book Club's Q&A with Housley, and view the book trailer.

The event is free, and Housley will pass out a complimentary copy of the mix tape/cd featured in the book as a "Valentine." Come early!

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Feb 06 2013

Myiti Sengstacke Rice Reads From Chicago Defender

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Tomorrow night, February 7, Myiti Sengstacke Rice will be at Radcliffe Hunter House (3800 S. Michigan Ave.) signing copies of her book Chicago Defender. The author is a direct descendant of Robert Sengstacke Abbott, who founded the Chicago Defender newspaper in 1905. Starting out humbly, printed in his land lady's kitchen, the Defender quickly made Abbott one of the few black millionaires of his time. The influential paper successfully promoted the "Great Migration" of 1.5 million Southern blacks to the North between 1915 and 1925. It also campaigned for anti-lynching legislation and integrated sports. Langston Hughes was a columnist and its pages published the early poems of Gwendolyn Brooks. Sengstacke Rice is the founder of Sengstacke Media Advisors and has been published in Ebony, Jet, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. Reading begins at 6pm.

Sengstacke Rice will also be appearing at the Chicago Public Library, Chicago Bee branch (3647 S. State) on Saturday, February 9 at 3pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Feb 04 2013

Get a Dose of Tainted Love at Reading Under the Influence

Wednesday, February 6, marks the 2013 return of the established Reading Under the Influence series at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. The month's theme, "Tainted Love," will be tackled by featured readers Zak Mucha, author of Heavyweight Champion of Nothing; Adam Guerino, host of the Word Is Out reading series and the Queer Comedy showcase at Zanies; Tyler Coulson, author of Attorneys After the Crash; and Jill Howe, the co-founder of Kindling Tales.

Guests read twice, starting with a piece of original work, and then an excerpt from a published work that reflects the month's theme. Readings are followed by trivia with prizes, including books and drink tickets (to make sure you are truly reading under the influence).

Drop in at 7pm and grab a domestic drink special ($2 Bud and Miller products). There is a $3 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 31 2013

Back to Print's Third Annual Jubilee this Saturday

Local independent publishing group Back to Print celebrates its birthday Saturday, February 2, with the third annual Jubilee at Multi Kulti Q4 Gallery, at 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave. at 9pm.

Back to Print started during the winter of 2009 as a publishing apartment of storytellers that worked together to create publications like the now defunct monthly periodical The Deadline. Since then, the group's efforts refocused on bookbinding and zine print projects.

Back to Print does not have a website, in favor of working offline to build a community of writers and artists through face to face contact.

"Staying offline has been a large component of our mission since day one," says Elizabeth Tieri, the creative force behind Back to Print. "The best way to find out more about us or to connect with our community is by coming out to one of our events or by picking up one of our books around town."

Back to Print's birthday Jubilee is more about showcasing the local independent publishing community than it is promoting Back to Print's efforts.

"This annual event is truly a celebration of the community we have found and fostered," says Tieri. "A huge part of who we are is about connecting faces to names and being in the same room with all these creative people."

The Jubilee will also mark the release of the publisher's newest anthology The Family Album.

"[It] is a collection of family stories through fiction, poetry, and artwork that expresses the concepts of age, (dis)connection, and self that define each of us," explains Tieri. "The book is printed locally and is assembled and bound by hand by our crew." The care and construction for each publication is thanks in part to the support of their volunteers, friends, and fans who make up the Back to Print family.

The night's festivities include readings from the anthology, live music from the Bribes, raffles, and more. Donations will be accepted at the door (cash only) to benefit future Back to Print efforts.

"There will be cake," says Tieri. "It is, after all, a birthday party."

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 30 2013

Love Is Murder Mystery Writers' Conference This Weekend

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This weekend is the Love Is Murder XIV: Murder Mystery Writers' Conference at the InterContinental Chicago O'Hare hotel (5300 N. River Road, Rosemont). A three day affair from February 1 to 3, this is the Midwest's premier mystery/romantic suspense/thriller conference, offering dozens of panel discussions, book signings, and networking and pitching opportunities with Chicago and NYC based publishers, agents and editors. Featured authors include Lee Goldberg, Michael Harvey, and Bob Mayer. Check out the list of publishers and editors here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 30 2013

Drinking Gourd Poetry Prize Series @ Poetry Foundation

Tomorrow night at 7pm, the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.) presents the Drinking Gourd Poetry Prize Chapbook Series. The prize is a first book award for emerging poets of color, a combined effort of Northwestern's Poetry and Poetics Colloquium and Northwestern University Press. Inaugural prize winner Kristiana Rae Colón will be joined by renowned poet Ed Roberson, with vocal performances by Timothy McNair and contemporary dance choreographed by Devin Buchanan and performed by Giordano Dance Chicago.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 29 2013

Laydeez Do Comics at Quimby's

It's not news that ladies do comics. It is noteworthy, however, that Laydeez Do Comics, the UK based female centric comics salon is extending its operations to Chicago.

Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) will host the first monthly meeting, to fall on the last Thursday of every month, on January 31 at 7pm. Contrary to the event's title, the forum is open to everyone interested in hearing comics creators speak about their work, their process, and future plans.Laydeez-Chicago.png

In keeping with practices made standard by Laydeez founders, Nicola Streeten (Billy, Me, and You) and Sarah Lightman (The Book of Sarah, Graphic Details), three distinguished speakers will lead the event; Kris Dresen (Max & Lilly, Manya, She Said), Corinne Mucha (Freshman, My Alaskan Summer, Chicago Magazine), and Rinko Endo (Aggression Management Manga, The Cage) will kick off the series. All attendees are asked to come ready to discuss their own work, too.

MaryKay (MK) Czerwiec, a nurse and comics artist, is the Chicago point person for Laydeez events. Like many comic makers, her inspiration comes directly from grappling with the realities of her everyday life.

"I was an AIDs nurse during the AIDs crisis here in Chicago and during that time struggled with how to process what I was witnessing," Czerwiec said. "Drawing is an incredible way of thinking. I studied in the Medical Humanities and Bioethics Program--the use of literature in Medicine--at Northwestern."

Czerwiec hopes that the monthly gathering will lead to a strong and vocal community of comic artists with diverse backgrounds.

"I realized I don't know the people who do comics in Chicago," Czerwiec said. "Nicola and Sarah's attitude is that it's important to create this environment in which they can talk about their work."

Claire Glass

Books Wed Jan 23 2013

Celebrate 200 Years of Pride and Prejudice this Monday

JaneAusten_poster.jpgHow much do you love Jane Austen? If it's enough to listen to or read selected chapters of Pride and Prejudice in public before an audience of passersby, you're in luck. On Monday, January 28, the Jane Austen Society of North America - Greater Chicago Region (JASNA-GRC) presents the first ever Pride and Prejudice: A Live Reading.

The event, to be held in the Block 37 pedway at 108 N. State St. from 7am to 7pm, is the brainchild of Debra Ann Miller of the JASNA-GRC.

"When Jane's own copy of Pride and Prejudice arrived at her home at Chawton, one of the elderly ladies from the village was expected for dinner that evening," Miller said. "Jane and her mother 'set fairly at it and read half the first volume to her.'"

The situation, described by Austen in a letter to her sister, inspired Miller's live reading idea.

Actors from Remy Bumppo, Terra Mysterium, and several local authors are scheduled to read, as well as Annie Tully, coordinator of One Book, One Chicago for the CPL, who will read the first sentence of the novel.

But amateurs fear not--volunteers are still needed to fill the hour-long slots (an estimated three to four people are required for each hour), and acting experience and costumes are definitely not necessary.

"This live reading is all about the text," Miller said. "Perfect Hampshire accents are not required, just your own unique voice, and your love for Pride and Prejudice."

Email Debra Ann Miller at debmiller@post.com for more info.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Jan 23 2013

Voice of Champions Reading @ Dan's Soul Food

This Sunday, January 27, author Kelly Porter Turner (Perfectly Planned) hosts Voice of Champions/Silence No More Movement: Inspiring and Empowering the Wounded Souls at Dan's Soul Food (2523 W. 79th St.). Five men and five women will share stories of childhood abuse to promote healing and remove shame. Entertainment by Blaq Ice and P.O.E.T.. The reading is from 4pm to 9pm; tickets are $10 and include dinner.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 23 2013

Get Briefly Knocked Unconscious in Hyde Park this Friday

The 2nd Story hosts a reading from their recent anthology, Briefly Knocked Unconscious By a Low-flying Duck, at 6pm this Friday, Jan. 25, at 57th Street Books in their new location, 5751 S. Woodlawn Ave. Enjoy lively performances from 2nd Story's Literary Director Megan Stielstra, Chair of the Columbia College Chicago Fiction Writing program Randy Albers and Columbia College faculty member Lott Hill. Readers are all featured contributors in the anthology. Pick up a copy and hang around after to chat with the readers.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jan 22 2013

MAKE Magazine Issue 12 Release Party

MAKE literary magazine holds a release party for its current "Architectural" issue this Thursday, January 24, at 7pm at the Hideout, located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. The night will kick off with a Q &A with the city's official cultural historian, Tim Samuelson, hosted by comedian Adam Burke, followed by readings from issue contributors Tovah Burstein and Ted Mathys. The entertainment will be rounded out by musical performances from Like Pioneers and Soft Speaker. Come out and sign up for a MAKE subscription, get down on drink specials, and enjoy the night's programming. There is an $10 cover, 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 16 2013

Get Insane in the Brain Frame this Friday

Brain Frame returns for its tenth show this Friday, January 18, at the Happy Dog Gallery space, located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the 2nd floor. The series welcomes comics artists, illustrators and writers for a one-of-a-kind collaborative event unlike any other in the city.

The night will feature the talent of Ezra Claytan Daniels, Sara Drake (in collaboration with Anna Barnes), Lyra Hill, Grant Reynolds, Andy Roche, and Marian Runk. Supplementing the entertainment will be live musical landscapes by Tyson Torstensen.

There is a $7 suggested donation. Don't miss this eye catching and ear pleasing event. Get there at 9pm to catch the show.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jan 15 2013

CWA 2012 Book Awards @ The Book Cellar

This Saturday, January 19, the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) welcomes the Chicago Writers Association 2012 Book Awards. The winning books are The Temple of Air by Patricia McNair, Coming Out Can Be Murder by Renee James, Whiskey Breakfast: My Swedish Family, My American Life by Richard C. Lindberg, and Grieving Dads: To the Brink and Back by Kelly Farley. The awards were divided into four categories (traditionally and non-traditionally published fiction and nonfiction) by a Chicago area author or CWA member. 7pm; free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 15 2013

Poetry Workshop @ Spudnik Press

Wednesday night, January 16, give your brain a workout at Automatic Writing: A Surreal Spin on Poetry at Spudnik Press (1821 W. Hubbard St.). Eric Unger will provide students with writing exercises inspired by poet Jack Spicer, the idea of "poet as a spirit medium" and channeling the outside world into their own poetry. Class is 6:30-9:30pm, $10 suggested donation.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jan 14 2013

See Friend Vs Foe and More at Write Club This Week

The words fly between friends and foes on Tuesday, January 17, with Write Club at the Hideout, located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Incase your need the refresher or are hearing about it for the first time, Write Club is a reading series that pits contestants against one other, as they write on assigned opposing theme. After three seven minute bouts, the the audience votes on the winners. All readers pick a charity to donate proceeds from the door if they win.

This month the literary combatants and their themes include Mason Johnson on Friend vs. Dave Snyder on Foe, Dana Norris on Pride vs. Natalie Edwards on Prejudice, and Keith Ecker on Show vs. Jim DeWan on Tell. The honorable Ian Belknap hosts. The event begins at 7pm and there is a $10 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Books Sun Jan 13 2013

Book Review: "The Blue Kind" by Kathryn Born

images.jpgKathryn Born's The Blue Kind begins with the main character, Alison, describing the city Neom, a place that has been taken over by drugs, or "mugs," as the character calls them. The drug pushers are taking over, and newer, harder drugs are entering the market. Everyone is high all the time, smoking, popping, pushing, and snorting every drug out there. The hipsters live in the part of Neom called Runaway Village where we find Alison, her husband Cory, and friend Ray living in an abandoned theater. Alison battles with her broken relationship with her husband and tries to escape from the rising drug lord, Atom, all the while drifting in and out of a drug haze that alters her memory.

Kathryn Born does not disappoint with her descriptions. I can vividly see the city of Neom as I'm reading the novel. Every part of the world that Born has created is beautifully colored in and etched out to the enth degree. Even the drugs are described in detail to the extent that you can almost see the characters getting high. She writes:

"Missy and Kota knick each other's legs with a straight razor, and then twist the cap off the bottle that looks like nail polish. Each girl brushes some mustard-colored liquid onto the cuts on their legs. They clean off the blade and hand it to Cory, and already they are blinking slowly, holding hands."

While the details are plentiful, the dialogue is lacking. The characters never develop their own voices, making it difficult to tell who is speaking. The dialogue has a teenage-like quality to it. I can't count how many times the word "like" is used, and the dialogue overall doesn't have much depth to it. While the dialogue may have been an active choice by Born, it takes away from the characters and is distracting from the story.

There are a lot of different themes in this novel, almost too many. Memory, codependence, drug addiction, and immortality get lost within each other. The chapters are short and as soon as new or important information is mentioned that would propel the story and characters forward, it abruptly ends. This occurs up until the very end making it hard for the story to move forward, and even harder to grasp onto what the characters are saying. I find myself wondering why certain pieces of information are offered at alll; some details of Alison's past are mentioned and never revisited. Some of this happens while the character is getting high and is chalked up to a drug-related memory problem. But, because the characters are constantly forgetting everything, it is hard to latch onto anything, making the storyline motionless.

Overall, this novel is very creative and the details make it come to life. But, there are some nagging issues with the dialogue and storyline that obscure themes and miss out on opportunity to expand on them. Pick up this science fiction novel for a short read at The University of Chicago Press.

Kathryn Born will be launching The Blue Kind along with Joseph G. Raymond, Inside the Whale: A Novel in Verse, and Raymond Richard, Book of Raymond: A Journey from Prison to Praise and Poetry this Tuesday, Jan 15 @7:30pm at Revolution Brewing, 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Thu Jan 10 2013

Open House @ Chicago Dramatists

This Sunday, January 13, Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago Ave., is hosting an open house. Learn about their classes, meet instructors, take a backstage tour, check out panel discussions with resident playwrights. There will even be baked goods and raffle prizes. Event is free and runs from noon to 5pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jan 10 2013

Bang Your Head at the Hair Lit Release Party this Saturday

This Saturday, Jan. 12, join Orange Alert Press for the release of Hair Lit Volume 1
at the Book Cellar, located at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., at 7pm. The anthology features stories true to its name with homages to '80s hair metal bands by Lindsay Hunter (Daddy's), Michael Czyzniejewski (Chicago Stories) Roxanne Gay and more.

Throw up the horns for the night's readers and anthology contributors Ben Tanzer, Sam Weller, Matt Rowan, Megan Stielstra and Kyle Beachy. You won't get anything special for showing up in your sleeveless denim jacket and vintage Def Leopard tour t-shirt -- well except for a bunch of high fives and double takes -- but why not dress to impress nonetheless. Copies of the anthology will be available for purchase.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 10 2013

Free Amazon Marketing Seminar @ Sulzer Regional Library

This Saturday, January 12, author Michelle Sussman presents "Tricks to Marketing Through Amazon" at the Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. Sussman is a former freelance journalist who has sold 50,000 ebooks in less than two years of self publishing (under pen names Megg Jensen and Isobel Lucas). Event is free and runs from 10am to noon; RSVP janeh@jpusa.org to reserve your seat.

Rebecca Hyland

Books Mon Jan 07 2013

Get a Head Start on Spring with Local Gardnening Blogger

So the above average temperatures this week have you pining for some planting? If so, get psyched with Amanda Thomsen this Thursday, January 10 at the Barnes & Noble DePaul Center, located at 1 E. Jackson Blvd., at 6pm. The gardening blogger will promote her book Kiss My Aster: A Graphic Guide to Creating a Fantastic Yard Totally Tailored to You.

Thomsen will discuss how to make home landscaping easy and sign copies of her book, which includes playful illustrations and a quiz to help you discover your inner gardener. What better way to forget that it's still only January?

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Jan 07 2013

Prepare for Tuesday Night's Literary Overload

Tuesday, January 8, offers a packed night of literary events. Check out the list below to see what tickles your literary fancy:

Acclaimed author George Saunders, known for his short story collections In Persuasion Nation and CivilWarLand in Bad Decline, will be celebrating the release of his newest collection Tenth of December at Lincoln Hall, located 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., at 7pm. Saunders will read from the collection followed by a conversation with Chicago author Adam Levin (The Instructions). Admission is free with the purchase of the book or $5.

The new storytelling series The Seven Deadly Sins will kick off at Cafe Mustache, located at 2313 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 8pm. The series assigns readers one of the seven deadly sins as a topic to read on. The first show will include Ian Belknap on Lust, Wyatt Sparks on Gluttony, Dan Shapiro on Wrath, The Puterbaugh Sisters on Pride, James Tadd Adcox on Greed, Caitlin Bergh on Envy, and Danny Black on Sloth. That's all of them!

The self-publisher-friendly reading series Two Cookie Minimum returns with its first show of the year at Hungry Brain, located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave., at 9pm. Readers include Grant Reynolds, Thomas Simmons, Collin Brennan, Daniel Copulsky, Cyn Vargas, and Kevin Michael Gunderson. As always, there will be free cookies on hand.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 03 2013

Literary Publications Exhibit is Worth A Thousand Words

Literary magazines Two With Water, and Graze magazine, will be hosting A Thousand Words, an exhibition of visual art from Chicago independent literary magazines, publishers, and newspapers at New Wave Coffee, 2557 N. Milwaukee Ave., from January 2 through February 8.

Both publications blend text and visuals in every issue. Graze is a Logan Square based literary magazine that focuses on what ends up on the dinner table and those who prepare it. Two With Water combines art and literature aiming to capture the voices of our contemporary landscape.

In this month-long exhibit, showcased artwork will include material that has appeared in the pages of Curbside Splendor Publishing, the Chicago Reader, The Handshake, and MAKE magazine among others.

"We realized that all these pages of original artwork that we feature were the silent giants in both our magazines," says Cyndi Fecher, co-founder of Graze.

A Thousand Words_6x4.jpgAll original artwork will be exhibited alongside its published version, allowing the viewer to
sense the cohesion between text and image.

"We wanted to host an event that would spotlight the visual creativity within our publications that is sometimes seen as the 'accompaniment' to the literary content," says co-founder of Two With Water Amy Ganser. "The real brilliance of the art might get lost in translation with cropping or editing for use in print."

This collaboration makes sense for organizers conceptually, and provides a welcome opportunity to highlight other publications. You can celebrate with organizers at the opening reception Saturday, January 5, from 6-9pm. Participating publications will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

"I'd love it if this event were the first step in developing a stronger network of cottage publishers," says Brian Solem, co-founder of Graze.

The exhibit embodies the sense of community fostered among literary publications much like the recent Pop-up Book Fair in December.

"I personally see the Chicago literary community as thriving and hungry, although not absolutely unified," says Bobby Evers, an editor from Two With Water. "You will see different groups, like ours, and Graze, as well as Featherproof or Curbside Splendor, etc., trying to gather and collaborate and unite to include as many legs of the literary community as they can."

The work of Two With Water continues this year with a reading series and new literary journal. Graze will release its third issue in April and sponsor events throughout the winter months, such as a chocolate cook-off in February.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 02 2013

Interview Show @ The Hideout

This Friday is the latest installment of The Interview Show at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. This month's show features The Stone Chromatics, chef Homaro Cantu of Moto Restaurant, Henry Wishcamper of the Goodman Theater and author Rebecca Skloot whose The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks "has the epic scope of Greek drama, and a corresponding inability to be easily explained away" says SF Weekly. $8 cover, show starts at 6:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 02 2013

Story Club is Back in Session for 2013

Story Club is set to begin the new year with a packed schedule of readings including its first of 2013 this Thursday, January 3 at Holiday Club, located at 4000 N. Sheridan Rd.

Being the first reading of the year, the theme for the night is "First." Featured performers include writer Jill Summers, essayist Kieth Ecker, and Chad the Bird. There is also an open mic with the sign-up beginning at 7:30pm. The show goes off at 7:45pm with a $5 cover.

If you can't make it this week, Story Club will be part of the Fillet of Solo Festival at Lifeline Theatre, located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Shows are scheduled for Jan. 5, 12, and 19. All shows are $10 and start at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Dec 28 2012

End the Year Right at Nerd Year's Eve

If you like comic books, Star Wars, and midnight toasts, then look no further than Nerd Year's Eve for your 2013 celebration. Scheduled for December 31 at Challenger's Comics and Conversations, located at 1845 N. Western Ave., this Star Wars themed party is aptly titled A Nerd Year's Hope. Beginning at 9pm, come for drinks, plenty of pizza, Star Wars Jeopardy, and a champaign toast when the Death Star ball drops. Redeye contributor and top geek Elliot Serrano and local singer Jess Godwin who will perform the traditional favorite Auld Lang Syne will play host. Tickets are limited so don't be left in hyperspace.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 27 2012

2nd Story New Years Eve Bash

Reading series 2nd Story is back for its fifth annual New Year's Eve celebration on Monday, Dec. 31 in the bar at Caffe Baci, 225 W. Wacker. Ring in the new year with four stories by guests Eric Hazen, Earliana McLaurin, Julia Borcherts, and Darwyn Jones.

For those new to 2nd Story, this winter series organizers published an anthology, entitled
Briefly Knocked Unconscious by a Low-Flying Duck, of work by past series contributors, including some of those performing on NYE.

The stories begin at 9:30pm, followed by live music and a DJ after midnight. Tickets are limited and go fast so get them while you can.

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (2)

Events Thu Dec 20 2012

The Way We Sleep Pajama Party

Curbside Splendor Publishing is releasing the new anthology The Way We Sleep on Friday, Dec. 28 with a Pajama Party at Late Bar, located at 3534 W. Belmont Ave. The anthology collects short stories, interviews, and comics all dealing in one way or another with the theme of how we sleep. There's a wide range of talent, including authors Billy Lombardo, J. Adam Oaks, and Roxanne Gay, as well as comedians Maria Bamford and David Wain. Contributing comic artists, Jeffrey Brown and Ron Barrett, add visual interest.

For this pajama jam, you are invited to wear your jammies, PJs, nighties, or long johns to compete for best dressed. Whether or not you walk away a winner you'll enoy live DJs and door prizes. The biggest kick in your onesie's back door is that the $10 cover includes a copy of the anthology. The sleep over begins at 10pm and doesn't stop until 4am.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Dec 18 2012

Chicago Writers Conference Presents First in Workshop Series

The first annual Chicago Writers Conference (CWC) debuted this September, presenting a slew of talks and workshops aimed at helping writers to sell and promote their work. Now the CWC is back, announcing the launch of the Writers Night Out Workshop series beginning in January with Taxes for the Self-Employed: Writers, Artists and Creative Types.

As the title says, you don't need to be a writer to attend the workshop; it's geared toward any "creative type" with an independent income. Presented by accountant David Turrentine, EA, the workshop will give advice on tracking income and expenses to save money on taxes.

Register here for the workshop on January 21st from 7-9:30 pm at Brasserie 54, located at 5420 N. Clark St. The fee is $40-- small potatoes considering how much you just might save in write-offs!

Lara Levitan

Book Club Mon Dec 17 2012

WRITE CLUB to Rage War on Christmas

WRITE CLUB, Inc. will host the "1st Ever War on Xmas Benefit Show," on Friday, Dec. 28, at 6:30pm at the Hideout, located at 354 W. Wabansia Ave. Hosted by founder Ian Belknap, a line up of readers will read seven minutes on opposing ideas. Naturally, this edition is Christmas themed, with prompts such as Naughty vs. Nice, Santa vs. Jesus, and Giving vs. Receiving. The lineup includes Jen Ellison, Lisa Buscani, Robbie Q. Telfer, Megan Stielstra, and Mike O'Connell. The audience votes to choose a winner of WRITE CLUB glory.

Tickets are $25 and benefit WRITE CLUB, Inc.

Melinda McIntire

Events Wed Dec 12 2012

Lincoln Schatz @ The Book Cellar

This Saturday at 7pm, the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) welcomes Lincoln Schatz, presenting The Network, a collection of portraits of today's influential figures from the world of entrepreneurs, industrialists, scientists, politicians and more. David Granger, editor in chief of Esquire, says "Lincoln Schatz is the most important and daring portraitist of the twenty-first century. He brings a singular vision as well as technological wizardry to rendering the most influential people of our time. The Network is his most ambitious project yet: As a portrait of not merely a group of individuals but also a portrait of power, The Network is entirely new and destined to define our moment in time for ages."

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 12 2012

A Very Carpenters Christmas @ Uncharted Books

This Friday at 7pm, Uncharted Books in Logan Square (2630 N. Milwaukee Ave.) hosts A Very Carpenters Christmas, featuring author Randy L. Schmidt reading from Yesterday Once More: The Carpenters Reader. New England Entertainment Digest calls it "Unquestionably, the definitive historical recalling of the Carpenters." The night will also feature screenings and highlights from two Carpenters Christmas TV specials.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 12 2012

Enjoy Naked Charles Dickens this Friday

Thumbnail image for photosofnakedgirlsreadingachristmascarol03.jpgJoin international showgirl Michelle L'Amour and the girls Friday, December 14 for the next installment of Naked Girls Reading, this time from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. The Naked Girls will read from other holiday selections as well, and the website promises spiked hot chocolate and nudity to "warm your chestnuts."

The monthly reading series hosts shows in ten other cities, including Los Angeles, New York and New Orleans, but Chicago is the flagship with readings held at Everleigh Social Club at 939 W. Randolph St. in the West Loop.

Tickets are $20, or two for $35. The reading begins at 7pm and required reservations can be made here. You can also ring in the New Year at Everleigh Social Club with a countdown by Naked Girls Reading. Reservations here.

(Photo by Jason Adrian for TimeOut Chicago.)

Lara Levitan / Comments (1)

Events Wed Dec 12 2012

Bloggers on Blogging at Columbia College

Join the Columbia College reading series Silver Tongue, tonight, Wednesday December 12, for Bloggers Blogging About Blogging. Head to Columbia College's Conaway center, located at 1104 S. Wabash Ave., to catch Chicago blogging superstars Claire Zulkey, Dmitry Samarov (Hack), and Ben Tanzer (This Blog Will Change Your Life). Each will conduct a short reading followed by a moderated panel hosted by blogger and Columbia Fiction Writing studentWyl Villacres.

There will be door prizes and food--you know, all the things growing bloggers need. Stop by at 7pm for the fun. It is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Dec 10 2012

Catch December's Gumbo Fiction Salon

The Gumbo Fiction Salon is determined to get one last reading in before the year's end on Wednesday, December 12, at Galway Arms, located at 2442 N. Clark St. Featured readers include Eric Cherry, co-editor of Book of Dead Things, and Columbia College Fiction student Laura Uhl.

Host Tina Jens will kick things off at 7pm, and following featured readers she'll open the stage for an open mic. Interested parties should bring in about ten minutes worth of original work and rock the stage. Admission is $4 and check at the door for student rates.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 06 2012

Chicago Writers House Book Fair @ Empty Bottle

This Sunday is the Chicago Writers House Book Fair at Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. Brought to you by the Chicago Writers House Project, Curbside Splendor and The Chicagoan, the event features over 20 different local independent publishers. Come have a drink and get some holiday shopping done. Live performances throughout the day TBA. Event runs from 2 to 7pm; $5 cover or free with RSVP.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Thu Dec 06 2012

Collaborative "Shy Town Girls" Book Series Launches this Saturday

shytowngirls.jpgWhy should New York get all the single-girl-in-the-big-city stories? Ask Katie Leimkuehler, Jennifer Yih, Kate Clinesmith and MG Wilson, and they'll tell you Chicago holds its own as a setting for urban dating adventures. The local writers have sought to capture the essence of Windy City romance in the new four-part novel series Shy Town Girls.

"The series evolved from the idea that every girl has these moments...anything from wine nights with friends, to laughing over the ridiculous pick-up lines guys throw our way," said Leimkuehler. "How many times have I heard a girl in the bathroom at the bar having the same conversation with her friends that I just had with mine? My co-authors and I wanted to capture the real essence of what it's like to be young, single, and dating in the city in the digital age."

And with a thriving fashion, food and nightlife scene, Chicago's Gold Coast provided the perfect backdrop for the trials and tribulations of fictional characters Bobbie, Ivy, Meryl, and Ella, four working friends (along with their sage landlady, Barbara) who share more than just a brownstone apartment.

Leimkuehler, founder of the website Conquer the Edge, says she's always wanted to write a novel series, and when the opportunity to collaborate with Wilson, Yih and Clinesmith arose, she embraced it. Though they developed the overarching storyline and an outline for each book together, each author adopted a character and book.

"[Collaboration] has made the process of writing, editing and marketing much easier because we act as a team," said Leimkuehler. "And working with my co-authors often feels more like hanging out with my friends than work--you can't beat that."

The authors funded the books through PubSlush, and the first is now available on Amazon. Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oevres, a raffle, and giveaways among funky fashions at the December 8 book launch party at Akira, 645 W. Diversey Pkwy. at Clark St. from 7-9pm. The event is free. RSVP here.

Lara Levitan / Comments (4)

Books Wed Dec 05 2012

Get Obsessed at Uncharted Books this Friday

If you've yet to chart Uncharted Books, Logan Square newest and only used book store, this Friday, December 7 at 7pm is the perfect time to visit as novelist Sarah Terez Rosenblum hosts a reading of local authors exploring the theme of obsession.

hereself when she's missing.jpgRosenblum will read from Herself When She's Missing (recently reviewed by Curve magazine), a novel Rosenblum describes as "post-modern in form (lists, 3x5 cards, even the occasional screenplay), but classical in theme: a tale of a girl desperate for something like, but not quite love."

Rosenblum will be joined by fellow obsessors Robyn Okrant, author of Living Oprah: My One Year Experiment to Walk the Walk of the Queen of Talk; creative writing instructor Scott Onak; recent winner of the Our Town Short Story Contest Michael McCauley; author and artist Chai Wolfman, and Fictlicious founder Micki LeSueur.

Explore the musty literary sanctuary of Uncharted Books at 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Lara Levitan

Events Tue Dec 04 2012

POSTPONED I'm Dreaming of an "Off White Christmas"

The release celebration of author Don Evans' new short story collection, An Off-White Christmas, scheduled for December 6, has been postponed.

Check back in with The Chicago Way for rescheduling updates soon.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Dec 03 2012

Get 'In Bed' with Reading Under the Influence

Reading Under the Influence has been known to drink a little too much and get involved with various characters. Their latest exploit is local Curbside Splendor Publishing. Being adults about things, the two pair up to celebrate Curbside's newest release, the anthology The Way We Sleep, Wednesday December 5 at Sheffield's 3258 N. Sheffield Avenue.

RUI lives up to their name, offering shots to readers before they perform. This month's readers include contributors from the anthology Megan Stielstra, Jeff Oaks, and RUI host Rob Duffer. Each will read twice, once an original story, the other a piece of previously published work relating to the the month's theme 'in bed'.

But the readers aren't the only ones able to get their drink on. Featured readers host a round of trivia after their readings offering the audience a chance to win free drinks (and books too). Even if you don't win, the bar offers specials on domestics.

The reading begins at 7. There is a $3 cover. Grab a copy of the anthology and some drinks (designated driver not included).

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Thu Nov 29 2012

Romance and Chocolate at Lady Jane's Salon

Thumbnail image for Thumbnail image for roses&chocolate.jpgMadame Tracey Devlyn and Madame Adrienne Giordano aren't characters from that Jane Austen novel you always meant to read; they're the hosts of Lady Jane's Salon, a bi-monthly romance fiction reading series that celebrates one of the publishing industry's most popular genres.

Inspired by Lady Jane's Salon New York, Devlyn and Giordano--both of whom are romance novelists--combined their energies to develop a local version of the Salon, which features a gamut of romance writers, from newbie to well-established.

The next steamy installation is Tuesday, December 4 at 7pm at Le Chocolat du Bouchard on 129 S. Washington St. in Naperville. The featured writers are Jennifer Ann Coffeen, P.E. Calhoun, Beth Kery, and Sherrill Bodine.

While listening to tales of love and lust you can enjoy a hot chocolate, "choctail", or a dessert likely to involve the word "sinful" from the Le Chocolat du Bouchard menu (the reading is on the second floor of the chocolaterie); but feel no guilt--the suggested $5 donation goes to Celebrate Differences, a non-profit supporting individuals with disabilities. Or you may pay your admission with one gently-used romance novel.

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Nov 29 2012

The Last Two Cookie Minimum of 2012

Thumbnail image for Two Cookie Gingerbread.jpg

Reading series Two Cookie Minimum closes out 2012 on Tuesday, December 4 at the Hungry Brain, located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave., with a great variety on the line up.

Readers includes Neil Brideau, a comic artist and organizer of CAKE; Lisa Mrock; Piper Pennigan; Jason Fisk, author of Hank and Jules; Elizabeth Tieri, editor-in-chief of Back to Print Publishing; and the former editor of Gaper's Block Book Club, Rosamund Lannin.

The event is hosted by Johnny Misfit (me). Keeping with their moniker, there will be festive holiday cookies (maybe not exactly like the ones in the flyer, illustrated by Jaclyn Miller). Be sure to show up by the 9pm start to grab some treats.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Nov 28 2012

Third Annual Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

This Friday at 7pm is the Third Annual Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Chicago Cultural Center's Claudia Cassidy Theater, 78 E. Washington St. This year's inductees include Jane Addams, Sherwood Anderson, James T. Farrell, Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes and Carolyn Rodgers. This year's event is free and open to the public (though ticket reservations recommended).

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 28 2012

I Sh!t You Not! @ Township

Tomorrow night is the debut of I Sh!t You Not! at Township, 2200 N. California Ave. Hosted by Chicago comedy scenesters Monte LaMonte and Michael Sanchez, ISYN! is an evening of grody gross-out stories "not for the faint of fart." Featured readers are Hannah Green, Joe McAdam, Valentine Soposky, CJ Toledano, Stephanie Douglass, Jesse Baltes, Donna Simon, and Xavier Retana. Audience members can also participate for a chance to win prizes. $5 cover, reading startst at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Nov 27 2012

"Dead" Lit Comes to Life

Renowned Irish author James Joyce's short story, (40 pages hardly constitutes short) The Dead, is currently being performed through December 9 at the Court Theater, located at 5535 S. Ellis Ave. This translation from page to stage comes to life through Irish folk songs and dance. Could this be a new holiday classic? Find out before the production ends.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Nov 21 2012

The Hipsters @ Club Foot

This Saturday is the book release party for The Hipsters at Club Foot, 1824 W. Augusta Blvd. The author, former Chicagoan Tim McAtee, based the book on his experiences arriving in New York after the dot com boom and his behind the scenes experiences at an MTV reality show. The Hipsters was brought to the world via hipster/Generation Y midwifery (i.e., it's a Kickstarter success story) and McAtee tells the Chicago Reader he'll buy a PBR for anyone buying a copy of the book. Reading starts at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Nov 19 2012

Give Thanks to Write Club this Tuesday

For those who need a break from Thanksgiving prep, head to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., for Write Club's Angstgiving reading on Tuesday, November 20, at 7pm.

Contestants will compete, writing on two opposing topics in three seven-minute bouts. The audience votes for a winner, whose charity of choice will receive all the money collected at the door.

Competing readers and topics include: Nate Craig (GRATEFUL) vs. Ian Belknap (HATEFUL); Chloe Johnston (NATIVE) vs. Mary Fons (FOREIGN); and Gwynn Fulcher (HUNGRY) vs. Emily Rose (FULL).

Instead of watching members of your family fight over the last turkey leg, come to Write Club to see the gravy fly. $10 at the door.

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (1)

Events Fri Nov 16 2012

A Show for Chicago: Christopher Piatt's The Paper Machete Moves to the Green Mill

Thumbnail image for Green Mill 1.jpgWhen writer/performer Christopher Piatt first conceived of the "live magazine" phenomenon known as The Paper Machete, he envisioned it hosted at the Green Mill, where the nightly jazz, the twinkling green lights, and the ghosts of gangsters past linger in every smoky corner. And beginning Saturday, December 1--after three rigorous years hosting and producing The Paper Machete at various Lincoln Square bars--Piatt's vision is realized as he takes his weekly "salon in a saloon" to the Green Mill with headliner Katie Rich of the Second City mainstage.

"I'm beside myself," said Piatt. "But I have a lot of work ahead of me."

Not that he doesn't already have a lot of work behind him. Piatt's been hosting and producing The Paper Machete, an aptly-described "part spoken-word show, part vaudeville revue" for nearly three years. It's a project he dove into full throttle after leaving his post at TimeOut Chicago, where he worked as a theatre critic and editor for five years. Upon leaving TimeOut, Piatt felt destined to put on a show of his own, but he found himself irrevocably "hard-wired" to the pace of a weekly magazine.

Continue reading this entry »

Lara Levitan / Comments (1)

Events Thu Nov 15 2012

All The Writers I Know @ Quimby's

This Saturday, Quimby's presents All The Writers I Know, a queer reading co-produced by Mar Curran and Patrick Gill. The theme for the night is "Things Already Said" and features H. Melt, Ali Scott and Jayson Brooks (three other performers TBA). Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., Saturday, November 17 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Nov 15 2012

Bookamania @ Harold Washington Library

This Saturday is Bookamania at the Harold Washington Library. The annual children's literature festival that kicks off the holiday season will feature characters including Olivia the pig and the Very Hungry Caterpillar, authors and illustrators including Tad Hills and live storytelling. Local institution The Puppet Bike will be stationed at the State Street entrance. Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State Street, Saturday, November 17, 11am-3pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Nov 15 2012

Chicago Zine Fest 2013 Open Meeting

The organizers of the Chicago Zine Fest, which celebrates independent publishers and small presses, are holding an open meeting this weekend on Saturday, November 17. They welcome community feedback and comments in the planning of the festival, which will return for its fourth year on March 8 and 9, 2013. You can also stop by to find out general information about the zine fest and how to get involved.

The meeting will be held at the Chicago Public Library Logan Square branch 3030 W. Fullerton Ave. at 2pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Nov 13 2012

Discover Your Body Wisdom at Free Writing Workshop

Need some writing inspiration? The Third Coast International Audio Festival teams up with the Neighborhood Writing Alliance (NWA) this Thursday, November 15, to offer the Listening + Writing workshop at the brand new Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts.

The free workshop will be presented as a Third Coast Listening Room, which is a lot like going to see a series of short indie films, only it's audio; or, as Third Coast puts it, "like a book club for radio." After the audio clips the NWA will provide creative writing prompts as participants explore the theme "body wisdom."

The workshop runs from 6-8pm. Though the event is free, seats are limited and reservations are required. RSVP to Rachel Hudak of NWA at (773) 684-2742 or rhudak@jot.org.

The Logan Center for the Arts is located at 915 E. 60th St.

Lara Levitan

Events Tue Nov 13 2012

Scott Jacobs Never Leaves His Block

When you read a story, you want to know the author has some authority over the subject matter. If it's set in Chicago, you better believe the author has to know the town, because any Chicagoan can detect an impostor.

Chicago author Scott Jacobs doesn't have to worry about that in his new book Never Leave Your Block: Adventures in Urban Living, released by Dead Tree Press earlier this fall. His resume marks him as a true Chicagoan; he is known for his Chicago centric work as a reporter at the Chicago Tribune, the filmmaker behind Royko at the Goat, which centers around a conversation with journalist Mike Royko at the Billy Boat Tavern--how Chicago is that?--and as editor of online magazine The Week Behind.

Never Leave Your Block is set in Bucktown, and includes 33 stories that explore the gentrification of the neighborhood and surrounding area. The stories are supplemented by Jacobs' experiences of being a neighborhood resident.

Confirming that he truly cannot leave the block, Jacob will read on Thursday, November 15, just around the corner from Bucktown in Wicker Park at the loveable independent bookstore Quimby's, located at 1854 W. North Ave. at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Nov 09 2012

Studs' Place: 2012 Edition

This year marks the Studs Terkel centennial, and as part of a series of celebratory events, historical re-enactors from Pocket Guide to Hell are performing an episode of Terkel's TV Show, Studs' Place. StudsPlace_102212.jpg

This particular episode will take place in 2012, although actors will evoke characters of Terkel's era with situations that are period appropriate to the original series. The show is set to take place at the Hideout, located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., this Sunday, November 11, with WEBZ's Alison Cuddy and Bill Savage hanging out as special guests.

Studs' Place, which aired in the 50s, is one of the first TV shows produced in Chicago, and was improvised based on a single sheet of plot. Typical of Pocket Guide to Hell's dedication to historical accuracy, you'll be able to catch the show live on screen for the authentic experience in the back room, while the stage performance goes on in front.

Suggested donations of $7 to $10 are appreciated.

Claire Glass

Events Thu Nov 08 2012

Blab World #2 Release @ Save More Lounge

blab#2.jpg

This Saturday is the release party for Blab World #2 at the Save More Lounge. A wild and woolly comics anthology, Blab World is "like The New Yorker for mutants" according to the the Los Angeles Reader. Though the issues of their current incarnation can be counted on one hand, the Blab World has been orbiting ours on and off since 1986, published as BLAB! magazine by Kitchen Sink Press from 1988 to 1995 and Fantagraphics from 1997 to 2007. Edited by award-winning local art director and graphic designer Monte Beauchamp, Blab's past and present contributors include Chris Ware, Tony Fitzpatrick, and Shag. Pick up a copy, mingle with contributors and sway to the sounds of Crazee Heart. Save More Lounge, 4060 N. Lincoln Ave., Saturday, November 10 at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Thu Nov 08 2012

Foreign Policy Scholar to Read at Cliff Dwellers

With the election behind us and the beginning of a new presidential term just ahead, now's a great time to get a little more educated about foreign policy. And lucky for you, there's a chance to do just that on Tuesday, November 13 as the Society of Midland Authors welcomes independent foreign policy scholar Gregory Harms to Cliff Dwellers Club for a free reading.

gregory-harms.jpgA Joliet resident and author of three books about U.S. foreign policy and the Middle East, Harms will read from his latest book, It's Not About Religion, published by Viggo Mortenson's (yes, that Viggo Mortenson's) Perceval Press. In little more than 100 pages, the book seeks to answer how much religion plays a role in the media's portrayal of the Middle East.

Harms will speak at 7pm, but a social hour with complimentary snacks and a cash bar begins at 6pm, and reservations are not required. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

The Cliff Dwellers Club is located at 200 S. Michigan Ave., 22nd floor.

Lara Levitan

Events Wed Nov 07 2012

Join the Cult: The Encyclopedia Show Thursday

The long-running live literary event, The Encyclopedia Show is back this Thursday, November 8, with a theme followers have been clamoring for: Cults. The show has an out-of-this-world line up including illustrator Berto Saldana, poet Fatimah Ashgar, musician Roy Ivy, sketch comedian Tim Baltz, Oakland, California poet Jamie DeWolf, performer in BoyGirlBoyGirl Rachel Claff, and Kansas City poet Robert Brown.

Leading the masses to drink the kool-aid and take the spaceship with them are hosts Robbie Q. Telfer and Shannay Jean Maney.

Wear your black Nikes and join them at the Vittum Theater 1012 N. Noble St., at 7:30pm. Tickets are $9, $6 for students.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Tue Nov 06 2012

Jami Attenberg to Visit The Book Cellar

middforkerri-198x300.jpg The Book Cellar welcomes author Jami Attenberg on Thursday to read from her recently-published novel The Middlesteins, praised by Jonathan Franzen and selected by The Huffington Post as a "book we're talking about."

The novel explores what happens to the Middlestein family after matriarch Edie is abandoned by her husband because she's become overweight and completely obsessed with food. Attenberg, who's written explicitly about her own "history of being fat," has covered topics like sex, technology and graphic novels for magazines like Salon and The Awl, and is a former zinester with three novels under her belt: The Melting Season, The Kept Man and Instant Love.

Stop by The Book Cellar at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave.

Lara Levitan

Events Tue Nov 06 2012

Reading Under the Influence Teams Up with 2nd Story

Tomorrow Wednesday November 7, Reading Under the Influence partners with reading series 2nd Story for a mix of performances, readings, and trivia. Promoting the release of 2nd Story's new print anthology Briefly Knocked Unconscious by a Low-Flying Duck readers will include anthology contributors Julie Ganey and Matt Miller. Rounding out the lineup will be Adam McOmber, author of The White Forest, along with Chris Terry.

This "The Hunt" themed edition of RUI showcases readings of original work, plus previously published work based on the night's theme, followed by trivia. Each reader takes a shot before reading to make things a bit more interesting.

Drop into Sheffield's 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.
at 7pm, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Nov 05 2012

Vote Two Cookie Minimum this Tuesday

This month the reading seriesTwo Cookie Minimum, lands on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6. In the spirit, it is offering something different from its usual reading and cookies schtick.

The night will begin with featured readers Stuart Ross, Patrick Andrews, and Hillary Stone. Simultaneously, there will be a live writing exercise with readers Mason Johnson (co-host of Karaoke Idol) and Matt Rowen (editor of Untoward magazine). Both will be writing on the spot according to an audience-supplied theme. After a brief intermission these two will share the results with the audience, which will vote for the better piece. The winner will receive a prize of immense proportions.

Cast your vote for Two Cookie Minimum, hosted by Johnny Misfit at the Hungry Brain
2319 West Belmont Ave., 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Nov 01 2012

Found Magazine Anniversary Show @ Old Town School of Folk Music

Tomorrow night is Found magazine's 10th anniversary show at the Old Town School of Folk Music. Founded by brothers Davy and Peter Rothbart, they have much to celebrate, including Davy's fourth book My Heart is an Idiot. Dave Eggers says, "Davy Rothbart has the humor and purity of heart you want and need in an observer of contemporary American life. Without guile and with a belief in small towns, underdogs, love at first sight, the pull of the road, and the soulfulness of strangers, Rothbart is a kind of new-styled Bill Moyers -- genuine, wide-eyed, and hopeful." Jim Carroll (yes, that one, obviously referring to an earlier work) says, "Davy's my kind of storyteller -- honest, hilarious, deeply feeling, and slightly cracked. This is the fresh voice we've been looking for."

They're also celebrating Peter's new album, You Are What You Dream, and the new issue of Found magazine, the voyeuristic celebration of found notes and photos. "I've been publishing people's most private thoughts in Found magazine for the last 10 years," Davy told the New York Times, "so I feel like it's only fair to put myself on the line." Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Friday, Nov. 2 at 8pm. $10.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 31 2012

The 2nd Story Gets Briefly Knocked Unconscious

Longtime reading series 2nd Story will be seeing some of their great live performances end up in their first print anthology, Briefly Knocked Unconscious by a Low-Flying Duck. The book presents 23 selected essays culled from ten years of archived performances. To celebrate, they are hosting a book release this Friday, November 2, featuring performances from the anthology. Storytellers will include Eric May, Deb Lewis and Molly Each with music by Seeking Wonderland.

Get your book at the event as many of the authors found in the anthology will be on hand to sign copies. The event is at Underground Wonder Bar, 710 N. Clark St., at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Author Mon Oct 29 2012

Author Kat Meads Reads at Women & Children First and Powell's

Author Kat Meads will read from her recently-released historical novel For You, Madam Lenin, this Thursday, November 1st at 7:30pm at Women & Children First Bookstore. The novel presents the Russian Revolution through the eyes of Nadezhda Krupskaya, the Jewish Bolshevik revolutionary and politician who married Vladimir Lenin. In the novel, Krupskaya's sharp mother is wholly unimpressed by her communist revolutionary son-in-law.

If you can't make the Thursday reading, Meads will also present at the UIC Friday Reading Series at Powell's Bookstore on Friday, November 2nd at 6pm.

Women & Children First is at 5233 N. Clark St., and Powell's is at 1218 S. Halsted St.

Lara Levitan

Events Mon Oct 29 2012

Author Jamie Freveletti's Book Release Dead Asleep at the Chicago Way

Tomorrow join The Chicago Way reading series for the release of local author Jamie Freveletti's Dead Asleep. Freveletti, trial attorney by day and author of thriller novels by night, will read from and sign her new book, and will be interviewed onstage by The Chicago Tribune's social media manager, Amy Guth. The Chicago Way loves to open the floor to the audience to ask questions of their guests, so stick around for an opportunity to do so.

Stop by the Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted St., at 6pm to celebrate this event.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Oct 25 2012

Two Cookie Minimum Dead Zine Reading

Two Cookie Minimum, the zinester-friendly reading series, is set to hold a special Dead Zine themed holiday edition on Monday, Oct. 29. The night welcomes zinesters to resurrect their oldest or out of print issues. Readers and dead zines include Lynne Monsoon (Shit I didn't Tell You), Aaron Cynic (Diatribe), and Mairead Case (Fabulous Color, and Ben Spies/No More Coffee).

Touring self-publishers and members of Pittsburgh's Cyberpunk Apocalypse, an anti-MFA independent writing project Nate McDonough and Daniel McCloskey will close out the night with readings from Don't Come Back and A Film About Billy respectively.

Two Cookie Minimum is hosted by Johnny Misfit at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., at 9pm. Donations accepted for touring readers. As usual, there will be cookies, this time celebrating Halloween.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Oct 24 2012

The Creeping Shudder @ Bucket o' Blood

This Sunday, Bucket o' Blood Books and Records hosts "The Creeping Shudder" horror reading featuring Cynthia Pelayo, Jordan Scrivner, Miranda Steffens, Marc Ruvolo and Regan Keeter. Bucket o' Blood, 2307 N. Milwaukee Ave., Sunday, Oct. 28 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 24 2012

Janet Groth @ Women and Children First

This Saturday, Janet Groth reads from The Receptionist: An Education at the New Yorker at Women and Children First. Kirkus Reviews calls it "a nostalgic, wistful look at life inside one of America's most storied magazines, and the personal and professional limbo of the woman who answered the phone...This bookish girl from flyover country who became a Mad Men-era hottie, and who found she had to leave this cozy nest in order to save herself, is very much an interesting character in her own right. For readers who can't get enough New Yorker lore, an amiable view from the inside." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Saturday, October 27 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 24 2012

2012 Chicago Book Expo Postponed

Earlier this year we reported that the 2nd annual Chicago Book Expo was scheduled for December 2. The Chicago Writer's House who organizes the event announced that the expo will be postponed, but not canceled. To generate more community involvement in organizing the event, they have scheduled an open meeting the week of November 12. If you are an interested party then this might be right for you.

In the interim, the Chicago Writers House will team up with publishers Curbside Splendor and The Chicagoan to host a mini version of the expo Sunday, December 9, at The Empty Bottle 1035 N. Western Ave. It will include twenty local presses with work for sale. This event comes at a great time to get some holiday shopping done.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Oct 22 2012

Write Club Goes to Couples Therapy

Write Club is back with its 29th chapter. If you are new to this reading series, it's helpful to know the ground rules before you show up; rule number one is that contestants face off writing on two opposing themes; rule number two says the competition goes down in three seven-minute bouts; and rule number three about Write Club is that audience votes on the winner. All proceeds go to charities of winner's choosing, but they keep the names of those charities to themselves to keep voting impartial. Makes sense.

Making the bouts extra fun, all readers are actual couples! Contestants and themes include: Bob Stockfish/Together vs. Diana Slickman/Apart. Emmy Bean/Finance vs. Ira Murfin/Romance. And Ryan Walters/Rent vs. Dina Walters/Own.

In keeping with the couples theme, this edition brings on its first ever guest host, Bob "The Underlord" Stockfish, joining resident ringleader Ian Belknap.

The words start flying Tuesday, October 23 beginning at 7pm, at the Hideout located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. $10 at the door; 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Oct 18 2012

Russian Novelist Olga Slavnikova visits the Newberry

The Newberry Library will host winner of the Russian Booker Prize Olga Slavnikova in conversation with Chicago Tribune literary editor Elizabeth Taylor on Monday, October 22 at 5:30pm.

Slavnikova will read from her novel, 2017, which won the Russian Booker Prize in 2006, and her most recent novel, Light Head, shortlisted for this year's prize.

Slavnikova, who is the daughter of a Soviet rocket scientist, characterizes her work as "inverse magical realism," introducing fantasy into the everyday.

Check out this free event at The Newberry Library, located at 60 W. Walton St. For more information, visit debutprize.com

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Oct 18 2012

Drinking and Writing Festival @ Haymarket Pub and Brewery

This Saturday is the 8th annual Drinking and Writing Festival (this year's theme: The Beats), hosted by Neo-Futurists Steve Mosqueda and Sean Benjamin, hosts of the Drinking and Writing Brewery Radio Show (Sundays at 6pm on WLUW). This year's festival features performers from 16th Street Theater presenting pieces written by Allen Ginsberg, Diane Di Prima, Gary Snyder, John Chellon Holmes, and Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Bill Savage from Northwestern University will talk about The Beat Generation. There will also be writing awards for participants and a special beer created for the event called Naked Lunch (a collaboration made by local breweries Haymarket, Goose Island, Revolution, Half Acre, Rockbottom, Dry Hop and more). Haymarket Pub and Brewery, 737 W. Randolph St., Saturday, October 20, noon to 6pm. Tickets are $30 and include admission to all events and an opportunity to sample all the beers.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Oct 18 2012

Richard Courage @ 57th Street Books

Tomorrow night, Richard Courage reads from The Muse in Bronzeville: African American Creative Expression in Chicago, 1932-1950 at 57th Street Books. The International Review of African American Art says "Finally setting the record straight, the book brings to the forefront the cultural awakening of black consciousness exploding in the Midwest during the first half of the 20th-century. [Co-author Robert] Bone and Courage masterfully blend the history of Chicago's South Side as the incubator of cultural expression and the black aesthetic in page-turning prose. The Muse in Bronzeville is a much-needed contribution." 57th Street Books, 5757 S. University Ave., Friday, October 19 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 16 2012

Monkey Around with Curious George This Weekend

Curious George may have his own movie and TV series these days, but we know he's still the same old inquisitive primate from such mid-century classics as Curious George Rides a Bike and Curious George Flies a Kite.

In honor of the binocular-wielding monkey, and in celebration of reading and readers of all ages, Open Books is hosting Curious George Day this Saturday, October 20, from 10am-1pm. Open Books Curious George Display small.JPG

The free event includes coloring, face painting, storytelling , a cake, and discounted children's books from Open Books' book store. Special guests Wishcraft Workshop (10 am), Emerald City Theatre (11 am) and Marsha's Music (12 pm) will host craft, drama, music and movement activities. And, especially since it's so close to Halloween, costumes are definitely encouraged.

According to Open Books' Marketing Manager Erica Hawkinson, Curious George is the perfect centerpiece for an event meant to nurture a love of reading shared between children and parents.

"Both parents and kids can identify with a character who has such a strong history with books," Hawkinson said. "Plus, he has a big following and appeals to girls and boys."

Hawkinson pointed out that parents can also find more literacy-oriented resources at the event, including tips about how to raise kids who love to read, and how to choose good books for kids and infants.

"Open Books wants to be that no-fail resource for parents," Hawkinson said.

Open Books is located at 213 W. Institute Pl. For more information visit open-books.org.

Lara Levitan

Events Tue Oct 16 2012

Karaoke Idol Bad Singing for a Good Cause

The monthly get-together that is Karaoke Idol is back Thursday, October 18 with more off key singing to encourage and organizations to benefit. The event helps raise funds for Chicago not-for-profits and culturally minded organizations whose representatives battle on the mic for proceeds collected at the door. Last month's winner Girls Rock! Chicago is back to defend its reigning title against Chicago Zine Fest, One Tail at a Time, Young Chicago Authors, Reversible Eye and Graze.

Judges include social media manager at the Chicago Tribune Amy Guth, Another Chicago Magazine editor Jacob Knabb and ex-P Fanatics series host Mason Johnson. The audience acts as the fourth judge, weighing in by cheering for their favorite performer.

Stick around after the competition for open karaoke from a musical library of favorites hosted by Shameless Karaoke. The event is brought to you by the folks at Curbside Splendor Publishing, Another Chicago Magazine, & Quimby's Bookstore.

Stop by the Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., at 8pm, $5 cover, must be 21 to enter.

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (3)

Events Fri Oct 12 2012

Humanities Festival Weekend Literary Roundup

Sunday marks the beginning of this season's Chicago Humanities Festival programming with Northwestern Day to be held on the university's Evanston campus. We've already alerted you to the fact that hot deals are to be had courtesy of the Fest, but there's also quite a rich selection of literary programming to choose from beyond the neatly packaged Short List:

Charles C. Mann, of The Atlantic, Science, and Wired, will discuss his books 1491, which delivers a look at the pre-Columbian Americas, and 1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created, in a lecture titled, 1492: Before and After. Mann will examine the societal and ecological effects of that seminal year, a fitting introduction considering this season's theme is America. Hodgman_John_Credit-Brantley-Gutierrez-461x250.jpeg

Writer on shows Alias, Lost, and Fringe , Jeff Pinker, will speak to the rise of multinarrative storytelling in his lecture Transforming American TV: Alias and the Serial Drama, sponsored by Northwestern's MFA program in Writing for Screen and Stage. Not quite literary, sure, but the discussion will explore the way writing has shifted America's expectations for the undeniably iconic small screen.

For those interested in the playwright's process, a discussion with writer Matthew Lopez about his show The Whipping Man , to debut in 2013, is not to be missed. The play deals with conflicts unique to Jewish slave owners in 19th-century America, and the infrequently examined mix of cultural and social clashes that come out of this dichotomy.

The Daily Show's "resident expert" John Hodgeman will discuss the final installment of his trilogy, aptly titled, Complete World Knowledge trilogy, That is All. The essential text includes directions for making wine while on the toilet, as well as a day-by-day account of life in America in 2012 under Commander and Chief Morgan Freeman.

Tickets are still available to these programs for as little as $5, and are free to teachers and students. Visit the Chicago Humanities Festival ticket page for more details.

Claire Glass

Author Fri Oct 12 2012

Catch The Book Thief in Chicago

As you may already know, the selection for the Chicago Public Library's One Book, One Chicago program this fall centers on Markus Zusak's The Book Thief. The novel tells the story of a young foster girl who steals and reads books aloud to her neighbors during bomb raids in World War II Germany. With its serious subject matter the book asks many questions of its readers, including: How do we respond to war time injustice?

The Chicago Public Library presents two free events relating to the book, both taking place in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.:

On Tuesday, October 16 at 6pm, WBEZ's Worldview host Jerome McDonnell will talk with humanitarian Paul Rusesabagina, who will speak from personal experience on some of the themes explored in The Book Thief. The film Hotel Rwanda, nominated for three Academy Awards in 2004, documents Rusebagina's struggle to shelter Tutsis and moderate Hutus during the Rwandan genocide of 1994.

On Monday, October 22 at 6pm, The Book Thief author Markus Zusak will join Chicago Tribune columnist Dawn Turner Trice for a conversation about the book and his reaction to its success.

For more information visit chicagopubliclibrary.org.

Lara Levitan

Events Thu Oct 11 2012

Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner @ The Forum

The Chicago Public Library Foundation is hosting its annual Carl Sandburg Literary Awards dinner this Wednesday, October 17. Chosen for their significant contributions to the written word and international stature, this year's co-winners are Don DeLillo (Underworld, his new short story collection The Angel Esmeralda, among others) and Walter Isaacson (best known for his recent Steve Jobs biography). Also being honored is Nami Mun (Miles from Nowhere), winner of the 21st Century Award, which honors an emerging local literary talent. In addition, over 70 prominent local authors will be in attendance, dining alongside guests, including Scott Turow, Sarah Paretsky, Irvine Welsh and Check Please! host Alpana Singh. Prior 21st Century Award winners are also always welcomed back as guests. CBS Chicago anchorman Bill Kurtis is the master of ceremonies and NPR's Scott Simon will moderate an after-dinner discussion with DeLillo and Isaacson.

Continue reading this entry »

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Oct 11 2012

Get Your Culture for a Steal

Navigating the sea of Chicago Humanities Festival (CHF) programming is no mean feat. It's a testament to the organization's appeal that the selection is as enormous and diverse as it is, but it can be an afternoon's work to plan your personal Fest schedule. With that in mind, CHF created the Short List; this selection of five includes programs from across disciplines and is geared toward getting young professionals to gather in one spot over cocktails and culture. Like so much of CHF, most of the speakers on the list are prolific writers in their respective fields.

sandweiss.jpegThere's an evening with the Daily Show's Larry Wilmore, Princeton historian, expert on the Gilded Age, and writer of Passing Strange, Martha Sandweiss, and Heather McGhee, public policy expert with an eye on the twenty- and thirty-something experience, and contributing writer to Inequality Matters: The Growing Economic Divide in America and its Poisonous Consequences. McGhee's program, Millennials and the American Dream, addresses the fact that the generation born after 1980 is the first that may end up worse off economically than their parents.

Also on the lineup, University of Chicago alum and FiveThirtyEight columnist on baseball and political stats, Nate Silver, will speak to his new book The Signal and the Noise. Silver discusses the problems built into the nature of predication through anecdotes with statistical analysis interspersed.

The sooner you sign up and get your ticket to all five programs (for a reasonable 25 bucks), the more likely you are to get a ticket to the sold-out program with Alinea chef Grant Achatz and the MCA's Madeleine Grynsztejn.

The package includes a cocktail reception with Hornswaggler Arts on November 2. There are only 50 of these special tickets, so don't delay!

Claire Glass / Comments (1)

Events Tue Oct 09 2012

D. T. Max @ The Book Cellar

This Thursday, the Book Cellar welcomes D. T. Max, reading from Every Love Story Is A Ghost Story, a biography of the late David Foster Wallace. Arguably the most influential writer of his generation (who else could get away with a 10 page, footnote-heavy, anti-lobster consuming write-up on a lobster festival for Gourmet magazine?), Wallace's 2008 suicide at the age of 46 devastated his fans. Michiko Kakutani of The New York Times says Every Love Story "powerfully [provides] an emotionally detailed portrait of the artist as a young man." Mark O'Connell of Slate.com says "I'm having trouble remembering when I was last so consumed by any piece of writing, fiction or non... For anyone who felt a profound emotional connection to Wallace and his work, there's a strenuously cathartic dimension to this: the experience of knowing him more fully, and of thereby feeling more completely the force and finality of his absence." The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave., Thursday, October 11 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Chicago Public Library Mon Oct 08 2012

Dennis Lehane at CPL

The Chicago Public Library welcomes esteemed writer Dennis Lehane (Mystic River) this Wednesday, October 10. Lehane will discuss his newest novel Live by Night with a book signing to follow. The reading is open to the public, but seating is limited and wil likely go quick. Catch Lehane at 6pm in the Harold Washington Library Center's Winter Garden located at 400 S. State St.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Oct 04 2012

Harriet Monroe & the Modernists @ Poetry Foundation

Celebrate Poetry magazine's 100th birthday with Poetry on Stage: Harriet Monroe & the Modernists. The humble beginnings of a local legend will be fleshed out by local actors reading from a script prepared by Second City Theater co-founder Bernard Sahlins. It all started with written correspondence between Poetry magazine founder Harriet Monroe and then-unknown writers Ezra Pound, Edna St. Vincent Millay, T.S. Eliot, Carl Sandburg, and countless others. The evening promises "romance, rivalries, supersized egos, financial difficulties, and sublime kindness, along with some of the greatest hits from the magazine's pages." Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior Street; Sunday, October 7 at 3pm (this performance is sold out; a limited number of standby tickets may be available) and Monday, October 8 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Oct 01 2012

Celebrate Banned Books Week

This week is the 30th annual Banned Books Week, celebrating the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment.

All throughout the week, City Lit Theater will be performing their annual Books on the Chopping Block performance series featuring 60 minute dramatic readings from the previous year's most banned or challenged books (including The Hunger Games trilogy). All performances are free and held at various Chicago Public Library branches (plus one stop in Evanston). Click here for a list of the reading selections and the times and locations of performance.

Shimer College will be hosting a "One Book One Chicago - Liberate Bannd Books" reading. Attendees are encouraged to read passages from their own favorite banned books. Shimer College, 3424 S. State St., Thursday, October 4 at 6:45pm.

Also, tonight and Friday, Browne Parker Literary Press will host readings of banned books, including Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye. Browne Parker Literary Press, 316 W. 103rd St., Monday, October 1 and Friday, October 5; times not listed, click here or call (312) 388-1650 for more information.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Sep 28 2012

Happy One Hundred, Poetry!

Poetry turned 100 this year, so of course the Poetry Foundation is at the center of celebratory efforts. Poetry Magazine editors, Christian Wiman and Don Share, have assembled an anthology, The Open Door: One Hundred Poems, One Hundred Years of Poetry Magazine, to showcase all the best of the past century. In an effort to create a new kind of collection, they waded through the archives looking for the most powerful and dynamic voices that "echo across a century of poetry."

A celebration in honor of both the wonderful medium of POETRY and of the anthology will feature special guests, including anthology contributor and Pulitzer Prize-winning Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich and Museum of Contemporary Art curator Naomi Beckwith. Thursday, October 4 from 7-10pm at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St. RSVP at (312) 787-7070 or rsvp@poetryfoundation.org.

Emily Thornton

Events Fri Sep 28 2012

Race Riot Tour Comes to Chicago

The People of Color Zine Project presents the month long Race Riot! Tour, which stops in Chicago on Sunday, Sept. 30. The project aims to showcase zines by people of color, making materials easy to find, distribute and share. This inaugural tour will include discussions and multimedia presentations for audiences all over the country.

The POC Zine project was founded in 2010 by Daniela Capistrano, a producer at Current TV, whose work will be featured on tour. The lineup also includes zinester Osa Atoe, associate professor of Gender and Women's Studies and Asian American Studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Mimi Thi Nguyen, musician Anna Vo, punk rock based Cuban-American illustrator and writerCristy C. Road and content coordinator at Maximum Rock and Roll magazine, Mariam Bastani. The night will be rounded out with music by Breathing Light and Dj Masisi.

The tour hits town at 7pm at Multikulti, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave. The event is all ages, donations welcome.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Sep 28 2012

Legs McNeil Unveils Next Book

Legs McNeil, self proclaimed creator of the term "punk" to describe the genre of music, will be appearing at Late Bar in Avondale on Tuesday, Oct. 2, to read from his oral history of Punk, Please Kill Me (1997). He'll also read a surprise portion of his new book, the details of which -- allusive even on the Internet -- he'll be unveiling at the event.PleaseKillMe.jpeg

McNeil, co-founder of Punk Magazine and the former editor of Spin, is coming through town in a largely unpublicized (apparently he doesn't have a publicist) tour of his new book.

Chicago isn't often discussed as being a punk epicenter; the more obvious locales like London and New York City get most of the credit. But as the 2008 documentary You Weren't There: A History of Chicago Punk, 1977-1984 would have us believe, our city's ties to the genre are noteworthy.

Here's an interview with McNeil.

Head to Late Bar, located at 3534 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm to catch the reveal.

Claire Glass

Events Thu Sep 27 2012

Copy Code Reading Series Tackles First Times

Zine reading series Copy Code returns Monday, October 1, with the theme Firsts. Zinesters Chris Terry (Gullible zine), Heather from Stranger Danger Zine Distro (Dig Deep zine), Lynne Monsoon (Butch Nor Femme zine), and Nichole Baiel (Pieces zine) will read about their first publications, first time attending a zine fest, or the first time they sold a zine.

The event is curated and hosted by the writer of Your Secretary zine, Jami Sailor. Audience participation is encouraged, so bring your questions and share your own firsts. Show up to Copy Code at Uncharted Books, 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Sep 25 2012

J. K. Rowling Party @ Open Books

This Thursday, Open Books celebrates J. K. Rowling's new for-adults book The Casual Vacancy with a Harry Potter costume contest (grand prize is two tickets to Potted Potter), live music by Tonks and the Aurors, readings by Rachel Bertsche, Michael Beckett and Sheila Johnson, a visit by the Samich Box and 20% discounts on used books and pre-orders of The Casual Vacancy. Open Books, 213 W. Institute Place, Thursday, September 27 at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 25 2012

Women Writing About Horrible Things @ Uncharted Books

This Thursday is the latest installement of Light of the Male, Dark of the Female: Women Writing About Horrible Things at Uncharted Books. Host Meghan Lamb welcomes readers Halle Butler, Heather Cox, Samantha Irby, Robyn Pennachia, and Heather Marie Vernon. Drinks provided. Uncharted Books, 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday, September 27 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 25 2012

Visions of Freedom and Liberation

Chicago is a city of creatives and literary types; I think that's pretty clear. And one of the things that makes its arts community particularly remarkable is its relative inclusivity compared with other big cities in the country. But it's also a massively segregated city that doesn't often make the voices of the poor readily available to the rest of the population.

The Neighborhood Writing Alliance (NWA) runs writing workshops for low income adults to help combat the problem, and publishes The Journal of Ordinary Thought, which compiles lots of the writing they see. Lest you doubt that writing is getting out there for the public, they've distributed more than 163,000 copies of 83 issues so far.

This Thursday, September 27, the Journal is holding a release reading party at the Harold Washington Library from 6-8pm for their next edition entitled, "The Open Gate: JOT Writers' Visions of Freedom and Liberation." The event is set to be hosted by Steve Edwards of WBEZ and is supported by Chicago Public Media.

Head to the Pritzker Auditorium in the Harold Washington Library, located at 400 S. State St., to catch the celebration from 6-8pm.

Claire Glass

Events Fri Sep 21 2012

Event Review: The GrandSLAM of Storytelling with The Moth

Storytelling Photo.jpgMonday night, September 17, at the Park West, 10 storytellers competed for a chance to be named the GrandSLAM Champion of storytelling by the Moth. The Moth is a New York based non-profit organization dedicated to the art of storytelling. The Moth currently has 10 cities participating in Story Slams across the country and expanded to Chicago three years ago to host two different monthly Story Slams at Haymarket and Martyrs' each month.

The GrandSLAM gathers the winners of each of those monthly competitions to compete to become the ultimate Champion. The 10 participants were challenged to tell a story themed around "Fall From Grace" in five minutes or less, with no paper or reading, just the teller and a microphone. Some of the stories the audience heard were from a former monk who quit the monastery, a young religious girl who lost her devout mother and rediscovered herself, a young husband whose wife came out to him as bisexual, and an atheist opening up the secular world to his Mormon girlfriend. Brian Babylon, a radio host at Vocalo, served as host of the event.

There were three teams of judges to rank between 1 and 10 comprised of at least two to four people who have been to a slam before, or have participated as a storyteller. This year, Dana Norris, host of Story Club Chicago was one of the people selected to serve on a judging team.

"The stories were heartfelt and often dealt with the most difficult moments in the tellers' lives," Norris said. "The audience was eager for the stories and I based my judging as much on the audience reaction as my personal opinion. Judging was difficult, especially when we had to knock off points for going over time. The experience overall was great and I learned a lot effective storytelling by being on the judging panel."

Alvin Lau was named the Grand Champion. As Grand Champion, he will be invited to attend the Moth Ball, a ball hosted for the champions across the country in New York.

Out of all the storytelling events throughout the city, The Moth tends to be geared to popular audiences, marketed similarly as a comedy show. Tickets for the event were sold out at $26 a pop and the venue was standing room only. While the stories were heartfelt and personal, and tellers possessed talent, they seemed over-rehearsed and lacked the genuine aspects of the art of storytelling that smaller scale events tend to showcase. The venue and content were shiny and at times overdone. The event ran 3 hours for only 50 minutes of actual stories. The GrandSLAM seemed concentrated on the theatrical, comedic aspects of the evening, and items like VIP seating and fancy cocktails, rather than the stories themselves.

The Moth is a huge non-profit entity compared to the local, grassroots shows and artists who produce and create locally. The Moth may have a broader audience, but if you're looking for a genuine storytelling experience, I would recommend attending one the many events located all over the city in different neighborhood venues throughout the month. Overall, I enjoyed the evening and the stories.

Melinda McIntire

Events Wed Sep 19 2012

May We Shed These Human Bodies Book Release

Chicago press Curbside Splendor is releasing a new book, May We Shed These Human Bodies, by Washington, DC based author Amber Sparks. Although she is an East Coaster, the release is taking place here in Curbside's home town on Saturday, Sept. 22 with way too many great writers showing up in support.

Readers joining Sparks will include Chris Bower, Franki Elliot (Piano Rats) , Lindsay Hunter (Daddy's), James Tadd Adcox, Jac Jemc (My Only Wife), Tim Jones-Yelvington, Ben Tanzer (Lucky Man), Heather Marie Vernon and Daniella Olszewska.

Copies will be available at the event before the book's official October release. And if you buy a book the day of for $10, you get a complimentary shot of Maker's Mark.

The release happens at Cole's Bar in Logan Square, located at 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Sep 19 2012

DePaul English Department's Fall Visiting Writers Series Kickoff

DePaul University's English Department is sponsoring a Visiting Writer's Series this fall. The first installment, scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 20, will focus on area writers and is aptly titled "Local Authors: Chicago's Own." There will be readings by Nami Mun, Aaron Baker and Eugene Cross. The event will be in DePaul's Richardson Library, located at 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., Room 115, at 6pm. It is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Sep 13 2012

Carmen Bugan @ The Book Cellar

This Saturday the Book Cellar presents Carmen Bugan reading from her memoir Burying The Typewriter. The book centers around her childhood in Romania and her relationship to her dissident father imprisoned under the Ceauşescu regime. The winner of the Bakeless Prize, judge Lynn Freed says "Bugan delivers neither a memoir of blame nor a hagiography. What she has drawn, within the story of her own childhood, is a complex portrait of an exasperating father, a man who happens to be a hero in the eyes of Amnesty International and the Western world, a hero in the service of a just cause. ...while he may be the driving force behind her story...it is her world that is revealed here, a world she was forced to leave behind and that she looks back on now with sorrow, pride, longing and rage." The book's title is derived from her father's need to hide his political pamphleteering, which often included literally burying and re-burying his typewriter. The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave., Saturday, September 15 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Sep 13 2012

Joanne Kyger @ Poetry Foundation

This Friday the Poetry Foundation hosts poet Joanne Kyger. A central influence on the Beats and New York School and language poets, she has authored 20 books of poetry and prose (you can read a smattering of her poetry here and here). Kyger is the recipient of the 2008 PEN Oakland Josephine Miles National Literary Award for Poetry and occasionally teaches at the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics at the Naropa Institute. The Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., Friday, September 14 at 6:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 12 2012

Bad Grammar Lit Series This Friday

The Bad Grammar Theater reading series is fusing Chicago's visual art and literary scene on the second Friday of every month. Hosted by author Brendan Dentzer, the series is part of the Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday in Pilsen, which features gallery openings and artists' studio events around 18th and Halsted streets.

"I first found out about second Fridays when I came by to check out a show at Rooms Gallery, and was immediately impressed by the whole scene," says Dentzer. "I've been running the event for a little over a year now and enjoying it enormously. I thought 2nd Friday would be a good venue for a new series."

Readings begin at 6pm this Friday, Sept. 14, and occur every half hour. Be part of the night and stop by 1743 S. Halsted St. to check out this unique lit series.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Sep 11 2012

Enter the White Forest Sept 13

This Thursday September 13 join the folks at Unabridged Bookstore as they host a launch event for local author Adam McOmber's newest novel The White Forest.

It all kicks off at 7pm, but get to Unabridged Bookstore, at 3251 N BroadwaySt. early to get a seat.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Sep 06 2012

John Cage Turns 100 at Corpse Space

The Corpse Performance Space, the physical realm of Green Lantern Press, is set to host a celebration of the 100th birthday of composer John Cage on Saturday, September 8. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to "listen to the sounds and be people, centered within ourselves where we actually are," as Cage himself once described it.

The collaboration between the late artist and the contemporary Corpse Space has come together fittingly to showcase some of the experimental stuff of Chicago's artistic community. Entertainment will range from a remote performance art piece "Imaginary Thoughts of a Dedicatory Nature: A Mycological Consideration from the Woods to Chicago" by creators, Elizabeth Metzger Sampson and Eric VanDemark, followed by I Ching readings by oral historian, writer, and frequent customer of the U.S. Postal Service, Meghan McGrath.

"Our invitation says, 'we will listen to sounds and be people,'"McGrath said. "This stuff (Cage's work) is really all about being a human--particularly about being a creative human. It's relevant because artists and creators in any medium can benefit from being surprised. We're probably too structured for this to be a legitimate 'happening,' but it should be a really fun and playful event."cc datakid musicman.jpeg

The rest of the performers, Ira S. Murfin, Emmy Bean, Devin King, Jessica Speer, and Peter Speer, who will be reading work, or lecturing on John Cage, boast multimedia expertise, enjoying theatrical, literary, and sometimes musical lives, too. As with any successful birthday celebration Cupcakes and other appropriate treats will be available for the taking.

Check out the show on Saturday, September 8 from 3-5pm at the Corpse Performance Space at 1511 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor.

(Photo Credit to Datakid Musicman via Creative Commons.)

Claire Glass

Events Mon Sep 03 2012

Back to School with Reading Under the Influence

This Wednesday September 5, celebrate school being back in session atReading Under the Influence. This month's theme is one that most teachers would scoff at, Truant. See how guests interpret this theme with published readings and trivia. Then settle in for some of their own work. Readers include Newcity fiction editor Naomi Huffman, Danny Laloggia, co-host of the Chicago Way reading series Mary Beth Hoerner, Jill Winski, and JD Adamski.

RUI is at Sheffield's 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.beginning at 7p, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Aug 28 2012

Women Writing About Horrible Things

A new female centric reading series Dark of the Male, Light of the Female: Women Writing About Horrible Things hits the lit scene with its first event this Thursday August 30.

The first installment has some impressive names on the bill includingJac Jemc (My Own Wife), Hillary Stone, Amanda Marbais, and Cassandra Troyan. Drop into Logan Square's Uncharted Books 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave. at 7pm. The series will continue on the last Thursday of each month.


John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Aug 27 2012

Kindling Tales: New Storytelling Event

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Monte LaMonte and Jill Howe are both avid storytellers who you can catch at most of Chicago's storytelling events sharing stories or taking photos. Through their love for stories and photography, LaMonte and Howe became fast friends and found a connection for storytelling in unexpected locations.

Howe and LaMonte are kicking off a new type of storytelling event, just in time for fall, titled Kindling Tales, debuting Wednesday, August 29 at 7:30pm. You'll find the group in Evanston, outside 2603 Sheridan Rd. encircling a bonfire.

Most literary readings and storytelling events take place in bars but this, Howe explained, is about a new and creative space:

I had a birthday party at my apartment earlier this year, and asked my friends to bring stories instead of gifts. It was such a special night, and those stories are gifts I will never forget. That evening got me thinking about how environment and occasion can really enhance stories, but it wasn't until I heard Monte's idea for a campfire setting that the idea of producing it came up. We began with a simple shared passion for bringing people together in a great outdoor space. There's something you get in nature that you can't find anyplace else.

The space, Howe explained, is a throwback to the roots of campfire and primitive storytelling. She envisions the event more as "sharing" rather than a "show". And of course, the opportunity to roast some marshmallows by the fire adds to any experience.

The storytelling lineup includes veterans looking for a new venue, as well as new storytellers who will get the opportunity to share their tales campfire style.

Lily Be is looking forward to the evening. "My story is not for the faint of heart or those with weak stomachs," said Be, who will close out the night.

Come check out Kindling Tales, eat some s'mores, and enjoy some outdoor stories, Wednesday at 7:30pm at 2603 Sheridan Rd. in Evanston by the fire pit.

Melinda McIntire / Comments (1)

Events Mon Aug 27 2012

Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Celebrates Richard Wright

Richard Wright sculptureNext Friday, Sept. 7, the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame celebrates the induction of Native Son author Richard Wright. On hand will be musical performances by Artemas and Louis Wright (the author's cousins), readings by Melvin Smith, playwright and actress Nambi E. Kelley, Paul Durica, sculptor Margot McMahon (creator of the award sculptures), Zarinah Ali from Realize Theatre Group and University of Chicago scholar Kenneth Warren. Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan Ave., Friday, September 7. Doors open at 5:30pm, performances begin at 7pm. $40 includes appetizers and performances; donations to the event are tax deductible. Click here for tickets.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Aug 27 2012

Criminal Class Press Punks Promote Literacy

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This Thursday Chicago literary publication Criminal Class Press (CCP) is holding a fundraiser aptly titled, "Punks Promoting Literature." Not bad, considering the press is known for publishing punks and is run by one--the Editor-in-chief Kevin Whiteley. Money raised at the event will support the California-based Yardtime Literacy Project, run by writers/brothers Keith and Kent Zimmerman. Its initial success came from providing writing programs for inmates in San Quinton Prison's H-Unit. Now, Yardtime is looking to expand to juvenile detention centers, which is where the fundraiser comes in. The Zimmermans worked with CCP this past year as guest editors to the Prison issue (featuring work by inmates from their prison writing programs). "What the Zimmermans are doing enables their students to have a creative outlet," said CCP's Junior Public Relations representative Alex Kretchmar. "Their goal is that Chicago and other major cities will realize that there is hope for the forgotten and unfortunate," said Kretchmar.

CCP is looking to release a new edition of its review before year's end. In the meantime, the press is working on building its web presence. "Our revamped website is dedicated to journalism of the CCP kind," says Kretchmar. Where its print product incudes mostly literary stories and poems, the website will expand to include gritty journalism, entertainment reviews and guest columnists.

The event will mix music and readings for what the press is billing as the "the Rock 'n' Roll-infused Event of the summer." Readers include author Dmitry Samarov (Hack), with Luke "Diseased" Crumley and Kathryn Morrill, both reading from works published in the Criminal Class Review. Listen to music from Rufis Roberts & The Smoking Rabbits, The Island of Misfit Toys, and The Hamburglars.

Stop by Beauty Bar at 1444 W. Chicago Ave. at 7pm on August 30, $5.

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (1)

Events Tue Aug 21 2012

Evanston Writer's Workshop Conference This Weekend

This weekend is the third annual Evanston Writer's Workshop Conference. Billed as the Midwest's only multi-genre writer's conference, it features workshops on topics such a memoir writing, publishing tips, writing a synopsis and finding the time to write. Featured speakers cover a range of genres including nonfiction, romance, thriller, science fiction/fantasy, horror and graphic novels. Orrington Hilton, 1710 Orrington Ave., Evanston, August 24-26. Click here for registration information and pricing.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 21 2012

Put the Care in Karaoke Idol (or Something Like That)

The new bi-monthly event, Karaoke Idol, part game show part charity work, is back this Thursday August 23. Each event benefits a different local not-for-profit. This month's candidates include; Dill Pickle Co-op, Homeroom
Switchback Books, Girls Rock! Chicago, and Chicago Writers House. Much like that show on Fox where people sing and get judged (not sure the name of that series), each organization will have a designated member sing and battle to determine who will win the whole ball of wax.

The night begins with an hour of open Karaoke for all, so come sign up early. Then on to the battle to select which organization the night will benefit. The audience gets to vote, so they need you there to do your best Paula or Simon impressions (those are the hosts to that show I couldn't remember).

The musical library of karaoke favorites is brought to you by Shameless Karaoke. Brought to you by the folks at Curbside Splendor Publishing, Another Chicago Magazine, & Quimby's Bookstore.

Stop by the Beauty Bar 1444 W. Chicago Ave. at 8pm, $5 cover, must be 21 to enter.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Aug 20 2012

Chicago Book Expo 2012 Date Announced

Mark your calendars! The date of the second annual Chicago Book Expo has been scheduled for December 2. The event is still going to be held in the Uptown neighborhood, however, it's moving to a new location inside the Aragon Ballroom.

The Expo brings together many of the city's presses, non profits, and literary organizations for a weekend of sales and programming. The specifics and schedule have yet to be announced. Check out event sponsor Chicago Writers House's website for more info.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Sun Aug 19 2012

Evil Knievel Days Book Release Party at the Whistler

On Wednesday, August 22 at 7pm, the Whistler in Logan Square will host a book release party for author Paul Toutonghi's second novel, Evil Knievel Days. Evil Knievel Days was published by Random House in July. Check out NPR's review here.

Toutonghi joins a sleu of Chicago writers including Jac Jemc, Mairead Case, and Beau Golwitzer. There will be music DJ Baby Sloth.

The Whistler is located at 2421 N. Milwaukee.

Melinda McIntire

Events Fri Aug 17 2012

The Humanities Festival does America

CHF_America_461x250.jpegThe Chicago Humanities Festival has officially announced its programming for fall. CHF will usher in election season with its theme, America, kicking off on Oct. 14.

From a literary perspective, the CHF will look at notions of the Great American Novel as it defines the way Americans see themselves, and the way the rest of the world regards us. CHF explicitly states that it "had no intention -- none! -- to contribute to the shrillness that passes for present-day political discourse. What was needed, in fact, was a counterweight."

Literary events are numerous and will feature the likes of Anne Waldman, Joy Harjo, Write Club, Adam Gopnik, Richard Ford, and Elie Wiesel, among others. Through the works of these great literary personalities and institutions, programming will examine the American ideal versus its reality.

Tickets go on sale Monday, Sept. 4. As they tend to sell out quickly, it's worth perusing the calendar to make a plan of attack before it's too late.

Claire Glass

Events Wed Aug 15 2012

The Last Neutron Bomb Goes Off with a Blast!

What's going on with the literary scene this month? Last week, the beloved reading series P. Fanatics had its final show, and this weekend, punk rock reading series Neutron Bomb is following suit. Maybe it's the weather, or the shifting of seasons. "We're stopping because, at the last event, Benny said he didn't want to do it anymore, and Mike from Cal's told me that the bar is closing at the end of the summer," said "C.T." Chris Terry* one of the show's hosts. "Since the average punk band only lasts a couple years, it seemed about right."

The series got its start when three friends, all grad students in Columbia's Fiction Writing department, Chris Terry, Benny Kumming and Maggie Ritchie, decided they wanted to put together a reading series unlike any other series around town. I had a class that fall semester with Benny and remember him asking me if I knew of a place that would be good for punk bands and readers to get together. There weren't that many places in Chicago I knew that would accommodate that request. When they gave me a flyer, with the Misfits Crimson Ghost on it, I knew they were onto something. And Cal's was the best place for their series, set up for having bands, yet intimate enough for the audience to interact with readers.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Aug 14 2012

Martha Rosenberg @ Evanston Public Library

This Thursday, Martha Rosenberg reads from Born with a Junk Food Deficiency: How Flaks, Quacks and Hacks Pimp the Public Health at the Evanston Public Library. David Healy, author of Pharmageddon and Let them Eat Prozac, calls it "the perfect treatment for the epidemic of common sense deficiency sweeping America today. Reading this will cause your eyes to pop with amazement and jaw to drop with astonishment and might also save your sanity and your life." Rosenberg is a freelance writer and editorial cartoonist, and is a frequent contributor to numerous publications including the Chicago Tribune and a regular health columnist at several websites including the Huffington Post. Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave., Evanston, Thursday, August 16 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Aug 13 2012

What's The Copy Code?

Calling all Zinesters, Self Publishers and fans of Indie lit, Wednesday marks the inaugural
Copy Code series
at Uncharted Books. Copy Code aims to deliver an all-zine centric event each month ranging from readings, panels, and workshops.

The first event will kick off with readings by zinesters: Marisa Over (debuting "Warning Signs"), Jim Joyce (Let It Sink), Jonas (Cheer the Eff Up), Georgi Johnston (Cursive is Cryptic, Cave Girl) and Quinn St Quinn.

Drop in to Uncharted Books 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave. at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Aug 10 2012

P. Fanatics Reading Series Calls it Quits

For almost two years now Mason Johnson and his cohost/sidekick Dan Shapiro have been the driving force behind monthly reading seriesP. Fanatics. From their humble beginnings at Moe's Tavern (being heckled by regulars, none too happy with this interruption to their drinking) P. Fanatics has kept up its irreverent blend of talent with a variety show, readings, stand up, a live house band, and off-the-wall banter between the hosts. But now, this Sunday to be exact, they are calling it quits.

417515_10100181614894577_1559844240_n.jpg"A year ago we had no one to disappoint by quitting. Now that there's an audience, there's people to disappoint," Johnson said. "We had nobody to disappoint last year. Zero fans. It was just me and Dan Shapiro trading turns being in front of the mic/in the audience. I'd tell slow, somber stories for maybe 30 or 40 minutes at a time as Dan sat in front of me, making varied voices to represent a group of people. He'd grunt like a construction worker, than let out an exasperated gasp like a Southern belle. Then Dan would get up in front of the mic and I'd pretend to be the audience. He'd give a simple joke, something with a one-two setup. Something dirty."

Johnson's stage persona is at work in his answer, known to offer half truths embellished cleverly for laughs. That's what the series was really about; the two could make the audience enjoy the show without realizing how much work went into putting it together each month.

To be expected, Johnson and Shapiro can't completely break from doing P Fanatics. Both will be moving onto somewhat similar projects. They're hardworking showmen who haven't yet lost the itch. "Dan's going to try hosting an open mic at Cole's every month," says Johnson. "It'll be meant for writing, poetry, whatever you can think of. It'll ideally be funny, weird and awkward. It won't be P. Fanatics though."

Johnson will focus on writing, stepping off the stage for a while. His short fiction recently appeared in Pangur Ban Party . "I'm going to write more sad and funny stories (they can be both) that are meant to be read on the page/screen, instead of being performed."

Sunday brings P. Fanatics to a close. The lineup is packed with literary elite: Chris Bower
Jill Summers,Chris Terry, Shanny Jean Maney,Patrick Somerville, and Lindsay Hunter. House band Hawaiian Death Folk Presents and a reading by Dan Shapiro will open the show. Get there at 7:30 sharp (for the last time ever) at Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Aug 09 2012

Geek Out Redux: Comic Con this Weekend

So you may have missed C2E2 this spring, but don't fret. Blow the dust off your Thor helmet, lace up those thigh-high boots, freshen up that face paint and get out to the Wizard World Comic Con this weekend, Friday Aug. 10 through Sunday Aug/ 12 (with limited pre-gaming today). Dork out when you see special guest Star Trek Captains (the ones that count for real) Patrick Steward and William Shatner, legendary Marvel comics creator Stan "the man" Lee, or local WWE star CM Punk.

Being Book Club, we want to turn your focus to panels led by author Larry Tye in a discussion about his new book, SUPERMAN: The High-Flying History of America's Most Enduring Hero (held on Friday). Or check out the Legacy of Ray Bradbury on Thursday, a panel led by horror writer Mort Castle (Shadow Show: All-New Stories in Celebration of Ray Bradbury), Joe Meno (Hairstyles of The Damned), and Audrey Niffenegger (The Time Traveler's Wife).

And when all else fails, you can bump into Bruce Campbell or Scott Bakula, you make the call. Then take Monday off to decompress.

Wizard World is at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Hours vary each day and passes are still available.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Aug 08 2012

Eliza Frye @ Quimby's

Regalia2.jpgThis Saturday, Eliza Frye reads from Regalia, featuring the Eisner-nominated short story "The Lady's Murder," at Quimby's. Frye is in town for the Wizard World comic convention (find her at Artists Alley 3418). Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., Saturday, Aug. 11 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Wed Aug 08 2012

Poetry Reading @ Women & Children First

Women & Children First bookstore is having a poetry reading Friday, Aug. 10 featuring Daniela Olszewska, Stephanie Anderson and Melissa Severin. Daniela Olszewska, a Chicago resident has written books, chapbooks, and poetry, and is the Associate Poetry Editor for H_NGM_N and, Another Chicago Magazine. Stephanie Anderson's poetry has appeared in several chapbooks and she is the poetry editor for the Chicago Review. Melissa Severin has a chapbook available at Dancing Girl Press, and like Daniela and Stephanie she also resides in Chicago.

The reading begins at 7:30pm at Women & Children First bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St. Free.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Mon Aug 06 2012

Encyclopedia Show Season 4 Anthology

The Encyclopedia Show hosts its annual Anthology show Wednesday, Aug. 8. The organizers, Robbie Q. Telfer and Shanny Jean Maney, curated this Best Of show, carefully selecting from the show's past lineups. Talent includes Lynda Barry, an interview with Joaquin Vieira, LeKeja Dawson, David Kodeski and musician Naomi Ashley, Peter Cook (ASL performance poet), Jamila Woods, Chris Bower, Dan Shapiro and Janna Sobel.

The extravaganza begins at 7:30pm at 1012 N. Noble St. in the Vittum Theater. Tickets are $9, or $6 for students.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Aug 03 2012

Sean Chercover Book Release Done the Chicago Way

The Chicago Way deviates from its regularly scheduled reading night, moving to Tuesday August 7 for a special occasion. The series celebrates the release of crime author Sean Chercover's novel, The Trinity Game. If that's not enough, he will be joined by local crime novelist Markus Sakey.

The night will consist of a short reading by Chercover followed by Chicago Way's trademark audience interactive discussion with both writers. Get a book signed, participate in trivia (and win prizes) and chat with two great crime authors. It all goes down at Hidden Shamrock 2723 N. Halsted St. at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Aug 02 2012

Story Corps Chicago

StoryCorps is an independent nonprofit that gives average citizens a chance to share their anything-but-average stories. It is broadcast nationally on NPR's Morning Edtion and the StoryCorps "Listen Pages." Interviews are recorded, archived and aired for all to share and this month they're coming to Chicago to showcase the diversity and history of our communities and the people who call them home.

One-on-one interviews allow people to ask silly, interesting, challenging questions of an important person in their lives, and then sit back and enjoy the process of learning from the answers. Now's your chance to be a part of the storytelling. RSVP and attend one of the recording sessions when they drop anchor in town from August 15-September 16 with two locations.

Participation is free but RSVP and a credit card for holding the reservation are required. Register online or by calling 1-800-850-4406.

Emily Thornton

Events Thu Aug 02 2012

Happy Two Years for Two Cookie Minimum

-1.jpgTwo Cookie Minimum will celebrate its second anniversary Tuesday, Aug. 7. Naturally, cookies will be involved. Zinesters Ben Spies, author of No More Coffee zine. L.B. creator of Truckface zine, and Natalie Edwards will provide your reading entertainment. A shadow puppet show by sisters Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood will kick off the night.

Hosted by Johnny Misfit at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., starting at 9pm. Party hats are optional. (Flyer by Peter Dicamillo.)

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Aug 02 2012

Essay Fiesta Invites You to Get Personal

Essay Fiesta, a monthly live lit readings series, is gearing up for its third anniversary in November. In the meantime, organizers Keith Ecker and Alyson Lyon are taking a break from reading submissions. But there's still opportunity to bare your entire embarrassing self to audiences before the Thanksgiving season rolles around.

Interested parties are invited to submit entires to be read at a mini fiesta to take place at the Chicago Writers Conference on September 15. Ecker and Lyons are curating this event just like they do their monthly readings with a preference for funny and often painfully revealing work.

Check here for submission guidelines.

Claire Glass

Events Tue Jul 31 2012

Gold Coast Madam @ Uncharted Books

This Thursday, Rose Laws (along with her co-author, Dianna Harris) reads from Gold Coast Madam: The Secret Life of Rose Laws at Uncharted Books in Logan Square. Laws, now a 77-year-old retiree residing in Florida, began "arranging dates" for men and women in 1960s Chicago to help support her family. She moved on to working a "four hour rate" motel and ultimately downtown, where she had a 5,000 person client list including politicians, judges, athletes and movie stars. Gold Coast Madam is set to be released by Lake Claremont Press this November. With chapter titles like "1985 Chicago Bears Superbowl," "Pretty Woman Stories" and "Grinding Through the Day," it sounds like a juicy read. SWOP (Sex Workers Outreach Project) Chicago will also be making an appearance. Uncharted Books, 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave. Thursday, August 2 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jul 31 2012

Sabrina Chap: Art In Place of Self-Destruction

ltt-cover.jpgAlso known for her musical talents, Sabrina Chap with guests Kate Bornstein & Stephanie Howell will be presenting her anthology of essays, artwork, and stories in Live Through This: On Creativity and Self-Destruction. The subject matter of the anthology deals with violence against women. The various contributors to this anthology some of who include Margaret Cho, Patricia Smith, and Nan Goldin, show how they delt with the violence inflicted upon them by using art as a means to cope instead of self-destruction.

See Sabrina Chap present her latest creation on Thursday, Aug. 2 at 7:30pm at Women & Children First bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Tue Jul 31 2012

"Camp" it up at Reading Under the Influence

The monthly reading series Reading Under the Influence is back and Camp themed on Wednesday, August 1. Talent in this month's line up will have you reminiscing about s'mores and ghost stories (the kinds that gave you nightmares). Featured readers include Geoff Hyatt, author of At the World's End, host of the Tamale Hut reading series, Jenny Seay, blogger and regular on the lit performance scene Samantha Irby, and Patrick Wensink who wrote Broken Piano for President. Wensink is being sued by Jack Daniels over the likeness of a logo used on his book cover, so someone, please, make sure to buy him a shot.

RUI's home is the back room of Sheffield's 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. beginning at 7pm, $3 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jul 26 2012

28th Annual Newberry Book Fair

The biggest used book sale of the year, the 28th Annual Newberry Book Fair, is this week, July 26-29. Browse over 120,000 books most of which are priced at $2 or less. The book fair is held at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton Thursday and Friday from noon to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Don't forget to bring a reusable bag to haul away all your purchases!

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jul 25 2012

A Night of Words and Music @ Empty Bottle

Tomorrow night, a triple threat of local literary talent - Jac Jemc (My Only Wife), Joe Meno (Office Girl) and Patrick Summerville (This Bright River) - head to the Empty Bottle for A Night of Words and Music. Music by Scotland Yard Gospel Choir, Cloudbirds and Angela Lucero (check out the music preview in our Transmission section). Brought to you by the Chicagoan and Curbside Splendor. Free with RVSP. Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., Thursday, July 26 at 9pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 25 2012

Brain Frame Reading Celebrates its First Anniversary

Brain Frame.jpgIt must be the year of the comix on some weird calendar, maybe a Far Side page-a-day or something. Early in the year there was the University of Chicago Comics Philosophy and Practice conference in May. Then there was the first Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE) in June. And this weekend, brings the one year anniversary of Brain Frame, a "performative" comics reading.

The brains of the operation, Lyra Hill, began the reading to help an out-of-town comic artist looking for a show. What came to follow was an experience. "From the beginning, I have maintained that there is no standard way to read a comic, and I invite the performers to interpret their work in the strangest ways possible," says Hill. "I want people to surprise me, and I want to understand good comics from the artists' perspectives." The show has kept the energy going now through its first year.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Profiles Fri Jul 20 2012

Stories of Chicago Storytellers: Shannon Cason

Jill Photo Shoot 075.JPGHere in the Second City, there is a flourishing storytelling community formed of writers, comedians, actors, and just people with a personal tale to tell. The New York Times covered this new art form recently, and just like New York (but better), Chicago's storytelling scene is booming with shows and readings most every night of the week throughout the city.

Shannon Cason is a veterans of this small scene, both as a storyteller and show producer. A Detroit native, father to two daughters, writer, stand-up comic, and past Chicago Moth GrandSLAM Champion, Cason is a well established voice. I first met Cason at the Windy City Story Slam Semi-Finals back in April at the Chicago Urban Arts Society. The ease and confidence with which he told his stories is magnetic. When I sat down with Cason, we talked about storytelling as bravery. Many storytellers get the best response when they tell personal, heart-wrenching, or embarrassing stories--the stuff that makes a listener simultaneously cringe and relate--and for the most part, these tales are shared with complete strangers. "Sometimes the best stories are the ones you don't want to share," Cason said. "A lot of people can relate to the stories because you had the bravery to be vulnerable."

Cason credits Chicago's story scene to the city's "low tolerance for B.S." and the desire for something real to hold on to. The support of the Chicago storytelling community, he said, and the lack of competition compared to that felt among his comedian cohorts, doesn't hurt either. "Storytellers are just people sharing experiences." He would like to see a diversified audience and performers, as the shows getting attention are almost exclusively on the Northside.

Cason got his start in storytelling when he attended Story Club, a long standing live literature show at Uncommon Ground produced by Dana Norris. He was hooked. He, along with fellow storytelling veteran, Scott Whitehair, founded and co-produce the show Do Not Submit. DNS is a storytelling open mic, but unlike many, it is an opportunity for storytellers to experiment with a piece or a rough draft and engage a small audience. It's also an opportunity for first-time storytellers who may not be ready for a massive audience, to get up and test the waters. Cason and Whitehair connected one night in a bar and just like that Do Not Submit was born. Both have a lot of stand-up comedy experience throughout Chicago and lamented the abundance of amateur open mic nights for comedy, while storytelling open mics were only for readers and writers who had fully fleshed out pieces for performance.

Do Not Submit is hosted upstairs at Trace at 3714 N. Clark St. in Wrigleyville at 8:00pm, with sign up at 7:30pm. The next shows are set for Monday, July 23 and Monday, August 20. Check out where you can find Cason's upcoming events here.

Melinda McIntire / Comments (1)

Events Tue Jul 17 2012

Time Warp this Friday at Printers' Ball

The Printers' Ball is back this Friday to celebrate the printed word. For those who are new to the ball, it's a ragin' party with music, readings, and tons of free publications (boxes upon boxes of materials are handed out for free). What makes this year a bit outlandish, as if that's never been said of this event in the past, is the Time Warp theme. Those event organizers -- Fred Sasaki (Poetry Foundation), Jill Summers (Columbia College), Nell Taylor (Read/Write Library), Mairead Case (lit-magnet about town), Sarah Dodson (MAKE literary publications), Susie Kirkwood (creator of the graphics campaign), and April Sheridan (Center for Book and Paper Arts) -- have warped this year's theme to the far reaches of the imagination. The event is further sponsored by Columbia College's Silver Tongue reading series (who will have a new zine out for the event) and Poetry Foundation (which will have issues of Poetry Magazine available).

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(Time Warp graphic by Susie Kirkwood)

How does this full house of Chicago literati accomplish such a feat? "Some of it comes to us by thunderbolt," says Sasaki. The intense planning for the event takes months of meetings, emails, call outs to the literary community, and waves of enthusiasm. The theme is a mixture of sci-fi, fantasy and the '80s. "We realized that the best way to look at the past is to look into the future," says Sasaki. This makes sense when looking at the event's list of programming.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 16 2012

Celebrate Ray Bradbury with Virtual Autograph from Margaret Atwood

Ray Bradbury's personal autobiographer, Sam Weller, will appear at the Wrigley Building on Thursday, July 19 at 4pm to present his new short story anthology assembled to pay tribute to Bradbury's legacy. Nice to know, especially in the wake of a literary giant's death, that the notables remaining are still cranking out new material for us to enjoy. Shadow Show, under a joint imprint, Gauntlet Press and Borderlands Press, wrangles together short stories by 26 authors including Margaret Atwood, who will be in attendance via Skype. She'll read an excerpt from her story included in the collection and also virtually sign copies via some new fangled Fanado technology. Sounds interesting!

The event is part of a salon series by Energy BBDO, a local ad agency, that focuses on iconic Chicagoans in the creative industries.

The event is free and open to the public. Check out the show at 401 N. Michigan Ave. at 4pm on Thursday July 19.

Claire Glass

Events Thu Jul 12 2012

Logan Square Literary Review Summer Reading Series

Keeping the spirit of its neighborhood alive, the Logan Square Literary Review is holding a monthly summer reading smack dab in the heart of Logan Square. Their next reading is set for the afternoon of Saturday July 14 at 3pm. Readers include Jim Davis Jr., Denise Dooley, Alicia Hilton, Muyassar Kurdi, Kerri Mullen, Cynthia Pelayo, Grant Renyolds, Simon Smith, and Nicki Yowell.

LSLR will be holding future summer readings August 14 and September 11. All readings are at the Comfort Station 2759 N. Milwaukee Ave. right near the square and the Logan Square blue line stop. Admission is free and back issues, including current issue 10 released spring 2012, will be available for purchase.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jul 12 2012

Like a Secondhand Sea: Police Raids on Lake Michigan

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Nelson Algren's Chicago: City on the Make, tells 120 years of Chicago's history from the perpectives of those seldom given license to tell their stories. Ex-cons, hoboes, and blue collar workers dominate the 1951 text to show what the world looked like for most people. Local historical reenactment group, Pocket Guide to Hell, promises to deliver a Chicago past in a three part program that takes its name, Like A Secondhand Sea, from Algren's project. The afternoon will show how human interaction has reshaped the Chicago River and Lake Michigan over time. Find the group assembled at the park across from the River East Arts Center (435 E. Illinois St.) from 12-2pm.

The day begins in 1673 with explorers Marquette and Joliet as they trace the original coastline of Lake Michigan in voyageur canoes (on wheels). Next, experience Streeterville in its former glory as the "District of Lake Michigan," founded by Captain George Wellington Streeter in 1886. Read more about the Captain's attempt to claim the "District of Lake Michigan," where his sailboat was marooned, as a new territory of the United States in this New York Times article published in 1915. He even went to Washington D.C. seeking admission to Congress as the new land's first delegate. According to Pocket Guide founder, Paul Durica, Streeter stories are often shrouded in some bit of legend, but the article's claims are echoed by other sources.The third and final part of the day will transport you to the 1892 dedication of the reversal of the Chicago River.

The event is completely free, save for some crafts, including tintype photographs by Chris Olsen and paper silhouettes by Nina Nightingale, which can be purchased with "Streeterville Dollars" (get yours on site). There will be lots of opportunity for audience participation, too.

Expect performances by Jon Langford, Justin Amolsch's brass band, and the Chicago Poetry Bordello. With special appearances by Tim Samuelson, Rich Cahan, Alison Cuddy, Dick Bales, Tim Tuten, Kevin Robinson, and Water Reclamations District Commissioner Debra Shore. With poster by Edie Fake and handbill by Lyra Hill.

Claire Glass

Events Wed Jul 11 2012

Upcoming at Uncharted

Uncharted Books opened in Logan Square at the beginning of the year, and has been nestling itself into the literary life of the neighborhood since then. There are plans in the works though, spearheaded by resident event planner, Robin Hustle, that may help to further engrain the shop into the scene.

As prose editor of The Land Line, and a writer in her own right, Hustle is a fine candidate to take on the event revamp. The store is collecting input from survey responses to formulate plans for ongoing events as well as special occasion affairs. Aside from events planned by the shop, the staff invites any event planner looking for space to use the shop for free. Hustle says they're prepared to do a reasonable amount of promotion for those events, too.

Email Hustle at ruthoppenheimrothschild@gmail.com to plan your next event.

Claire Glass

Events Mon Jul 09 2012

This Much is True

Tuesday, July 10 brings to us another rendition of This Much is True, a monthly story-telling series at Hopleaf in Andersonville (5148 N. Clark St.). The show commences at 7:30pm sharp and is free to the public. Arrive early to secure a seat and a craft beer of some sort. This one is always a fantastic bet, and they will reach capacity quickly. Doors open at 6:45pm.

This month's performers include Alison Cudy from WBEZ, Mare Swallow, founder of Chicago Writers' Conference, Mike Speller, and Eric Warner.

Melinda McIntire

Events Mon Jul 09 2012

Writing is Good for Kids

No matter how much a kid likes school, you'd be hard pressed to find one who isn't looking forward to summer with serious intensity. Once it arrives though, it can be a struggle for both kids and parents to make sure hours are filled with sitting-in-front-of-the-TV alternatives.

StoryStudio is holding a week-long creative writing intensive for kids in grades 6 through 1o beginning July 30, at its North Shore location. The camp will offer ample time for writing and workshopping, plus electives that rival that of some college curricula. Electives to choose from include a graphic novel class, memoir and personal essay writing workshops, poetry performance, and short story writing.

As is the case with adult classes at StoryStudio, these will be administered by working writers with plenty of wisdom to bestow upon students, young and old alike. Instructors include Cecilia Pinto who was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for poetry and won the Esquire short fiction contest; a Staff Writer for Sports Blog Nation, Fraser Coffeen; and teacher and playwright Gillian Hemme who taught a class reading, drama, and Speaking for Justice.

There's still time to sign up.

Claire Glass

Events Mon Jul 09 2012

Psychedelic Horror Comics Plus Techno Pop

Lyra Hill of Brain Frame will perform her horror comic Go Down via live projection at the Burlington Bar in a mixed media show on Thursday, July 12. Videos of her performances--mixed media events in themselves as she brings reading material alive on screen--from CAKE and at Brain Frame are available online, but videos certainly don't stand in for the real thing. There's eerie music the accompany the creepy, sexy show and Hill's narration, too.

Alongside Hill's performance, there will be techno pop by Gel Set, Tyson Torstensen's Night Terror music project, plus music by the band Xina Xurner.

Head to the Burlington, located at 3425 W. Fullerton Ave., for the show set to start at 9pm sharp.

Claire Glass

Events Mon Jul 09 2012

Reading Under the Influence Welcomes their Prodigal Son

Reading Under the Influence will going on this Wednesday July 11, making up for the regularly scheduled session it missed due to the raucous celebration of last week's national holiday. This month's theme will be Prodigal Son, and rightly so as RUI co-founder Joe Tower returns from L.A. as a featured reader. Joining him will be Michael Czyzniejewski (Chicago Stories), Lauryn Allison Lewis (Solo Down), Chris DeGuire (Columbia College Fiction Writing professor) and Patrick Andrew (Grad student at Columbia College). Each will read twice, mixing it up between a piece of their own writing and a selection from a published work relating to the night's theme.

The show starts at 7pm In the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. Admission is $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 09 2012

Printers' Ball: TIME WARP!!

The 8th annual Printers' Ball takes place Friday, July 20, and invites guests to come in costume and enjoy the evening's TIME WARP! themed events. Entertainment will include an Ayn Rand game show, airbrush artist Andrew Hannigan, and Numero Group DJs Rob Sevier and Dustin Drase.

The Poetry Foundation, in partnership with hundreds of literary arts organizations, presents the Printers' Ball every year on Columbia College's south loop campus. It is free and open to the public but you can preregister and get a free poster!! The theme comes just in time for Poetry's centennial, and encourages guests to come in costumes that conjure a particular time period, be it past, present, or future.

There will be letterpress, bookbinding and papermaking demos, quizzes, readings, music and various special exhibits. Be one of the first through the doors and experience a commencement by 80's icon Max Headroom and, if you're one of the first 100, a free Silver Tongue tote bag that you can take to be airbrushed later in the evening.

The event is in the Ludington Building at 1104 S. Wabash Ave. from 6pm-11pm.

Emily Thornton

Events Sun Jul 08 2012

Doppelgangers: Jac Jemc & Patrick Somerville

The Seminary Co-Operative Bookstore will feature Jac Jemc and Patrick Somerville in the next edition of its reading series, Doppelgangers. The series, set in Hyde Park, focuses on two books that have a similar theme. This Tuesday the theme, horrifying disappearances, is shared by Jac Jemc's My Only Wife and Patrick Somerville's This Bright River.

Show up this Tuesday, July 10@7pm at Jimmy's Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E. 55th St., Chicago. And remember, if you buy a book, they'll buy you a beer!

Julie Zarlenga

Events Fri Jul 06 2012

Like A Secondhand Sea in Preview

Pocket Guide to Hell is putting on a site specific spectacular in just a couple of weeks that will fuse reenactments of Marquette & Joliet's Expedition, Captain Streeter's District of Lake Michigan, and the Dedication of the Reversal of the Chicago River. Yes, this will all occur in one day. This local group does not mess around. Check out this preview of the event and expect more details soon...

Claire Glass

Author Wed Jul 04 2012

Beach Poets @L oyola Beach

p.jpgThe Beach Poets, a tradition since it was started in 1990 by Cathleen Schandelmeier, brings poets together on the beach every Sunday in July. This Sunday will feature the editor of SEEDS Literary Journal, Lakeesha Harris and writer Janean Watkins.

Soak up some rays and verses on Sunday, July 8 from noon to 2pm at Loyola Beach at Greenleaf Avenue & the lake. The Beach Poets tent will be south of the Heartland's Stand in the Sand and north of the restrooms.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Jul 04 2012

Pocket Con This Saturday

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This Saturday is Pocket Con at the Chicago Public Library. Pocket Con is a one-day comic book convention for Chicago teens, focusing on artists of color or works featuring people of color. Featured presenters are Turtel Onli, Nnedi Okorafor, Jeremy Love and Khary Randolph, among others. (The illustration above is from Jeremy Love's Bayou). Free; registration recommended. Chicago Public Library, Greater Grand Crossing branch, 1000 E. 73rd St., Saturday, July 7, noon to 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 04 2012

The Lowbrow Reader Variety Hour @ The Hideout

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Tomorrow night, The Hideout presents The Lowbrow Reader Variety hour, a book release party. The Lowbrow Reader is a yearly comedy journal featuring long articles and funny illustrations, now collected in book form in The Lowbrow Reader Reader (Drag City Books) and featuring the work of Lee Hazlewood, Patton Oswalt and Jonathan Richman, among others. The evening features musicians Ezra Furman, Daniel Knox and comedian Charlie Bury. The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., Thursday, July 5 at 9pm, $10.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Jun 29 2012

Toucan Cookie Minimum

Next week the Two Cookie Minimum reading series teams up with the Toucan Literary Magazine to present Toucan Cookie Minimum. This night of reading will promote the Toucan's July release.

Featured readers include: Greg Baldino, T.W. Townsend, and Nikki Dolson. With music by Kat Kidwell. Plus the magazine's editrices Liz Baulder and Laura Rynberg will read pieces from previous issues. Hosted by Johnny Misfit.

Stop by on July 3 at the Hungry Brain located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave. at 9pm. You have the next day off work, so come on out for a great night of local literary fare, and as the reading series name suggests, there will be cookies.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jun 27 2012

Patrick Somerville and Natalie Bakopoulos @ Women and Children First

This Friday, in case you missed him at the Book Cellar on Tuesday, Patrick Somerville reads from This Bright River at Women and Children First. It's a joint appearance with Natalie Bakopoulos, reading from The Green Shore, the tale of a family set during the 1967 Greek coup d'etat. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Friday, June 29 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 21 2012

House Party!!!!!!!

With such titles as "Scarface," "Some Like it Hot," Wuthering Heights," and "A Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago," on his resume Ben Hecht is one big name. And he, like many other similarly prestigious men and women of the pen, spent much of his early career writing right here in Chicago. Ben Hecht's House Party, set to take place next week, on June 27 at 7pm, in the writer's former Hyde Park home at 5210 S. Kenwood Ave., is no doubt one of the more unique events you'll have an opportunity to attend in the foreseeable future. And perhaps the last opportunity of its kind as the house is about to return to private residence status.

The evening is presented by the professional historical reenactment group Pocket Guide to Hell, spearheaded by local historian Paul Durica, and the Op Shop. This literary salon will seem as though it's been plucked from the 1920s. From its guest list, which includes Carl Sandburg, Vachel Lindsay, and Margaret Anderson, portrayed by the likes of David Durstewitz, JC Gabel, Caroline Picard, Kathleen Rooney, and Martin Seay, to period style music performed live by Aaron Cohen (editor of Downbeat) and Curtis Meyers, it's certain to conjure the vibe of the era that inspired Hecht. Northwestern University' Bill Savage will offer a bit of insight on Hecht and the Chicago literary world of the 1920s in a brief lecture, which you can enjoy alongside period appropriate refreshments provided by Tara Lane, the chef at Hull House, formerly of Blackbird and Avec.

There will also opportunity for guests to participate in setting what promises to be a truly transporting scene. A Bohemian Costume Contest with prizes courtesy of Poetry, The Chicagoan, The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame, and Chicago Publishes will award the evening's most roaring attire.

RSVP to pocketguidetohell@gmail.com by Monday, June 25. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for students.

Claire Glass

Book Club Thu Jun 21 2012

Don't Forget: Patrick Somerville's Book Release Party 6/26

We hope to see all of you at the release party for Patrick Somerville's new book, This Bright River, on Tuesday, June 26, at 7pm at the Book Cellar Bookstore. The book has been lauded by critics already, including Kirkus, and Oprah herself...okay, maybe not Oprah per se, but O Magazine had some lovely things to say about the book. And really, the book is a lovely, touching, and addictive collection of life's riddles -- the kinds many of us humans have percolating on some mental back burner everyday, making life at once heart wrenching and significantly more interesting.

For a bit more about the book, and for a sense of Somerville's voice, read this interview conducted with the author by Gina Frangello for The Rumpus.

Claire Glass

Events Thu Jun 21 2012

Punk Rock Meets Literature: Neutron Bomb

tumblr_m5l942Jk8B1qief8do1_500.jpgNeutron Bomb features a reading series under a punk rock backdrop, as writers read punk themed writing while a band plays in the background. This show will feature writers Alice Bag, L.B., Natalie Edwards, and Cyn Vargas, with music by the Calendar Boys.

Rock it out this Saturday, June 23 at 7pm at Cal's, 400 S. Wells St. This show is 21+ and free admission.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Thu Jun 21 2012

St. Sukie de la Croix @ Women and Children First

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Just in time for Pride weekened, St. Sukie de la Croix reads from Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago Before Stonewall at Women and Children First this Friday. Kathie Bergquist, editor of Windy City Queer: LGBTQ Dispatches from the Third Coast, calls it "a groundbreaking book. Chicago Whispers connects LGBT life in Chicago to national historical events and firmly places the city in the social/historical spectrum of gay life in America before Stonewall." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Friday, June 22 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 19 2012

Gumbo Fiction Salon @ Galway Arms

Cool off with some spine-tingling horror this Thursday at the Gumbo Fiction Salon. Featured readers are Martin Mundt and Lawrence Santoro. Mundt is the author of Reanimated Americans and The Crawling Abattoir. Santoro has received multiple Bram Stoker award nominations and has a new short story collection out called Drink For The Thirst To Come. Galway Arms Irish Pub, 2442 N. Clark, Thursday, June 21. Doors open at 7pm and readings begin at 7:30pm. Discounted parking is available at the Children's Memorial Hospital, 2515 N. Clark St. Bring your parking stub to the bar, get a matching stub, feed both to the machine as you exit the lot to claim the discount.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 19 2012

Half Price at Open Books

The Open Books Store is quite the unique establishment, funding youth literacy programs through the sales of donated books. This weekend the store is ushering in droves of bargain hunting book buyers with the entire store's inventory on sale for half price. From 10am until 7pm on June 23 and 24, most books can be yours for just a couple of bucks.

Visit The Open Books Store, located at 213 W. Institute Pl.

Claire Glass

Events Mon Jun 18 2012

Solo/Down Book Release

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This Thursday, June 21, join hometown girl Lauryn Allison Lewis as she celebrates the release of her first book, Solo/Down. The book a "apocalyptic hyper-modern fairytale" is being published by the Chicago Center for Literature and Photography. Following with the rest of the CCLaP Hypermodern editions, the book will be hand made with a hardback cover. Signed copies will be available. Stop by Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7pm for a reading and drinks.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jun 12 2012

Chicago Writers Conference Registration Opens

chicagowritersconference.jpgRegistration is now open for the Chicago Writers Conference, to be held Sept. 14-16 at the Tribune Tower, 435 N. Michigan Ave. A limited number of tickets are available at the early bird rate of $175; once those are gone, the price is $200 for three days of workshops, talks and panels on the topic of writing -- as well as special editions of two reading series, Tuesday Funk and Essay Fiesta.

The Chicago Writers Conference's aim is to help aspiring writers learn how to sell and promote their work. The keynote speaker at the conference will be Alexander Hemon, author and MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient. More than a dozen other speakers include authors, publishers, agents and literary event producers. (Disclosure: I'm speaking at the conference, as is Gapers Block contributor Cinnamon Cooper.)

Andrew Huff

Events Tue Jun 12 2012

Printers Row Lit Fest: an Epilogue

Printer's Row 2012.jpgThis weekend I periled the outrageously hot weather to walk the booths at the Chicago Tribune's annual Printers Row Lit Fest. The city's most recognizable literary celebration brought together all walks of the lit community including publishers, authors, and organizations. I walked off the Red Line, snagged a free sample of hummus, and was on my way to peruse what the fest had to offer. Right off the Harrison entrance, I heard a reading already in progress at the Mystery Writers of America tent. I made my way through the crowd, stopping at the Small Press Tent where local presses such as MAKE Magazine and Grow Books Press.

Alyson Beaton, the creative force behind Grow Books, had Grow's line of activity books for children on display, including a street graffiti art book and mini house kits. I walked around the tent, finally purchasing that issue of the Chicagoan (the new endeavor by JC Gabel of Stop Smiling) I'd been meaning to snag, before heading toward Grace Place to hear author Richard Russo and his daughter Kate Russo, discuss their collaborative work, Interventions.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (1)

Book Club Mon Jun 11 2012

Book Club Presents: Patrick Somerville's Book Release Party

Book Club is thrilled to present the release of Patrick Somerville's new book, This Bright River, at the Book Cellar Bookstore, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave., at 7pm on June 26. The celebration will include a reading plus a moderated question and answer period with the author.

Somerville's first novel, The Cradle, was a Barnes & Noble Discover Selection for summer 2009, and was nominated for the First Novel Prize at the Center for Fiction. He is also author of a short story collection from Featherproof Books, The Universe in Miniature in Miniature out in 2010.

This Bright River takes place in Wisconsin, Somerville's home state, where his characters' lives intersect and become intertwined. In both The Cradle and The Universe, lives are woven together by the subtleties of insecurities in common as well as through running themes. Those connections are at once impressive from a technical point of view and believable as true to life despite slight stretches from realism.

Keep your eye out for opportunities to get your own copy of the book before the release!

Claire Glass

Events Mon Jun 11 2012

Notes On The Printers Row Lit Fest

Printer's Row 2012.jpgSo another Printers Row Lit Fest has come and gone. Needing to watch my pocketbook, I kept browsing to a minimum. I saw the Poetry Foundation tent, the McSweeney's tent, a fellow singing French tunes, a puppet show and things that didn't seem to have much to do with books (Stanley Steemer? An ABBA musical?). It was a sweltering weekend; I split a cookie with a friend and it was so melty the chocolate got everywhere and I felt like Frankenstein caught while attacking a sheep. Luckily the panels I penciled in to attend were indoors and air conditioned.

The first was the "Changes in Reading and Writing" panel presented by WBEZ in the Fountain Room at the University of Chicago.

Continue reading this entry »

Rebecca Hyland

Book Club Fri Jun 08 2012

What's the Future for Literary & Publishing Programs in Chicago?

The Chicago Literary Alliance in partnership with Chicago Publishes of the Department of Cultural Affairs is inviting all of you bookish Chicagoans to air your thoughts and concerns at a meeting on Wednesday, June 13 at Powell's Bookstore. From 6-7:30pm the future of publishing and literary programming in Chicago--quite the crucial question if you ask us at Book Club--will be on the table for discussion. The gathering is set to take place at the UIC neighborhood shop located at 1218 S. Halsted St. RSVP for the event at info@chicagopublishes.com.

Be there or be square!

Claire Glass

Author Thu Jun 07 2012

Local Authors Sell at the Book Cellar

The Book Cellar's affinity for bringing great things together under the same roof to build a unique experience out of them extends beyond things (books, wine) to people (writers, readers). On Local Author Night, Chicago-based writers come to share their work and add to the mix of enjoyment. This month's guests include AGS Johnson, author of The Sausage Maker's Daugher. Wednesday, June 20 at 7pm at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Free; books for sale.

Emily Thornton

Events Thu Jun 07 2012

Richard and Kate Russo @ Women and Children First

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Tomorrow night Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Russo (Empire Falls, Bridge of Sighs) presents Interventions, a collaboration with his artist daughter Kate Russo. Interventions is a set of four novellas in one volume, tales of obsession and intervention, each accompanied by an original painting by the younger Russo. Published not by Random House (his usual publisher) but by Down East Books, a small Maine publisher, the elder Russo tells USA Today it's "an experiment in local publishing." A celebration of the tactile experience of reading, no e-book will be released. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Friday, June 8 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 06 2012

Reginald Dwayne Betts @ Poetry Foundation

images-1.jpgPoet and NAACP Image award winner Reginald Dwayne Betts will be reading from his memoir A Question of Freedom: A Memoir of Learning, Survival, and Coming of Age in Prison, as well as his book of poetry Shahid Reads His Own Palm. The Poetry Foundation will also be conducting a Q&A session with Betts and will be giving free copies of their June issue of Poetry magazine.

See Reginald Dwayne Betts on Friday, June 8 @ 6pm at Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St. This event is free.

Julie Zarlenga

Book Club Tue Jun 05 2012

"Strange creatures conceived down through history by the human imagination."

I am Logan Square is debuting a new exhibit this Friday, June 8, with literary roots. The show, Inspired by the Book of Imaginary Beings by Jorge Luis Borges, features the work of seven artists taking inspiration from the creatures depicted and described in the 1957 publication. The book is a compilation of 120 "strange creatures conceived down through history by the human imagination." The work, meant to be consumed piece meal rather than in one sitting, is ripe for the visual reinterpretation taken on by this group of local crafts people.

Artists include Isak Applin, Carl Baratta, Inga Comer-Keene, Shannon Lunkes-Goldman, Sheryl Orlove, Neal Retke, and Peter Reynoso. Beverages and food will be provided by Revolution Brewery and Paper Moon Bakery respectively.

I Am Logan Square Gallery, located at 2644 N. Milwaukee Ave., will present the work from 6-8:30pm on Friday, June 8.

Claire Glass

Events Tue Jun 05 2012

Reading Under the Influence Brings the Pain (of Baseball)

The always fun, always unpredictable series Reading Under the Influence is back this Wednesday, June 6, with an appropriate theme for a Wrigleyville area bar: "Pain (The Baseball Edition)." Join readers Ben Tanzer (This Zine Will Change Your Life), April Newman, writer-zinestress Liz Baudler (The Toucan magazine) and Windy City Story Slam All-City Champion Alex Bonner.

For those new to RUI, the format is split with an intermission. Each reader performs twice, first sharing their work then reading published work followed by trivia (a crowd favorite). Oh, and readers take shots before they read (hence the name). Nothing like this series exists in Chicago so check it out.

RUI is always in the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., 7pm, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jun 04 2012

Two Cookie Minimum Offers Cookies and CAKE

What's a better partner to cookies than cake? Two Cookie Minimum reading series will hold a fund raiser on Tuesday, June 5, for the first ever Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, dedicated to independent comic artists and publications. The reading features a cast of visual artists including; Corinne Mucha, Sara Drake, Ezra Claytan Daniels, Leslie Perrine and Marian Runk with host, Johnny Misfit.

Expect cookies, as per usual (and hopefully cake). The reading is on the first Tuesday of each month at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., 9pm. All donations accepted will go to support CAKE.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed May 30 2012

Local Writers Support Save Our Fullmers, a Fundraiser

In a the spirit of giving, a fundraiser will be held this Thursday, May 31, for John Fullmer, an editor of Knee Jerk magazine and employee at the Book Cellar, and his expecting wife. The couple lost everything in a recent house fire, and their friends are coming together to show support and offer a great line up of entertainment.

There will be a reading featuring the talents of Lindsay Hunter, Jonathon Messinger, Amy Sumpter, Chris Terry, Adam Levin, Keith Ecker, and Robbie Q. Telfer. The event will be at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave., at 7pm. Show support and hear from some of Chicago's best in the literary scene.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed May 30 2012

Arctic Adventure Multimedia Presentation in Evanston

This Thursday, Evanston resident John Huston will show a multimedia presentation from his book (cowritten with Tyler Fish) Forward: The First American Unsupported Expedition to the North Pole. The book tells the story of Huston and Fish's 2009 travels to the North Pole without resupply. Will Steger, author and National Geographic Explorer of the Century, says "Forward is the fascinating inside story of a knock-down, drag-out expedition to the top of the world, a journey that separates the dreamers from the doers. This is a real story of real adventure!" Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave., Evanston, Thursday May 31 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 29 2012

Visiting Lecture at the Read/Write Library

Read/Write Library Chicago will host a conversation about independent art spaces, this Wednesday May 29, welcoming artists Rebecca Conroy and Tessa Zettel. Both artists, hailing from Sydney, Australia's Bill+George art space, are on a US tour conducting research on DIY art culture. They will share their findings, supplemented by a presentation of their own works at the library. The discussion aims to rally local artists and creatives to share personal stories, and will feature local speakers from Read/Write as well as a presentation from the Peanut Gallery, a neighboring art space.

Join the conversation at 8pm at The Read/Write Library, located at 914 N. California Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed May 23 2012

Windy City Story Slam Championship This Saturday

Only six semifinalists remain in the Windy City Story Slam crew; the championship bout is this Saturday. This year's finalists are Samantha Irby, Scott Whitehair, Shannon Cason, Luis Perez, Patrick Salem of the U.S. Marine Corps and Cara Brigandi. Hosted by Irvine Welsh, another Brit turned permanent Chicagoan, who will also be performing and reading from his not-yet-released novel Skagboys , a prequel to Trainspotting. The Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Saturday, May 26 at 10:30pm; $10.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 23 2012

Jon Langford and Martin Billheimer @ Hideout

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Get ready for music and bawdy storytelling this Friday as the Hideout presents Story Night Chapter Two: Sex Legends of Rock. Starring British punk legend turned Chicagoan Jon Langford and Martin Billheimer, they'll be joined by James Elkington & Sally Timms, Brian Keigher and "bizarre visitations from the crew of the SS Panto." The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., Friday, May 25 at 6pm, $10. Order tickets here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 23 2012

Author/Journalist John Conroy on Chicago Live!

This Thursday, May 24, local journalist and author John Conroy will be a featured guest on the Chicago Tribune's weekly radio show Chicago Live! . Conroy is known for his articles on the CPD torture scandal (which are housed in the Chicago Reader archives). Musical guest Kelly Hogan will be joining him on the broadcast along with a comedy performance from Second City.

Be part of the live audience recording, 7pm at UP Comedy Club at Piper's Alley, 230 W. North Ave. Chicago Live! airs on WGN Radio Saturday nights at 11pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue May 22 2012

Plan Ahead: Printers Row Lit Fest

The Printers Row Lit Fest is upon us, scheduled to take place on June 9 and 10. There's a plethora of programming open for the RSVPing now, right now. It's actually kind of dizzying.

As always there will be hundreds of tents, occupied by publishers, big and small alike, plus literary organizations. Buy books, hear wisdom, enjoy being outside. My eyes started to hurt before I reached the end of the list, but here are some programming highlights, in my humble opinion:

Nick Dybek and Sara Levine in conversation with Donna Seaman, June 9

Dmitry Samarov and Michael Czyzniejewski w/Christopher Borrelli, June 9

• "Sex & Violence" moderated by Clare O'Donohue, June 9.

Peter Orner and Patrick Somerville in conversation wtih Scott Blackwood, June 9

• Just Get Me Started Writing Workshop featuring StoryStudio with Jill Pollack, June 9

And that's only a tiny snippet of Saturday!

Claire Glass / Comments (2)

Events Wed May 16 2012

Gapers Block Event: 8x8

8x8_350.jpgIn the spirit of artistic collaboration, The Coop and Gapers Block have teamed up to produce 8x8, an experiment in writing and design.

Eight Chicagoland designers (Jesse Hora, Andy Luce, Chad Kouri, Ina Weise, Letterform, Ryan Sievert, Paul Octavious and Kyle Fletcher) were paired with eight local writers (Patrick Somerville, Claire Zulkey, Kevin Guilfoile, William Shunn, Wendy McClure, Scott Smith, Gapers Block political editor Ramsin Canon and Book Club co-founder Veronica Bond) to create collaborative works, with text informing and influencing art and vice versa. The results of this experiment are presented in limited edition poster form, with writing and design back to back.

The posters make their debut at a reception Friday night, May 18, from 6pm to 10pm at The Coop coworking space, 230 W. Superior St., 2nd floor. Refreshments will be served, and sets of the posters will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting Open Books.

Andrew Huff

Events Tue May 15 2012

The Princesses of Iowa Author Molly Backes on Writing for Young Adults

Writer Molly Backes will be celebrating the release of her young adult novel The Princesses of Iowa this Friday, May 18, at 7pm at StoryStudio's Chicago location. In addition to her work as a writer and as a teacher at the North side school, Backes works as its assistant director. The event billed as both celebration and networking opportunity, is open to the public and free of charge.

Backes is gearing up for the approaching chaos of her book tour, but managed to set aside time for us to discuss the task of writing a young adult novel. She spoke to the particular challenge of depicting the in between place that we all occupy at one time or another in which we figure out that adults aren't always right and begin to discover who we want to become.

"It's about my protagonist going from being a young woman shaped by society's idea of perfection and, by the end, she's leaning to listen to her own voice," Backes said. "That's the crux of the teenage experience."

Unlike some writers whose work is reformulated and marketed towards a young adult audience, Backes, a former middle school teacher, set out to appeal to the junior high crowd. While teaching 7th and 8th grade English in rural New Mexico, Backes became uniquely attuned to the complicated dynamics that define teenage life.

"I wanted to write something challenging, literary, and realistic," Backes said. "As a teacher I saw all these girls who woke up at 5am to curl their hair to look perfect. I got really interested in the idea of how we forget that there's something under the surface. No one is perceiving anyone else correctly; that's how high school feels."

When the story begins we find Paige, presumably living a life that's as close to perfection as one in his or her formative years could possibly imagine. A "could have been so much worse" car accident following a night of partying ends all of this, however, and leaves her shunned from the social scene she'd been so successful at navigating. Left without options, Paige locates comfort and a newfound interest in figuring herself out apart from the social hierarchy in her creative writing class.

"As I was trying to publish it everyone was saying, 'why do I care about a spoiled princess?'" Backes said. "But that's the point. It's interesting that people can't get passed their prejudices. So much of how we behave towards people is based on who we think they are, and when they don't live up, we're uncomfortable with that to varying degrees."

The book, published by Candlewick Press, is set in Iowa, the site of Backes's student teaching career, as well as her college state. She wrote it while isolated in New Mexico, still adjusting to the move.

"I felt homesick," Backes said. "I grew up in the Midwest and part of me always wants to write about the place I love. Having gone to college in Iowa, it's where I feel like I really came of age and figured out who I was. In retrospect, it's very appropriate that I wrote a coming of age story set there."

StoryStudio is located at 4043 N. Ravenswood Ave., #222.

Claire Glass

Events Tue May 15 2012

Gumbo Fiction Salon Fundraises for an Academic Cause

This month's edition of the Gumbo Fiction Salon, which books a lineup of readers in any fiction genre and concludes with an open mic, is set to take place Thursday, May 17. Designed as a fundraiser for the John Schultz and Betty Shiflett Story Workshop Scholarship fund at Columbia College, all readers are Columbia College Fiction Writing faculty, alums, or students including Jeff Jacobson, Patricia Rosemoor, Geoff Hyatt, Jenine Arteaga, Ellis Wylie, John Dowds, and Michelle Cachey. There will be an auction featuring books by some of the night's readers, as well as gift certificates to local restaurants and more.

There is a $4 cover, $2 for students, with two-for-one admission this month. The event is upstairs at the Galway Arms Irish Pub, 2442 N. Clark St., beginning at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue May 15 2012

YCA Talks With WBEZ

Young Chicago Authors has also teamed up with WBEZ for a series of discussions exploring the Chicago aesthetic and how teachers can integrate YCA teaching methods of hip-hop poetic/prose workshops in their classrooms. There will be a series of three talks. The first is this Wednesday, May 16 at the WBEZ West Side Community Bureau, 2531 W. Division St. at 6pm. Free, but reservations are recommended (click here to reserve). The other two talks will be held on May 23 at the WBEZ South Side Bureau and May 30 at the WBEZ North Side Bureau.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 15 2012

The Yolanda Project @ Young Chicago Authors

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This Thursday, Young Chicago Authors presents the Yolanda Showcase. A fan art show of sorts, the show features original work inspired by the character Yolanda from the gospel musical Crowns. Yolanda is a young woman from Englewood who is sent to live with (and learn from) her Grandmother in South Carolina after her brother is shot down on the street. The poets have created a series of pieces that explore Yolanda's story through their own eyes. Performers include finalists from the Louder Than A Bomb competition. The free showcase will take place at Young Chicago Authors, 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave., May 17 from 6-8pm. Check out the Facebook page for more information.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Sat May 12 2012

100 Years of Studs Terkel

Studs Terkel — author, historian, radio host and listener extraordinaire — may be gone, but his legacy of the importance of listening and the power of the human voice has inspired one heck of a party.

On Wednesday, May 16, the 100th anniversary of his birth, the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St.) will host a birthday party to celebrate him, "one of the most prolific writers and cultural critics in the history of Chicago letters."

The event, which will be hosted by journalist Rick Kogan, will feature a bevy of memories from a variety of figures from Chicago's literary and radio scenes, such as author Alex Kotlowitz, Alison Cuddy, host of WBEZ's Eight Forty-Eight, and historian David Roediger.

"It is rare that a person is widely seen as the greatest raconteur in a big city and as its best listener," said Roediger, a professor at the University of Illinois. "Studs was remarkably both and his legacy leaves us pondering how the two are connected."

Inspired by his "spirit of aurality, storytelling, and memory," Heather Radke of the Hull House has established a "Studs Memory Hotline" of sorts, to continue the tradition of oral histories by creating a repository of how Studs has inspired others.

"I thought that both the medium and the content of recorded stories would be a nice tribute to Studs," Radke said. "He was a huge proponent of the power of the human voice. As a radio producer myself, I know how transporting it can be to hear someone telling their story rather than just reading it. With the help of some of my brilliant co-workers at the Hull-House Museum, I decided that it was also important to be able to participate in the project even if you have no particular affiliation or knowledge of Studs, which is why there are two questions: What does Studs mean to you? and When has listening closely changed the way you thought about the world?"

Some of these Studs-related stories, all of which will be archived by the Newberry, are available for your perusal online, and anyone can participate by calling 559-546-1661.

"For me," continued Radke, "Studs is the rare historical figure that is celebrated for his ability to midwife the voices of others, and whose work is as much about listening as it is about talking. I'm glad that others are excited about his legacy of dedication to the People's History, and I am excited to hear all of the jokes, anecdotes, memories, and thoughts on the phone line and at the event."

Bucky Halker and Jon Langford will provide music, and a special 'zine pairing anecdotes from Garry Wills, Sydney Lewis, and others with illustrations from Chicago artists will be distributed.

"Studs was a living link to the Chicago/America I never knew," said Langford. "His comments on WBEZ after 9/11 impressed me greatly, elevating him to level of all seeing oracle. Thanks to miracle of recorded sound people can go on listening to the man forever."

DETAILS:

Wednesday, May 16
Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St.)
5:30pm reception; 6pm program

This program is free and open to the public; no reservations are required.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Wed May 09 2012

Quimby's Pops Up in Bridgeport for Version Fest 12

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This weekend Quimby's, the legendary North Side comic/books/zine shop, will be opening a pop up shop in Bridgeport. They'll be one of many pop ups participating in Version Fest 12, a month-long event billed as "what happens when you invite cultural workers, community developers, urban entrepreneurs, artists, designers, foodies, public space hackers, urban planners, cultural geographers, and dreamers to swarm a neighborhood and transform it for one month." Quimby's Bridgeport can be found at 755 W. 32nd St., May 11 and 12 from 11am-6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 09 2012

Isaac Adamson @ Bucket o' Blood

This Thursday, Bucket o' Blood Books and Records welcomes Isaac Adamson. He'll be reading from his latest thriller, Complication. A tale of serial killers, thieves, family secrets and Eastern European intrigue, Publisher's Weekly says "Adamson's atmospheric and satisfyingly twisted tale...could easily have collapsed under the weight of its own complexity, but [he] pulls it off with style and a whopper of a twist." (Fun fact: Adamson's first novel, Tokyo Suckerpunch, is being made into a film starring Tobey Maguire). Bucket o' Blood Books and Records, 2307 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday, May 10 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 08 2012

On Stage: The Postman

Although theater is not necessarily of the literary persuasion, I think the Chicago Humanities Festival's presentation of The Postman, as part of the spring theater festival Sights & Sounds, is well worth noting here. Unlike most plays--and books for that matter--this one, for young children ages for four and up, has zero dialogue. The hour-long show comes across more like a child's imagining of a picture book than a play.

A production by the Velo Theatre Company, founded in 1981 in Angers, France by Charlot Lemoine and Tania Castaing, this like all of the company's work prominently features a bicycle. In fact, the bike in question is actually the backbone of the set, which develops in a sort of diorama fashion, taking shape and unfolding from within the postman's boxes as they're opened. Velo was built on the notion that an actor's connection to physical objects on stage can be as much a form of expression as words. This particular show surely does the mission service.

The scenes themselves are tiny, built with the keen eyesight of a young person in mind, and easily come to life at the hands of the Postman turned puppeteer, played by Charlot Lemoine who has been performing the show around the world for the past 30 years. Lemoine's excitement is simultaneously palpable and muted to allow for focus on the intricate scenery and palm sized action.

There are only two more showings of this particular production left to run. If you are lucky enough to catch one, expect, mermaids, dragons, a surprisingly effective rendering of the ocean, and a sweeping mountaintop. The show features moments of slight tension, namely when the lights go off save for a dragon's illuminated eyeballs, as well as a fairy tale quality, especially during an underwater scene.

I never once felt remotely bored during the show despite my separation from its target demographic. One of only two or three adults without a kid on her lap, I felt myself transported back to the first floor steps of my childhood home where I often looked through books with my mother, making up the story based on the illustrations.

Visit the Chicago Humanities Festival website for a complete listing of the springtime lineup and to purchase tickets.

Claire Glass

Events Tue May 08 2012

Reading: My Only Wife by Jac Jemc

On Wednesday, May 9, local author Jac Jemc will read from her first novel My Only Wife. The book was released in early April on Dzanc books. Join her to hear from what writer Blake Butler (Scorch Atlas) calls, "a novel concerned with timeless dedication, love, and respect." Stick around after the reading to snag a copy (and get her to sign it). The reading is set for 7:30pm at Women & Children First, 5233 N Clark St.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon May 07 2012

Pie and Poetry

Bang Bang Pie Shop is sort of the most exciting thing that's happened to me since moving to Logan Square. The shop started as a food truck, but co-partners Megan and David Miller and Michael Ciapciak parked for good, opening the storefront at 2051 N. California Ave. in early April. The baked goods were thrilling enough, but then I discovered the place has its own reading series, Bang Bang Fiction & Poetry, which focuses on local readers and invites the well established and the burgeoning alike.

On a daily basis Bang Bang serves up delicious coffee, blended specially for the shop by one of its owners, David Miller, biscuits that achieve moistness unlike any other I've ever eaten, and pie that brought my anti-chocolate boyfriend back for seconds, hunched over the tin in our dining room with the lights off.

I am not, however, here to talk about food, tempting as it might be. The reading series is carried over from Ipsento Café, which David Miller co-owned before moving on to pie. Organizer Ryan Lang worked at Ipsento with Miller when Bang Bang was just an idea.

"I've tried to raise the bar here because at Ipsento, I could only do so much with the space--we had the coffee grinders going, and though we were in a separate room you could still here them," Lang said.

This month's edition, scheduled for May 10, will feature readers A.D. Jameson, who is pursuing a doctorate in creative writing from UIC. Jameson is the author of two books, has taught classes at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Lake Forest College and StoryStudio Chicago, among others and is the nonfiction and reviews editor of the online journal Requited. He also writes for HTMLGIANT.

Chicago Poet Annah Browning will join Jameson at the reading. Her work has appeared in numerous online publications including Anti-Poetry, The Diagram and The Kenyon Review Online. Plus, Lara Levitan, writer at Jealous Mag and contributor to the Logan Square Review, will be in the mix.

Bang Bang Fiction & Poetry is held at 2051 N. Califonia Ave. and begins at 7:30pm.

Claire Glass

Book Club Thu May 03 2012

Robin Hustle on Chicago's Comic Art with a Female Focus

Robin Hustle is prose editor of The Land Line, a literary endeavor she embarked on with close friend Edie Fake who has since split due to his packed schedule. The Land Line is still hard at work, though, producing a cross section of content that marries comics and long form essay in a way that's all its own. Hustle also maintains her own blog, which offers a mixed media of long form essay, artwork, and sometimes video.

"We're trying to break down the line between these different disciplines, especially in terms of bringing interesting nonlinear comics together with long form essays," Hustle said. "We're balancing out the seriousness of some of the writing with the weirdness of the comics."

As a very much inexperienced party when it comes to the world of Chicago's comics, Hustle was the perfect source for me as she's attune to the literary and the comic art community alike. With Free Comic Book Day around the bend on Saturday, I decided to ask what she could tell me about Chicago's comic landscape, particularly what women are doing in the scene, in time for the day of freebies.

"I do think that there's a pretty amazing queer feminist angle to the comics being made here that's not really present in a lot of places," Hustle said. "Edie and I were just talking about this the other night; we both love and support the making of queer comics, but a lot of the stuff isn't really pushing the aesthetic boundaries of what can happen within a comic."

Chicago, however, is home to a collection of innovators, many of whom are female, producing work that functions in a cross discipline format, like The Land Line. Chicago's lit performance scene is unmatched, even on a national level according to organizers, but there's a less widely known comic performance culture changing the way readers access the art form.

"Lyra Hill puts together a comic reading series called Brain Frame and it's totally one of the most exciting things going on in comics," Hustle said. "Sara Drake is another woman making really gorgeous, incredible comics. For the last Brain Frame she did a live overhead projection using transparency. It was unbelievably intricate. Every single little movement was perfectly timed."

Drake's work took her to Cambodia where she taught classes to some of the first Cambodian women to attend college alongside writer and fellow SAIC graduate Anne Elizabeth Moore. It's a bit of an aside, but it's an inspiring story that speaks to the wide reach Chicago comics have.

Brain Frame is giving comics an alternative ground to stand on in Chicago--a stage. And with the city's background in improvisational theater, perhaps this doesn't come as a surprise. Hustle also discussed comics as playing a major role in the visual art world.

"Ruby Thorkelson, who makes really incredible comics of her own, is also a curator at Woman Made Gallery, and last spring she put together a show there called Underground that was all women and queer artists," Hustle said. "It was an incredible blurring of the comics world and the fine arts world. The exhibit also had a reading library put together with the help of Spudnick Press, which is a woman run collective print studio."

Read/Write Library, founded and run by Nell Taylor also participated in the show.

Claire Glass

Events Wed May 02 2012

Bring Out Your Dead

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The "Morbid Curiosity" exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center runs through July 8 and features 14,000 square feet of artwork exploring the universality of death in different cultures. Check it out tomorrow night to hear the history of Chicago's Bangs sisters, 19th Century seance hostesses extraordinaire. The evening will include a live seance and readings from the winners of the Chicago Publishes Morbid Curiosity Poetry Contest. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Thursday, May 3 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 02 2012

Free Comic Book Day 2012!

Holy Freebie Batman*, it's Free Comic Book Day! The world of comics' annual holiday is Saturday May 5. There are specific titles available for free, printed solely for the purposes of slinging free goods. "Who couldn't use a free comic book?" says W. Dal Bush co-owner of Challengers Comics + Conversation in Bucktown. The print medium is supported by independent stores like Challengers, striving to bring new and old fans something to enjoy.

There is a wide variety of free titles for any age this year, with content ranging from aliens, dinosaurs, and zombies to Sonic the Hedgehog, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Star Wars and even Peanuts.

"FCBD remains an event that is just awesome for families with small kids as well as long time fans, without being filled with speculators," Terry Grant, owner of Third Coast Comics in Edgewater says.

Large publishers like mainstays DC and Marvel use the event to show fans what's in store for their titles in the year to come. Introductions to new stories such as Marvel's Avengers, or DC's new 52 are showcased to excite readers to follow titles throughout the year.

"Each year we order more comics to give away, and each year we're left with fewer books by the end of the day," says Bush.

The allure of free comics is only part of what the day offers. Most stores hold events such as artist and writer signings, art demonstrations, and interactive events.

"Every year, we make sure that we have an artist from one of that year's free comics at Challengers, signing and sketching for fans," Bush says. His store will feature artists Chris Mitten and Mike Norton, and writer Tim Seeley.

There is a sense of community in Chicago's comic world, evident in the support avid readers give their favorite neighborhood shops. This is supplemented by the audience of casual fans, families and inquiring minds that show up for the day's offerings. An event like this, which attracts the attention of so many, promotes comic books, sure, but stores are winning too, solidifying a neighborhood presence and attracting new business.

"I think FCBD does a great job bringing new faces to shops and new readers to comics by virtue of the fact that I'm still having new people coming up to me from last year's FCBD and mentioning a book, artist, writer or publisher that I suggested for them," says Grant.

Free Comic Book Day runs during store hours, but some shops book later events, too.
Challengers' adjoining art space, the Rouges Gallery, will curate an art print exhibit with thirteen different local artists. Third Coast is having Comic Book Karaoke as its after event.

FCBD is a great way for families, children, comic book enthusiasts, and newcomers to check out their neighborhood comic store. Go the Free Comic Book Day website to find a location nearest you.

Challengers Comics + Conversation is located at 1845 N. Western Ave.

Find Third Coast comics at 6234 N. Broadway Ave.

*Yes there will be a free comic book this year based on Burt Ward, the actor who played Robin in the 1960's Batman TV show.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue May 01 2012

Reading Under the Influence Celebrates its Seventh Anniversary

Wednesday, May 2 marks the seventh anniversary of the reading series Reading Under the Influence. The monthly series has a unique format, showcasing featured writers who read their work, plus published work, followed by trivia. Series co-founder Julia Borcherts reflects on RUI's place as one of Chicago's notable monthly literary events.

"Chicago's literary scene has just exploded over the last seven years -- in any given week, there's more than a dozen fantastic reading and storytelling events going on all over the city," Borcherts says. "It's a really collaborative rather than competitive community, and there's nothing like this scene anywhere else in the country. We're so proud to have played a part in changing people's perceptions of what a 'reading' could be -- making literature and stories come alive in a way that's approachable and just plain fun."

Over the years, the series has made certain to make room for work that runs the gamut of Chicago's literary scene from established writers to self publishers.

"We always wanted for RUI to feel like a place where everyone in the literary community would feel like they belong, whether they're established authors or talented emerging writers or book, journal or zine publishers or literary enthusiasts," Borcherts says. "We love it because we have such an interactive format that it's easy for people to make new friends and learn about other great opportunities around the city just by meeting the others who come to RUI."

To celebrate its anniversary, RUI will feature readings by co-founders Rob Duffer and
Julia Borcherts, longtime co-hosts Amy Guth and Jesse Jordan and RUI co-founder emeritus, Carly Huegelmann.

RUI is the first Wednesday of each month in the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. The show starts at 7pm, and admission is $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Apr 30 2012

Two Cookie Minimum Presents Industry Night

Two Cookie Minimum is back on Tuesday, May 1. Join industry professionals from all areas of the literary and publishing community for a night of reading. The selection of readers includes Rob Duffer, Ben Tanzer, , Wly Villacres, Sarah Dodson, Daniel Majid and Naomi Huffman. Hosted by Johnny Misfit.

This series is the first Tuesday of the month at the Hungry Brain 2319 W. Belmont Ave., 9pm. And always, there will be free cookies!

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Apr 25 2012

Dyke To Watch Out For

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This Friday, comic artist Alison Bechdel (Dykes To Watch Out For) presents her new graphic memoir Are You My Mother? A Comic Drama. Jonathan Safran Foer calls it "a work of the most humane kind of genius, bravely going right to the heart of things: Why we are who we are. It's also incredibly funny. And visually stunning. And page-turningly addictive. And heartbreaking." Gloria Steinem says "many of us are living out the unlived lives of our mothers. Alison Bechdel has written a graphic novel about this; sort of like a comic book by Virginia Woolf. You won't believe it until you read it - and you must!" University of Chicago, Rosenwald Hall, 5801 S. Ellis St., Friday, April 27 at 5pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 23 2012

It's World Book Night

Look for strangers stopping strangers, just to share a book: Tonight is
World Book Night , coinciding with the UNESCO International Day of the Book.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Apr 20 2012

Revolving and Evolving: Poetry, Performance and Community

Revolving Door has been welcoming poets, writers and passersby to enjoy their ongoing readings, showcases, workshops and other events for the past year and half. Centered around a core mission statement, Revolving Door strives to build culturally-infused communities throughout the city by showcasing unique talent and building bridges between artists and those who seek inspiration from the written word.

The reading series takes place on the fourth Thursday of each month and features a dynamic array of local poets and writers. April's edition will feature CM Burroughs, who has been awarded fellowships and grants from Yaddo, The MacDowell Colony, among others, and has worked with Studio Museum of Harlem and the Warhol Museum to respond to art installations with her poetry. The reading will also feature Chicagoan Cristina Correa whose work has appeared in the likes of Ariel, Latina Voices, Say What Magazine, and Ghost Factory Magazine. Plus, she published a chap book this year. Stick around to enjoy music by FathomDJ, a monthly staple at Revolving Door.

You can swing by any fourth Thursday to enjoy a poem, or two, or recommend that your friend with the latent poetic streak take to the mic!! There's also a great opportunity to join a summer workshop to hone your skills of expression and expand your social and creative networks. In their own words, Revolving Door says they are "...enticed by each encounter." Bring your curious spirit and add to the intrigue at Ultra Lounge, 1270 N. Milwaukee Ave. on Thursday, April from 7:30-10pm.

Emily Thornton

Events Wed Apr 18 2012

Chicago Stories @ Cole's

This Saturday at Cole's is the release of Curbside Splendor's latest book, Chicago Stories: 40 Dramatic Fictions by Michael Czyzniejewski. The book tells Chicago stories through the personae of its famous citizens. Author Alan Heathcock says "an absurdist Chi-town Spoon River Anthology on crack, Chicago Stories is an explosion of imagination, a relentless churn of intellect and wit. In true Chicago style, this book tells it straight to your face and pulls no punches." Actors will be reading in the voice of Gary Dotson, Ann Landers, Jane Addams, Hugh Hefner and Rod Blagojevich, among others. Cole's, 2338 N. Milwaukee, April 21at 7-10pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Apr 12 2012

Get Your Nerd On at C2E2 This Weekend!

Dust off your Superman t-shirt or your Batman utility belt and get ready for this year's Chicago Comics and Entertainment Expo running Friday, April 13 through Sunday, April 15.

Whatever your passion, be it comics, collecting, music, movies or games, there's something here for everyone. Special guests include John Cusack, Sean Astin, Anne Rice and even Svengoolie (to add a bit of local flair). Each day has a variety of programming including guest panels, autograph sessions and a show floor packed with artists, shops and more.

Tickets are available online or at the door. The event is open to the public on Friday at 1pm and Saturday and Sunday at 10am. C2E2 is held in the North Building at McCormick Place, located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Apr 12 2012

Translated Reading of Dreams for Kurosawa

Translator and Harvard University Professor Anna Deeny will be reading from her translation of Raúl Zurita's book of poetry, Dreams for Kurosawa (Sueños Para Kurosawa). Anna Deeny previously translated Zurita's work Purgatory. She will be joined by Daniel Borzutzky who wrote The Book of Interfering Bodies.

Join Anna Deeny & Daniel Borzutzky as they read from Raúl Zurita's Dreams for Kurosawa at Read/Write Library, 914 N. California Ave, Saturday, Apr 14 @ 8pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Apr 11 2012

Sister Spit @ CIMM Fest

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The San Francisco based queer poetry and performance troupe Sister Spit will be shakin' things up in Chicago this Saturday. The troupe was founded in 1994 by author Michelle Tea and was such a rousing success that in 2003, Tea founded the SF-based literary nonprofit Radar Productions to help produce the show as well as other literary concerns. The featured reader of the night is novelist and Columbia College advisory board member Dorothy Allison (Bastard Out of Carolina). Other performers include Ms. Tea herself, writer/musician/dancer Brontez Purnell of Gravy Train!!!, writer/performer Erin Markey, singer/comic book artist Cassie J. Sneider, and transgendered, nationally ranking slam poet Kit Yan. The show is part of the Chicago International Movie and Music Festival. The show is at the Wicker Park Art Center, 2215 W. North Ave., Saturday, April 14, at 8 pm, followed by an afterparty at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., beginning at 10:30 pm. Admission to the performance is $12 and the afterparty offers a sliding-scale admission of $5-$10. Tickets can be purchased here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 10 2012

2 Readings This Week for Chicago Punks at Heart

This week brings two readings of the punk rock variety.

On Thursday, April 12, Columbia College Chicago's Silvertongue reading series presents Sam McPheeters, LA based writer and punk musician from such bands as Born Against and Men's Recovery Project. He'll be reading from his novel The Loom of Ruin ; you can read the first three chapters on Vice. Student readers will open the show, which will conclude with an author Q&A. Catch the show at 2:30pm at 618 S. Michigan Ave. on the fourth floor.

Then 7pm on Saturday, April 14, stop on by the punk-themed reading series Neutron Bomb for a mix of storytelling and music. This month features Kim Morris, Rebecca Lyon, Jill Westerfelhaus and Wyatt Roediger-Robinette. The night will wrap up with a musical set from Little Dave Merriman (of the Arrivals). The series is at Cal's bar, 400 S. Wells St.

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Tue Apr 10 2012

In Case You Missed It: Mini Tools of Change

Yesterday's Mini Tools of Change affair at the Cultural Center was absolutely too informationally massive to give you a properly comprehensive account of the day. I will, however, attempt to provide the general gist of the all day whirlwind of publishing tech lectures, Powerpoints--one of which included a photo of a pizza with hotdog-filled crust--and eye opening dialogue.

O'Reilly Media's Tools of Change Conference, the non-mini one that is, takes place annually in New York, heading out on the road in miniature to bring the new fangled stuff of publishing to the discussion around the country. Yesterday's conference, put on in partnership with Chicago Publishes, hosted 250 publishing pros, writers, editors, newspaper folk, and more. Speakers included Chicago literary regulars like JC Gable behind The Chicagoan magazine, Doug Seibold of Agate Publishing, Dominique Raccah of Sourebooks, Nick Disabato of brand spanking new Distance, and Founder of the Read/Write Library Nell Taylor, among many others.

Clay Johnson, author of The Information Diet: A Case for Conscious Consumption, spoke on the topic of his book, which served to infuse the day's many discussions with a particular urgency. The diet refers to weaning ourselves off of what Johnson suggests is our country's dependence on media outlets that present diluted coverage on the national level that operates on assumption and inference rather than the facts of actual events. Instead, he says, we should focus our attention at the local level and work to effect politics at home.

"We industrialize agriculture and they produce what we want the most and it makes us fat," Johnson said. "We've also industrialized media, and these companies have a responsibility to create cheap popular media. These are the people who tell us what we want to hear not what we need to hear. If you're working under these guidelines the only chance you have of getting paid is to sensationalize and write as quickly as you can."

Johnson provided national scope for the importance of the work attendees and many of the other speakers do on a regular basis--producing much of the written matter of our generation, providing the narratives that we live by. Other speakers offered insights based on their experiences in the field.

Dominique Raccah took a technical, though unimaginably engaging, angle in her lecture about better publishing tactics. She cited The Lean Startup by Eric Reis as providing some of her inspiration to treat every book like its own startup venture.

"We started by thinking how to develop reader centric models developed around key verticals, which means based on your readers needs," Raccah said.

On this note, Raccah discussed several methods through which Sourcebooks is improving, including getting to know the target community of readers and developing books they want, plus creating a better (i.e. less frustrating) experience for authors. More than one speaker focused on generating online based discussion between authors and readers by posting pieces of books online before they are published to get a sense of reader response before too much time and money is invested in a project.

Though this account of the day is arguably bare bones, I hope it serves to provide some sense of the wonderful work being done in Chicago to fine tune the craft of publishing.

"Chicago gets this second city syndrome tying to compare itself to New York and it's really moot," JC Gabel said. "We deserve substance and style and there's never been a more interesting time since I've been alive, and I grew up here, than now. How can we make this different?"

Claire Glass

Book Club Tue Apr 10 2012

In Case You Missed It: The Chicago Humanities Festival Indulges Our Love Affair with Books

The Chicago Humanities Festival tends to attract the most passionate among us, those who cling to a chosen humanities field with vigor and the enthusiasm of a kid in front of an ice cream sundae. I am lucky that I'm not starved for the company of "book bums," the term Princeton Professor Anthony Grafton used to describe himself and the subjects of his studies at his lecture, "The Book: Past, Present, and Future." (You can listen to the full audio recording here.)

"As a book bum I often find myself wondering what my current students will look back to as they sit in our beautiful smooth libraries seamlessly downloading PDFs from websites all over the world," Grafton said. "Texts with no ink, with no smell, with no signs of use."

Grafton is a book historian, studying scholarly tendencies of generations of book bums before him, usually via the marginalia of 16th century texts. His knowledge is so exacting, so intimate, that he was even able to casually refer to one subject's bathroom habits. And in addition to delving deeply into the worlds of past readers, Grafton is busy considering what legacy the next generation--one that studies in digital libraries and seldom sets foot amongst the stacks--will leave for future scholars like himself who revel in the physicality of libraries.

"I came to know books not as texts, as we say in university, but as materials objects printed on creamy paper with type that left an actual impression, bound in solid leather or vellum and then marvelously scarred like human beings by all the bumps and rattlings inflicted by life," Grafton said. "The stigmata that meant they'd meant something to someone in the past, books that bore marginalia that wound up the sides of pages of renaissance books draped up like ivy, magnificent and old facades. Even the books that had been damaged by little animals, even they gave the sense of their rich materiality."

See, that's passion.

The Festival's springtime programming will conclude with a presentation by Etgar Keret and Nathan Englander on Thursday, April 26. On May 2, their annual international theater and performance festival Stages, Sights, and Sounds kicks off with family appropriate programming that will appeal to anyone with an interest in avant-garde and experimental performance. Looking forward some more, the Festival just announced its plans for fall program, which is America. Events and lectures will engage the topics surrounding America as a literary and cultural theme from local and global points of view. Full listing will be available in August.

Claire Glass

Events Fri Apr 06 2012

Read on in the Open Book Club

Have you always wanted to join a book club but haven't been able to find one that seems like a good fit? Check out Open Books' Open Book Club, where you'll meet a dynamic group of Open Books staff and other members of Chicago's amazing literary community who come to share their love of reading, enjoy thoughtful conversation and bring a little freshness to the traditional book club model.

There is no monthly commitment; it's all about great books, lively discussion and meeting new people. The book club meets the second Tuesday of every month at 6pm at 213 W. Institute Pl. and is always free. Once you go, you know! The book for April 10 is Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman by Richard Feynman.

And while you're in the area you can check out the awesome Open Books bookstore for a copy of next month's read or that title you've had on your list but haven't gotten around to. All books are really affordable and all proceeds go to the year-round literacy programs that Open Books offers to Chicago elementary and high school students.

Emily Thornton

Events Thu Apr 05 2012

Poetry off the Shelf: Miguel Barnet & Ana Rossetti

The Poetry Foundation presents Poesía en Abril: Miguel Barnet and Ana Rossetti as part of their Poetry off the Shelf series. Barnet, known for his novel Biography of a Runaway Slave, was born in Cuba and began publishing poetry in the 1960s. He is also known for his work as an ethnographer. Barnet will be joined by Ana Rossetti, a Spanish poet who began her career in the 1980s, and whose work is noted for containing an erotic flair.

Come hear Miguel Barnet and Ana Rossetti read at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., Saturday, Apr 7 @ 7pm. There will be a bi-lingual reading of the poets' work. Tickets for advanced reservations are sold out, but stand by tickets will be available on a first come, first serve basis on the day of the event.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Apr 04 2012

Jules Feiffer @ Jean Albano Gallery

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Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Jules Feiffer will be in town this Saturday in honor of the 51st anniversary of The Phantom Tollboth. He will also be signing copies of his memoir, Backing Into Forward. A National Jewish Book Award finalist, Michiko Kakutani of the New York Times says "[Backing Into Forward] succeeds in sounding like the best of Mr. Feiffer's cartoons: funny, acerbic, subversive, fiercely attuned to the absurdities in his own life and in the country at large." Jean Albano Gallery, 215 W. Superior St., April 7 at noon to 3pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 04 2012

Anna Anthropy @ Enemy

This Thursday, video game designer Anna Anthropy signs Rise of the Videogame Zinesters: How Freaks, Normals, Amateurs, Artists, Dreamers, Drop-outs, Queers, Housewives, and People Like You Are Taking Back an Art Form. Ian Bogost of the Georgia Institute of Technology says "these days, everybody can make and distribute a photograph, or a video, or a book. Rise of the Videogame Zinesters shows you that everyone can make a videogame, too. But why should they? For Anna Anthropy, it's not for fame or for profit, but for the strange, aimless beauty of personal creativity." A Dorkbot Chicago event. Enemy, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday, April 5 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 02 2012

Two Cookie and P. Fanatics Team Up!

Two literary series team up for two nights of readers, zines and cookies. Two Cookie Minimum and P Fanatics first mash up is scheduled for Tuesday, April 3. The lineup includes Dan Shapiro, Maggie Ritchie, Laura Szumowski, Dave Snyder, Kieth Rosson (Avow zine from Milwaukee), Jill Summers, and Adam Drent.
Join hosts Mason Johnson and Johnny Misfit. The event will take place at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave. at 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Apr 02 2012

April's Reading Under the Influence Celebrates Gospel Hollow Book Release

On Wednesday April 4, Reading Under the Influence celebrates the book release of one of it's co-founding members, Jesse Jordan. In keeping with its regular format, this month's theme is the name of Jordan's debut novel, Gospel Hollow. Along with Jordan, readers include Jamison Spencer, Joan Friedrich and RUI's most-requested-reader ever, Darwyn Jones.

RUI is always in the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., 7pm, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

News Sun Apr 01 2012

Happy National Poetry Month!

April always brings spring...and National Poetry Month. Today is the first day for you to get involved, go out and celebrate, or just curl up with a chapbook--all in the name of poetry. Poets.org has a ton of ideas and activities--not to mention a national event calendar--to keep you busy with poetry all month long.
Chicago's own Poetry Foundation also has a host of happenings all over the U.S. and right here at home, such as readings, performances of music and poetry, and a Children's Poetry Day. Check it all out here.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Mar 30 2012

The Wilder Life

Wendy McClure's The Wilder Life is taking on new forms, of the paperback and e-book varieties. She's set to appear at Women & Children First at 7:30pm on April 4 to give a reading in honor of the paperback release.

The book is a tribute to Laura Ingalls Wilder of "Little House on the Prairie." In it, McClure writes about striving to glimpse prairie living in the midst of her utterly modern existence. She describes her experiences--churning butter, traversing South Dakota by foot in inclement weather--in search of Laura's, to get a sense of childhood, and particularly girlhood, in Laura's America.

McClure was born in Oak Park and lives in Chicago proper these days. Her writing is nothing if not prolific; her words have appeared in the likes of The New York Times Magazine, The Chicago Sun-Times, and a number of anthologies, including Love Is A Four-Letter Word (Plume), Feed Me (Ballantine) and Sleepaway: Writings on Summer Camp (Riverhead). She's been heard on radio shows, too, including Writers Block Party on WBEZ, and has spoken at literary events at The Chicago Tribune Printers Row Book Festival and StoryStudio Chicago. She has an MFA in poetry from the Iowa Writer's Workshop.

See her wednesday at 5233 N. Clark St., Women & Children First.

Claire Glass

Events Wed Mar 28 2012

The Book: Past, Present and Future @ First United Methodist

Are books-as-physical object going the way of the dinosaur? Or is that an overly alarmist view? Come to First United Methodist Church this Saturday for the lecture "The Book: Past, Present and Future," presented by Anthony Grafton. Grafton is a professor at Princeton, a leading historian of the book, and the author of The Footnote: A Curious History. The lecture is part of the Chicago Humanities Festival. Get tickets here or call (312) 494-9409. First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple, 77 W. Washington St., Saturday, March 31 at 2pm. $10; $5 for teacher and students.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Mar 28 2012

Benjamin Busch @ The Book Cellar

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Friday night the Book Cellar welcomes Benjamin Busch. He'll be signing his new memoir, Dust to Dust, which chronicles his childhood in upstate New York, his time as a Marine in the Iraq War and the deaths of his parents (including his famous father). Author Doug Stanton says "Busch is a brilliant prose stylist for whom every pause counts, a man of three worlds - the heart, the mind, the earth. Dust to Dust is a stunning literary work about this mysterious trinity, and a return to home." Busch is also an indie film director and actor on the TV show "The Wire." The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., Friday, March 30 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Mar 28 2012

Happy Anniversary!

On April 1, Here's the Story will celebrate one year. If you haven't checked them out yet, their anniversary show would be the perfect time to do it! Come to Stage 773 (1225 W Belmont Ave.) Sunday, April 1 (no fooling, we promise), at 7:30 to share some food, some fun, and, of course, some stories. Admission is $5, but if you bring food to participate in the potluck, you get in free. Click here to check out the great line-up of story-tellers they have for you!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Mar 26 2012

Printer's Row Lit Fest, Save the Date

Break out your calendars and save the date for the largest lit event in the city: the Printers Row Lit Fest. Sponsored by the Chicago Tribune, the event celebrating its 28th year, returns June 9-10. This free outdoor festival will span two days, and offers panel discussions, readings, children's programming and more than 200 booksellers from across the country displaying new, used and antiquarian books. Traverse Dearborn Street, from Congress to Polk, from 10am-6pm both days. Programming will be announced in the coming months.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Mar 23 2012

William Blake Goes Gospel

And folk, pop, and country. On Thursday, March 29, at 6pm, the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior) invites you to watch a modern interpretation of William Blake's Songs of Innocence and of Experience, performed by Billy Blake and the Vagabonds. The set will run the gamut from folk, pop, country, and gospel music, so it's a must see! Especially considering attendees will receive a free edition of the April 2012 Poetry magazine and an Edie Fake print of "The Little Vagabond" by William Blake. The event will also celebrate Billy Blake and the Vagabonds release of Billy Blake and the Vagabonds Live in Concert.
Admission is free, and you can save yourself a seat here.

Emily Wong

Book Club Mon Mar 19 2012

Rachel Bertsche Knows How to Make Friends

Unfortunately I speak from experience when I say that it's no picnic making friends in Chicago. And I take comfort in the fact that it's not just this Windy City transplant who's found it rather challenging.

Like me, writer Rachel Bertsche moved to Chicago with an impressive friend-making track record. She discovered, however, that this sprawling city doesn't afford the friendless with easy platonic match making opportunities; you've got to be willing to put in some work. And work she did, embarking on a long line of friend dates--52 to be exact--in search of friendly connection. These stories make up the bulk of her book, MWF Seeking BFF. Berstche will appear at The Open Books Store, located at 213 W. Institute Place, on March 22 at 7pm to read from her book, and discuss her often-hilarious experiences.

Claire Glass

Events Fri Mar 16 2012

Story Week Festival of Writers "Surviving" Another Year

Chicago's literary scene has been on a nonstop bender these last few weeks. But it will be wrapping up shortly with the 16th annual celebration of the Story Week Festival of Writers. Made possible by the efforts of the Columbia College Chicago Fiction Writing Department, the week long event is packed with readings, panels and discussions from March 18 through March 23. All events are free and open to the public with a schedule available on their official website.

StoryWeek.jpgThe festival began as an experiment by Fiction Department Chair Randy Albers. This year's theme, "Surviving the American Dream," will be represented through panels and sessions that aim to provoke discussions focused on the future of creative work. Due to Columbia's efforts to re-prioritize, the future of the festival ironically aligns with this theme.

Two publishing panels will grapple with the state of publishing, and how its future may be shaped by current creative and economic factors. "Text/Image: A Conversation on Seeing Narrative," to be held on March 22, will feature panelistHeidi W. Durrow, author of The Girl Who Fell From the Sky (recently selected as a city-wide read in Portland). Durrow loves the interaction with attendees at festivals like Story Week.

"I've written a story that has excited readers to share their stories," Durrow says. "That was really evident last week when I visited Portland. I am still buzzing from the wonderful and moving stories that people shared with me during my time there." She brings authority to this panel as an author, as well as from her work as co-founder and co-producer of the Mixed Roots Film & Literary Festival.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Mar 14 2012

The Sweet and Sour Poetry Hour @ Let Them Eat Chocolate

Chocolate and poetry--do we need to say any more? On Friday, March 16, The Sweet and Sour Poetry Hour celebrates its third edition with an open mic (starting at 7pm) and special guest performances (starting at 7:30pm), including Kevin "Bam" Smith and D-Nick the Microphone Misfit, at Andersonville's Let Them Eat Chocolate. Bring some of your own poetry, stories, or monologues at 6:30pm to sign up for the 7 open mic slots. Or come at 7pm, buy some delicious chocolate, and settle in for some seriously sweet fun. (Admission is free!)



Emily Wong

Events Fri Mar 09 2012

Rick Perlstein Talks Reagan

Historian and Rolling Stone magazine columnist Rick Perlstein will discuss his upcoming book, The Invisible Bridge: The 1970s and the Rise of Ronald Reagan, on Tuesday, March 13 at 7pm at the Cliff Dwellers Club (200 S. Michigan Ave.).

If you haven't heard of Perlstein from his Rolling Stone column, you may have encountered his op-eds in the New York Times; that, or his highly acclaimed Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America.

The event, part of the Society of Midland Authors programming, will start off at 6pm with a social hour, with complimentary snacks and a cash bar. You don't need to register and admission is free, but the Society will appreciate donations to defray the cost of programs.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Mar 08 2012

Teen Poetry; Poets Talk

Having been to my share of sparsely attended poetry readings where you can hardly hear people over the classic rock blaring in the front of the bar, it's heartening to hear people do get excited about literary events. Two hot tickets this weekend are sold out, but first-come, first-serve tickets will be made available:

This Saturday is the final team competition in the Louder Than A Bomb teen poetry fest. The largest such festival in the world, it was founded in 2001 to bring teens together across racial, gang, and socioeconomic lines through self-expression and community. The Vic, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave., Saturday, March 10 at 6 pm. $20, $10 students.

The Poetry Foundation welcomes playwright Beau O'Reilly and actor John Starrs in The Boho Dance, which imagines a conversation between Walt Whitman and Allen Ginsberg; comedy and entertainment ensues. The Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., Saturday March 10 at 7pm and Sunday, March 11 at 3pm. Free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Mar 08 2012

The Chicago Way Literary Series

The Chicago Way Literary Series will be featuring authors James Finn Garner, writer of Honk, Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko Private Clown Mystery, and Christine Sneed, who wrote Portraits of a Few of the People I've Made Cry. They will be conducting a question and answer session with Don Evans, whose book, Good Money After Bad, you might be familiar with, and Randy Richardson, writer of Lost in the Ivy.

Join James Finn Garner and Christine Sneed at The Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted St., Sunday, Mar 11 at 7pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Thu Mar 08 2012

The Third Annual Chicago Zine Fest this Weekend!

Chicago Zine Fest returns for its third year this weekend, March 9 and 10, with a packed schedule of activities, workshops, discussions and more. The zine exhibition is the weekend's main attraction, and will be held on Saturday from 10am to 6pm in Columbia College's Conaway Center at 1104 S. Wabash Ave. The expo will showcase work from over 200 small press and independent publishers. Demand for such a festival has grown notably, as table registration sold out in 24 hours. Jen Twigg, festival organizer heading up exhibitor coordination explains, "We've had overwhelming support and enthusiasm from the zine community all over the country, from Canada, and even as far away as the UK this year!"

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Friday events kick off at 1pm with a reading and panel discussion sponsored by Columbia College's Silver Tongue reading series. "Our Friday afternoon event will discuss Race, Gender and Sexuality with three amazing women in the self-publishing scene: Anne Elizabeth Moore, Mimi Thi Nguyen and Cristy Road," says Leslie Perrine, an organizer focused on event programming. "We couldn't be more excited!"

Friday night continues with help from two more festival sponsors. There will be a youth reading at 6pm, followed by a 7pm reading with zine exhibitors at 826 CHI, located at 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festivities are capped off with the city's first Zine Olympics (it's exactly like it sounds; there will be rounds of zine related activities such as speed stapling, precision folding, and a medal ceremony), at 9:30pm at Quimby's, located at 1854 W. North Ave.

Saturday welcomes the zine expo with ancillary activities such as a DIY film fest, kids' zine making area, workshops, and panel discussions. "This year, we are excited to offer attendees a chance to preview exhibitors' publications in our Reading / Art Room," says Heather Colby, volunteer coordinator for the festival. "It's a quiet space where they can look through some of the self-published works that are being sold at the event, and view artwork created by zine fest participants."

The festival has something for everyone. All events are free, open to the public and wheelchair accessible. All Friday readings and the panel will have ASL interpretation.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Mar 06 2012

Reading Under The Influence, Story Week and One Book Collaboration

With all the literary events going on in March, it should be Chicago's unofficial Literary Awareness Month. On Wednesday, March 7, settle down with one of the city's premier reading series, Reading Under the Influence. Their March event partners with Columbia College's Story Week Festival of Writers and Chicago Public Library's One Book program.

Featured readers are all Columbia College Fiction Writing department faculty and staff. Writers showcasing original include Fiction Writing Chair Randy Albers, along with professors Eric May and Ann Hemenway. The department's secretary Nicole Chakalis will read a selection from this year's chosen "One Book" Gold Boy, Emerald Girl by Yiyun Li.

As a bonus, anyone presenting a Chicago Public Library card will receive a copy of the One Book selection. Don't have a card? Bring proof of residency and sign up for one at the event (and then get a copy of the book).

RUI is always in the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., 7pm, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Mar 05 2012

Two Cookie Minimum All Zinester Reading

Just in time for Chicago Zine Fest, the Two Cookie Minimum reading series is back, Tuesday March 6, with an all zinester reading. Zinesters will be showcasing new works, before the zine fest. Featured zinesters include Jonathon Cannon, Liz Baudler, Nicole Baiel, Carrie Colpitts, Dave Roche, and Eric Bartholomew.

As always, the event boasts free cookies for all. Stop by Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave. at 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Mar 01 2012

One Chapter Closes

As the new biannual Chicagoan magazine gains steam, editor-in-chief J. C. Gabel shuts a door: to the former Stop Smiling storefront. As founder of the late Stop Smiling magazine (and current publisher of Stop Smiling Books), Gabel hosts one last hurrah in the the space at 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave., starting at 7:30 on March 2.

Poets Jill Magi, Amaranth Borsul, and Michael Robbins; fiction writers Danielle Dutton and Justin Taylor; photographer Erica Baum; and more present work in which "they re-envision the form of 'the book' itself."

But that isn't all, promises Gabel: "Dance party afterward."

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Feb 29 2012

AWP Off Site Event: Literature Party

Chicago's lit scene lets it all hang out for an AWP inspired event aptly titled the Literature Party. The event is a collaboration by multiple people, and benefits Young Chicago Authors.

"Not sure who deserves mastermind credit," says host Zach Dodson co-publisher of Featherproof books, "but the Literature Party last year was cooked up by Gene Morgan from HTMLGiant, Adam Robinson from Publishing Genius, myself, and a bunch of help from all of our sponsors."

Last year the event took place at AWP in Washington DC, and in keeping with its mission, benefited local literacy programs. "We cut a big check to 826DC, and this year Young Chicago Authors was chosen because what they do here in town for kids and literacy is just plain awesome," says Dodson.

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The event is what you would expect; it's a mix of readings, performances and a huge party.

"The idea is to have fun, with awesome writers and publishers, to dance a lot, and not worry about much else," says Dodson.

There are scheduled readings by Tim Kinsella, Dorothea Lasky, Mary Miller, and a shadow puppet show by Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood set to text by Jesse Ball. As for the party side of things, the event kicks off with an opening DJ set by James Yeh and Lincoln Michel of Gigantic, and a closing dance party by Matt Roan. Lindsay Hunter, of Quickies reading series, will share hosting duties with Dodson.

Join the party Friday March 2, 8pm at Lincoln Hall 2424 N. Lincoln Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 29 2012

An Evening With The Sun

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This Saturday, Sy Safransky, founder and editor of The Sun magazine, will be reading at The Heartland Cafe in Rogers Park along with authors Poe Ballantine, Krista Bremer and Cheryl Strayed. The Sun is an independent, ad-free magazine that has been around for more than 30 years. Author Bill McKibben says, "[it] is the most real of magazines, a monthly reminder that everyone has a story to tell and a voice to tell it in;" the Utne Reader says "whether it's a lusty paean to a writer's fat lover or reflections on 21st century feminism, there's always something delightful to read in The Sun." The Heartland Cafe, 7000 N. Glenwood Ave., Saturday, March 3 at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 29 2012

One Book, One Chicago: Gold Boy, Emerald Girl

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This week the Chicago Public Library announces the latest One Book, One Chicago selection: Gold Boy, Emerald Girl by Yiyun Li. Of the collection of nine short stories set in China between the 1970s and the present, author Francine Prose says, "Yiyun Li's tenderness toward her characters, her respect for the richness of their lives, and the subtlety and gentle humor with which she portrays them make the experience of reading Gold Boy, Emerald Girl consistently heartening." One Book, One Chicago events will commence in April, so you've got plenty of time to read. Highlights include a book discussion with Li and Achy Obejas at the Harold Washington Library on April 19, a tour of Chinatown with the Chinese Cultural Institute, and an exhibit of artwork inspired by the book by Chicago area high school students. For a complete list of events, click here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 29 2012

AWP Off Site Event: There Will Be Quickies

As part of the humungous literary convergence that is AWP, local reading series Quickies teams up with Orlando, Florida based reading series There Will be Words on March 2. The "Chicago meets Orlando" connection was fostered by Quickies host and author Lindsey Hunter who is a transplant from Orlando. There Will Be Words is an outlet for Orlando's Burrow Press.

"I had participated in Burrow Press's 15 Views of Orlando," says Hunter, "a point of pride as I hail from Orlando. That's how I got to know Ryan Rivas, who runs BP. We just started planning a show with the idea that it'd be like "Chicago meets Orlando."

Quickes fosters flash fiction with its formula, allowing readers only 4 minutes to perform. The time limit is maintained by the hosts who blow a whistle to emphasis this. Mary Hamilton, the other force behind Quickies, moved to LA this past fall, but returns to reprise her roll manning the whistle. Joining them will be TWBW host Jesse Bradley.

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"We chose the readers to rep Quickies by trying to select writers who make us proud to be in Chicago," Hunter says. "We also wanted to include Natalie Edwards and Jill Summers, as they are Chicagoans who hail from Central Florida."

The rest of lineup includes: Jocelyn Bartkevicius, Andy Farkas, Kirsten Holt, Samantha Irby, Jonathan Kosik, David James Poissant, Joseph Rippi, Jess Stoner, and Chris Terry.
As a supplement, Burrow Press will release a chapbook including pieces from all the readers, available at the reading for $5.

With some many other events happening, the event begins early at 3pm in School of the Art Institute Chicago Ballroom, 112 South Michigan Avenue.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Feb 28 2012

A Doctor's Birthday Party

In the land of Chicago, a bookstore does lie,
Where well-loved Pollans and Austens and Terkels sit by.

But of course, don't forget, Geisel lives here too,
In picture books and poetry and a Truffula or two.

Who's Geisel, you ask? The answer may surprise.
He's no gyno or derma or doc for the eyes.

But a doctor, he is! A doctor called Seuss,
And his birth we will cheer while his books go vamoose.

For wee ones and older, the bookstore will rock.
With coloring, crafts, and readings, no crock.

On Saturday, March 3, from noon to four,
Stop by Open Books bookstore, located at 213 W. Institute Pl., for the man we adore.
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Ruthie Kott

Events Tue Feb 28 2012

AWP Off Site Event: Fiction Feed Chicago Edition

Steilstra.jpgFinding local flavor in any of the AWP events this weekend isn't hard. On Thursday, March 1, check out the Fiction Feed reading sponsored by Dzanc Books and Joyland Press, spotlighting local writer and 2nd Story collaborator Megan Stielstra.

Stielstra speaks on what it's like to be part of a small press (Joyland released her short story collection Everyone Remain Calm), reading in Chicago, and her thoughts and excitement surrounding the conference.

Your story collection came out on Joyland, which provides a home to short fiction. How has it been working with them?

I was a long time fan of Joyland and its mission to promote short fiction, and I love how they have an editorial staff across Northern America -- so much diverse, delicious new stuff to read that really challenges me as a writer, and as a human being, too. The best stories do that, I think.

Continue reading this entry »

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Feb 27 2012

The Bears, the Cubs...the Writers?

This Wednesday, February 29, on the eve of the 2012 AWP conference, come watch Monster Mags of the Midwest: Reading II, right across from Wrigley Field. Mary Biddinger, Brock Clarke, Matthew Gavin Frank, Keith Lee Morris, Michael Robins, and Laura Van den Berg will celebrate the start of AWP by doing a fiction and poetry reading at Murphy's Bleachers (3655 N. Sheffield Ave.) from 7-10pm. Admission is free, but you have to pay for your own hot dogs and beer...

Emily Wong

Events Mon Feb 27 2012

Chattengers Book Club Gets Magical

Challengers Comics hosts a monthly graphic novel book club called Chattingers (lending meaning to their name). On February 29, the book will be Neil Gaiman's Books of Magic. Join attendees in a discussion of the work. Stop by the store and pick up a copy before the event, then show up at 8pm to Challengers Comics + Conversation, located at 1845 N. Western Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Sat Feb 25 2012

Historian Michael Beschloss at Columbia College

Author and historian Michael Beschloss will speak at Columbia College (Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash Ave., eighth floor) on Thursday, March 8 at 7pm. This free and public lecture will close out Columbia's Conversations in the Arts 2011-2012 series (now in its eighth year), which this season has focused on issues prevalent in the liberal arts and sciences curriculum. Previous speakers in this year's series were writer Gloria Steinem and political commentator Donna Brazile.

Beschloss, "a preeminent historian and wonderful speaker," said Eric Winston, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Columbia, will speak on presidential courage — what it is, and which presidents have made "courageous" decisions. Author of nine books on American presidents — covering topics such as Lyndon Johnson's secret tapes and JFK and the Cold War — Beschloss, a Chicago native, has also served as NBC News presidential historian and as a commentator for "PBS NewsHour."

The event will be moderated by WBEZ's Steve Edwards — journalist, interviewer and host of "Afternoon Shift," a daily conversation about news, culture and ideas.

While the event is free and open to the public, a reservation is still recommended.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Sat Feb 25 2012

TallGrass Writers Guild Open Mic @ The Bourgeois Pig

The TallGrass Writers Guild is hosting an open mic with Charlotte Hart Tuesday, February 28, at 7:30pm at The Bourgeois Pig (738 W. Fullerton Ave., use the right-hand doorway). For $6 ($5 for students), you can captivate the audience with your poetry, fiction, non-fiction, etc.

Emily Wong

Events Sat Feb 25 2012

Lowell Thompson @ Harold Washington Library

A creative influence in the African-American community, Lowell Thompson was the first African-American hired in advertising after Martin Luther King was assassinated in 1968. His activism in the African-American community did not begin until the 90's when he published his first book, WHITEFOLKS: Seeing America Through Black Eyes. He is now discussing his latest novel, African Americans in Chicago.

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Come see Lowell Thompson read and discuss his novel on Tuesday, Feb 28 @ 6pm at the Harold Washington Library, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Thu Feb 23 2012

AWP 2012 Conference Kick-off Party


Help kick-off AWP 2012 at the official party held at the Empty Bottle (1035 W Western Ave.). Starting at 8pm, enjoy readings and music and more for free! All you have to do is RSVP: email rsvp@emptybottle.com with "AWP Party" in the subject line and your full name in the body of email. If you forget, it'll cost you $8.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Feb 22 2012

AWP 2012 Is on its Way!

If you haven't heard of the Association of Writers & Writers Programs (AWP), then you're going to get a big surprise as people from all over flood the city next week for the 2012 AWP annual conference. Celebrating authors, teachers, writing programs, literary centers, and small press publishers, the conference has hundreds of presentations that range from readings and lectures, to dances and informal gatherings. Registration for all AWP site events is now closed; however, there are plenty of literary off-site events to attend. Check out the off-site event schedule and start freeing up your calendar!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Feb 20 2012

Open Mic @ Nothin' Less Cafe

Logan Square coffee house Nothin' Less Cafe hosts an open mic for poets and acoustic musicians, this Wednesday and every Wednesday. Jose Isael Gonzalez and resident poet Luis Tubens host. Nothin' Less Cafe, 2642 N. Milwaukee Ave., February 22, 8:30-10pm. Donations accepted.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Feb 20 2012

How To Be Black Release Party @ The Hideout

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This Thursday at The Hideout is the Chicago release party for Baratunde Thurston's How To Be Black. Part memoir, part tongue-in-cheek self-help guide, Publisher's Weekly calls it "a hilarious blend of razor-sharp satire and memoir;" Fast Company calls it "an assault on nostalgia - a satirical, biographical attack on the idea that 'blackness' or any label should be derived from historical description." Thurston inhabited many worlds growing up. He attended D.C.'s prestigious Sidwell Friends School (whose alumnae include Chelsea Clinton and the Obama girls) while at home he watched his friends turn from delivering Domino's pizza to dealing drugs almost overnight. He later attended Harvard and is now the Onion's digital director, a standup comedian and the co-founder of Jack and Jill Politics. The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, Thursday, February 24 at 7pm. $8 cover.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Mon Feb 20 2012

Read/Write Library Chicago Open Mic Reading

On Thursday, February 23rd, the Read/Write Library Chicago is hosting its first Open Mic Reading (hopefully an ongoing event)! Reader slot will be signed up on a first-come-first-serve basis. Prose, Essays, Poetry and the like are welcome. Time per reader is 7 minutes. The event begins at 7pm and will go through 9:30pm, depending on how many readers come out (that means you!). Light refreshments will be provided. The event is free so stop by the Read/Write Library's new space at 914 N. California.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Feb 20 2012

Book Signing and Discussion with Nathan Englander

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Photo by Juliana Sohn
On Monday, Feb. 27 at 6pm, Nathan Englander (internationally acclaimed author of The Ministry of Special Cases) will discusses his latest collection of short stories, What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank, at the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.).

"These eight stories display Englander grappling with the great questions of modern life, with a command of language and the imagination that place him at the forefront of contemporary American fiction."

The event is free and no registration is required, but keep in mind that seating is on a first come, first serve basis.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Fri Feb 17 2012

Poetry, Quadraphonic Sound and Shadow Puppets

It's been in the making for a year, and you'll probably want to see it. And hear it.

FJORDS, a multi-media collaboration between a poet, a composer, musicians and puppet artists, will premiere at Chicago's Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.) on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 7pm — and tickets are only $10. The show will only be here four nights, so don't wait too long.

Kyle Vegter, the composer, tells the story of how this meeting of the minds — and mediums — came to be.

"It was basically a series of things all coming together at exactly the right time." Vegter happened to pick up a copy of one of Portland transplant, poet Zach Schomburg's, books: From the Fjords. "His poems really resonated with me. They are emotionally devastating in a beautiful and nuanced way, he fits so much into a paragraph of poetry. I couldn't put his book down."

It was already in his mind to do something with these poems when he was contacted by Ellen McSweeney, a violinist for the Chicago Q Ensemble, about collaborating with him and Manual Cinema — who, if you haven't heard, are the masterminds behind last summer's ADA/AVA, a shadow puppet show unlike anything you've ever seen.

That is, of course, until now.

The path to the finished FJORDS project turned out to be a reverse of how Vegter and Manual Cinema have collaborated in the past. This time, instead of crafting the music to accompany an already-made visual performance, the puppets came last.

Vegter wrote a series of short musical pieces for the Q Ensemble, each inspired by one of Schomburg's poems — 15 all told. The recorded music was then passed along to the puppeteers, who, on the basis of both the poems and the music based on them, created "the visual world."

By "picking out motifs and creating character maps," the puppeteers — through overhead projectors, human silhouette and manipulated video — tell the story of "a young man through haunting surrealist landscapes as he struggles with work, family, love, and what would kill him."

Each show will begin with Schomburg, who will read through the adapted poems before the cinematic shadow puppetry begins — not your standard poetry-reading fare. "The visual, musical, and experiential approaches to poetry combined to make something wholly new — something that went far beyond the typical poetry reading," said Stephanie M. Hlywak, media director for the Poetry Foundation. "These kind of creative partnerships — ones in which artists forge bold new interpretations of poetry — reinvigorate the art form and help bring it to new audiences."

If you can't wait to get one at the show, you can pre-order Schomburg's book FJORDS, which won't be officially released until March 1 at the Association of Writers and Writing Programs conference. Get the hardcover and you'll also get a CD featuring music from the performance.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Wed Feb 15 2012

Poetry Out Loud Finals @ the Poetry Foundation

Starting at 10am this Friday, February 17, Chicago high school students who made it to the Regional Poetry Out Loud finals will compete for a chance to go all the way to the National finals in Washington DC in May. The event is free and will be held at the Poetry Foundation (61 W Superior). It is also open to the public, with standby tickets opening up an hour before the start time. Come support the students as they flex their mental memorization and recitation muscles!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Feb 14 2012

Jane Austen Night @ the Book Cellar

If your Mr. Darcy let you down this Valentine's Day, take some solace in this Book Cellar's Jane Austen-themed evening this Thursday. The evening will feature Karen Doornebos (Definitely Not Mr. Darcy) and Mona Scheuermann (Reading Jane Austen). The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., Thursday, February 16 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 14 2012

Award-Winning Poetry @ Women and Children First

This Thursday, poets Jessica Savitz (Hunting Is Painting) and Catherine Theis (The Fraud of Good Sleep) read at Women and Children First. Both are Iowa Writers' Workshop alums; Theis' book won the 2011 Cranshaw Prize and Savitz won the Madeleine P. Plonsker Emerging Writer's Residency Prize. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Thursday, February 16 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Author Tue Feb 14 2012

David Ansell@Revolution Books

David Ansell author of County: Life, Death andcounty-hospital-david-ansell.png Politics at Chicago's Public Hospital will be at Revolution Books. David Ansell is on the Board of Directors for the Cook County Health System, and was once training as a doctor at Cook County Hospital where he was exposed to the injustices of racial inequality of the uninsured. Ansell will discuss his novel about what he and other doctors witnessed at Cook County Hospital.

Listen to David Ansell on Thursday, Feb 16 @ 7pm at Revolution Books, 1103 N. Ashland Ave.

Julie Zarlenga

Author Tue Feb 14 2012

Speakout: God vs. Gay@Center on Halsted

Activist Jay Michaelson, author of Godmichaelson118r.jpg vs. Gay? The Religious Case for Equality will be reading and discussing his novel. Founder of Nehirim: GLBT Jewish Culture and Spirituality, Michaelson was a professor at Yale University, and is an advocate for LGBT equality in religion.

Join Jay Michaelson in a discussion and reading on Thursday, Feb 16 @ 7pm at the Center on Halsted, Hoover-Leppen Theatre, 3656 N. Halsted St. There will be a $5 suggested donation.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Sun Feb 12 2012

Get in the Mood

Wanna spice up your Monday? Check out the annual Erotica Exotica Poetica open mic at Weeds (1555 N. Dayton) tomorrow, February 13, starting at 10pm. Gregorio Gomez hosts as poets bring their "most sexiest, seductive, sensual, and orgasmic poetry" to read to (and turn on) the audience. Admission and parking are free, but it's 21+ only! (IDs will be checked.)

Emily Wong

Events Sat Feb 11 2012

Granta Magazine Reading with Chinelo Okparanta & Nami Mun

Last night at the Women & Children First bookstore, Chinelo Okparanta and Nami Mun read from their work, and conducted a question & answer session afterward. Despite the wintery weather, a good sized crowd made it out to hear the authors read. The authors were reading to promote famed British magazine Granta. Chinelo Okparanta, a graduate from the Iowa Writers Workshop, and a professor at Iowa University, read from her story "America" in Granta's 2012 Winter edition titled "Exit Strategies." Nami Mun, a professor at Columbia College in Chicago, who's story, "The Anniversary" is in Granta's 2011 Spring issue titled, "Aliens." Nami decided to read from her 2008 novel Miles from Nowhere from a chapter called "At the Employment Agency."
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Chinelo Okparanta

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Nami Mun

Aspiring writers from Columbia College, where Nami Mun is a professor, and a few from Iowa, where Chinelo Okparanta teaches at Iowa University, asked the authors questions pertaining to plot line, inspiration, being put into a category, and how to know where to end a novel. When answering the questions, both authors showed their difference in style, and writing process. Chinelo Okparanta starts with a location first, while Nami Mun starts with the characters. But, the commonality they share is their enjoyment for writing, which is what keeps them writing.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Feb 08 2012

Urban Sandbox @ Comfort Station

This Friday is the Urban Sandbox poetry reading at Comfort Station featuring Kevin Coval, No Se (Team Westinghouse) and hosted by Dan "Sully" Sullivan. Comfort Station Logan Square, 2579 N. Milwaukee, Friday, February 10 at 7:30pm. All ages, $5 cover.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 08 2012

Sarah Becan Releases Graphic Novel Shuteye @ Challengers

Challengers Comics hosts yet another great event for the release party of Sarah Becan's Shuteye Saturday, February 11th. Becan's new graphic novel will be available for purchase, with the opportunity to get it signed. Challengers will provide some beer and wine for those 21 and over as well as snacks for all. Join the party 6pm, Challengers Comics + Conversation, 1845 N Western Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 08 2012

Granta Magazine@Women & Children First

1326448813340.jpgPrestiges British magazine Granta will be featuring it's 2012 Winter issue "Exit Strategies" at Women & Children First bookstore. Reading from their work will be Chinelo Okparanta, and Nami Mun. Chinelo Okparanta studied at the Iowa Writer's Workshop and her work is featured in Granta's Winter issue. Nami Mun is the award winning author of Miles From Nowhere, and a professor at Columbia College in Chicago.

Come see Chinelo Okparanta and Nami Mun read as part of Granta magazine's debue of their Winter issue. The event will be held at Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Friday, Feb 10 @ 7:30pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Mon Feb 06 2012

Mahmoud Saeed @ The Book Cellar

images.jpgIraqi novelist, and instructor at De Paul University, Mahmoud Saeed will be reading from his latest novel, The World Through the Eyes of Angels at The Book Cellar. Mahmoud Saeed has written over 20 novels, among them, Saddam City.

Join Mahmoud Saeed at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave, Wednesday, Feb 8 @ 7pm.

Julie Zarlenga / Comments (2)

Events Mon Feb 06 2012

Cliff Dwellers Discuss Romance

On Valentine's Day, the Cliff Dwellers Club (a series of discussions sponsored by the Society of Midland Authors) will have local romance novelists Jennifer Stevenson, Sherrill Bodine and Patricia Rosemoor talk about their craft.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Feb 06 2012

Author's Ben Marcus and Sam Lipsyte at SAIC

This Tuesday February 7th, attend the the School of the Art Institute's Spring 2012 Visiting Artists Program series as they invite authors Sam Lipsyte and Ben Marcus. Both will be reading, followed by Q&A. Books will be on hand for purchase and possibly signing. The event begins at 6pm in the Columbus Auditorium, 280 South Columbus Drive.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Feb 02 2012

Myopic Poetry Series: Catherine Theis & Rebecca Lehmann

Get some poetry in before the Super Bowl with the Myopic Poetry Series. Resident Chicagoan and author of The Fraud of Good Sleep, Catherine Theis, will be joined by Rebecca Lehmann author of Between the Crackups, to read their poetry.

Listen to Catherine Theis and Rebecca Lehmann read at Myopic Books, 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave, Saturday, Feb 4@7pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Feb 01 2012

Damian Serbu @ Women and Children First

Friday night, Women and Children First welcomes local author Damian Serbu ("the Anne Rice of gay horror"). He'll be reading from his newest The Vampire's Quest: Book II in the Vampire's Angel Series. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Friday, February 3 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 01 2012

Be A World Book Night Giver

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There's still time to sign up for World Book Night! A volunteer event designed to get more people reading, World Book Night was started last year in the U.K. and has expanded this year to include the U.S. Not your typical clutter-clearing donation, the idea is to distribute specific, hand-picked books they think more people should read. To participate, you apply and agree to distribute 20 copies of your promised book (don't worry, they'll hook you up; "there is no charge for these special, not for resale editions"). Then, on April 23, 2012 (the UNESCO International Day of the Book), World Book Day ambassadors go forth in their communities to distribute the books to "non or light readers." The deadline to participate has been extended to February 6; click here to apply.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 01 2012

Chicago Zine Fest Fundraiser with Punk Rock Karaoke

On February 3rd, Chicago Zine Fest is holding its last fundraiser before the fest. They team up with Punk Rock Karaoke Chicago, who bring DIY music to a one of a kind karaoke experience. The co-hosts will be Johnny Misfit and Mason Johnson.

The event begins at 9pm at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago. 21+. There is a $5 cover which goes to the zine fest.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Feb 01 2012

AWP Off Site Event: There Will Be Quickies

As part of the humungous literary convergence that is AWP, on March 2nd local reading series Quickies teams up with Orlando, Florida based reading series There Will be Words. The "Chicago meets Orlando" connection was fostered by Quickies host and author Lindsey Hunter who is a transplant from Orlando. There Will Be Words is an outlet for Orlando's Burrow Press.

"I had participated in Burrow Press's 15 Views of Orlando," says Hunter," a point of pride as I hail from Orlando. That's how I got to know Ryan Rivas, who runs BP. We just started planning a show with the idea that it'd be like "Chicago meets Orlando."

The format that Quickies follows is one that fosters flash fiction, allowing readers only 4 minutes to perform. The time limit is maintained by the hosts who blow a whistle to emphasis this. Mary Hamilton, the other force behind Quickies, moved to LA this past fall, but returns to reprise her roll manning the whistle. Joining them will be TWBW host Jesse Bradley.

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"We chose the readers to rep Quickies by trying to select writers who make us proud to be in Chicago. We also wanted to include Natalie Edwards and Jill Summers, as they are Chicagoans who hail from Central Florida," says Hunter.

The rest of lineup includes: Jocelyn Bartkevicius, Andy Farkas, Kirsten Holt, Samantha Irby, Jonathan Kosik, David James Poissant, Joseph Rippi, Jess Stoner, and Chris Terry.
As a supplement, Burrow Press will release a chapbook including pieces from all the readers, available at the reading for $5.

With some many other events happening, the event begins early at 3pm in School of the Art Institute Chicago Ballroom, 112 South Michigan Avenue.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jan 30 2012

Reading Under the Influence: Time for Mardi Gras

Reading Under the Influence aims to celebrate Mardi Gras at their February reading (the first of 2012). On Wednesday, February 1, readings will feature Patricia Ann McNair (author of The Temple of Air), Seth Alexander (writer and religious scholar), Quinn Stephens (writer and animator of Laser Dragon University) and Kyle Chaney (a RUI co-host). The month's theme will be "carnival", just in time for Fat Tuesday.

Stop in to at the back-back room at Sheffield's, located at 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. 7pm with a $3 cover.


John Wawrzaszek

Events Sun Jan 29 2012

Lori Andrews @ Harold Washington Library

Lori Andrews, Professor of Law at Kent College in Chicago, and advocate for internet privacy rights, will be at the Harold Washington Library as part of their free Author Series. Andrews will be discussing and signing her book I Know Who You Are and I Saw What You Did: Social Networks and the Death of Privacy.

Come meet Lori Andrews at Harold Washington Library, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St., Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 6pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Fri Jan 27 2012

Write Club Presents Races Wars

Write Club is back with its 22nd chapter, titled "Race Wars." For those who don't know, Write Club is a reading series that pits contestants against each other with competing assigned themes. There are three bouts, each seven minutes long. The audience votes on the winner. Oh, and all proceeds go to charities of winner's choosing. You're intrigued.

Race Wars bouts include Black by host Ian Belknap vs. White by Samantha Irby, Gay by Mairead Case vs. Straight by Whit Nelson, and Cat by Daniel Shapiro vs. Dog by Natalie Edwards. Write Club is on Tuesday, January 31st, at 7pm, at the Hideout 1354 W. Wabansia. $8 at the door; 21+

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 26 2012

Two Cookie Minimum Reading Series Year One

Two Cookie Minimum returns in 2012 with a lineup of readers culled from the laundry list of guests that appeared at the series in 2011. There's a mix of zinesters and writers, featuring
Lara Levitan, Carrie Colpitts (my aim is true zine), Tom Lynch, Georgi Johnson (cursive zine), and Jim Joyce (or let it sink zine).

The event is back at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., at 9pm. As always, there will be cookies.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 26 2012

The Chicago Way Gets a Lesson in Style

The Chicago Way literary series is at it again Sunday, Jan. 29. They change up gears a bit, shifting from crime to romance and style. Guests include romance novelist Sherrill Bodine and woman-about-town Candace Jordan discussing writing about Chicago society.

Audience participation is encouraged during a Q&A session. Stick around after the discussion for an opportunity to purchase books and get them signed. The discussion takes place in the back room of the The Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted St., at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 25 2012

Quimby's 24 Hour Zine Challenge Reading

Quimby's bookstore is celebrating the results of their 24 Hour Zine Challenge with a reading from those who participated in this momentous occasion. Zinesters and artists will read from work they completed or began during the zine challenge. Stop by the store Saturday January 28th at 7pm. Quimby's is located at 1854 W. North Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 25 2012

Four Monologues @ Poetry Foundation

Four Monologues is an excerpt from author and poet Aram Saroyan's play, The Laws of Light, done as a staged reading. Taking place at the Poetry Foundation (61 W Superior) tonight at 7pm, the reading coincides with a letterpress book release. The artist's book edition was created by students in the Book and Paper Arts MFA program at Columbia College Chicago. Reserve your spot here or call (312) 787-7070.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Jan 24 2012

Poem Present: Ben Lerner@University of Chicago

LernerBcrop_0.jpgThe University of Chicago's Poem Present Reading and Lecture Series is welcoming poet Ben Lerner. The university familiarizes students, and the community with poets and their work. Since 2001 they have been giving the students the chance to direct questions to the poets regarding their work, as well as the contemporary poetry scene.

Ben Lerner will be sharing his poetry and conducting a question and answer session. This event is free and is open to the general public. It will be held on Thursday, Jan. 26 at 4:30pm at the University of Chicago in Rosenwald Hall 405, 1101 E. 58th St.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Tue Jan 24 2012

Introducing...the Poets of 2012!

Northwestern MFA graduates, poets Christine Pacyk and Lana Rakhman, will receive a grand introduction by established poets Ron Gibbons and Simone Muench at a reading and reception this Friday, January 27, at the Stop Smiling storefront (1371 N Milwaukee Ave)at 7pm. Admission is free, so come congratulate the new grads!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Jan 23 2012

Daniel Handler @ Barnes and Noble

This Wednesday, Daniel Handler (a.k.a. Lemony Snicket) signs his new young adult novel Why We Broke Up at the Skokie Barnes and Noble. Illustrator Maira Kalman will also be there. The novel tells the story of a breakup from a teenage girl's point of view. The L.A. Times says "it's easy to predict how Handler's story will conclude from the book's few pages. It's more difficult to take such an everyday tragedy with a predictable ending and elevate it to an end point of enduring, emotionally effective art." Barnes and Noble, 55 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, Wednesday, January 25 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jan 23 2012

Celebrating Big Bill Broonzy on the South Side

This Wednesday, Bob Riesman presents I Feel So Good: The Life and Times of Big Bill Broonzy. The Chicago Tribune says "[Broonzy] was one of the most celebrated blues artists of his era, a visionary Chicago singer-songwriter who mentored Muddy Waters, introduced the music to Europe and inspired no less than Eric Clapton, Ray Davies and Pete Townshend (as they've all acknowledged). Broonzy has been virtually forgotten by the popular culture he helped shape...which is why an important new book, I Feel So Good: The Life and Times of Big Bill Broonzy, comes not a moment too soon." Singer/songwriter Chris Walz will be on hand to play Broonzy's music. Chicago Public Library, Blackstone branch, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave., Wednesday, January 25 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jan 23 2012

James C. Hormel@The Book Cellar

Fit-to-Serve-cover.jpgJoin human rights advocate, and former U.S. Ambassador James C. Hormel as he reads from his new memoir Fit to Serve: Reflections on a Secret Life, Private Struggle, and Public Battle to Become the First Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador.

Hormel will be at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave, Wednesday, Jan 25 at 7pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Mon Jan 23 2012

SHHHHHHH The Second Story tells Secrets

The always interesting 2nd Story keeps going with their 2011-12 season Know Thyself with a reading January 26th themed Shhhh! Don't Tell: Stories of Secrets. That might mean skeletons in the closet, love affairs or anything that is too taboo to mention. The idea will be presented by storytellers Megan Stielstra, Margaret Marion, Rebecca Anderson, and Darwyn Jones. Get a glass of wine and settle down at 7pm at In Fine Spirits 5418-5420 N. Clark st.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 19 2012

Best New Poets 2011@The Book Cellar

bnp2011.jpgCome see to the Best New Poets 2011 anthology as they release their latest edition and give readings of their work. The poets attending the event will be Brittany Cavallaro, Natalie Giarratano, Virginia Konchan, Nancy Reddy, and David Welch.

To see the release of this anthology come to The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave, Saturday, Jan 21 @ 7pm.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Wed Jan 18 2012

Windy City Queer @ Gerber/Hart Library

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Also tomorrow night, Gerber/Hart Library in Edgewater presents readings from the anthology Windy City Queer: LGBTQ Dispatches From the Third Coast. Editor Kathie Bergquist will be joined by contributors Karen Lee Osborne, Aldo Alvarez, Gerard Wozek, Deb Lewis and Emma Vosikey. Author Michelle Tea says "I'm so into so many of the writers in this smart collection, and at the end of it have a whole new gang of funny-deep-weird-brainy authors to get obsessed with. So many ways to be queer plus so many ways to be a writer - all are indulged and investigated against the constant hum of Chicago and its singular Midwestern urbanism." Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, Ave., Thursday, January 19 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 18 2012

Lori B. Andrews @ The Book Stall

Tomorrow night author Lori B. Andrews presents I Know Who You Are and I Saw What You Did: Social Networks and the Death of Privacy at the Book Stall at Chestnut Court. Kirkus Reviews says "Unnerving narrative about the misuse of personal online information - without our knowledge - to track, judge and harm us in innumerable aspects of our lives. ...Authoritative, important reading for policymakers and an unnerving reminder that anything you post can and will be used against you." The Book Stall at Chestnut Court, 811 Elm Street, Winnetka, Thursday, January 19 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 18 2012

Two With Water's New Years Resolutions

Two With Water reading series starts the new year focusing on the resolutions we all attempt so early in the year. Their theme on January 22nd will be Resolved. Readers include James Kennedy, JW Basilo, Maggie Ritchie, Brandon Will, Mason Johnson, and Aubrey Scheffey.

The event starts at 7pm with an open-mic sign up at the Beauty Bar 1444 W Chicago Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jan 17 2012

Gumbo Fiction Salon with Libby Fischer Hellman

This Thursday, January 19th, the Gumbo Fiction Salon, a multi-genre story stew (hence the name), welcomes Chicago crime fiction and thriller author Libby Fischer Hellman. There is an open mic sign up for ten minute spots.

This series meets on the third Thursday of every month, 7pm upstairs at the Galway Arms Irish Pub, at 2442 N. Clark. $4 entrance fee, $2 for students.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jan 16 2012

Literati Networking Event

"Write the book that gets you out of bed to write, and keeps you up at night to write."

So advises Ben LeRoy, publisher of Tyrus Books and F+W Crime. LeRoy will be making the trip from Madison in a few short weeks to attend Chicago's third Literati event - and to hit up the Love is Murder mystery conference, to boot.

The Chicago Literati will gather once more on February 2, from 6-9pm at the Hidden Shamrock (2723 N. Halsted), thanks to Dana Kaye, who doesn't want writing to be more solitary than it has to.

LeRoy remembers meeting Kaye six or seven years ago — back when he used to run Bleak House Books — at another Love is Murder conference. "Many Chicago writers were at that conference. It was a bonding of what is now the young lions of the Chicago crime fiction scene."

And the Chicago literary scene, in general, has kept him and many others coming back. "There's a working ethic to the literary scene in Chicago, and there's a realness that's missing in much [literature and media]. Chicago is more grounded and rooted in its fiction and nonfiction. It all feels much more human and tangible to me. Chicago is the everyman."

At this next installment of Kaye's networking events, LeRoy looks forward not only to continuing the bond among his fellow creatives, but also to see what stories he can find. "I'm big on getting pockets of the country that are completely unrepresented. Part of my mission is to really capture what it is to be alive in fly-over country. There is really so much life to be lived here."

In addition to LeRoy, also in attendance will be:

— Jon and Ruth Jordan - Co-founders and editors of Crimespree Magazine, a publication dedicated to the mystery genre
Sherrill Bodine - author of All I Want Is You and other contemporary romances set in Chicago

Details:
Thursday, February 2
6-9pm
The Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted
$15 in advance/$20 at the door
Free appetizers, and cash bar with drink specials

And the first 30 people who register get an all-coveted swag bag.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Mon Jan 16 2012

First Ever Book Of The Year Awards

This past Saturday, The Book Cellar hosted the Chicago Writers Association's first ever Book of the Year Awards. Winners of the award were Krista August for Giants in the Park: A Guide to Portrait Statues in Chicago's Lincoln Park.

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Krista August

Pamela Ferdinand, Carey Goldberg, and Beth Jones won for their novel Three Wishes: A True Story of Good Friends, Crushing Heartbreak, and Astonishing Luck on our Way to Love and Motherhood.

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Pamela Ferdinand

James Finn Garner won for his novel Honk, Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko, Private Clown Mystery.

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James Finn Garner

Christine Sneed won for her novel Portraits of a Few of the People I've Made Cry.

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Christine Sneed

The ceremony started with a speech from the president of the Chicago Writer's Association, Randy Richardson. The awards were then presented and each author read an excerpt from their novel. Afterwards, the authors signed their books for their fans.

Julie Zarlenga

Events Fri Jan 13 2012

Chicago Writers Association Awards @ The Book Cellar

The Chicago Writers Association is holding their Book of the Year Awards featuring the award-winning authors. The books receiving awards will be Portraits of a Few of the People I've Made Cry: Stories by Christine Sneed, Honk, Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko, Private Clown Mystery by James Finn Garner, Three Wishes: A True Story of Good Friends, Crushing Heartbreak, and Astonishing Luck on our Way to Love and Motherhood by Pamela Ferdinand, Carey Goldberg, and Beth Jones, as well as Giants in the Park: A Guide to Portrait Statues in Chicago's Lincoln Park by Krista August.

Stop by The Book Cellar @ 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave on Saturday, Jan 14 at 7pm. The event is free and will have wine and coffee afterwards.

Julie Zarlenga

Books Fri Jan 13 2012

Hardboiled Detective Meets Bozo The Clown

112295916.JPGJames Finn Garner packs in the laughs with his new hardboiled detective novel Honk, Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko, Private Clown Mystery. Garner will be one of the authors awarded The Book of the Year Award by the Chicago Writers Association, which will be held on Saturday, Jan 14. This punchline loaded novel follows Rex Koko, a clown with a booze-soaked past. Rex is hired by Carlozo the flying trapeze artist to track down his wife Adeline. But, as Koko trails the femme fatale through the shady parts of Top Town, he finds himself in the center of a three-ring-circus.

To see James Finn Garner awarded for his new novel, visit The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave on Saturday, Jan 14 @ 7pm.

Julie Zarlenga / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jan 11 2012

Sara Paretsky @ Women and Children First

Also this Thursday, local mystery author Sara Paretsky will be appearing at Women and Children First. Her new novel, Breakdown, is the 15th novel following V. I. Warshawski, female private investigator. The Chicago Sun-Times says "Warshawski presents an irresistible combination - a cranky, vulnerable woman with
a messy life, but a superhuman willingness to put herself in harm's way for the sake of
justice." The event marks the 30th anniversary of the series. "Champagne, of course, and other refreshments will be served." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Thursday, January 12 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 11 2012

David Scheffer @ University of Chicago Law School

Tomorrow night, Northwestern University law professor David Scheffer discusses his new book All the Missing Souls: A Personal History of the War Crimes Tribunals at the University of Chicago Law School. Scheffer spearheaded the war crimes tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in 1993. Luis Moreno-Ocampo, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, says "David Scheffer tells the inside story of the creation of international justice for victims of atrocity crimes. As the picture of astronauts walking on the moon embodied the evolution of technology, this book captures eight years of a controversial process that is changing humanity forever." University of Chicago Law School, 1111 E. 60th St., Thursday, January 12 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Books Mon Jan 09 2012

Solace in So Many Words

Weighed Words, micropublisher and imprint of Hourglass Books since 2010, will present Solace in So Many Words at the Wilmette Public Library, 1242 Wilmette Ave., at 7:30pm Thursday, Jan. 26.

"Solace in So Many Words, featuring Wilmette writer J. Scott Smith, along with contributors Joan Corwin, Pamela Miller, Pat Rahmann D. J. Lachance and editor Ellen Wade Beals. What does solace mean? Come hear these distinguished writers share their poetry, fiction and essays on the very pertinent subject of solace."

Megan E. Doherty / Comments (1)

Events Mon Jan 09 2012

The Chicago Way Literary Series Welcomes Charlie Newton & Jonathan Eig

For all you crime and mystery fans out there, join The Chicago Way literary series Tuesday, Jan. 10 as they bring out authors Charlie Newton (whose new novel is Start Shooting) and Chicago native Jonathan Eig. The series is hosted by local author Michael Harvey, writer of the Chicago Way crime novel series.

Audience members are encouraged to ask the authors about the research of their novels, the subject matter and writing process. Invited guests include some of the real-life people Newton based many of his characters on, as well as some members of the Chicago Police Department.

There will be interactive Chicago-crime themed games with prizes, cocktails and a book signings. Stop in at the The Hidden Shamrock (back room), 2723 N. Halsted St., at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 05 2012

P. Fanatics is Famous

P. Fanatics was touted in Newcity's Top 5 of Everything 2011 as one of the city's best reading series. The theme this month is Fame; how coincidental. If you haven't checked it out, take a chance on Sunday, Jan. 8.

Performers include Daniel Shapiro, Jac Jemc, Kathleen Rooney, Benicia Blue, Vanessa Pegram, Patrick Allen Carberry, and Jason Bredle. Join host Mason Johnson at Cole's, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave., 7:30pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jan 05 2012

Julie Hyzy Launches the Newest Title in her White House Chef Mystery Series

What do the White House, cooking and mystery novels have in common? Author Julie Hyzy who has been releasing a series of mystery novels that involve the oval-office's chef. Her newest title in the series, Affairs of Steak, (they all have fun titles) is released this month. She will be holding a launch party Saturday, Jan. 7 at 1pm at Centuries and Sleuths bookstore, 7419 W. Madison St. in Forest Park. Refreshments will be served, some made from the recipes in her books. Stop on by to check it all out.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jan 04 2012

Story Club @ Uncommon Ground

Story Club, a monthly reading series, hits Uncommon Ground tomorrow night. "We give you a mic and 5-8 minutes. You tell us a story." They're going with a new year's theme this month (Reboot) and the featured readers are Adam Guerino and Jen Bosworth. Uncommon Ground Cafe, 3800 N. Clark. Thursday, January 5. Open mic signup at 8pm; start time 8:15pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 04 2012

Quimby's Challenges You...

Did you know January is National Hobby Month? To honor the occasion, Quimby's is hosting its first 24-Hour Zine Challenge. Starting at 7pm on Saturday, January 14, and running until 7pm Sunday, January 15, Quimby's will have a sleepover at the shop. But instead of playing Light-as-a-Feather, Stiff-as-a-Board, participants will create their own zine with provided supplies. Space is limited, so RSVP before January 11, and come with "sleeping gear, ideas, stamina." Click here for more information on how to reserve your spot!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Jan 04 2012

Sara Levine @ Women and Children First

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Tomorrow night, Sara Levine reads from her novel Treasure Island!!! at Women and Children First. Treasure Island!!! tells the tale of a disillusioned college grad who uses the Robert Louis Stevenson novel as a map for how to live her life. Library Journal says "this highly original, farcical novel will keep you entertained in spite of (or more accurately, because of) its toxic narrator." Levine is the chair of the writing program at the School of the Art Institute Chicago. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Thursday, January 5 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 03 2012

Sherrill Bodine "All I Want is You" Book Release

The new year bring us a new release from prolific romance author Sherrill Bodine. To coincide with the release of her newest novel, All I Want is You, on January 5th Bodine comes to Chicago for a night of reading and discussion along with champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The event will be in the Palm Court at the Drake Hotel 140 East Walton Place, 6pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jan 02 2012

Poetry on Screen @ The Poetry Foundation

Watch the story of Carl Sandburg--his life and his work--at the Chicago premiere of Bonesteel Films' The Day Carl Sandburg Died. After the screening, Marc Smith, the founder of slam poetry, will discuss all things Sandburg with the filmmaker, Paul Bonesteel. Friday, January 6, at 7pm and Saturday, January 7, at 3pm at The Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.). Reserve your spot for free!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Jan 02 2012

The Encyclopedia Show Occupies Mesopotamia

The Encyclopedia Show kicks off 2012 this Wednesday, January 4th. The theme will be Mesopotamia. The hosts of this over-the-top extravaganza showcase point out, "everything in your whole life probably came from Mesopotamia, including Jesus." Spoken like true wise men.

Performers and their assigned topics include: Sam Irby (Sunday Night Sex Show) - Lamassu, Chris Bower (Ray's Reading Series) - Gilgamesh and Enkidu,
Jonathan Messinger (Featherproof Books) - Babel and its Tower, Cydney Edwards (First Wave) - Ashurbanipal, Laura Berger (Visual Artist) - Cuneiform, Laura Yes Yes (How To Seduce A White Boy In Ten Easy Steps) - Enuma Elish Creation Myth.

The show goes off at 7:30pm, $8, at the Vittum Theater -- 1012 N. Noble St.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 29 2011

Nerd Year's Eve, Last Chance for Comics in 2011

Challengers Comics hosts its annual Nerd Year's Eve celebration this weekend, Saturday, Dec 31st. Hosts will be singer/songwriter Jess Godwin and comic book writer Elliot Serrano. There's a $20 cover that includes drinks, snacks, a $10 Challengers Gift Certificate and a champagne toast. Hostess Jess Godwin will debut her new music video "Out With The Old" after the stroke of midnight. Get your comics fix in before then. Tickets are on sale now at Challengers Comics and Conversation, located at 1845 N Western Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 29 2011

What's Your Problem?

Tribune columnist Jon Yates (the "Problem Solver") has heard a lot of people's problems. Enough to fill a thrice-weekly column for the past six years.

If you've missed out on those 900-odd advice columns and could use a helpful synopsis, then you may want to check out Yates' new book — titled, appropriately enough, What's Your Problem? Cut Through Red Tape, Challenge the System and Get Your Money Back.

On Thursday, Jan. 5 at 6pm, Yates will be promoting his new advice compendium at the Billy Goat Tavern, 430 N. Michigan Ave., lower level. Go for the tips, stay for a burger.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Dec 29 2011

Poetry on Screen @ The Poetry Foundation

Watch the story of Carl Sandburg--his life and his work--at the Chicago premiere of Bonesteel Films' The Day Carl Sandburg Died. After the screening, Marc Smith, the founder of slam poetry, will discuss all things Sandburg with the filmmaker, Paul Bonesteel. Friday, January 6, at 7pm and Saturday, January 7, at 3pm at The Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St.). Reserve your spot for free!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Dec 28 2011

Eliza Frye @ Challengers Comics

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This Friday, Eliza Frye signs her new graphic novel, Regalia, at Challengers Comics + Conversation. Regalia is a collection of short stories, one of which was nominated for an Eisner Award. Derik Badman of COMIXTALK says "Frye has a powerful style. I had an immediate, almost visceral reaction to the images." There will be a reading, a display of Frye's paintings and baked goods for refreshments. Challengers Comics + Conversation, 1845 N. Western, Friday, December 30 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 28 2011

WordPlay 2.0 at Young Chicago Authors

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Next Tuesday, Young Chicago Authors starts the new year off with WordPlay 2.0: A Young Chicago Authors Open Mic & Workshop. There's a writing and performing workshop at 6pm followed by an open mic and featured artist at 7pm. The series will run once a month until April, with a new featured artist each month. January's featured artist is YCA Master Teaching Artist Idris Goodwin. At the YCA office, 1180 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor, Tuesday, January 3 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 28 2011

The 2nd Story NYE Special

Looking for a literary start to the new year? 2nd Story's NYE celebration can do just that. The experimental storytelling series has a packed lineup with guests Stephanie Chavara, Julie Ganey, Deb Lewis, and Doug Whippo. The event is curated by Bobby Biedrzycki, directed by Thrisa Hodits and sound by Seeking Wonderland.

Tickets are $40 in advance ($50 at the door) which includes a drink and a champagne toast. The festivities begin Dec 31st at 9:30pm at the Morseland 1218 W. Morse Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Sat Dec 24 2011

Write Club: The War on Christmas -- Boxing Day Massacre

The Reading series Write Club is back in time for the holidays with an appropriate theme: The War on Christmas - Boxing Day Massacre. Like the series' name suggests, there are bouts between writers, each given an opposing idea:

GIVE (Ian Belknap) vs. RECEIVE (Jen Ellison)
NAUGHTY (Annie Kincade) vs. NICE (Bilal Dardai)
SANTA (Keith Ecker) vs. JESUS (Steve Walker)

This happens Tuesday Dec 27th, 7pm, $8 with all proceeds going to charities selected by the winner of each bout. As always its at the Hideout 1354 W. Wabansia.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Dec 21 2011

Lost Panoramas at Barnes and Noble

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This Thursday, Richard Cahan and Michael Williams present their photo collection The Lost Panoramas: When Chicago Changed Its River and the Land Beyond at Barnes and Noble downtown. Barnes and Noble, DePaul Center, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., Thursday, December 22 at 12pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Dec 16 2011

Neutron Bomb Reading Series Hits Again in December

Chicago's punk reading series Neutron Bomb hits Saturday, December 17, with their mix of storytelling and live music. This month they welcome Lindsay Hunter (on Featherproof books), Dave Roche (On Subbing zine)
and Eliza Fogel (Columbia College Fiction Writing grad student)

There will be a stand-up comedian and live music by Daylight Robbery (male/female vox playing punk new wave).

Stroll in to Cal's Bar (400 S. Wells) at 7pm before it gets rowdy.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 15 2011

The Chicago Way: Operation Family Secrets

The Chicago Way reading series welcomes New York Times bestselling author Frank Calabrese, Jr. reading from his book Operation Family Secrets. Following this will be a conversation regarding his experiences in organized crime, his role with the FBI, working with the Zimmerman Brothers to document his story, and his current lifestyle.

The series welcomes audience interactive with a quiz, prizes and a book signing.
It all happens December 18th, 7:30pm at the Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Dec 14 2011

Welcome To The Dollhouse

This Friday, check out the Dollhouse Reading Series, a "casual, salon-style, Chicago-based BYOB reading series every six to seven weeks, because who doesn't love a good party with their poetry?" Held in a private residence ("and if that weirds you out, get over it"), the Dollhouse is hosted by Dolly Lemke and Stephen Danos. This week's featured readers include James Shea, Kelly Forsythe, Susan Yount and "virtual guest" Heather Christle. It all goes down Friday, December 16 at 1850 W. Belle Plaine Ave., #3, doors open at 7:30pm, reading at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 13 2011

Logan Square Literary Review Issue 9 Release Party

The Logan Square Literary Review drops their 9th issue in style with a reception at an art gallery in Humboldt Park (they support their neighboring communities). The cast of readers are contributors to the current issue. All past issues will be available for sale. Also, art work from the gallery will as well. Think about a one stop shop for some holiday gifts.

The event is free and open to the public Wednesday, December 14, 7pm Peanut Gallery 1000 N California ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Dec 13 2011

Untoward Magazine Turns One

A new year is here early for Untoward Magazine who celebrates their one year anniversary.

To celebrate, they offer a packed lineup of local readers, including:
A D Jameson, Russ Woods, Meghan Lamb, James Tadd Adcox, Dan Shapiro, John Thurgood, Ben Tanzer, Samantha Irby, Lindsay Hunter, Chris Bower and Joshua Young.

Hosting will be magazine staffer Matt Rowan, P. Fanatics Reading series host Mason Johnson, and Jon Mau. Come out Wednesday December 14th, 7pm at Beauty Bar 1444 W Chicago Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Dec 12 2011

Beautiful Outsiders: Talk @ The Poetry Foundation

In connection with the Poetry Foundation's Beautiful Outsiders exhibition, this event features Poetry senior editor Don Share talking about how important design is when it comes to independent presses. The exhibition itself revolves around independent presses Black Sparrow, Burning Deck, and Fulcrum and their histories and aesthetics. The talk takes place at The Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior) on December 14 at 6pm, first-come, first-served. And free!

Emily Wong

Events Sat Dec 10 2011

P. Fanatics Team Up Reading

P. Fanatics reading series leaves you hearing double as their December show offers only team ups (the kind you find in comic books).

Pairs will feature the series hosts Daniel Shapiro with Mason Johnson, Russ Woods with Christopher Kelly, Ian Belknap with Samantha Irby, a presentation by Jill Summers with Susie Kirkwood, and the Encyclopedia show's Tim Stafford with Robbie Q. Telfer.

Bring a friend so you don't feel out of place Sunday, December 11, 7:30pm at Cole's Bar 2338 N Milwaukee Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Dec 08 2011

Poetry Off the Shelf Celebrates the Holidays

This year's holiday edition of Poetry Off the Shelf will feature Nicholas Rudall reading Dylan Thomas' "A Child's Christmas in Wales." Other seasonal poems, both old and new, will be read by Chicago actors, directed by Second City founder Bernard Sahlins. After the performance, enjoy a small reception (with refreshments!). There are two performances scheduled, at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior): December 11 and 12 at 7pm.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Dec 08 2011

Tao Lin at Columbia College

Tomorrow, Columbia College's student reading series Silver Tongue welcomes author Tao Lin.

He will be lecturing on his new column "drug-related photoshop art" for Vice magazine. Afterwards, participants from the audience will be called up to take part in an interactive conversation with the author. The event is at 618 S. Michigan, 2nd floor, Stage Two, at 6pm, and is free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Dec 07 2011

The Encyclopedia Show Gets XTREME!

The Encyclopedia Show returns with their December show themed Xtreme Sports. Appropriately, entertainment will feature an interview with professional mixed martial artist fighter Shonie Carter. There will be a presentation from Anne Elizabeth Moore (zinester and author of Cambodian Grrrl) on the appropriation of skateboard culture. Plus Susan McLaughlin-Karp (BoyGirlBoyGirl) on the Iditarod, Jamila Woods (National Poetry Slam Finalist) on Kobayashi's Retirement, Dominique James (Louder Than a Bomb Champion) on Murderball, Natalie Edwards (local writer on Nickelodeon Guts and Guybrush Taylor (visual artist) on Extreme Ironing!

This all happens Thursday Dec 8th, at the Theater (1012 N. Noble), 7:30pm, $8 gets you in the door.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Dec 07 2011

Reading Under the Influence Infamy

Reading Under the Influence returns tonight, 7pm. This historical date, "a day that will live in infamy", lends itself to this month's theme: Infamy. Featured readers are Dennis Frymire (SKALD storytelling champion), Cyn Vargas, Brandon Will (worker at The Book Cellar) and Ray Lumpp (a RUI co-host). All will read original work and then host trivia segments. Stop by RUI in the back room at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Dec 06 2011

RUI @ Sheffield's

Tomorrow night is the next Reading Under the Influence at Sheffield's. Featured readers are Dennis Frymire, Cyn Vargas, Brandon Will, and RUI co-host Ray Lumpp. The theme, in honor of Pearl Harbor Day, is "infamy." $3 cover. Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., Wednesday, December 7. Readings are in the back room and begin at 7:30pm; get there early for a seat.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 06 2011

Greg Borzo and John Greenfield @ Cole's

This Thursday (if you can't make it to the Gapers Block book discussion 'cuz your bike has a flat), Greg Borzo and John Greenfield will be reading from their contributions to On Bicycles: 50 Ways the New Bike Culture Can Change Your Life at Cole's in Logan Square. Gary Fisher himself says "[editor] Amy Walker has that canny ability to thread the needle of safety, practicality, and looking mightily good on a bike. This book gives you some bright and clever new tools to experience the exceptional convenience a bike can bring, not to mention that big healthy smile we get riding!" Cole's, 2338 N. Milwaukee, Thursday, December 8 at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 06 2011

The Last So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel of 2011

The last 2011 monthly and oh so legendary So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel happens tonight at 8pm. This edition is more musical than most. They will have a house band, Good Evening, and as always host Harold Ray will croon for your entertainment.

Writer Jac Jemc will read, enjoy some stand-up by Natalie Edwards, a pairing surprise by Mason Johnson & Daniel Shapiro, and more.

The series is always at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Dec 05 2011

All Your Paths in a Single Pocket @ The Poetry Foundation

This theatrical performance is inspired by poet Anna Kamienska's "Notebooks" and brings together text, music, and dance to spotlight the work of making art. All Your Paths in a Single Pocket runs for three more days, December 8-10 at 7:30 at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior). Admission is free but first-come, first-served!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Nov 30 2011

Chicanas of 18th Street @ Women and Children First

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This Thursday, Women and Children First hosts the authors of Chicanas of 18th Street: Narratives of a Movement from Latino Chicago. Author Mary S. Pardo calls it "a fascinating account of Latina activists during the height of the Chicano movement in Chicago. The personal testimonies allow readers to see the dynamics that transform community members into activists." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Thursday, December 1 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 30 2011

What Makes a Book Beautiful and Marketable?

Chicago Publishes is offering an At Work Forum on book design. The event, which will take place at the 5th floor of the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington Street) on Thursday, December 1 at 6pm, will feature:

— James Goggin, Director of Design, Print and Digital Media, Museum of Contemporary Art

— Ellen Gibson, Regional Marketing Manager, University of Chicago Press

— Annie Heckman, Artist, Book Designer, and founder of StepSister Press

RSVP to info@chicagopublishes.com.

Megan E. Doherty / Comments (1)

Events Tue Nov 29 2011

Write Club 20: Stuck at the Kids Table

Looking for a way to get ride of those Thanksgiving leftovers, stop by Chicago literary series Write Club Tuesday, November 29th, with their theme: Stuck At the Kids' Table.

Write Club is a reading duel consisting of three bouts of two competing writers (each assigned opposing ideas). Then the audience votes on a winner. All proceeds go to charities of winners' choosing.

Bouts and writers include:
LEG (Diana Slickman) vs. BREAST (Chris Bower),
HUNGRY (David Kodeski) vs. FULL (Rachel Claff),
THANKS (Edward Thomas-Herrera) vs. BUT NO THANKS (Ian Belknap).

Catch it at the Hideout 1354 W. Wabansia, $8, 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Books Wed Nov 23 2011

Annual Association of Writers & Writing Programs Conference

Stay tuned, because the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) will host its Annual Conference & Book fair at the Hilton Chicago (720 South Michigan Ave.) and the Palmer House Hilton (17 East Monroe St.) from February 29 to March 3, 2012.

Why care? Maybe because this conference is the largest literary gathering in North America. The keynote address will be given by Margaret Atwood, and it will also be an occasion for a reunion of eight Pulitzer Prize-winning writers, two Poets Laureate, six National Book Award winners, and nine recipients of the National Book Critics Circle Award — not to mention, hundreds of other readers, speakers, and panelists (including Jennifer Egan, C. K. Williams, Jane Smiley and Marilynne Robinson). There will be a mind-boggling 400 events, as well as exhibits by more than 550 presses, magazines, and literary arts organizations, so start planning now!

Preregistration details:

-From now through January 23
-Rates for the three-day conference are $155 for members and $225 for non-members -On-site registration starts February 29 at the Hilton Chicago
-On-site registration rates are $190 for members and $265 for non-members

More details, courtesy of the press release:

On Friday, March 2 and Saturday, March 3, the following events at Hilton Chicago will be free and open to the public: The Poetry Foundation presents Philip Levine and Carol Ann Duffy; Columbia College Chicago Poetry & Nonfiction Programs present Esmeralda Santiago and Jeanette Walls; The Academy of American Poets presents Lyn Hejinian and Edward Hirsch; Columbia College Chicago Story Week and Bath Spa University present Ronnie Baker Brooks, Aleksander Hemon, Audrey Niffenegger, and Irvine Welsh. Event locations and details can be found at awpwriter.org/conference/2012awpconf.php.

On Saturday, March 3, the AWP Bookfair at Hilton Chicago will be free and open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Exhibitors include Chicago Review, Dalkey Archive Press, Graywolf Press, Milkweed Editions, n+1, Ninth Letter, Northwestern University Press, Poetry, Tin House, and W.W. Norton.

Megan E. Doherty

Books Fri Nov 18 2011

The Chicago Book Expo This Weekend!

This weekend marks the inaugural Chicago Book Expo, Saturday November 19th and Sunday 20th. The Chicago's Writer House, in partnership with Uptown United , delivers a festival in the vein of pop-up galleries across the city. The Book Expo in a sense is a pop-up bookstore, taking over the historic Goldblatt's building, the recent home of the bankrupt Border's bookstore in Uptown. There focus is on Chicago publishers and literary organizations celebrating the rich tradition of Chicago literature. The location is symbolic, a book event at site where one of the largest chain bookstores once was housed.

"Whether you loved them or hated them, Borders was a part of the publishing world and the local landscape," says John Rich, founder of the Chicago's Writer House and one of the Expo organizers. "Their demise has impact. With the Expo, we are relying on the history of the building as a literary destination. [T]hat the memory of the old Borders is evocative, but the compelling symbol for us is that a strong, accessible book industry does and can exist in Chicago, without Borders and beyond Borders."

Participants during the weekend include over 40 Chicago publishers of fiction and poetry. "Our focus has been on creating a support mechanism, a platform, for Chicago publishers of fiction and poetry," says Rich. This list is varied, featuring: Agate Publishing, Ampersand, Another Chicago Magazine, Curbside Splendor, Featherproof Books, Green Lantern Press, MAKE Magazine, Short Pants Press, and Zoo Mouse Key Press, to name a few. "We hope that people will come and browse, just like they would at any other store, but here they can also talk directly to publishers, learn about the mission or aesthetic of a press first hand, and hear a range of published authors read," says Rich.

Saturday will showcase a non-profit fair. Keeping with the overall theme, these are literary organizations rather than publishers. Those booked will include: 826CHI, Center for Book and Paper Arts, Chicago Architecture Foundation , Chicago Filmmakers, Chicago Public Library, Chicago Writers Association, Chicago Zine Fest, Friends of the Uptown Neighborhood, Poetry Foundation, Read/Write Library (formerly Chicago Underground Library), St. Augustine College, and Uptown United. Each will have a table staffed with members on hand, presenting more information about their group and how one can get involved.

Entertainment also includes a Saturday performance by local indie rockers Joan of Arc, commissioned to write a new soundtrack to Charlie Chaplin's first Chicago-made film His New Job (which was shot in Uptown as well). Opening the show will be poet and performer Luis Humberto Valadez. The showcase is at St. Augustine College 1345 W. Argyle Ave. Then on Sunday the Chicago Architecture Foundation will conduct walking architectural tours of the Uptown neighborhood. Both are ticketed events.

Throughout the weekend, Chicago Public Library will available to register attendees for library cards. And local bookseller Open Books will be accepting donations of gently used books for their bookstore. Any purchase from them will go to support literacy programming and events.

During the Expo there will be scheduled readings sponsored by Curbside Splendor and more, workshops sponsored by Read/Write Library and more, panels lead by writers from the Chicago Reader, TimeOut magazine and others, plus kids activities lead by Grow Books Press authors and 826 CHI.

"We want people to discover the depth of Chicago's literary publishing efforts, big and small, and find their next favorite book," exclaims Rich.

Browse the Chicago Book Expo 2011, November 19-20 at Borders Books (4720 N. Broadway), and the basement of the Uptown Broadway. Hours are Saturday, November 19th, 10am-6pm and Sunday, November 20th, 12-6pm. The book fair activities are free and open to the public.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Nov 16 2011

Craig Thompson @ the Book Cellar

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Graphic novelist Craig Thompson reads from Habibi at the Book Cellar on Friday. Habibi is a sprawling, 672 page tale of love in the face of adversity set in the Middle East. Zadie Smith calls it "exquisite...a remarkable feat of research, care, and black ink, and a reminder that all 'People of the book,' despite the division of their individual traditions, share a mosaic of stories." Thompson's other books include Blankets and Goodbye, Chunky Rice. Seating will be limited; the Book Cellar advises arriving a good 20 minutes early. Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, Friday, November 18 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Nov 15 2011

Two Cookie Minimum Reading with Spectaular All Female Lineup

Two Cookie Minimum's next reading (Tuesday, November 15th) will feature an all female line up of local zinesters and writers including: Curiouser Jane (Apple Pickers Union zine), Amy L. Hayden (writer for Time Out Chicago), Nichole Baiel (Pieces zine), Emily Witte (Chicago Way literary series organizer), Jac Jemc (forthcoming novel My Only Wife on Dzanc books), Liz Mason (Caboose zine), and Jami Sailor (Your Secretary zine). The event is at the Hungry Brain 2319 W. Belmont, 9pm, Free. As always, there will be cookies.

John Wawrzaszek

Book Club Tue Nov 15 2011

Book Club Event: Dmitry Samarov Discusses Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab @ The Book Cellar

9780226734736.jpeg Winter's approaching, and as the weather becomes varying degrees of inhospitable, a cab is more and more an appealing option. There are stories behind the yellow and white vehicles that dot the city, and Russian-born cab driver, artist and writer Dmitry Samarov captures some of them in Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab. On Dec. 8 at 7pm, come talk to the author about what goes into his mobile vision of the city -- or any other questions you might have had about the book or his experiences. Free.

Here's what you do:

1. Read the book sometime in the next few weeks.*

2. Come to The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., with your comments and questions, and share them with Dmitry Samarov and the group. Get your book signed if you feel like it.

3. Hang out with other readers, meet the the Book Club editors, feel part of a greater reading community.

Questions? Let us know in the comments. Thanks, and hope to see you there!

*You can still come if you haven't read the book, but we really, really encourage it -- discussions are way more fun when everyone's on the same page (har har).

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Nov 14 2011

This Weekend, the First Annual Chicago Book Expo

On Saturday and Sunday, the Chicago Book Expo fills what was formerly the Uptown Borders book store. The work of Chicago Writers House and Uptown United, the event features over 40 publishers of fiction and poetry displaying their author's works, and free events such as a reading series, a non-profit book fair, author's readings, children's workshops, and more. Ticketed events include Chicago Architecture Foundations Tours and a performance by rock band Joan of Arc.

For hours, additional locations, and more, head here.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Nov 10 2011

Grand Opening of the Read/Write Library Chicago

This weekend marks the grand opening of the new Read/Write Library Chicago (formerly the Chicago Underground Library). The opening of their new space and re-branding will take place this Friday (tomorrow!), November 11th.

Visitors can expect this celebration to have some live jazz (form Studio 914), Reading/Writing performances, activities, crafts and games to help you explore the stacks.

The first 50 people will receive a limited edition poster by Vida Sačić (who designed the library's new logo) and April Sheridan (who printed these at Columbia College's Center for Book and Paper Arts).

If you have something to contribute to the library's collection of self-published works, bring it on by. This night only you can SIY - Shelve It Yourself.

The event is free and open to the public (children are welcome). The Read/Write Library is located 914 N. California (use the Walton Entrance)

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Nov 09 2011

David David Katzman @ Quimby's

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Tomorrow night, David David Katzman reads from his second novel A Greater Monster (click the link and he'll tell you all about it) at Quimby's. A psychedelic fairytale chockfull of illustrations, author Jen Knox calls it "brilliant, insane and utterly unique." Illustrator Caitlin McKay appears as well. Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., November 10 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 09 2011

Spend Your Lunch Hour with Stephanie Izard

Stephanie Izard, the only female Top Chef winner and the heart and soul of Girl & the Goat restaurant, signs Girl in the Kitchen: How a Top Chef Cooks, Thinks, Shops, Eats and Drinks this week. On Thursday, November 10, she'll be at Foodease, 835 N. Michigan from 12-2pm; on Friday, November 11, she'll be at Barbara's Bookstore at Macy's, 111 N. State Street at 12 noon.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 09 2011

The Encyclopedia Show is Coming Down the Tracks

The Encyclopedia Show is back rolling down the tracks with their theme this installment being: the Railroad! Readers will include Second City's Tim Baltz, experimental MC Emanuel Vinson, blogger Susannah Breslin, mysterious writer Abigail Vic, John "Jughead" Pierson of The Neo-Futurists and legendary punk band Screeching Weasel, plus a lecture from Jason Rothstein the author of Carless in Chicago . The train leaves the station at 7:30 at the Vittum theater 1012 N Noble, $8 (or $5 for students). All aboard.

John Wawrzaszek / Comments (1)

Events Fri Nov 04 2011

The Chicago Way Presents a Fantastical Lineup

Winter brings out the escapist impulses, and reading choices are often no exception -- let The Chicago Way reading series help you down that myth and magic-dotted road with their November edition, featuring an all-female, all-fantasy author lineup. Tina Jens (Twilight Tales and Gumbo Fiction Salon founder), Patty Templeton (Naked Girls Reading winner), and C.S.E. Cooney and Jeanine Vaughn (owners of the former Uptown bookstore, Kate the Great's Book Emporium) present readings and an interactive game, along with the opportunity for Q&A. 11/20, 7:30pm-9pm Hidden Shamrock (2723 N. Halsted St.).

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Nov 03 2011

Poems While You Wait @ Dose Market

"O, Dose Market,
a curated selection of food & design for self & home.
Do not forget,
as you stroll the booths, to commission an artisanal poem!"

Dave Landsberger, Eric Plattner, and Kathleen Rooney are once again taking part in Poems While You Wait. They will be composing poems on demand via vintage typewriter at Dose Market (River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois St), on Sunday, November 6, from 10am-4pm. For $5 (or whatever you have in your pocket--lint not accepted) you can command them to write on any topic you'd like. Proceeds will go to independent publisher Rose Metal Press.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Nov 03 2011

A Night with Columbia College Fiction Writing Faculty

Tonight at the Book Cellar, join some of Columbia College's established Fiction Writing department faculty members as they read from their recently published works. Authors Patty McNair (The Temple of Air), Sam Weller (The Bradbury Chronicles), and Geoff Hyatt (Birch Hill at World's End) will be on hand to read and sign their books as well as engage in discussions on writing. The event begins at 7pm at the Book Cellar 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Nov 02 2011

Ukrainian American Writers in West Town

Emerging Ukrainian American writers Askold Melnychuk, Alexis Buryk, Roman Skaskiw, and Virlana Tkacz read at the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art 11/5 (this Friday) at 7pm. $10, $5 for students. 2320 W. Chicago Ave.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Nov 02 2011

Some "Truth" on Reading Under the Influence

Reading Under the Influence brings you the Truth (that's this month's theme). Wednesday, November 2nd the theme will be tackled by Scott Whitehair (host of This Much Is True), Jill Summers (recent winner of Literary Death Match), John Wawrzaszek (host of Two Cookie Minimum reading series) and Cortez Bryson (writer and jazz musician). For those who don't know, each reader gets to read original work and then a published work followed by trivia. RUI's home is Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave, $3, 7 p.m.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Nov 01 2011

The Challenges of Writing a Memoir

At age 13, Meghan O'Rourke tried to write a novel. It was science fiction with "many princesses," including one named Cassiopeia.

meghan.jpgNow 35, she's since published two poetry collections and a written a memoir, The Long Goodbye, about the death of her 55-year-old mother from cancer.

"It embarrasses me," she said Thursday night at Maxim's (24 Goethe St.), an event sponsored by Chicago Publishes. Mark Bazer, host of the Interview Show, led a conversation with O'Rourke and writer Rachel DeWoskin. "I never thought I'd write a memoir."

Continue reading this entry »

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Oct 26 2011

Poetry + Nonfiction =

The 33 Reading Series. Composed of Columbia College Chicago's Poetry and Nonfiction graduate students, the latest reading will take place tomorrow, October 27, at 600 S Michigan (Room 205), starting at 4:30pm. Featured readers are: Toni Nealie and Colleen O'Connor from the Nonfiction program and Leif Haven and Steve Roggenbuck from the Poetry program.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Oct 25 2011

It's Poemtime!

Do you ever miss story time at the library from the days when you were younger? Well, tomorrow, gather up some kids and take them to Poemtime at the Poetry Foundation! Every Wednesday, the library at the Poetry Foundation hosts a story time, where they teach children about poetry using readings and games. Admission is first-come, first-served, at the Poetry Foundation building (61 W. Superior St.) at 11am.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Oct 25 2011

The 2nd Story Everyone Remain Calm Book Release

The 2nd Story, Chicago's amalgamation of music, literature and performance art, will celebrate a book release of the show's longtime director Megan Stielstra tomorrow Oct. 26 at 7:30pm at the Morseland 1218 W. Morse. Her book, Everyone Remain Calm, will come to life with stories and music inspired by the book. Storytellers will include Megan Stielstra, Bobby Biedrzycki and J. Adams Oaks. Tickets are $15.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Oct 24 2011

Write Club (Chapter 19) Halloween Edition

Write Club is back tomorrow, Oct. 25 and spookier than ever. Like its name sounds, Write Club is a literary bout, with words. There are three rounds of two opposing writers each with two opposing ideas. They get seven minutes apiece and after both are done, the audience selects the winner. Don't let the fact that each writer chooses a charity which benefits if they win.

The matchups are Halloween themed as follows:
• DEAD (Emily Rose) vs. UNDEAD (Samantha Irby)
• DUSK (David Isaacson) vs. DAWN (Noelle Krimm)
• TRICK (Ian Belknap) vs. TREAT (Whit Nelson)

The event is at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, 7:30pm, $8, 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Oct 24 2011

Chicago Zine Fest 2012's Kickoff Fundraiser

Chicago Zine Fest is holding its first fundraiser for their 2012 festival by holding a zine and comics reading tonight October 24th. Self-publishers reading include Ben Spies (no more coffee zine), Corinne Mucha (Is it the future yet?), Dave Roche (On Subbing), Sarah Palin/aka C-Span (Jayonce fan fiction), Marian Runk (Inbox) and Ben Bertin (MIOK). Following the DIY nature of zine fest, the cover is $3-5 and is at a house, the Moving Castle, at 3317 N. Kedzie. The event is all ages and begins at 7:30pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Oct 21 2011

Handshake Lit Mag Reading and Dance Party

The Handshake literary magazine holds its second issue release show this Saturday the 22nd. Readers, which are published in the issue, include
Dmitry Samarov,
Lindsay Hunter,
Winter Goebel, and Wyatt Roediger-Robinette. They cap the night off with a dance party in the upstairs lounge with Wholesome Radio DJ Matt Fields. The $10 cover also includes a copy of the issue. You can't beat that. Join Handshake at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., 10pm, 21+.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Oct 20 2011

Cartooning/Storytelling Workshop With Nicole Hollander

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If you've an itch for cartooning, scratch it at Lill Street Art Center. The next three Saturdays they're offering an intensive workshop on the art of storytelling taught by renowned local cartoonist Nicole Hollander (Sylvia). Touching on a wide range of influences from cave painting on, students will choose a significant moment from their lives and put it together with images to create their own personal story. Lill Street Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., October 22 and 29 and November 5 from 1-5pm. Class is $225 ($220 for LAC members); click here to register.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 18 2011

Ursula Bielski @ the Book Cellar

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Learn where to rub elbows with ectoplasm in our fair city as the Book Cellar welcomes author and parapsychologist Ursula Bielski. Bielski is the founder of Chicago Hauntings, Inc. and the author of Creepy Chicago: A Ghosthunter's Tales of the City's Scariest Sites, More Chicago Haunts: Scenes from Myth and Memory, among others. The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, Thursday, October 20 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 18 2011

Local Author Night @ the Book Cellar

Tomorrow night is Local Author Night at the Book Cellar. Laura Enright debuts her novel Vampires Most Wanted, former West Chicago police officer Ray Johnson discusses his new book Chicago's Haunt Detective, David Rocklin reads from The Luminist and Dinesh Sharma discusses Barack Obama in Hawaii and Indonesia: The Making of a Global President. The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, Wednesday, October 19 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 18 2011

Heads Up: MAKE Issue #11 Release Party, 10/28

Literary magazine MAKE kicks off Issue #11, "Neither/Nor" on 10/28. There'll be readings from issue contributors, an animation installation, and candy, with a special guest MC.

It all happens at Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave. Doors open at 7pm. Suggested donation $8, free for subscribers.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Oct 13 2011

Neutron Bomb Reading Series Blows Up with its Fifth Installment

The Neutron Bomb is a punk rock reading series which lives up to its name on their fifth installment Saturday, October 15th. Readers include Chris Connelly (Former member of Revolting Cocks and Ministry), Sarah Ryczek (local punk rock story teller), Anthony McBrien (comedian), and Alex Bonner (Windy City Story Slam champ). A punk reading wouldn't be anything without music, so local female-fronted hardcore band Calendar Boys plays (and it's their first show, totally punk!). Come out to Cal's Liquors 400 S. Wells, 7pm, Free, 21+, no squares allowed.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Oct 11 2011

Patricia Ann McNair @ Columbia College Library

Columbia College associate professor Patricia Ann McNair reads from her short story collection The Temple of Air this Wednesday. Author John McNally says "The Temple of Air isn't just a story collection. It's a seance of dark secrets, a confesionall booth, a therapist's couch, a thin wall I press my ear up against. Often haunting, always beautiful. I can't wait to read more." Columbia College Library, 624 S. Michigan, Wednesday, October 12 at 6:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Tue Oct 11 2011

Rachel Shteir @ Women and Children First

DePaul University associate professor Rachel Shteir reads from The Steal: A Cultural History of Shoplifting on Wednesday. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Wednesday, October 12 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 11 2011

Tamale Hut Cafe Reading Series This Saturday

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The Tamale Hut Cafe Reading Series presents their Halloween edition this Saturday. Featured readers are Chicago State MFA student Kara Taylor and local film director and Columbia College grad Chris Hyatt. Tamale Hut Cafe, 8300 W. Cermak Road, North Riverside. Saturday, October 15 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Oct 10 2011

The Great Chicago Book Sale

Heads up: The University of Chicago Press is hosting a Great Chicago Book Sale on October 13, 1pm to 6pm, and 14, from 8am to 2pm. Over 10,000 titles will be available, at bargain prices ($5 for paperbacks and hardbacks!), making you think twice about splurging on one of those e-readers. Learn more about the sale here.

Emily Wong

Events Sat Oct 08 2011

The Last Nerve, A High Tea Poetry Brawl

The Last Nerve, a High Tea Poetry Brawl, goes live Monday, October 10th. It pits two veteran female poets from coast-to-coast.

Rachel McKibbens (Pink Elephant) the 2009 Women of the World Poetry Slam Champion, VS, Mindy Nettifee (Rise Of The Trust Fall) Director of Write Now Poets.

Opening performances include Kristiana Colon, Krista Franklin, Emily Rose, and Marty McConnell. The event is the up-and-coming DIY art space West Side School For The Desperate. The poetic fisticuffs begin at 8pm, $5, 18 and over.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Oct 06 2011

A Century of The Chicago Manual of Style

As part of Chicago Public Media's Off-Air series, WBEZ's Alison Cuddy will moderate a panel discussion in honor of the recent release of the famed style manual's 16th edition. The focus will be the role of The Chicago Manual of Style, which has been published since 1906, in an era of quick communication — tweets, texts, emails have encouraged expediency over accuracy.

Panelists include Anita Samen, Managing Editor books division, University of Chicago Press; Carol Saller, Senior Manuscript Editor, University of Chicago Press and editor of the Chicago Style Q+A; Jason Riggle, Assistant Professor of Linguistics and Director of the Chicago Language Modeling Lab; and Ben Zimmer, Former writer of the New York Times Magazine's "On Language" column and Executive Producer of Visual Thesaurus and Vocabulary.com.

Details:

Tuesday, 8 November at 7pm
University of Chicago International House
1414 East 59th Street

$15 general admission
$12 WBEZ members
$10 students
Tickets may be purchased here.

Alternatively, you can try to win them. The U of C will award a pair of tickets to whomever uploads the most creative photo of a copy of the CMS. Submissions will be taken through 21 October, and the winner announced on 25 October.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Oct 06 2011

Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Silent Auction

Next Wednesday the Chicago Writers Association hosts a silent auction and cocktail party fundraiser for the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame. Hosted by ABC's Janet Davies, items for auction include vacations, artwork, writing workshops and more. Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan, penthouse. Wednesday, October 12, 5:30-8pm. $20 admission includes open bar and appetizers 'til 6:30 and a Kovel whiskey tasting from 6:30-8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Oct 06 2011

A Bright Idea

Chicago Ideas Week starts on Monday, October 10. Great speakers and great thinkers will put their heads together to see what they can create. You can't go wrong with any of the events (all listed here) that range from an interview with former President Bill Clinton to a chef-for-a-day experience with Eli's Cheesecake. But if you go to just one, be sure to choose the Poetry Foundation's first foray into Chicago Ideas Week with speakers Ken Arkind, Tony Hoagland, J. Patrick Lewis, Agustina Woodgate, and Mary Zimmerman discussing the power and artistry of language. The talk takes place Saturday, October 15, at 4pm at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior). Tickets are $15, but if you go here and use the code SJILN, your admission is free!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Oct 06 2011

Happy Poetry Day!

Started by Robert Frost in 1955, Poetry Day has brought out distinguished poets (Anne Sexton, Adrienne Rich, Carl Sandburg) from around the country to be featured readers. Today is the 57th annual Poetry Day, and to celebrate, stop by Harold Washington Library, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium (400 S. State St) to hear this year's featured poet, W.S. Merwin, read. The fun begins at 6pm, and admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Oct 05 2011

Dmitry Samarov at Myopic Books

IMG_2001

Last night Myopic Books hosted Dmitry Samarov reading from his new book, Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab.

The book launch is getting a lot of coverage, so if you're interested in reading more about Samarov, you can read from his blog by the same name or one of these recent features. He'll also be reading at a variety of other events in the next few weeks.

David Schalliol

Events Tue Oct 04 2011

Give a Second Hand to "So You think You Have Nerves of Steel" Reading

"So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel" is a live variety show, held on the 1st Tuesday of every month. The October edition has entertainment all linked in some way to the 2nd Hand, who is the sponsor of this reading series.

Entertainment includes Live visual-art by Rob Funderburk, former 2nd Hand illustrator.
The 2nd Hand co-editor C.T. Ballentine plays with his band Young Coconut.
Editor Todd Dills will perform with writers C.T. Balletine, Matt Pine and others. Contributors Joe Meno, Marc Baez and Fred Sasaki also join the festivities.

See it all tonight, 9pm at The Hungry Brain, 2319 West Belmont Avenue.


John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Oct 04 2011

Reading Under the Influence Goes Undressed

Reading Under the Influence breaks their tradition by having five readers and celebrating three book releases with their theme this month: Undressed.

The event features local authors Gina Frangello (reads from her new "Men Undressed" anthology), Megan Stielstra (reads from her new short story e-collection "Everyone Remain Calm"), Gus Rose (author of the forthcoming "Conman"), visual artist and blogger Philip Hartigan and Curbside Splendor publisher Victor David Giron (celebrating the first anniversary of his book, "Sophomoric Philosophy". Come for readings, trivia and a good time on Wednesday October 5th, 7pm, $3 at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Oct 03 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

hopleaf.jpgTomorrow night is Tuesday Funk at the Hopleaf with featured readers:

Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark, October 4 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Oct 03 2011

The 2nd Hand's "All Hands On" Release Show

The 2nd Hand literary magazine celebrates its 10th year anniversary with the book release of the anthology, All Hands On. Editor of the 2nd Hand Todd Dills hosts this book release. Featured readers who appear in the anthology include Jill Summers, Jonathon Messinger, and Kate Duva. The event is on tonight, 7pm, at Quimby's 1854 W. North Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Sat Oct 01 2011

24-Hour Comics Day 10/1/11!

Today marks this years 24-Hour Comics Day. Join others in their attempt to create a complete 24 page comic book in 24 continuous hours. Simple right? Participants have to come in without any preconceived work and generate a story, art, layout and final copy all in the same day. You can take breaks and naps but need to complete the 24 pages in order to legitimately finish.

Take the 24-Hour Comics Day Challenge online. Or go to a local event at Graham Cracker Comics 3162 N. Broadway and Challengers Comics and Conversations 1845 N Western Ave 2R.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Sep 29 2011

Bob Mould, An Evening of Reading and Music (x2)

Indie punk legend Bob Mould (of Husker Du and Sugar fame) will be in town for a pair of shows promoting his memoir See a Little Light The Trail of Rage and Melody. The memoir (aptly titled for the hit off his first solo album Workbook) chronicles his 30-plus year career.

For this tour, Mould will be mixing in readings from his new book with solo acoustic performances from his catalog. Shows are Friday, Sept. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 1, both at 8pm, at the Montrose Room: 5300 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. The shows are 18 and over.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Sep 28 2011

Sujatha Fernandes @ Stop Smiling

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This Friday, Sujatha Fernandes reads from Close to the Edge: In Search of the Global Hip Hop Generation. In conversation with Jesse De La Pena, Angela Zone, and Mike Treese. Stop Smiling Storefront, 1371 N. Milwaukee, September 30, 7pm. RSVP to rsvp@stopsmilingonline.com.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 28 2011

Eric Greitens @ Pritzker Military Library

Tomorrow night, Eric Greitens, author of Strength and Compassion andThe Heart and the Fist: The Education of a Humanitarian, the Making of a Navy SEAL makes an appearance at the Pritzker Military Library. Tom Brokaw says "if you're in despair about America's future, meet my hero, Eric Greitens. His life and [The Heart and the Fist] remind us that America remains the land of the brave and generous. The heart and fist are just the combination we need." Pritzker Military Library, 104 S. Michigan Ave., September 29, 6pm. $10.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 27 2011

Fall Into Issue VIII of the Logan Square Literary Review

The Logan Square Literary review celebrates the release of their Autumn 2011 issue (number 8) tonight. They will feature live readings by contributors published in the issue, including: M. Marie Barnhart, Brenton Harper Murray, Muyassar Kurdi, Lara Levitan, Thom.M.Murt, Vincent Truman, and Emily Wilensky. Past issues of the review will be available for purchase. Join them at 7pm, Cole's Bar 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 26 2011

Literati Networking Event

Next Tuesday, Oct. 4 from 6pm to 9pm, you can join Chicago's second ever Literati event, aimed at "building a community of authors, playwrights, and literary professionals."

You'll find far more than authors and theater folks, however. Founder and host of the event, publicist Dana Kaye, aims to include anyone involved in the making (or selling) of words: from publishers to sales reps, from journalists to filmmakers, and even those from the rad world of comics.

Dana Kaye Headshot cropped.jpg
Dana Kaye

Mingle, gab, network, collaborate, eat, drink, win. Who doesn't like that?

The basic idea is this: While writing is often a lonely, solitary endeavor, it doesn't have to be. Before hosting her first event last February, Kaye knew Chicago was chock-full of writers — but many of them didn't know each other. She wanted to create an opportunity for diverse people in the industry to come together in a relaxed, bar atmosphere where everyone could let down their guard.

Featured speaker Byron Hatfield went to the first event last February, and was a quick convert. Writing is already a "withdrawn profession," and those who devote their lives to it may tend toward the "weird" side of things. Why not get all those weird people together and see what happens?

Byron headshot.jpg
Byron Hatfield

Essentially, this is about putting people into the same room who would otherwise have never met, in a "no wall scenario" to encourage communication and collaboration.

For those of you getting ready to polish your manuscripts in the hopes of finding an agent — put them away. The goal of this event is not to get you a book deal, or a job. But it is about building up social capital, to see what may come down the road.

While this is only the second time she's held this event, Kaye knows what she wants to do in the future. Ideally, Chicagoans will be able to schmooze and brainstorm (at least in this setting) three times each year, and she also hopes to build an increasing presence of New York-based literary professionals at the gatherings.

Details:

Featured speakers include bestselling authors Jamie Freveletti (Running Dark) and Wendy Corsi-Staub (Hell To Pay), as well as director and playwright, Byron Hatfield (Bye Bye Liver).

Thumbnail image for Freveletti and Corsi Staube.jpg
Left: Jamie Freveletti; Right: Wendy Corsi-Staub

The Hidden Shamrock
2723 N. Halsted

$15 in advance, $20 at the door.
Appetizers and cash bar (with drink specials!)
You'll want to get a move on, because the first 30 people who register will get a coveted swag bag.

In fact, why don't you take care of that now?
Register here.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Mon Sep 26 2011

Raúl Zurita @ the Poetry Foundation

As part of their Poetry Off the Shelf series, Chilean poet Raúl Zurita will read tomorrow, September 27, at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior), beginning at 7pm. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Sep 26 2011

Write Club Enters Chapter 18

Write Club's Chapter 18 is upon us. For those who do not know, Write Club has three bouts where authors are assigned a theme which their material has to reflect. They get seven minutes to square off. Then the audience votes on a winner. The best part is that proceeds collected go to charities of winners' choosing.

This time themes and writers chosen to represent them will be:
REVENGE (Dina Walters) vs. MERCY (Scott Whitehair),
ORDER (Ian Belknap) vs. CHAOS (Don Hall), and
ROOTS (Susan Karp) vs. BRANCHES (Patrick Carberry).

Match ups begin at 7pm. Tuesday September 27th at the Hideout 1354 W. Wabansia.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 26 2011

Anne Elizabeth Moore Reads From Cambodian Grrrl @ Quimby's

Missed Anne Elizabeth Moore talk about Cambodian Grrl a couple of weeks ago? You're in luck -- this Thursday (the 29th), the current columnist for Truthout and former editor of Punk Planet and the Comics Journal talks about her Fulbright-sponsored journey teaching self-publishing to young Cambodian women. Joining Moore will be local cartoonist and writer Sara Drake, who has her own plans involving comics and Cambodia. 7pm, 1854 W. North Avenue.

Rose Lannin

News Mon Sep 26 2011

Banned Books Week Is Back

September 24 to October 1 is Banned Books Week all over the U.S. To celebrate here in Chicago, check out Books on the Chopping Block, an hour-long program of readings from the most challenged books of 2010. Presented by City Lit and the American Library Association's Office of Intellectual Freedom, seven readings will take place at libraries in and around Chicago, ending in a final reading in suburban Glencoe. For times and locations, click here. If you don't feel like following the banned books around, you can take part in a Virtual Read-Out instead: submit a two-minute or less reading from a banned book or a three-minute eye-witness account of a banned book challenge in your area. Videos will be posted on a special YouTube channel. Get instructions on how to participate here. Happy Banned Books Week!

Emily Wong

Events Fri Sep 23 2011

Henry Rollins' Captures the World's Inhabitants

Black Flag member, band-creator (the Rollins Band), record maker and author Henry Rollins can add photographer to that list: his recently released book of photos, Occupants, bears witness to some of the world's starkest places, where upheaval and fear are the norm. These images are given context via his writing, and observe the inevitable bad and uncommon but very present good that occurs from Ireland to Iraq.

He'll be discussing this book at the Oak Park Public Library (834 Lake St, Oak Park) on 10/18, 7pm. Free, but space is limited -- head to the website for more detail.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Sep 23 2011

Sleepy Hollow at Noble Horse Theater

Washington Irving's short story comes to the Noble Horse Theater, 10/1 through 10/29. Get your tickets to this early American tale here or call the theater..

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Sep 23 2011

Tamale Hut Reading Series

The Tamale Hut reading series will host a special night for one of its frequent readers, Claire Suzanne Elizabeth Cooney, who will be debuting her new play. The festivities Saturday Sept 24th, 7pm at the Tamale Hut Café, located at 8300 W. Cermak Road in North Riverside, IL. Lots of tamales plus great stories.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Sep 21 2011

Amina Gautier @ Women and Children First

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Tomorrow night, author Amina Gautier reads from her short story collection At Risk at Women and Children First. Centered around a group of Brooklyn teens, author David Haynes says "in these always engaging stories, Amina Gautier reminds us that behind the disturbing headlines are vibrant young people whose lives matter immeasurably. Gautier employs unflinching honesty to capture those lives, and she does so with clarity, dignity and genuine insight. At Risk will break your heart even as it leaves you full of hope. It is a truly lovely book." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, September 22, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 21 2011

Douglas Kearney @ Harriet Reading Series

Friday, September 23, poet Douglas Kearney will be on hand to inaugurate the first Harriet Reading Series. Future series events will have readings and presentations by the "Craft Work" and "Open Door" writers on The Poetry Foundation's Harriet Blog. The reading starts at 7pm at The Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior St). Admission is free, but please RSVP here.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Sep 21 2011

Mira Bartok Reads from The Memory Place

Mira Bartok, SAIC alum and author of several children's books, promotes the paperback release of her memoir, The Memory Palace. Bartok will read excepts from her work this Thursday September 22, 7pm at the Book Cellar 4736 N Lincoln Ave, # 1.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Sep 21 2011

Book Bender

The Chicago Bar Project's Literary Pub Crawl takes you to the favorite drinking spots of authors past and present.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Sep 21 2011

Anna Solomon reads from the Little Bride

Wednesday September 21 Anna Solomon will read from her first novel, The Little Bride. Special guest Audrey Niffenegger will introduce the event. This begins at 7:30pm at Women and Children First 5233 North Clark Street.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Sep 20 2011

A Night of Readings (Brinksman Press and Two Cookie Minimum)

Tuesday brings a double dose of local readings.

First up is the Brinksmen Press reading, Revolutions: The Gamble, part II.
There will be some emerging writers and experimental music performances with featured readers to follow. Dan Duffy (editor of The Handshake magazine) and Patricia Ann McNair (author of The Temple of Air) will close the night. This event begins at 7pm at Brando's Speakeasy, 343 S. Dearborn St.

Second is Two and a Half Cookie Minimum. Two Cookie Minimum is a reading series promoting self publishers and writers. For this event, they team up with Half Nelson press, a self-published literary journal. Readers will include contributors to Half Nelson issue two alongside Mairead Case (co-conspirator of Dil Pickle Club) and Mason Johnson (host of P. Fanatics reading series). The event begins at 9pm at at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave.

Make it a literary night of sorts, stopping early at Revolutions and end with Two Cookies. Not a bad way to spend a weeknight.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 19 2011

A Conversation with Local Authors at Harold Washington Library

On September 20th at Harold Washington Library join Booklist's Donna Seamen moderate a conversation with award winning authors Dominic Smith (Bright and Distant Shores) and Billy Lombardo (The Man with Two Arms and How to Hold a Woman). The event is at 6pm in the
Harold Washington Library Center, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium 400 S. State Street.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 19 2011

The Poetry Postcards Project

Over the years, the Alternative Press (Ken and Ann Mikolowski) made and sent out to their followers "poetry postcards," written by such poetry notables as Anne Waldman, Robert Creely, and Ted Berrigan. These postcards will be exhibited as The Alternative Press Multiple Originals Project at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior) from September 21 to November 4. And to celebrate, the Foundation will host an opening reception on September 22 at 6pm, where poets Bill Berkson, Andrei Codrescu, and Emily Warn talk with Ken Mikolowski about The Alternative Press's unique project. For more information on The Alternative Press Multiple Originals Project, the poets who participated, and examples of poetry postcards, check out this article by Emily Warn.

Emily Wong

Books Sat Sep 17 2011

Elizabeth Berg and Jacquelyn Mitchard: Truth and "Chick Lit"

On Thursday evening, bibliophiles had an opportunity to attend an informal meet & greet with two authors, both with Chicago roots: Elizabeth Berg (Once Upon a Time, There Was You), now an Oak Park denizen, and Jacquelyn Mitchard (Second Nature, a Love Story), a Chicago-to-Wisconsin transplant, dished with Tribune literary editor Elizabeth Taylor to a room full of women (and perhaps two men, give or take).

The tone of this installment of the Tribune's Author Talks, part of an effort to "extend journalism to a live format," was set from the start. In her introduction, Taylor relayed an anecdote about her husband, who apparently responded to learning who the chosen authors for this particular event were by saying, "why don't you just sit around drinking wine and talking in your pajamas?"

Although she was quick to add her husband's respect for these authors, there's much to be said for the comfort and intimacy (not to mention, honesty) of pjs and a bottle of wine. Throughout the evening, the audience (myself included) was so comfortable that I'm not sure we weren't dressed more informally than we actually were. If the Trib's goal was to hold these events as intimate "salons", where the conversation on stage feels personal, then they succeeded.

Berg and Mitchard began, obligingly, by sharing their "Oprah Stories" - both have had books chosen for the infamous book club, with Mitchard's The Deep End of the Ocean being the first ever. Mitchard, who got a testy, fourth phone message from Oprah asking her to please have the courtesy to return her call, initially thought the whole thing was a joke.

To justify juxtaposing these two stories together, they obviously need more in common than Lady O - which they most certainly do. Both books explore what happens after tragedy, and how people cope - be it the personal tragedy of a divorce and worrying about your child, or the medical risk of transplant rejection. Both, said Berg, "acknowledge sorrow, but offer comfort."

That gift of comfort, perhaps, has gotten them some stern reviews, most of which focus on writing and themes that are allegedly overly sincere and sentimental. Unsurprisingly, this sort of criticism tends to follow women authors who write about the lives of women. It is a testament to the organizers of this event that they don't succumb to the erroneous conviction that "women's literature" (aka, "chick lit") is thereby relatively uninteresting and unimportant (check out this interview with author Augusten Burroughs, who sees truthfulness and honesty where others see maudlin).

While many writers may be "deeply insecure" about bad reviews, Berg and Mitchard seem to take it in stride. "Good criticism finds places [I've] been dishonest," Mitchard admitted. Operative word being "good" - some detractors may well be railing against anything resembling a happy ending.

"Not every book ends like a Cormac McCarthy book," Mitchard continued, "with a guy eating an egg and thinking about the end of the world."

Maybe McCarthy should write in his pajamas more often.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Sat Sep 17 2011

Chicago Women in Publishing Fall Reception

CWIP will hold its fall kickoff event on Thursday, September 22nd, at the Gleacher Center (450 N. Cityfront Plaza Drive), from 6:30pm - 8:30pm.

The keynote speaker will be Jennifer Parello, director of marketing and communication for World Book. Come for her tips for successfully navigating the publishing industry today, and stay for networking and hors d'oeuvres from Wolfgang Puck. Win-win.

You can register here, or call 773-508-0351 (extension 2).

Here's the pricing breakdown:

If you register on or before September 20
• CWIP members: $30; nonmembers: $40

If you register after September 20
• CWIP members: $35; nonmembers: $45

Students with ID
• $30 for registration before September 20;

• $40 after September 20

No refunds - you have been warned.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Sep 15 2011

L-Vis Lives On

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If you missed the L-Vis Lives: Racemusic Poems book release party at the Metro this past Wednesday, you've still got a few more chances to catch it. L-Vis Lives is the work of Kevin Coval, the Def Poet from Northbrook and artistic director of Louder Than A Bomb: The Chicago Teen Poetry Festival. L-Vis Lives explores race, art and appropriation in American culture. Che "Rhymefest" Smith says "Kevin Coval brings artistic taboo to the light in his new book L-Vis Lives. His courage and fragility shows why he's one of Chicago's most talented writers." Further L-Vis Lives book release parties are scheduled for September 19 at the Skokie Barnes and Noble (55 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, at 7:30pm), October 5 at 57th Street Books
(1301 E. 57th 'Street at 2pm) and October 12 at Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave., 7pm).

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Sep 15 2011

Need Fun Weekend Plans?

Join Here's the Story's Journey to the End of the Night this Saturday, September 17. Part tag, part scavenger hunt, and part race, you'll roam the streets of Chicago, following a set storyline that involves robots, maps to freedom, and safe zones. Show up at Harrison Park to sign up at 6pm, and at 7pm, let the game begin. There's no charge, and all you need to bring is yourself and your sense of direction. Running shoes might help, too. You know you're interested now...so check out all the important info here.

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Tue Sep 13 2011

Hear Moore on Cambodian Grrrl

Tonight Anne Elizabeth Moore (teacher, zinester, activist) reads from her new book:
Cambodian Grrrl: Self-Publishing in Phnom Penh. The book chronicle's Moore's travels in Cambodia teaching writing and self publishing in an all-girls' university. There will an opening dance performance by the Cambodian Association of Illinois, then Moore will be interviewed by Mara Shalhoup, editor of Chicago Reader. It all happens September 13th, 6pm, at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center 78 E Washington. RSVP to info@chicagopublishes.com

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 12 2011

You're Invited...

The Poetry Foundation invites you to check out a staged reading about poet William Butler Yeats, with Chicago actors performing his biography and reading his poems.

The important details, courtesy of the Poetry Foundation:

What: Meet Mr. Yeats
Who: Directed by Bernard Sahlins with Bruce Jarchow in the title role and cast members Timothy Kazurinsky, John Mohrlein, and Suzanne Petri.
When: Two performances
Sunday, September 18, 7:00pm
Monday, September 19, 7:00pm
Where: Poetry Foundation
61 West Superior Street

Best of all, admission is free! You can reserve your seats now by going here.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Sep 09 2011

The Chicago Way is the Way to Go

The Chicago Way reading series focuses on Chicago authors (who can ask for more). Local authors Michael Burke (What You Don't Know About Men), Geoff Hyatt (Birch Hills at World's End), Patricia Ann McNair (The Temple of Air) and Megan Stielstra (Everyone Remain Calm) read from their new novel (Hyatt) and story collections (Burke, McNair and Stielstra) and discuss their stories, their writing processes and offer publishing advice and answer any questions the audience might have. Have your journal and pen handy when attending this Sunday, Sept. 11 at the The Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted, at 7pm. Free admission.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Sep 09 2011

Two With Water: TMI @ Beauty Bar

TWW presents TMI: Totally, Maybe, I Don't Know at Beauty Bar (1444 W. Chicago Ave.) Sunday September 11th, 7pm. The reading series starts with a quick open mic, then moves onto stories from Gina Frangello, Lindsay Hunter, Muyassar Kurdi, Ben Tanzer, Richard Thomas, and Brandon Tietz.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Sep 08 2011

Curl up with Some Good Literary Events

Not looking forward to the cooler weather? Well, there's a silver lining: The Poetry Foundation has announced their Fall 2011 Literary Series. From readings to exhibits to Poetry on Stage, you're sure to find something to keep you warm this fall. Check out the full list of events here.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Sep 08 2011

School's In Get Back II Cool w/ Neutron Bomb

Join the punk rock reading series Neutron Bomb collaborate with The Handshake (an online literary publication) for a Columbia College-centric "Back II Cool" extravaganza.

Readings by Columbia College fiction writing grad students Jessie Morrison, Noelle Hufnagel, Kevin Kane and Dan Duffy plus a college faculty member too cool to name. Throw in a Handshake contributor, Dmitry Samarov. And what would a punk rock reading be without a band, who plays after all the readings are done. Quite the back to school bash (Rodney Dangerfield would be proud). Stop by Cal's Liquors, 400 S. Wells St., Saturday, Sept. 10 at 7pm if you're cool enough (and you're 21).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Sep 06 2011

Barbara Allan @ Centuries and Sleuths

This Thursday, Max Allan Collins and Barbara Collins sign their latest Trash 'n Treasures mystery Antiques Knock-Off. (Barbara Allan is the female pen name of author Max Collins when co-writing with wife Barbara Collins). Centuries and Sleuths, 7419 W. Madison, Forest Park, Thursday, September 8, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 06 2011

Ode to Lake Shore Drive @ Oak Park Library

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Tomorrow, Neal Samors and Bernard Judge present Chicago's Lake Shore Drive: Urban America's Most Beautiful Roadway. An old school coffee table sized tome, Julia Keller of the Chicago Tribune calls it "a lavishly illustrated history of the bodacious byway that snakes around the lake [for the reader who] lives and breathes Chicago history." Oak Park Library, 834 Lake St., Oak Park, Wednesday, September 7 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 06 2011

Sign of @MayorEmanuel

So, the @MayorEmanuel book release event is sold out, but you can still enjoy the awesome and funny poster announcing it. And/or go to the event at the MCA on 9/13.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Sep 06 2011

The Apocalypse is Nigh at Reading Under the Influence

The monthly series that marries reading and drinking is back this month with their theme being the Apocalypse. Why that theme, well Reading Under the Influence is holding this as a release party for featured reader Geoff Hyatt's book Birch Hills at World's End. Other readers will include James Finn Garner, Ilana Shabanov and Nick Delehanty. RUI lands on the first Wednesday of each month -- this month being tomorrow, Sept. 7. It's at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave, at 7pm with a $3 cover.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Sep 05 2011

Break in the Books

Not literally, of course. But The Poetry Foundation is having another open house -- this time to showcase its library's programs and expanded hours. The library at the newly built Poetry Foundation building has around 30,000 books and is open to the public. Why not stop by and celebrate it? The open house, dubbed Collections and Cocktails, is Wednesday, September 7, from 5:30pm to 8:30pm and will feature library collection readings from local poets, poetry fortune-telling, and more. Admission is free but first-come, first-served, so make sure you're in line early at the Poetry Foundation (61 West Superior St)! RSVP here.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Sep 05 2011

Q: So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel?

The monthly series "So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel?" is back Tuesday, Sept. 6, with a variety of performers, including Brandon Will and Nick Bitonti with some sketch comedy of sorts, the poetic styling of Dave Snyder, literary stand-up by Daniel Shapiro, plus a screening of a short film and talk by Xan Aranda of the Chicago Short Film Brigade. Host Harold Ray may challenge you to a drinking match so come prepared. The series is on the first Tuesday of every month at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont, at 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Sep 01 2011

Amina Gautier Discusses At-Risk @ Women & Children First

On Sept. 22, local author and Flannery O'Connor Short Fiction Award winner Amina Gautier will be at Women & Children First, discussing and signing At-Risk, her novel about African-American youth in Brooklyn and the not-so-stereotypical situations and choices they face. 5233 N. Clark St., 7:30pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Sep 01 2011

When the Encyclopedia Show Comes Marchin' In

The Encyclopedia Show kicks off its fourth series with the theme "saints." All featured performances of music, poetry, visual art, and spoken word will have some insanely saintly tie in. Featured contributors include Seth Dodson (The Show 'N Tell Show) as St. Elmo's Fire, Robin Gelfenbien (comedian, storyteller) as St. Vitus Dance, LeKeja Dawson (Louder Than a Bomb All Star) as Santa Muerte, Billy Lombardo (Author of The Man With Two Arms) as Maximilian Kolbe, and Marty McConnell (HBO Def Poet) as St. Anne. As always, the regular show cast members will be on hand to host. They all take the stage Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7:30pm at the Vittum Theatre, 1012 N. Noble St. Tickets are sold at the door; $8 for adults and $5 for students.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Aug 30 2011

Packingtown Review Trivia Night @ Declan's Irish Pub

Sharpen your thinkin' bits (and dull them with drink specials) at literary trivia night this Thursday. The evening is a benefit for the Packingtown Review, a UIC literary journal. Declan's Irish Pub, 1240 N. Wells, Thursday, September 1 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 30 2011

David Ansell @ Chicago Public Library, Roosevelt

Tomorrow night David Ansell reads from County: Life, Death and Politics at Chicago's Public Hospital at the Roosevelt branch of the Chicago Public Library. Ansell is a Chicago based physician and health activist who currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Rush University Medical Center and was part of a Chicago-based effort that provided medical relief after the Haiti earthquake. The Chicago Tribune says "...the many ways in which poor patients were mistreated and devalued on its premises are the true subject of this book - a valuable addition to the historical record of Cook County and its problem-ridden health care system. Ansell takes readers behind the scenes for a look at deplorable conditions." Chicago Public Library, Roosevelt branch, 1101 W. Taylor, Wednesday, August 31 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Aug 25 2011

Anders Nilsen's Big Questions

What began 15 years ago as a single sheet circulated among friends has grown into a collection recently published by Montreal's Drawn & Quarterly. Big Questions, over 600 pages of them, are asked by a group of birds -- pondering the meaning of life and, naturally, tasty things to eat.

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Nilsen's own life certainly prompted his own questioning. As he put it to the Reader, "I've lived in four different cities, in eight different houses, and had seven different day jobs. I've been engaged twice, married once, divorced, and weathered a death." If you think the melancholy evoked by the cartoons feels all too real, it probably is.

To catch some of these metaphysical musings, consider attending the book release event, sponsored by Quimby's, on Tuesday, August 30th at Lula Cafe (2537 N. Kedzie, 773-489-9554), starting at 7pm.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Aug 25 2011

Art Nouveau Book Art

From Alphonse Mucha to Chicago's Will Bradley, art noveau artists have created curving, colorful pieces of art, often featured on book covers, that continue to inspire today. Come find out more Thursday, September 15, Second Presbyterian Church (1936 S. Michigan Ave). SAIC Professor Rolf Achilles will lead the discussion, starting at 7pm. Contact historic2ndchurch [at] yahoo [dot] com for more details.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Aug 24 2011

Chattingers Book Club @ Challengers Comics

A Drifting Life.jpgTomorrow night, and every last Thursday of the month, is Chattinger's, the graphic novel book club at Challengers Comics. This month's selection is A Drifting Life, Yoshihiro Tatsumi's autobiography of growing up in post World War II Japan. Purchase not required; 20% discount on featured book. Challengers Comics, 1845 N. Western, 2R, August 25 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 24 2011

The Liquid Burning of Apocalyptic Bard Letters #14

I just finished Children of Men, and started Oryx and Crake, so telling you about an apocalypse-themed literary event seems like a logical next step. Hosting John Yingling of Gonzo Chicago, anti-sex blogger Donny Kevin Rodriguez of Wood Sugars, columnist Andrew O'Connor, Tomasz Jurczak of The Last King of Poland, Jeff Phillips of Wood Sugars, XIII Pocket, Turban Tan and Whiskey Pike, Aaron Cynic of Diatribe Media and political writer for Chicagoist, and Liz Mason of Caboose Zine and Quimby's.

This line-up reads and talks Sunday, August 28th, at the Black Rock Pub on 3614 N. Damen. Starts 8:30pm. Head over for $3 Bloody Marys and writing about the end-times.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Aug 22 2011

Words from Wood and Letterpress

Columbia College Chicago's Center for Book & Paper Arts explores an old-made-new form of printing, wood type, with a display of works from Swiss designer Dafi Kühne. Kühne is currently researching modern and fresh ways to utilize wood type and letterpress, delving into materials like laser cutters and the more old-school cardboard to produce the written word. Other artists shown include David Wolske, Bethany Heck, Brad Vetter, Alex Cooper, Rose Gridneff, and David Shields.


This will run September 8 - December 10. Gallery hours are 10am-6pm, Monday-Saturday. The gallery is located at 1104 S. Wabash Avenue, Second Floor.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Aug 18 2011

Alert, Alert! Orange You Glad I Didn't say Alert again?

The monthly reading series Orange Alert is hosted by Jason Behrends, who also runs the imprint of the same name. Orange Alert Press has its August event this Sunday the 21st. Readers will include local talent: Brett E. Gallagher, Steve Roggenbuck , Jason Bredle, Keith Ecker, and AD Jameson. It all goes down at 6pm at the Whistler 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Aug 17 2011

Experiment at Story Lab

From the creators of the reading series This Much is True, comes Story Lab, a reading series that brings new voices telling new stories. Performing this month will be: Willy Nast (a creative writing graduate from Northwestern), Marie Scatena (professor at Columbia University, NY), Rhiannon Koehler (an actress, writer, and student at Loyola Marymount University, LA) among others.

Story Labs fall on the third Wednesday of every month, which is August 17th, 7:30pm, at the Black Rock Pub (3614 N. Damen). Story Lab is interested to hear your story go to the series -- contact them, and we might be seeing you there in the future.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Aug 17 2011

Reading Under the Influence @ Sheffield's

Tonight! Generation Y night at Reading Under the Influence. Featured readers are Kyle Chaney, Ray Lumpp, Erin Nedero and August 3 audience winner Michelle Pretorius. Unlike most RUI readings, there's no cover tonight, and the first 20 attendees win a door prize. Sheffield's , 3258 N. Sheffield, Wednesday, August 17. Readings start at 7:30pm in the back room; get there early for a seat.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Aug 15 2011

Comics and Costumes

Wind down (and maybe relive your last two days) with a Wizard World recap: photos and a play-by-play of people celebrating comics, books, and movies through dress, attendance, and purchase.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Aug 15 2011

Tonight, Lady Superheroes Discussed in Essay Fiesta

Our kind of party: Director of digital strategy and development for Chicago magazine Scott Smith talks about the female side of the cape and mask set as part of an ongoing series about comic books and his daughter. Book Cellar (4736 N Lincoln Ave), 7pm.

Rose Lannin

Feature Mon Aug 15 2011

Modern Poetry Goes Victorian: the Chicago Poetry Brothel

If you like poetry, entertainment, and top hats, then the Chicago Poetry Brothel is for you. Tucked away in Thalia Hall, in private rooms in Ristorante al Teatro (1227 W 18th St), the basement bar has been turned into a Victorian brothel by the brothel's madam--Madam Black-eyed Susan--her "poetry whores," and the good doctor (there to supply laudanum for the poets with a case of the nerves). After paying the entrance fee ($5 if you're dressed in Victorian period clothing, $10 if your Victorian period wardrobe is at the cleaners), grab some wine or whiskey at the bar, and wait for the show to start.

The Poetry Brothel typically follows a standard format: After patrons get the chance to settle, Madam Black-eyed Susan introduces her poets with a few descriptive sentences about each, and each poet gets a chance to read a bit of their work to entice the crowd. Once everyone has gotten just a taste of the evening's finest lines, the poets mix and mingle with the crowd, peddling their poems, every so often taking the floor again to tease the patrons with more of their work. Because for a mere $5, you can purchase a token that gets you, not only the poetry whore of your choice, but an intimate reading with that poet, inside a velvet tent, complete with chairs, a table, and gold tassels. In this private space, the poet will recite anything the patron wants--be it the poet's own work or a poem the patron has in mind--on any topic. Being face-to-face and knee-to-knee with the poet is a very personal experience--ask the poet anything you want about the piece, ask for it to be read it again, ask pretty please for more than one poem. You might think that you'll get the same kind of work from each poet, which is definitely not the case. The poetry whores each have their own style that ranges from sultry jazz (Serafine LaCroix) to dark and haunting (August Rose). Plan ahead--check them all out so you can come to the next brothel prepared. And if you're interested in more than one, feel free to purchase more than one private reading!

But poetry isn't the only entertainment--the brothel also invites guests and musicians to showcase their talent. At the August 6 Poetry Brothel, Pearl Pistol performed her alluring vaudeville burlesque show, and the White City Rippers kept everyone moving with what they call their "old-timey mad-scientist steampunk music." (The October brothel will feature Karen Abbott, author of Sin in the Second City, and The Loneliest Monk, master of the electric cello.)

Intrigued? You should be. By the end of the night (the Poetry Brothel parlors are open from 8pm to midnight), you may leave with the poetry whores' books (on sale throughout the evening), and you may leave a little tipsy (the bar is open all four hours), but you certainly won't leave uninspired and unimpressed. And to tantalize you just a little bit more--see what Madam Black-eyed Susan herself has to say about the brothel, her poetry whores, and much more after the jump.

Continue reading this entry »

Emily Wong

Events Sat Aug 13 2011

Poetry Series 2011 @ Myopic

Stop by Myopic Books (1564 North Milwaukee Avenue) tonight at 7pm for their reading series. Featured readers will be Noelle Kocot and Mike Hauser. Admission is free!


Emily Wong

Events Fri Aug 12 2011

Imaginary Birds, Ray's Tap Reading Series

The next installment of Ray's Tap Reading Series is August 12th with the theme Imaginary Birds. It is not being billed as the series' last reading of all time, but then again there's really no way to know for sure. There's a huge line up of readers featuring:
Matt Rowan, Jacob Knabb, Jayita Bhattacharya, Matt Test, Troy Martin, Dave Snyder,
Daniel Shapiro, Scott Whitehair, Natalie Edwards, Mason Johnson, Brian Nemtusak,
Mark Chrisler, and Tim Racine.

The series is named for its location, Ray's Tap 3047 N. Kimball Avenue. Bar opens at 8 and the readings commence around 9pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Aug 12 2011

MAKE Do: Release Party for L.C. Fiore's Book Green Gospel

MAKE magazine will host the Chicago book release for L.C. Fiore's first novel Green Gospel (Fiore is also MAKE's associate fiction editor). Joining will be Lindsay Hunter author of Daddy on Featherproof books. Bookending the readings will be music by Steven Hendershot of the Spares. If that's not enough enjoy complimentary beer and snacks. The event is Friday August 12th, 6:30pm at the Gentner Showroom, 228 W. Kinzie.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Aug 11 2011

Where to Find--and Tell--a Story

Everyone has a story to tell, and if you come to Here's the Story, you can listen to some and even tell one of your own. Taking place every second Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm, at Stage 773 (1225 W Belmont), Here's the Story features five invited readers and holds a "story slam" for anyone who signs up. If you're selected as a "slammer," you get the floor at your designated time, share your story, and then keep your fingers crossed that the audience likes it--because they assign points to their favorites. The slammer with the most points gets to be one of the next month's featured readers. What makes Here's the Story different from tons of other readings, slams, and open mics around the city? It's also a potluck! Bring a dish to pass, fill your plate, and settle in for some serious storytelling. Get more info, see how to submit to be a featured reader, and check out past events here. Next show is September 14!

Emily Wong / Comments (2)

Books Thu Aug 11 2011

Chicago Tribune's Author Talks

This fall, the Trib offers a cracker-jack lineup of intimate conversations with authors. Helmed by Chicago Tribune Literary Editor Elizabeth Taylor, the "salons" allow you to have your burning questions answered by the writers, who will also attend a "meet & mingle" reception where you can continue the dialogue up close and personal.

While the series itself may be relatively new (having only just begun in February), the impetus behind it is not. Taylor explained that the talks are an outgrowth of the success, enthusiasm and joy of the Printer's Row Book Fair and the Tribune's literary awards, and are a way to extend that throughout the year.

Crafting the talks as "intimate salons" is a response to an increasingly electronic culture. "In this electronic age, people are yearning to come together and enjoy this communal aspect of reading." The selection of authors is made with an eye toward achieving a range and balance between fiction and non-fiction and, most importantly, to find "books and authors that we think will resonate with readers."

While you may have missed the talk Monday, August 8, with Sapphire (whose novel Push became the recent film Precious), you can still attend the rest.

The Author Talks series continues on Thursday, Sept. 15 with Elizabeth Berg (of the recent Once Upon a Time, There Was You, and before that Talk Before Sleep) and Jacquelyn Mitchard (of the upcoming Second Nature, A Love Story, and previously The Deep End of the Ocean). This installment of the series takes place at the Tribune Tower (435 N. Michigan) at 6:30pm, and costs $20 -- which includes reception and book signing.

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Left: Jacquelyn Mitchard; photo by Virginia Sutherland. Right: Elizabeth Berg; photo by Curt Richter

The next installment features Pulitzer Prize winner Jeffrey Eugenides (Middlesex, The Virgin Suicides) and takes place on Friday, Oct. 21 at the Murphy Auditorium (50 E. Erie Street) at 6:30pm, and costs $30 -- which includes a copy of The Marriage Plot, his much-anticipated follow-up to Middlesex.

The final talk, in co-presentation with the 22nd annual Chicago Humanities Festival, will be with writer and philosopher Umberto Eco (of the infamous Foucault's Pendulum, and the upcoming The Prague Cemetery), who will appear at the Thorne Auditorium of Northwestern University Law School (375 E. Chicago Avenue), on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 3pm, and costs $15.

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Left: Jeffrey Eugenides; right: Umberto Eco

After all this, if you're still thirsty for more (and who wouldn't be?), stay tuned to see who the Trib will bring for the spring.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Thu Aug 11 2011

Read 'em and Weep, Local Zine Reading Tour Kick Off

Read 'em and Weep, an aptly titled zine reading tour consists of four Chicago zinesters, will hit the road this week. The tour includes zinesters Dave Roche (On Subbing and About my Disappearance zines), Leslie Perrine (mini-comic/fiction zine and an organizer of Chicago Zine Fest), Xavier Maldonado (poetry zine Explorers are We) and Jim Joyce (personal/nonfiction zine Or Let it Sink).

Joining them will be local zinester special guests Rosy Phinick (Bacterial Turned Viral zine) and Sara Drake (Arty Party comic zine).

The reading is Thursday, August 11, at 7pm at 826CHI, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. It's free and there will be some refreshments. How DIY!
Come by and usher these guys outta Chicago on a good note.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Aug 10 2011

CCLaP Book Release Party @ Beauty Bar

Tonight! Chicago Center for Literature and Photography (CCLAP) presents their quadruple book release party at Beauty Bar, featuring readings from all four authors - Sally Weigel (Too Young To Fall Asleep), Ben Tanzer (99 Problems), Mark R. Brand (Life After Sleep) and Jason Fisk (Salt Creek Anthology). Books available for $20 each or the whole shebang for $50. Free food, cash bar, DJ and dancing afterward. Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., August 10, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 10 2011

Scary Funny @ Argo Tea

Tonight! Author Alan Goldsher (Paul Is Undead) presents "Scary Funny: The Art of Combining Horror and Humor" at Argo Tea on Broadway. It's free and you can win tickets to Comic Con. Argo Tea, 3135 N. Broadway, August 10, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 09 2011

The First Time: First High @ Beat Kitchen

Belmont Avenue is where it's at this week for reading and writing: just a short distance from where Britney Spears 101 takes place tonight is a reading series that delves into first times and the experiences they bring. A couple of differences: it's happening tomorrow night, it's at the Beat Kitchen (2100 W. Belmont Ave) and sponsored by CHIRP Radio, and it's not about Britney Spears. Probably. I guess it could be.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Aug 09 2011

Britney Spears 101

Pop diva Britney Spears is the focus of a reading, Homeroom: Britney Spears 101. All readers are fanatics of the singer in their own right.

Liz Mason self-publishes the zine Caboose, its current issue #7 is titled: Britney Spears 101," touching on topics of Brit as well as her experience undergoing treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma cancer. Next up is Christopher Smit, PhD, an Associate Professor of Media Studies at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan who authored the book The Exile of Britney Spears: A Tale of 21st Century Consumption. Last on the Brit train is Judy Hoffman, an award-winning filmmaker/cinematographer and Senior Lecturer at the University of Chicago who directed Stages: 3 Days In Mexico, about Britney Spears' 2002 concerts in Mexico City.

The not-to-be-missed event is Tuesday, Aug. 9, at 9pm at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Fri Aug 05 2011

The Best Little Brothel in Chicago...

Is at it again! This month's Poetry Brothel is once again at Thalia Hall, inside Ristorante al Teatro (1227 W 18th St), tomorrow from 8pm to midnight. Hear a private poem from one of the madam's best poetry girls; get your fortune told; and enjoy Victorian parlor songs, The White City Rippers, and burlesque beauty Pearl Pistol. Saturday is for food and drinks, celebrating Chicago's saints and sinners, and of course: poetry! (The price of admission is $5 if you come dressed Victorian, $10 if you don't!)

Emily Wong

Events Wed Aug 03 2011

LTAB: English Class Heretics @ Victory Gardens Theater

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Chicago teen poetry group Louder Than A Bomb (which you may remember from such films as Louder Than A Bomb) announce a collaboration with Victory Gardens Theater. The partnership will launch new playwriting curriculum for LTAB, with courses designed to explore the intersections of poetry, hip-hop and theater. Their first show, English Class Heretics, a "best of" LTAB showcase, runs this weekend. Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln, Friday, August 5 at 7:30pm and Saturday, August 6 at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 03 2011

Jane Lynch @ Women & Children First

It's not until October but here's the early heads-up: actress, comedian, and singer Jane Lynch will grace Women & Children First 10/9, talking about her autobiography, Happy Accidents (available from Women & Children First on 9/13). In Happy Accidents, Lynch discusses how her career path and life have intertwined, as well as the issues of sexuality that have accompanied her on that journey.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Aug 03 2011

Smart Readings @ Smart Museum - Part Two

August 14th from 1pm-3pm at the Smart Museum (5550 S. Greenwood Avenue), poet Matthias Regan presents the second of two workshops combining the sensibilities of reading and looking. Intended to "explore the relationship between figures and genres of personhood," this (free!) workshop consists of a brief lecture, tour of exhibit "Go Figure," and a conversation about related stories and poems.

This last of the two-workshop series, "Bodies Among Other Things," pairs Sylvia Sleigh's painting The Turkish Bath with passages from Lord Byron's mock epic poem Don Juan, "in order to contemplate how sexualized bodies receive, hold onto, and return the viewer's desire."

Megan E. Doherty

Events Wed Aug 03 2011

The Encyclopedia Show Summer Spectacular!

Over the summer, the well-known Encyclopedia Show, a variety show hosted by poet Robbie Q. Telfer, takes a break from its monthly installments and celebrates a year in review, kinda. Cue the Best of Season 3, their anthology show. The event takes place at the Vittum Theatre (1012 N Noble Street), 7pm. Get tickets at the door; $8 for adults and $5 for students.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Aug 02 2011

A New Road Home tour w/ Nomy Lamm and DavEnd

Today, A New Road Home tour hits Chicago. The tour is a collaboration between Nomy Lamm and DavEnd, nationally know queer-core artists, who will remix notions of gender, sexuality, dis/ability, community and family. Local legends Jami Sailor, Mia Beatrice, Dalice Malice, and The Ovens are on the bill. Stop by 826CHI aka The Boring Store (1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.) at 7pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Aug 01 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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Gitcher ice-cold Tuesday Funk tomorrow night, upstairs at the Hopleaf. Tuesday's readers include:

Hopleaf, upstairs room, 5148 N. Clark St., Tuesday, August 2, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Jul 29 2011

Two Cookie Minimum Reading Series Celebrates its One Year Anniversary

Two Cookie Minimum's One Year Anniversary falls on Saturday July 30. This series showcases emerging writers and local zinesters. Plus it's at a bakery, Fritz Pastry (1408 W. Diversey).

Readers include: Carrie Colpitts (brilliant mistake zine), Cyn Vargas, Erin Nederbo (intern at Reading Under the Influence), Dan Copulsky (editor of Concisely zine), Kevin Kern,
Jill Summers, John Wawrzaszek (the Muse, the News, and the Noose zine)

The event is Free and begins at 4pm.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jul 28 2011

Printers' Ball: the after party and the after-after party

If you haven't had enough at Printers' Ball, here's a few post events that should sate you.

Directly following the ball on Friday, July 29 join ALARM Press, publisher of Design Bureau magazine, for an after party at Villains Chicago (649 South Clark Street). Mingle with local publishers and Ball attendees. The event is free. Come out at 11 and stay until closing.

Then wake up the next afternoon and get your costumes ready for the Slumber Party Massacre Saturday, July 30, 9pm at Beauty Bar (1444 West Chicago Avenue). RSVP to Beauty Bar.

Entertainment will include DJ sets by Gabriel Feijóo (WLUW-FM), Miles Raymer & J.R. (of the Chicago Reader), and Dark Wave Disco, a photo booth by Glitter Guts, plus costumes contests for Best Costume and Best Couple's costume.

Admission is $5. Another Chicago Magazine hosts this event with proceeds funding The Way We Sleep: An Anthology of Prose & Comics, ACM's first stab at book publishing.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jul 27 2011

Come Have a Ball with Us!

Thrilled, and maybe a little overwhelmed, by all the amazing literary wonderfulness at this year's Printers' Ball? What would it be like if you couldn't read well enough to enjoy any of it? Join Gapers Block and the Chicago Literacy Alliance Friday, July 29, from 6:30pm to 7:30 pm for a special Printers Ball Edition meetup (1104 S Wabash) to learn more about the literacy crisis in our city and the organizations that are banding together to fight it. Then head out with your new meetup friends to explore all that the Ball has to offer. Anyone and everyone with an interest in books, reading, literacy, and meeting like-minded people is welcome!

Gapers Block and Chicago Literacy Alliance will be located in a prime spot on the first floor in the Northwest corner next to the bar. Look for a banner!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Jul 26 2011

Men Undressed: Woman Writers (a Printers' Ball Pre-event)

Men Undressed: Women Writers and the Male Sexual Experience is the theme for one of the Printers' Ball lead up events.

Susan Solomon and Gina Frangello read selections from newly published Men Undressed, a book featuring contemporary women writers taking on the point of view of male characters during their sexual experiences. Davis Schneiderman follows reading a story by Cris Mazza. All readers will be dressed up as the opposite sex.

Check it out Wednesday 27th at 6pm. The event will be located at the
Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College 1104 South Wabash Avenue. Oh and it's free.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Mon Jul 25 2011

Printers' Ball: It's Alive

Printers Ball is annual celebration of print culture with this year's theme -- It's Alive. The Ball takes place on Friday July 29th, 6-11pm at 1104 S. Wabash. Stop by and pick up some free lit, sit in on paper making and letterpress demonstrations and enjoy live music all presented by Poetry Magazine and Columbia College Chicago.

We'll be there, too! Check us out and pick up a free pencil and sticker. We'll be next to the Chicago Literary Alliance.

John Wawrzaszek

Books Sun Jul 24 2011

Annual Used Book Sale @ Women & Children First

Who doesn't like foraging through great books for even greater deals? If you count yourself among those so inclined, stop by Women & Children First next weekend for their annual used book sale. You'll find steals on "fiction, nonfiction, children's books, LGBTQ titles, CDs, DVDs, and collectables" -- all for a good cause. Proceeds from the weekend benefit the bookstore's non-profit arm, the Women's Voices Fund, which supports all the wonderful programming they make free to the public. July 30 - 31st, 10am-7pm.

Megan E. Doherty / Comments (3)

Events Thu Jul 21 2011

Fine Fine Music at Quimby's

Writer Cassie J. Snider reads from her new book Fine Fine Music, a collection of stories about the other side of rock and roll and coming of age in NYC, playfully promoting it as "Sex, Pugs, Rock and Roll." Joining her will be readers Danny "Ratso" Rathbun (author of the zine Don't Tread on Me) and local Dave Roche (author of the zine My Disappearance). Saturday July 23rd, 7pm at Quimby's 1854 W. North Ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jul 20 2011

Just Slip On A Banana Peel/The World's At Your Feet

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The Third Coast International Audio Festival hosts "Make 'Em Laugh" tomorrow night at the Old Town School of Folk Music. Sit back for an evening of humorous stories carefully culled from the radio waves and Internet ether, read to you by Gwen Macsai of Re:sound and Stuart Flack of the Chicago Humanities Festival. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., July 21, 7pm. $10 for the general public, $8 for Old Town School members, seniors and children.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 20 2011

Smart Readings

This Sunday the 24th from 1pm-3pm at the Smart Museum (5550 S. Greenwood Avenue), poet Matthias Regan will begin a series of two workshops combining the sensibilities of reading and looking. Intended to "explore the relationship between figures and genres of personhood," each (free!) workshop consists of a brief lecture, tour of exhibit "Go Figure," and a conversation about related stories and poems.

The first of the two workshops, "Bodies Among Other Things," pairs Kerry James Marshall's painting Slow Dance with a short story by detective novelist Walter Mosley.

The second workshop will be held on August 14th.

Megan E. Doherty

Events Wed Jul 20 2011

Palabra Pura Tonight!

Palabra Pura is a bilingual poetry reading series that takes place monthly and features Chicano and Latino artists. At each reading, a local poet is paired with a visiting writer, and an open mic is thrown in to foster interaction. Tonight's reading starts at 7:30pm at La Bruquena restaurant (2726 W. Division) and is curated by Rafael Franco Steeves with Rey Andujar and Carlos Vázquez Cruz. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Miscellaneous Tue Jul 19 2011

Poetry on Demand


"O Wicker Park Fest/ What souvenir should I take home?/ A hangover? A corduroy hipster vest?/ Or an original poem?"


At this Saturday's Wicker Park Fest, two of the Poetry Brothel poets, Dave Landsberger and Kathleen Rooney, will provide poetry on demand from 2pm-9pm at the Chamber of Commerce Booth. Tell them your topic of choice, and they will type out a fresh, related poem on their vintage typewriter. Donations of $5 are suggested, though pay-what-you-can is also accepted. All proceeds will benefit the after-school program 826CHI (The Boring Store) and Rose Metal Press. Read on below for sample poems from Landsberger and Rooney.


WICKER PARK by Dave Landsberger

Men cheat at chess and chug Big Gulps
as children run shirtless to stranger's puppies.

Fat guys on fat softball teams watch skinny dudes
tai-chi into Derrick Rose--the shoes are insults,

the sockless are gods here. O, to be barefoot,
eating a sandwich, under a tree, hopefully no one's Labrador

will release their morning upon me. And look, the sun,
it bombasts above the fountain as if to draw a straight line:

a pyramid, an ancient geyser of goats, gargoyles, a pizza from above .
Even hipsters cannot reappropriate such wonder.

Nor the drunken centrifuge of the Blue Line,
the sad-looking babes in leggings, the elderly who sit and watch,

holding hands. The only force that can steal it away is the winter,
and even then, the poinsettias win. Their roots, barefoot.

SIX-WAY INTERSECTION: A CINQUAIN by Kathleen Rooney

Across
The street, a girl
Just threw her cellphone at
A bus. Man--where can we get a
Taco?

Emily Wong

Miscellaneous Mon Jul 18 2011

Slammin' Good Deal

Today's Real Deal (courtesy of the Chicago Reader) gives you 50% off tickets to the Chicago Slam Works Extravaganza at the Metro, happening 7/30.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Jul 18 2011

Spend Some Time at Summer Camp

Young Chicago Authors (along with The Art Institute of Chicago, The Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, Louder Than a Bomb: The Chicago Youth Poetry Festival, New School Poetics, and The School of the Art Institute of Chicago) is proud to present Check the Method: A Summer Spoken Word Camp. In a session for young writers (ages 16-24; July 25-29) and a session for educators (classroom teachers, teaching artists, future teachers; August 1-5), these five-day camps will focus on writing techniques and practices, as well as writing education. Co-lead by Kevin Coval and Roger Bonair-Agard, both sessions take place each day from 10am-3pm and will provide lunch. Interested? Click here for more information and registration.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Jul 15 2011

How Fitting, Michael Harvey at The Chicago Way

The Chicago Way, a literary series that mixes readings and trivia, will host author Michael Harvey who penned the book The Chicago Way. He will be promoting his newest book, We All Fall Down, with copies available to sign. The event takes place on Sunday July 17th, 7pm at the Hidden Shamrock (2723 North Halsted Street).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Wed Jul 13 2011

Celebrate 25 Years of Slammin' Poetry

Way back in May, we told you about poetry slams turning 25 this year, and the big bash YCA is having to celebrate on Saturday, July 30, from 8-11pm. Haven't gotten your tickets yet? Well, we have an exciting update: Discounted student tickets are now available for $10! Go to the events page, click on the ticketing link, and enter the promotional code "student." When you pick up your tickets at will call on July 30, flash your student ID or mention "YCA." Happy slammin' poetry!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Jul 12 2011

Samuel Park @ Women and Children First

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Wednesday night, Columbia College assistant professor Samuel Park reads from his novel This Burns My Heart at Women and Children First. The story of a woman struggling for identity in post-war South Korea, This Burns was named one of amazon.com's Best Books of the Month for July, 2011. Audrey Niffenegger calls it "...quietly stunning - a soft, fierce story that lingers in the mind." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Wednesday, June 13, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jul 11 2011

This Much Is True @ Hopleaf

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Tomorrow night! Slip into the air conditioning for the This Much Is True reading series at The Hopleaf: "Revealing the humorous, embarrassing and poignant moments that make up a life remembered." Tuesday's reading features:

Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark, Tuesday, July 12, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Book Club Mon Jul 11 2011

Sunbonnet Happy Hour

As you may have noticed on our right sidebar, we've got a new Book Club event coming up and it's full of history, revelations (both funny and serious), and many miles of prairie.

Wendy McClure will join the GB Book Club staff at Sheffield's on July 27 to discuss The Wilder Life, her story of a road trip through the land of Little House on the Prairie, and the actual events, culture (remember the TV show?) and ideas that entails -- both for the book's characters and real-life inspirations, the author, and the people that feature in her journey into the life and times of Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Sheffield's is located at 3258 N. Sheffield Avenue. The event starts at 7:30pm. There will be some sort of Little House-themed surprise for attendees. Email rl@gapersblock with any questions.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Jul 08 2011

P. Fanatics Reading Series

On Sunday July 10th, P. Fanatics host Mason Johnson brings another round of literary hijinks. The event is at Cole's bar (2338 N. Milwaukee), 8pm, no cover. Readers include: Jill Summers, Dan Shapiro, Lindsay Hunter, Robbie Q. Telfer and more.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jul 07 2011

Summer School Is in Session

But we promise, these classes will be fun: DePaul is having its Summer Writing Conference again, from July 15-17. This year's conference will feature Alex Kotlowitz, journalist and best-selling author, as opening speaker and Miles Harvey, award-winning fiction writer (and DePaul assistant professor), as closing speaker, as well as other notable poets and writers who will help you learn more about craft, publishing, and surviving as a writer. Interested? Get registration information and a schedule of classes here.

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jul 06 2011

Orderly Disorder, Zinester Librarians in Circulation Tour

A group of Librarians by day and Zinesters by night are taking their talents on the road, touring around in the Fly Away Zine Mobile, a bookmobile dedicated to DIY and self-publishing.

Tour participants are Jenna Freedman (Lower East Side Librarian and Barnard Zine Collection); Jami Sailor (Your Secretary zine and Chicago Public Library Near North Branch Librarian); John Stevens (Dilettantes and Heartless Manipulators); Celia Perez (I Dreamed I Was Assertive and Atlas of Childhood); and Debbie Rasmussen (former publisher of Bitch: Feminist Response to Popular Culture) who's latest venture is the Fly Away Zine Mobile.

The tour stops by Chicago July 6th, 7pm at Quimbys 1854 W. North ave.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Tue Jul 05 2011

Galacticon Hits Year Three

Sprung from the minds of Think Galactic, a science fiction-based book club out of Wicker Park, leftist sci-fi convention Galacticon happens July 8-10 at Roosevelt University. Find out more about the con in Time Out Chicago's recent article, or go straight to the website.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Jul 04 2011

Reading Under the Influence: "Poison" @ Sheffield's

The monthly reading series Reading Under the Influence (RUI)offers up the theme "Poison" on Wednesday July 6th. Featured readings by Adam McOmber (fitting as he authored the book, This New and Poisonous Air), 2nd Story contributor Eileen Dougharty, Mason Johnson and Adam Wood. Join them at Sheffield's (3258 N Sheffield Ave) 7pm, 21+, $3.

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jun 30 2011

Daniel Kraus @ Bucket of Blood

Tonight author and filmmaker Daniel Kraus will be on hand at Bucket of Blood books and records reading from and signing his new horror novel, Rotters. The event starts at 7:30pm, but get there early and check out the shop's selection of horror and science fiction books (2307 N. Milwaukee Ave).

John Wawrzaszek

Events Thu Jun 30 2011

Hey, Shorty! Don't Take No Mess

Mandy Van Deven reads from Hey, Shorty! A Guide to Combating Sexual Harassment and Violence in Schools and On the Streets at Women and Children First tomorrow night. Ms. magazine says "If you want to read about some truly inspiring young feminists, pick up Hey Shorty! This book is full of great ideas for youth organizing and coalition work. [It] encouraged girls to articulate their issues and goals, and then worked with them to learn the skills they needed to achieve their goals. The result? A whole new generation of smart, knowledgeable, articulate and empowered young women. Women who will change the world." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark, Friday, July 1, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 30 2011

David Ansell @ Oak Park Library

If you're out in the suburbs and can't make it to the Gapers Block event tonight, David Ansell will be reading from County: Life, Death and Politics at Chicago's Public Hospital at the Oak Park Public Library. Ansell is a Chicago based physician and health activist who currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Rush University Medical Center and was part of a Chicago-based effort that provided medical relief after the Haiti earthquake. The Chicago Tribune says "...the many ways in which poor patients were mistreated and devalued on its premises are the true subject of this book - a valuable addition to the historical record of Cook County and its problem-ridden health care system. Ansell takes readers behind the scenes for a look at deplorable conditions." Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street, Thursday, June 30, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 23 2011

How'd Ya Like a Black Eye, Punk?

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Ivan Brunetti, Lilli Carre, Paul Nudd , Onsmith and upcoming Gapers Block book club author Paul Hornschemeier will sign the comic and essay collection Black Eye #1: Graphic Transmissions to Cause Ocular Hypertension tomorrow night at Quimby's. The jury's out on whether it actually provokes the titular medical condition, but it was badass enough to be seized at the Canadian border on obscenity charges a month ago. Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., Friday, June 24, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 23 2011

Camille Noe Pagan @ The Book Cellar

Camille Noe Pagan reads from The Art of Forgetting tonight at the Book Cellar. A novel of female friendship and the shifting roles they entail, author Sarah Pekkanen calls it "lively, thoughtful...This book captivated me from the first page, and I couldn't bear to put it down." The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, Thursday, June 23, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 21 2011

Don't Forget to Remember: Poetry this Weekend!

Way back when, we told you about the construction of The Poetry Foundation's new building. Well, the new building will open to the public this weekend, on June 25! And to celebrate, the foundation is inviting you over for a two-day open house on June 25 and 26, starting at 10am each day. Plan to not only be wowed by the beautiful new space but also by the entertainment, with readings from poets that include Billy Collins, Robert Hass, and Jack Prelutsky; a presentation by the building's architect, John Ronan; discussions; book signings; and much much more. Check out the schedule of events here, and reserve FREE tickets to any event(s) of your choice.

A visual rendering of the new building

Emily Wong

Events Mon Jun 20 2011

Free Neko Case Show!

Haven't decided if you're going to attend The Poetry Foundation Open House this Saturday? How about this as an incentive: Singer-songwriter Neko Case will perform a special show at 8:30 pm on June 25, at the new building (61 W. Superior). FREE tickets will be given out through a lottery system -- 90 pairs in all. Go to The Poetry Foundation's lottery website between now and Tuesday, June 21, at 5 pm to enter and read full contest rules. After all entries have been received, winners will be drawn and then notified by email on Wednesday, June 22. Good luck!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Jun 16 2011

Shake Hands and Kiss Babies...

There's no guarantee you'll actually get to do those things, but the Young Chicago Authors Fundraiser & Poetry Expo (Elastic Arts, 2830 N. Milwaukee Ave.) will be fun nonetheless! Your $5 (under 25) or $10 (over 25) will get you food and drinks, as well as performances by a wide range of people, including poets, singers, DJs, and MCs. Your money will also be put to good use: it will help send YCA youth to the Allied Media Conference in Detroit. So mark Tuesday, June 21, on your calendar, because from 7-10pm, you'll be enjoying the talent at YCA's concert and expo!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Jun 15 2011

Bloomsday in Chicago

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Tomorrow is Bloomsday, where bibliophiles around the world celebrate all things James Joyce. Chicago will represent at the Galway Arms Irish Pub where Puddin'head Press and Collage Productions will host their 7th annual reading from James Joyce's Ulysses. Fifteen excerpts will be read in a two-hour presentation encapsulating the events of June 16, 1904 as experienced by Stephen Dedalus, Leopold and that saucy Molly Bloom (I read her soliloquy in a speech class ages ago and got an "is this X-rated??" comment in red pen). Chicago playwright and novelist Jeff Helgeson returns as emcee with performances by local actors and Puddin' head Press authors. Galway Arms Irish Pub, 2nd Floor, 2442 N. Clark, Thursday, June 16, 6:30pm. $5 donation.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jun 15 2011

Nnedi Okorafor @ 57th Street Books

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Chicago State University writing professor Nnedi Okorafor reads from and discusses her latest novel Who Fears Death? tomorrow night. Centering around genocide in a far-future, post-apocalyptic Saharan Africa, the book has won a number of awards and was honored as a "Best Book of 2010″ by Publishers Weekly, Library School Journal, and the Nobbie Awards. 57th Street Books, 1301 E 57th St., Thursday, June 16, 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jun 13 2011

Vote for Your Favorite Poet!

Tuesday is the final event for the 18th Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Award, and they're doing it up "American idol-style." Each of the 22 finalists will read their poem on stage, and the audience gets to decide who wins the $500 prize. Come to the Chopin Theatre (1543 W Division) tomorrow night at 7pm to watch the poets in action and cast your vote. The entrance fee is $7 ($5 for students). To get a preview of the competing poets, click here.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Jun 09 2011

Prison Resources Foundation Sponsors Book Drive, Free Beer

Got some books you need to get off your hands? Donate them to the Prison Resources Foundation, whose initiative is to "provide free books to libraries in prisons and jails across the country." Like free drinks? There will be those as well. This all happens Saturday, July 2, 1pm-7pm, at 3281 W. Wrightwood Avenue. Go here for more details.


All donations accepted, but the following are in high demand:


  • Contemporary bestsellers, especially mysteries and thrillers

  • Love poetry and romance novels

  • Self-help, especially positive thinking and anger management

  • Job search and resume guides

  • Latino interest and Spanish-language books

  • African-American interest

  • Religion, especially islam

  • Dictionaries and thesauruses

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Jun 08 2011

Nalini Singh @ The Book Cellar

Kiss of Snow is an especially sexy sounding title this time of year (what with the Unwelcome Embrace of Humidity upon walking out the door). It's also a paranormal romance ("Since the moment of her defection from the PsyNet and into the SnowDancer wolf pack, Sienna Lauren has had one weakness. Hawke. Alpha and dangerous, he compels her to madness"). Hear more at best-selling author Nalini Singh's appearance at the Book Cellar tonight. Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, June 8 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 08 2011

Greg Borzo @ Chicago Cultural Center

Greg Borzo, author of Bike It Everywhere, Chicago: Tales From The Trails shares tales of cycling adventures at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) on June 14, 12pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Jun 06 2011

The New Chicago Style: Readings from Another Chicago Magazine's 50th Magazine

An all-star local literary cast reads at the Chicago Cultural Center (77 E. Randolph) on June 16: Joe Meno, Bayo Ojikutu, Simone Muench, and Kathleen Rooney. Afterparty at the Stop Smiling storefront (1371 N. Milwaukee Ave.).

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Jun 02 2011

Beyond Printers Row

The Reader rounds up some of the slightly less well-known summer book fairs.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Jun 02 2011

Leslie Jamison and Kiki Petrosino @ Women and Children First

It's a literary debutante ball (of sorts) at Women and Children First tonight: Leslie Jamison reads from her debut novel The Gin Closet and Kiki Petrosino from her debut poetry collection Fort Red Border . Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Thursday, June 2, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 02 2011

Poem Present @ University of Chicago

Poet Jena Osman (The Network ) reads in in the latest installment of of the University of Chicago's Poem Present series. University of Chicago, Wieboldt Hall, 1050 E 59th St., Thursday, June 2, 5pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 01 2011

The Dollhouse Three

If you haven't been to The Dollhouse Reading Series yet, you won't want to miss this one. Friday, June 3, the series (1850 W. Belle Plaine Ave, Apt 3) has a celebrity theme: it's BYOB and bring your favorite celebrity quote (they've specifically requested no Charlie Sheen -- everyone's probably heard enough by now). Featured poets include Nick Demske, Sarah Fox, Daniel Borzutzky, and Sarah Carson. The doors open at 8pm, and the reading begins at 9pm. Admission is free.

Emily Wong

Events Tue May 31 2011

Reading Under the Influence: "Boxes" @ Sheffield's

This edition (happening Wednesday, first day of June, 7-9pm) features writing professors Daniel Hoyt and Shawn Shiflett (Kansas State and Columbia College, respectively), local authors Rick Markley and Erin Nederbo. The theme is "Boxes." 3258 N Sheffield Ave, (773) 281-4989.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri May 27 2011

Prepare Yourself for Printers Row

The lit fest is only about a week away! Next Saturday and Sunday, June 4 and 5, Printers Row (around the area of Dearborn Street, from Congress to Polk streets) will be filled with more books, authors/speakers, and book nerds than you can imagine for the 2011 Printers Row Lit Fest. Check out each day's event schedule, the full list of appearing authors, and Make Your Mark: Get Chicago Reading! The fine print: events and panel discussions are free; however, you need to reserve a free ticket for Harold Washington Library Center and University Center events to ensure entrance. So come one, come all and enjoy all sorts of special literature related events, such as Lit After Dark and Pitchapalooza!

Emily Wong

Events Thu May 26 2011

Movin' On Up

The Poetry Foundation's brand spankin' new building will open to the public on June 25! And to celebrate, the foundation is inviting you over for a two-day open house on June 25 and 26, starting at 10am each day. Plan to not only be wowed by the beautiful new space but also by the entertainment, with readings from poets that include Billy Collins, Robert Hass, and Jack Prelutsky; a presentation by the building's architect, John Ronan; discussions; book signings; and much much more. Check out the schedule of events here, and reserve FREE tickets to any event(s) of your choice. It's only a month away! And you know how time flies when you're...reading poetry.

A visual rendering of the new building

Emily Wong

Events Wed May 25 2011

Ben Tanzer and David Masciotra @ Book Cellar

Ben Tanzer (You Can Make Him Like You) and David Masciotra (Working on a Dream: The Progressive Political Vision of Bruce Springsteen) read at The Book Cellar tomorrow night. There are promises of "interpretive dance numbers and a laser light show of uncertain proportions." Book Cellar, 4736 N Lincoln Ave., Thursday, May 26 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 25 2011

25 Years of Slammin' Poetry

Did you know poetry slams began right here in our fabulous city? And that they're turning 25 this year? In honor of the birth of poetry slams, Chicago Slam Works is hosting a birthday bash that will blow the top off of slams everywhere. The Poetry Slam 25th Birthday Extravaganza will take place at Cabaret Metro (3730 N. Clark) on July 30. The party will feature Slam Champions and slammers from all over the globe, including a group from Germany! And as if that isn't enough, there will also be live slam translations and music. Get your tickets now: the 6pm Pre-Show VIP reception package is $100+, and the 8pm Main Floor/General Seating is $45, with Standing Room tickets at $25. Go to the Metro website or the Chicago Slam Works website to buy. If you want to get in on some slam action early, check out the Slam History Salon at the Chopin Theater (1543 W. Division) on June 18. Just $12 gets you 3 hours with historical figures discussing their behind-the-scenes slam stories AND a "generous brunch." Call (847) 556-8679 for reservations.

Emily Wong

Events Fri May 20 2011

Tamale Hut Cafe Presents Reading Series in Nearby 'burbs

Schoooool's...out...for...summer: Share readings from your hard-earned MFA manuscript at the Tamale Hut Café Presents tomorrow night for their first-ever MFA open reading invitation. Raise a glass to Randy "Macho Man" Savage as host Jenny Seay reads from her novel-in-progress steeped in the world of wrestling. Bring your student ID and get three tamales for the price of two. BYOB. Tamale Hut Café, 8300 W. Cermak, North Riverside, May 21, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri May 20 2011

The Dil Pickle Club Presents BLACK/WHITE

A zookeeper, professor, and two shadow puppet-wielding sisters present their interpretations of black and white tonight at a gathering of the zine-based Dil Pickle Club, with a bonus return of the Dil Pickler. There will also be music, and a man in a gorilla suit. Takes place at the Original Billy Goat Tavern (430 N Michigan), Sunday May 22nd, 7pm-10pm. Free.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed May 18 2011

Rebecca Skloot @ Harold Washington Library

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Rebecca Skloot reads from The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks tomorrow night. Henrietta Lacks was a poor Southern tobacco farmer whose cells (dubbed HeLa cells) were taken without her knowledge and were of vital use in developing the polio vaccine, in cancer research and in gene mapping, among other things. Her cells helped launch a multimillion-dollar industry that sells human biological materials, yet her family never saw any of the profits. Seed magazine says "The history of HeLa is a rare and powerful combination of race, class, gender, medicine, bioethics, and intellectual property; far more rare is the writer that can so clearly fuse those disparate threads into a personal story so rich and compelling. Rebecca Skloot has crafted a unique piece of science journalism that is impossible to put down - or to forget." Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State, May 19, 2011 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon May 16 2011

Bombs Away

Bomb & Bird is the latest reading series taking place this Thursday, May 19, at Innertown Pub (1935 West Thomas St), starting at 7:30pm. Bring poetry, prose, what have you (the brave souls even say they'll accept your worst work as well as your best). The event is free, and you get five minutes of open-mic floor time -- first come, first-served. And the founders would like to leave you with these words...

"There you are, coy and considering, and with nothing to do but show up, sign up, and speak up."

Emily Wong

Events Thu May 12 2011

Tonight: Logan Square Literary Review Readings @ Ipsento Coffee House

The Logan Square Literary Review features authors they've published tonight at Ipsento Coffee House (2035 Western): Larry O. Dean, Lara Levitan, and Kristiana Colon serve up some local talent, starting at 7:15pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed May 11 2011

Kim Barker Does the Middle Eastern Correspondent Shuffle

Kim Barker brings to life her at times black-humored experiences as a correspondent covering the rising militancy in both Pakistan and Afghanistan in The Taliban 
Shuffle: Strange Days in Afghanistan and Pakistan. She was also the Tribune's South Asia bureau chief from 2004 to 2009, and on Tuesday, May 17 she'll be at After-Words (23 East Illinois
) at 7pm, telling stories, taking questions, and signing.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed May 11 2011

Bask In Culture At The Ol' Time Mississippi Fish Fry

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This Friday, check out the Ol' Time Mississippi Fish Fry and Hip Hop Storytelling Revival. The night will feature Grammy winning rapper and former 20th Ward alderman candidate Che "Rhymefest" Smith, spoken word by the Neighborhood Writing Alliance, food and cooking demonstrations, a West Woodlawn TIF photo gallery and more. Brought to you by Blacks In Green , a community education and trade association working to foster and sustain green, neighbor-owned businesses in African-American communities. Da Sto, 460 E. 61st. Friday, May 13, 6-10pm, $35 for dinner, show and festival; click here for tickets

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 11 2011

Demetri Martin @ Barnes and Noble

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Demetri Martin, the deadpan, Beatles coiffed star of the comedy sketch show Important Things With Demetri Martin , will be in Chicago this Thursday to sign copies of his new book This Is A Book. Author Malcolm Gladwell says "When I first saw Important Things With Demetri Martin, I said to myself, 'this is the funniest thing ever.' I was wrong. This Is A Book is better." Barnes and Noble Depaul Center , 1 E. Jackson Blvd., May 12, 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 11 2011

Chelsea Handler @ Macy's

Late night talk show host Chelsea Handler will be at Macy's (née Marshall Field's) tonight signing copies of her new book Lies That Chelsea Handler Told Me before her performance at the Chicago Theater. Contributing comedians Josh Wolf, Brad Wollack and Heather McDonald will also be appearing. Macy's , 111 N. State Street, lower level, Candy Department, May 11, 5pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu May 05 2011

A Ballerina Princess Tea Party

You and the ballerina princess bookworm kid in your life are invited to Princess Aurora's tea party, a celebration of Aleksandra Efimova's new children's book, The Sleeping Beauty Ballet. Sponsored by the Joffrey Academy of Dance, the party includes treats, Lilac Fairy's creation stations, and a performance of Sleeping Beauty by Academy of Dance Trainees and students.

$40 for adults, $25 for children. This all happens May 21 at 10 East Randolph. RSVP by May 17. All this information and more here.

Rose Lannin

Miscellaneous Thu May 05 2011

Need a Sweet Beach Read?

I know, I know, it's not even spring weather yet, much less beach weather. But give yourself something to look forward to in addition to warmer temps... Chicago author Jen Lancaster's (Bitter is the New Black, My Fair Lazy) latest, If You Were Here, came out on Tuesday. See her read at the Barnes and Noble on Webster (1441 W. Webster Ave.) at 6pm this Saturday, May 7, and then add the new novel to your summer reading list!

Emily Wong

Events Thu May 05 2011

Next Objectivists Poetry Workshops

The Next Objectivists are "a free school of poets and critics pursuing the techniques of writing poetry from outside the self" (think William Carlos Williams, not Ayn Rand). They meet the second and fourth Thursday of every month in Rogers Park. Tonight, their workshop will be held in conjunction with the Red Rover Reading Series as the Chicago Durutti Skool 2011, part of a nationwide series of workshops examining poetry as a catalyst for social change (yes, that means Marxism and anarchism). On Friday, the Chicago Durutti Skool continues with readings and discussions with
Frank Rogaczewski and Michelle Taransky at Outer Space Studio. Thursday, May 5 workshop: Mess Hall, 6932 N. Glenwood Ave., 7-9pm. Beginners always welcome; download free stories for discussion here. Friday, May 6 workshop: Outer Space Studio, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave., 7-9pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed May 04 2011

Make the Case @ Open Books

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On May 13 Open Books is holding Make the Case, their first ever bookcase decorating contest where literature-loving teams will turn ordinary bookshelves into artistic masterpieces. Tickets to the event are $35 and include appetizers, drink, a discount coupon, a chance to vote in the People's Choice winner and more. At the end of the event, judges Jonathan Messinger, Patrick Somerville, and Amy Guth will award prizes to the bookcases that best convey the theme. The week following the event, Open Books will fill the bookcases with books and donate them to other local nonprofit organizations. The event is a great chance to support the Open Books cause and watch the art and literary love fly. 6pm-9pm at Enclave, 213 W. Institute Pl. Tickets can be purchased here.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue May 03 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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It's the first Tuesday of the month, time for your dose of Tuesday Funk. Tonight's readers include:

Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St., 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon May 02 2011

Ed Roberson @ Northwestern University

Ed Roberson, Northwestern's Distinguished Artist in Residence in the Department of English, reads tomorrow at Northwestern in The Hagstrum Room (#201), University Hall (1897 Sheridan Road, Evanston). The reading starts at 5pm and is presented by UniVerse. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Events Mon May 02 2011

Just the Facts, Ma'am @ Sheffield's

Local mystery writers. Literary research. Archives and libraries. These things are interesting on their own, even more so when related, as in the case of this panel discussion at Sheffield's, where Libby Fischer Hellman, Frances Dean McNamara and Michael Harvey talk about where the find the information to flesh out their tales of intrigue and suspense.

It's happening Wednesday, May 4, 6pm-8pm, 3258 N. Sheffield Avenue.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Apr 29 2011

Diversity in YA Tour

Cindy Pon (author of Silver Phoenix, named one of the Top Ten Fantasy and Science Fiction Books for Youth by the American Library Association's Booklist, and one of 2009′s best Fantasy, Science Fiction and Horror by VOYA) and Malinda Lo (author of author of Ash, a finalist for the William C. Morris YA Debut Award and named one of the Kirkus Best Young Adult Novels of 2009) want to show that Young Adult fiction is a genre of many faces, both in terms of writers and characters- it is this with this mindset that they embark on the Diversity in YA tour, which comes to Chicago on Tuesday, May 10. In addition to Pon and Lo, the presentation will feature local authors Claudia Guadalupe Martinez and Nnedi Okorafor.

The event will take place at Barbara's Books (1218 S. Halsted St), from 5:30-6:45pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Apr 27 2011

Joe Bonomo & Jim DeRogatis @ Ferguson Hall


Bonomo (author of Highway to Hell (33 1/3 Series) and Sweat: The Story of The Fleshtones, America's Garage Band) and DeRogatis (of "Sound Opinions" and Vocalo.org) will talk about rock 'n' roll writing tomorrow, April 28, at Ferguson Hall (600 S. Michigan Ave), Room 101, at 6:30pm.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Apr 26 2011

You Can Make Him Like You Release Party @ Beauty Bar

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Tomorrow! Release party for Ben Tanzer's new book You Can Make Him Like You. Nik Korpon of The Nervous Breakdown says "You Can Make Him Like You is, I think, the book High Fidelity could've been, wanted to be."

The evening also features readings by Lindsay Hunter, Gina Frangello, Jason Fisk and Tim Jones-Yelvington. Brought to you by local publisher Curbside Splendor. Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., April 27, 7-10pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 26 2011

In Brute Neighbors the Country and City Collide

We hear more and more about saving the environment these days. What's going on? Brute Neighbors tries to answer your questions with poetry, photography, and essays. Come to the launch reading at The Book Cellar on Thursday, April 28 at 6pm for a reading by the contributors. You won't be disappointed: you'll hear from some of Chicago's finest!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Apr 20 2011

Local Poet Night @ The Book Cellar

In honor of National Poetry Month, come out to The Book Cellar (4736-38 Lincoln Ave.) tonight at 7pm to celebrate local poets Robert McDonald, Katie Phillips, Richard Fox, and Larry Dean.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Apr 20 2011

Erotic Fiction Contest @ The Whistler

Live erotic fiction contest readings along with silent auction to benefit Chicago Women's Health Center. At The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee. Pay-what-you-can sliding scale. Thursday, April 21. Readings at 7pm, dance party follows at 9:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 20 2011

Wendy McClure @ Book Cellar

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Local author Wendy McClure will discuss her latest book Wilder Life: My Adventures in the Lost World of Little House on the Prairie tomorrow night. Author Julie Klam says "The Wilder Life evoked so much of an almost palpable nostalgia that I felt like I was walking into my childhood dollhouse every time I opened the book. I absolutely loved this book." The Book Cellar will be hosting a contest for the finest prairie bonnet in honor of the festivities. The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, April 21, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 20 2011

Lawrence M. Krauss @ Harold Washington Library

String theory opponent and theoretical physicist Lawrence M. Krauss (The Physics of Star Trek) discusses wormholes, time loops and the possibility of parallel universes tonight. Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State, April 20 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Miscellaneous Fri Apr 15 2011

Cram Poets Chosen

Remember when we talked about Poetry Cram 11? Well, the poets/poems have been selected for the 11th volume. See the list here. And don't forget, you can get your free copy of the journal on Saturday, April 30, from 10am to 4pm at Harold Washington Library.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Apr 14 2011

Native American Poetry Night @ Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

This Saturday, April 16, the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian will host its first Native American Poetry Night. Kimberly Blaeser, Mark LaRoque, and Thirza Defoe -- Native American poets from the Midwest -- will read and talk about their poetry from 5 to 7pm at the museum (3001 Central St, Evanston). Admission is $8 for the public and $5 for Mitchell Museum members. For more information, visit the museum's website.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Apr 13 2011

The Pale King Release Party @ Book Cellar

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This Friday the Book Cellar celebrates the posthumous release of David Foster Wallace's The Pale King. Esquire calls The Pale King "the final, beautiful act of an unwilling icon...one of the saddest, most lovely books I've ever read. DFW writes sentences and sometimes whole pages that make you feel like you can't breathe." Readers at the event will include Patrick Somerville, Marcus Sakey,
Adam Levin, Kyle Beachy, and Jon Baskin. The evening will feature readings of favorite DFW pieces, original essays on his work, a brief discussion with the authors, and DFW trivia with a free drink for correct answers (yes, the Book Cellar has a bar). The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave., Friday, April 15 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 13 2011

Catherynne M. Valente @ Book Cellar

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Catherynne M. Valente will be at the Book Cellar this Thursday to read from her latest novel Deathless, a retelling of the Russian folktale of Koschei the Deathless. Cory Doctorow says "romantic and blood-streaked, and infused with magic so real you can feel it on your fingertips - Deathless is beautiful." Lev Grossman says "stories, unlike people, don't stay dead forever, or not always. They can live again - but only under very special circumstances. They must be revived by the miraculous touch of a very rare class of being, a kind of multi-classed genius/scholar/saint, who can restore them to life. Catherynne Valente is such a being." The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave., Thursday, April 14 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 11 2011

Gaiman and Niffenegger @ Harold Washington Library Center

You may remember us reporting that One Book, One Chicago chose Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere for this year's citywide reading program. Tomorrow night, Gaiman will talk with Audrey Niffenegger about imagination and creativity at the Harold Washington Library Center auditorium (400 S. State St) at 6pm. Event is free!

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Sat Apr 09 2011

Husband and Wife Writers

Reginald Gibbons and Cornelia Maude Spelman are married. They are also the authors of Slow Trains Overhead: Chicago Poems And Stories and Missing: A Memoir, respectively. On Tuesday, April 12, they will come together to present their poetry and prose in a program by the Society of Midland Authors at the Cliff Dwellers Club (200 S. Michigan Ave, 22nd floor). Complimentary snacks and a cash bar will be available starting at 6pm, with the reading beginning at 7pm. And admission is free, but the Society would be grateful for any donations to offset the cost of their programs.

Emily Wong

Miscellaneous Wed Apr 06 2011

Happy National Poetry Month!

Count the ways The Poetry Foundation is celebrating!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Apr 05 2011

The City in Which @ The Nightingale

Joshua Dumas and Christy LeMaster gave brand-spankin' new rolls of 16mm film to 12 Chicago-based experimental filmmakers, and then asked these filmmakers to respond to Chicago poet Li-Young Lee's "The City in Which I Love You," while adding in their own creative experiences in Chicago. The end result is The City in Which, a Chicago cine-poem, which is a short film made from splicing all of the filmmakers' work together. The film's premiere is Friday, April 8, at 8pm, with a second showing on Saturday, April 9, at The Nightingale (1084 N. Milwaukee). Lee's poem will be read live to accompany the film, and a cine-poem program, curated by LeMaster, will follow.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Apr 05 2011

The Well Read Affair @ Chicago Cultural Center

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If you've some extra tax return money rattling around in your pocket, consider putting it to a good cause. This Thursday, April 7 is the Well Read Affair at the Chicago Cultural Center, a benefit for Literacy Chicago. The Affair features music from the
Myles Hayes Quintet and the a capella punk rock Blue Ribbon Glee Club as well as food, cocktails, a silent auction and readings from Literacy Chicago students. Emmy award winner Catie Keogh hosts. Literacy Chicago is a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals to achieve greater self sufficiency through language and literacy instruction. Their programs include ESL, adult literacy, GED and workforce literacy tutoring. They offer tuition-free classes to the greater Chicago community and are always looking for volunteers. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., (312) 744-6630. Thursday, April 7, 6-9pm. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 05 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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If you got funk, you got style (yeah, it'll be a while before I run out of P-Funk references). If you got style, you'll be at Tuesday Funk tonight. Tonight's readers include:

Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St., Tuesday, April 5, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 04 2011

I Put A Splel On You

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If the words "spelling bee" bring to mind grade school grudges (you purposely misheard me, Sister Ann!), here's your chance for a do-over amongst friends and well-crafted beer. Head out to the Rocking Horse in Logan Square this Wednesday for the Spleling Be, brought to you by the Louisville, Kentucky-based Idea Festival. You can compete in teams of up to three people; if one team member wears a bee suit, you get a round of immunity, meaning you can misspell one word and remain in the competition. The winner(s) get handmade trophies and all-access passes to the Idea Festival (worth $400 each) held this September. Similar to TED Talks, The Idea Festival has been bringing together leading thinkers in science, the arts, business, design, technology, education, medicine and more in a heady cocktail of ideas since 2000. Yes, redeeming the passes will involve travel to the Bluegrass State (road trip!). Rocking Horse, 2535 N Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60647 (773) 486-0011. Wednesday, April 6. Sign-up starts at 7:30, spelling bee starts at 8:30. Free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 04 2011

Story Club @ Uncommon Ground

Story Club's show this Thursday, April 7, at Wrigleyville's Uncommon Ground (3800 N Clark St) will feature Rites of Passage stories by Jen Bosworth (Stories at the Store) and JT Berg. There are also 5 open mic spots -- get there for open mic sign-up from 8 to 8:15pm. The event is free, but if you want to make sure you get a seat, call for dinner reservations (773/929.3680).

Emily Wong

Events Fri Apr 01 2011

Mary Karr @ The Art Institute

The Poetry Foundation's Poetry Off the Shelf welcomes Mary Karr to the Art Institute of Chicago, Rubloff Auditorium (230 S Columbus Dr) on Tuesday, April 5 at 6pm. Karr is an accomplished poet and memoirist (you may have heard of The Liars' Club), not to mention a winner of various awards and fellowships. Admission is free and first-come, first-served, so don't be late!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Mar 31 2011

Michael Moreci on Writing for Comics

Tonight at 6pm, Michael Moreci (author of the zombie graphic novel Quarantined, profiled last year) kicks off his class at the Newberry Library; "Writing for Comics," designed to give a better sense of the creative process, industry, and scripting behind authoring comics and graphic novels. It's not too late to sign up.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Mar 29 2011

Author Showcase @ Centuries and Sleuths

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It's budding author night in Forest Park tomorrow: Victor David Giron (Sophomoric Philosphy), Ben Tanzer (Most Likely You Go Your Way And I Go Mine), Mark Brand (Red Ivy Afternoon) and Jason Behrends, managing editor of Orange Alert Press will be at Centuries and Sleuths Bookstore, 7419 W. Madison, Forest Park, (708) 771-7243, Wednesday, March 30, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Mar 28 2011

Josh Alan Friedman @ Quimby's

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If you missed him at Bookman's Alley last weekend, Josh Alan Friedman (Black Cracker) will also be at Quimby's tomorrow night. Black Cracker is the story of Friedman's childhood at New York's last segregated school in the early '60s. L.A. Weekly says "Friedman splits sides, breaks hearts and always remains ruthlessly honest about the real world, a place that doesn't conform to the politically correct wishes of liberals or conservatives." Friedman will also be performing on acoustic guitar. Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., March 29, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Mar 22 2011

Dan Savage @ Nettelhorst School

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Are you Good, Giving and Game? Do you know It Gets Better or could you use some proof? Author and Savage Love advice columnist Dan Savage will be in Chicago tomorrow. He and his husband Terry Miller will be discussing It Gets Better: Coming Out, Overcoming Bullying and Creating a Life Worth Living. In response to news reports of the suicides of bullied LGBT teens several months ago, Savage and Miller uploaded a short YouTube video about their lives. The aim was to reach vulnerable gay teens, encourage them to accept themselves and provide living proof that with determination they can design happy lives of their choosing. The video sparked the It Gets Better project, in which over 6000 people uploaded similar videos about their own lives. It Gets Better distills the videos into essay form. Sponsored by Unabridged Bookstore, the reading will be held at Nettelhorst School, 3252 N. Broadway, March 23 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (2)

Events Tue Mar 22 2011

David Sirota and Nathan Rabin @ UIC


This Thursday at the UIC Student Center East Building, Cardinal Room (750 S. Halsted St), join bestselling author David Sirota and The Onion A.V. Club's Nathan Rabin at 7pm for a 1980s themed evening. Sirota just published Back to Our Future: How the 1980s Explain The World We Live In Now, and he and Rabin will try to stump you with '80s trivia and get you talking about how '80s culture still affects us today. Event is free, and a book signing will follow.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Mar 21 2011

From the Gutters @ Oak Park Public Library

The Oak Park Public Library is getting in on the graphic novel scene! Their new From the Gutters series will meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month to discuss a particular graphic novel. The series kicks off March 23 at 7:30pm at the Main Library (834 Lake St, Oak Park) with Persepolis I & II by Marjane Satrapi. From the Gutters is open to anyone interested in reading and talking about books (and refreshments will be served!). Future graphic novels to be covered include Maus I & II by Art Spiegelman, Watchmen by Alan Moore, and The Dark Knight by Frank Miller.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Mar 21 2011

Brad Klausen & Jay Ryan @ Book Cellar

This Friday, poster artist Brad Klausen (whose resume includes many Pearl Jam covers, gig posters, and prints) presents From a Basement in Seattle: The Poster Art of Brad Klausen, a collection of his posters, stories, and sketches. Joining him will be local legend Jay Ryan with 100 Posters, 134 Squirrels: A Decade of Hot Dogs, Large Mammals, and Independent Rock, an updated treasure trove reflecting the Chicago music scene, and the artists (both visual and aural) that make it up. 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave, 7pm. Free!

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Mar 15 2011

Iowa City Writers @ Myopic Books

On Sunday, March 27th, the Wicker Park institution hosts Erika Jo Brown (founder of the Chinatown reading series Floetry at 169, author of the chapbook, What a Lark!), Matthew Klane (editor and co-founder of Flim Forum Press), BJ Love (Michigander, the upcoming We are Two Bastards), and Adam Roberts (author of the chapbook Poem in Four Parts). All connected to University of Iowa by being prospective MFAs, post-graduate fellows, and more, they come to 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave at 7pm. Free!

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Mar 15 2011

Story Week Started (Yesterday)

Just a reminder -- it's not too late to catch various literary talent at venues throughout the city.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Mar 15 2011

Mark Your Calendars For Dzanc Day

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What is Dzanc Day? Is it celebrated with folded pastries? No, but feel free to bring some and make new friends at this writing workshop sponsored by Dzanc Books. On April 9, Dzanc Books is sponsoring dozens of workshops throughout the country. These two-to-four hour sessions in fiction, poetry and nonfiction are led by professional writers, authors, and editors. Workshop fees partially go toward charitable endeavors, including the Dzanc Prize and their Writer in Residence Program, which places professional writers into classrooms to provide creative writing instructions in underserved communities. The workshop being held in Chicago is "Spontaneous and Anonymous," a short fiction workshop led by author and editor Charles Blackstone. May Street Cafe, 1146 W. Cermak, April 9, 3-5pm. $30.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Mar 11 2011

Small Press & Comics Symposium @ SAIC

If words with pictures are more your thing than a Joe Meno reading and discussion, we respect that -- and have a cool event for you. On Thursday, March 24th the School of the Art Institute Chicago hosts the Small Press & Comics Symposium, featuring local small press and comics panelists aplenty: Chris Ware, Caroline Picard, Corrine Mucha and many more.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Mar 11 2011

Fish Mysteries

Fans of fly fishing, mysteries, and stories set up in the Upper Midwest take note: John Galligan's series of books (The Nail Knot, The Blood Knot, The Clinch Knot, and most recently the soon to be released The Wind Knot) centers around Ned Ogilvie, or "Dog", an unwilling detective who keeps himself going with a potent cocktail of fly-fishing, mystery-solving, and vodka-Tang. Galligan will be signing books at the 10th anniversary of Chicago Fly Fishing Outfitters (1279 N Clybourn) on Saturday, March 12, from 12pm-4pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Mar 10 2011

"I Always Like Plenty of Napkins" @ Jane Addams Hull-House Museum

A reading and release party for the latest issue of the Journal of Ordinary Thought will take place March 15 from 6 to 8pm at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, Residents' Dining Hall (800 S. Halsted). This season's JOT, "I Always Like Plenty of Napkins," features reflections on food in poetry and prose, with photography by students at DePaul University. Admission is free and complimentary copies of the journal will be available!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Mar 09 2011

Luis J. Rodriguez @ Hull House

On March 16, Poetry Off the Shelf presents Luis J. Rodriguez at a reception and reading at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum (800 S. Halsted St). Rodriguez helped start Tia Chucha Press, a poetry publisher, that began in Chicago in 1989. He has since moved to L.A., and, as an activist in gang intervention, he published a 1993 memoir of gang life, Always Running: La Vida Loca, Gang Days in L.A., and is set to release It Calls You Back: An Odyssey through Love, Addiction, Revolutions, and Healing this fall. The reception will begin at 5:30pm, with Rodriguez doing a reading of his work at 6pm. Admission is free, but it's first-come, first-served, so don't be late!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Mar 09 2011

Louder Than A Bomb Finalists

On Saturday, March 12, come see teen poets in action, the finalists in a citywide Olympic-style competition. 6pm, 3145 North Sheffield Avenue. For more information about the organization, go here. Tickets $20.

The finalists are Northside College Prep, Kenwood Academy, Oak Park-River Forest HS, and YOUmedia Chicago. Judges will be Rhymefest, Haki Madhubuti, Executive Director of Jane Addams Hull House Dr. Lisa Lee, and the hip-hop group BBU (Bin Laden Blowin' Up).

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Mar 09 2011

Free Screening of Jane Eyre

Get a chance to see the new film version of Jane Eyre (happening next Wednesday, March 16 at AMC River East) by e-mailing your full name and address to full name and address JaneEyreChicago[at]43Kix.com. Find out more information on the Chicago Public Library's Facebook page.

A Q&A session with Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips, cultural critic Julia Keller and movie and theater reporter Nina Metz will follow.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Mar 08 2011

Still Time To Catch Louder Than A Bomb

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Louder Than a Bomb 2011: The Chicago Youth Poetry Festival, the phenomenon recently made into a feature film, has been booming live on stage since February 19 and wraps up this week. There's still time to catch the final two events. Individual poetry finals will be held at Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln, March 9 at 7pm, $10 adults and $5 students. Team finals will be held at The Vic Theater, 3145 N. Sheffield, Saturday, March 12 at 6pm, $20 adults and $10 students. Tickets available here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Mar 08 2011

Zak Mucha @ Lozano Branch Library

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Author and social worker Zak Mucha presents Heart Transplant , a graphic novel about bullying by Andrew Vachss and illustrated by Frank Caruso (Mucha contributed an essay). Lozano Branch Library, 1805 S Loomis St., Thursday, March 10, 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Mar 08 2011

Luis Alberto Urrea Receives Distinguished Professorship

On March 10, author and UIC professor, Luis Alberto Urrea, will be presented with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences distinguished professorship. At this time, Urrea will also give a presentation entitled, "Awakening to the World: From Tijuana to Here." Urrea is a UIC professor of English who teaches creative writing. He was born in Tijuana, Mexico, and has won awards for his writing, including the Lannan Literary Award and the Kiriyama Prize in fiction. Urrea's presentation will begin at 3pm in Student Center East, Room 302. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Chicago Public Library Mon Mar 07 2011

1970s Austin at West Chicago Library

Bernadette Jones recently spoke at West Chicago Library about Choices, a novel of 2 African-American girls growing up in Chicago's Austin neighborhood, their 20-year friendship, and the decisions, both good and bad, that make up their relationships and lives. Listen to her here.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Mar 07 2011

The Closest You May Get to Nepal

On March 10, at Barbara's Bookstore - UIC, Jeffrey Rasley will be discussing his trek to a village in Nepal and his philanthropy there. For 15 years, Rasley has led Himalayan mountaineering treks, and he's in charge of fund raising for Basa Village Foundation, a Nepal-based non-governmental organization. He also wrote a book about his experiences, published in October: Bringing Progress to Paradise. Come to Barbara's at 7pm to see Rasley's slide show and hear about his good deeds in Basa village, which include finishing a school and a hydroelectric system.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Mar 02 2011

RUI @ Sheffield's

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Last month their intrepid plans were foiled by the weather, so tonight is the re-boot of the Reading Under the Influence lineup originally scheduled for February. Featured readers are Christine Sneed, Geoff Hyatt, Scott Miles (editor of The Best Underground Fiction: Volume One), and Sean Rohwedder. The reading is a tribute to Ric Hess, the owner of Sheffield's, who passed away on January 17. There will be readings of his original work and trivia questions centered around the people and things Ric loved. Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., $3 cover, readings begin at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Mar 01 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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It's the first Tuesday of the month, time for another edition of Tuesday Funk. Unlike last month's show, you shouldn't need arctic survival gear just to walk in the door.

This month's readers are:

Tuesday, March 1. Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Feb 28 2011

Story Week: Festival of Writers @ Columbia College

From Sunday, March 13 through Friday, March 18, Columbia College celebrates stories and the people who tell them through a series of events and activities, courtesy of their Fiction Department. It's a week of readings, conversations with authors, panels, performances, and book signings throughout Chicago -- all free and open to you, me, and everyone. Coming up on its 15th year, authors featured include Irvine Welsh (Trainspotting), Jennifer Egan (A Visit from the Goon Squad), National Book Award Finalist Karen Tei Yamashita (I Hotel), Audrey Niffenegger (The Time Traveler's Wife) and more. Go here for the full schedule of events.

Rose Lannin

Book Club Thu Feb 24 2011

Book Club Event: Joe Meno Discusses The Great Perhaps @ Sheffield's

As we mentioned awhile back, the physical Book Club is not gone but changing forms: from a monthly, more traditional book club to a quarterly author discussion. We're excited to be kicking off this new format with local and national favorite Joe Meno and his latest novel, The Great Perhaps! There will be an author discussion and signing March 24, 7:30pm-9pm, at Sheffield's (3258 North Sheffield Avenue). Free!

Here's what you do:

1. Read the book sometime in the next month.*

2. Come to Sheffield's with your comments and questions, and share them with Joe Meno and the group. Get your book signed if you feel like it.

3. Hang out with other readers, meet the the Book Club editors, feel part of a greater reading community.

Questions? Let us know in the comments. Thanks, and hope to see you there!

*You can still come if you haven't read the book, but we really, really encourage it -- discussions are way more fun when everyone's on the same page (har har).

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Feb 22 2011

2011 Windy City Story Slam Championships @ Double Door

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Put the Oscars on DVR and head out to the Double Door this Sunday for the 2011 Windy City Story Slam Championships. Columbia College instructor and Reading Under the Influence co-host Julia Borcherts breaks down the contestants in Metromix. Featured readers not duking it out are Joe Meno and Tony Fitzpatrick. Tickets are $7 or $25 for the "premium section" and are available here. Double Door, 1572 N Milwaukee, Sunday, February 27 at 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 22 2011

2nd Story @ Steppenwolf Theater

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Tomorrow night the popular 2nd Story reading series takes it up a notch with their Wine Tasting Series. In addition to storytellers (Jennifer Shin and Doug Whippo), the price of admission gets you a ticket to Laura Eason's play Sex With Strangers. A break-out hit at Steppenwolf's 2009 First Look Repertory, Sex with Strangers explores what happens when our online and offline identities intersect. Tomorrow's event is the third of five performances in conjuction with each of the five Steppenwolf Subscription Series plays in their 2010-2011 season. Wednesday, February 23, Steppenwolf Theater, 1650 N. Halsted Street, 6pm, play begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $55, available online.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Feb 21 2011

Words Unspoken

The Chicago premiere of PostSecret: Confessions on Life, Death and God hits Loyola University Chicago's Department of Fine and Performing Arts on Thursday, February 24th, at the Ralph Arnold Fine Arts Annex (1131 W. Sheridan Rd.). This opening reception will run 4pm-7pm, and the exhibit stays up until April 10.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Feb 18 2011

Required Reading

A desire to support reading programs for Chicago's disadvantaged populations through the artistic community has created Required Reading Presents, a series of literary events at local venues. The last one was hosted at the Whistler, and covered the genres known as Young Adult, Teen, and Children's Literature. Find out about future events (and more) here.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Feb 18 2011

Tamale Hut Cafe Presents in North Riverside

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Next installment of Tamale Hut Cafe Presents is this Saturday. Featured reader is Scott Blackwood, Director of Roosevelt University's MFA Creative Writing Program. His novel We Agreed To Meet Just Here is the winner of the 2007 AWP Award for the Novel. Contest judge Robert Eversz calls it "...a lyrical mystery about disappearance, told in precise and luminous prose. The absences are so keenly felt, in the drifting lucidity of the author's sentences, that every reappearance reads like a small miracle." Tamale Hut Cafe, 8300 W. Cermak Road (between 10th and 11th Ave.), North Riverside, IL, (708) 442-0948, February 19 at 7pm. BYOB. Reading is free, but you'll want to bring money for Jaime's tamales. There's also an open mic, so bring stories, poems, essays or songs.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Feb 16 2011

Two With Water Fundraiser @ Beauty Bar

Local lit mag Two With Water hosts a fundraising party this Saturday, featuring booze, literary games, and a live show by Chicago band Helicopters. $5 cover.
Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., February 19, 7-10pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 15 2011

A Woman's-eye View of Chicago at the Turn of the Century

On Sunday 2/27, the the Historic Pullman Garden Club and the Pullman State Historic Site host an author discussion featuring Joan Naper (Beautiful Dreamer) and Frances McNamara (Death at Pullman), and Allium Press Publisher, Emily Victorson. Their works focus on Chicago women who lived, thought, and acted during a period of incredible and often tumultuous social and industrial change, and will be available for purchase.

The event takes place at the Hotel Florence (11111 S. Forrestville Ave) at 3pm and is free of charge. For more information, call (773) 868-8377.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Feb 14 2011

Elizabeth Bishop's Correspondence with The New Yorker @ University of Chicago

To celebrate Elizabeth Bishop's 100th birthday, Thursday, Feb 17, at 6pm, actors will read letters between Bishop and her New Yorker editors at the University of Chicago, Home Room, International House (1414 East 59th Street). As an added bonus, Joelle Biele, editor of Elizabeth Bishop and The New Yorker: The Complete Correspondence will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Admission is free, but space is first-come, first-served, so make sure to get there early!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Feb 10 2011

Red Rover: Experiment #43 "Restrictive Andragogies & Ex-Citation" @ Outer Space Studio

Red Rover Series, a series of readings that play with reading, has been going since 2005, featuring artists, writers, and performers from Chicago and beyond. This month's experiment, happening February 19, is "Restrictive Andragogies & Ex-Citation", and hosts local writers and educators Jen Besemer and Nicholas Alexander Hayes. Outer Space Studio, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave, 3rd floor. $4 suggested donation.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Feb 09 2011

Books About People Interacting with Things

UX, or User Experience Design, concerns a person's interaction with a design or system. UX Book Club Chicago is all about reading and talking about this, and on February 15, they feature Nick Disabato, the local Kickstarter-backed author of Cadence & Slang, a book about "a series of rules that advocate simplicity, consistency, and humanity in technology". More information here.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Feb 08 2011

Tracy Kidder, One Book One Northwestern

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This Thursday Pulitzer Prize winning author Tracy Kidder will discuss his book Mountains Beyond Mountains, this year's One Book One Northwestern selection. Mountains tells the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Harvard-trained physician and infectious disease specialist. Farmer founded a hospital in Haiti and helped bring treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis to Peru and Siberia, achieving cure rates comparable to those in the United States. The book gets its title from the Haitian proverb "beyond mountains there are mountains;" as you solve one problem, another problem presents itself, and so you go on and try to solve that one too. Author Stacey Schiff says "is there anything Tracy Kidder can't do? This is a beautiful book, and a masterful one. Even better, Mountains Beyond Mountains is a page-turner that will crack your conscience open." Northwestern University, Harris Hall, room 107, 1881 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Thursday, February 10 at 4:30pm. Please RSVP on Facebook or at onebook@northwestern.edu. Please note that an RSVP does not guarantee admission.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 08 2011

Crazy Little Thing Called Phyllis'

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Elizabeth's Crazy Little Thing brings poetry, music, comedy, performance art, "and whatever you can come up with" to Phyllis' Musical Inn the second Wednesday of every month. This months' feature is Kate Cullan (The Demented Kewpie Doll Manifesto), a fixture in the Chicago performance community for ten years. This month's theme is Love Sucks. Phyllis' Musical Inn, 1800 West Division Street. Wednesday, February 9, 10pm. Phyllis' is near the Division Blue Line stop and the #70 Division, #9 Ashland, and #50 Damen bus stops.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 08 2011

Patton Oswalt on Cineplex, Family and Vampire Parodies

Entertainer extraordinaire Patton Oswalt will be signing his book, Zombie Spaceship Wasteland, at Reckless Records (Wicker Park location) on February 18th, 3pm. Lie to get out of work early -- it's how he would want it.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Feb 07 2011

The Good Evening Reading Series @ Mess Hall

The reading series this Friday will feature K. Bradford, whose poems dabble in "the spectacle of drag, pageantry & disco balls." Sound intriguing? Come to Mess Hall (6932 N. Glenwood Ave. in Rogers Park) at 7:45pm to take it all in. If you wanna read your own stuff, come early for the open mic that starts at 7pm. And it's all free!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Feb 01 2011

Naked Girls Reading @ Everleigh Social Club

This Friday is the Naked Girls Reading Series featuring Michelle L'Amour and a rotating cast of burlesque performers. The February theme is (naturally) Love Stinks. The evening will feature readings from Harper Perennial's new book Great Philosophers Who Failed at Love by Andrew Shaffer. Martha Stewart Whole Living magazine (who knew they did book reviews?) says "if you're in Dutch with your valentine, give him Andrew Shaffer's book, which recounts the tortured love lives of 37 thinkers. Compared to them, you'll look as saintly as St. Thomas himself - who, Shaffer tells us, once chased a prostitute out of his room with a hot poker." Throw a live reading from naked girls into the deal and you'll be "out of Dutch" and in running for girlfriend of the year. Everleigh Social Club, 939 W. Randolph. Tickets are $20 or two for $35; available here. February 4, doors open at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Feb 01 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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As Old Man Winter's fixin' to throw a hell of a fit, you probably aren't going anywhere but home tonight. If you're a hardy soul and Andersonville isn't too far, the monthly Tuesday Funk reading series is going on the Hopleaf. Tonight's readers include musicians, dildo slingers and accidental terrorists, oh my! The lineup: Jerry Schwartz (Pixels of a Young Mueller), Eden Robins (co-founder and co-editor of Brain Harvest magazine), UIC Ph.D. candidate Brooke Wonders, Karen Skalitzky (A Recipe For Hope: Stories of Transformation by People Struggling with Homelessness) and William Shunn (The Accidental Terrorist). Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St., Tuesday, February 1, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jan 31 2011

RUI @ Sheffield's

Reading Under the Influence, "because everyone needs a literary hangover," takes place at 7pm on Wednesday, February 2 (also know as Groundhog Day), at Sheffield's (3258 N. Sheffield). This month's theme is "Love, Baby!" Stop by to hear readings by Chicago writers, along with readings of the late Ric Hess's original works. Admission is $3.

ETA: From an RUI mass e-mail:
"Due to hazardous weather and travel conditions, RUI is canceled tonight and tentatively rescheduled for Wednesday, February 16th. But Sheffield's is open, so if you're in the neighborhood, stop by and say hello to the friendly bartenders."

Emily Wong

Events Sat Jan 29 2011

Tiger Mothers and Widows and Detectives, Coming Soon

The Chicago Tribune adds a new element to its Literary Series in the form of Author Talks, a monthly series of authors discussing their newest work, classics, and more. It kicks off with Amy Chua and her controversial Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. Tribune Tower event space, 435 N. Michigan Avenue, Thursday, February 17. Free.

Other upcoming authors include Joyce Carol Oates, Kathryn Stockett, and more.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Jan 28 2011

Louder Than A Bomb

Louder Than A Bomb (LTAB): The Chicago Youth Poetry Festival rolls into its 11th year, celebrating the poetry skills of 650 teens in a competition of slam preliminaries and semi-final bouts running from February 19 - March 7.

The award-winning documentary of the same name will also be shown at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State Street, February 4-10.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Jan 25 2011

First Car CHIRP Reading Plus Music @ Schuba's

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The Chicago Independent Radio Project (a.k.a. CHIRP Radio) presents their First Time reading series at Schuba's. Combining the written word with music, each piece read will reference a specific artist or piece of music followed by a live band performing the song. Tonight's theme is First Car. Featured readers are Josh Caterer, Susan Messing, Erin Shea, Jim DeRogatis, Matt Spiegel, James VanOsdol and Robbie Fulks. Tickets are $10; proceeds to benefit the CHIRP. Schuba's, 3159 N. Southport, January 26, 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 25 2011

826CHI Prom @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse

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Get your tickets now for 826CHI's annual prom fundraiser. This year's theme is Keep Promme and Carry On. The dress is second-hand formal and/or dress as a person, landmark or theme from England. Tickets include open beer bar, snacks, performance by Rod Stewart impersonator Steve Bobbitt (wow, he's a dead ringer), silent auction, music and dancing. Must be 21+, tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door. All proceeds go to 826CHI, which tutors students aged 6 to 18 in creative and expository writing skills. You can check out pics from prior years' proms here and order tickets here. Pulsaki Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk, March 5, 8pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 25 2011

Drinking & Writing Theater @ Haymarket Pub and Brewery

Haymarket Pub and Brewery (737 W. Randolph) wants to teach you how to get through your hangovers with their latest Drinking & Writing Theater -- Volume III: To Cure a Hangover. The show runs Saturdays at 4pm until February 5, so buy your ticket and join Sean Benjamin and Steve Mosqueda as they talk about some good ol' drinker-writers (John Cheever and Charles Bukowski anyone?) and possibly even provide you with some morning-after cures.

Emily Wong

Events Sun Jan 23 2011

Memorial Service for Ric Hess, Owner of Sheffield's

Ric Hess, owner of Sheffield's, died unexpectedly last Monday, January 17. A memorial service will be held tomorrow, January 24. Doors open at 3pm, service at 6:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 18 2011

Local Authors Reading @ the Book Cellar

Come listen to three distinct Chicago authors at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Avenue, in Lincoln Square on Wednesday, January 19 at 7pm.

Victor David Giron, founder of a new online and print literary press called Curbside Splendor, will read from his debut coming-of-age novel Sophomoric Philosophy.

Libby Fischer Hellmann reads from her latest mystery and stand-alone thriller Set the Night on Fire.

And David Royko shares his famous father's letters to his mother in Royko in Love: Mike's Letters to Carol.

Amy Ganser

Events Thu Jan 13 2011

CAASE Benefit @ 1130 W. Adams

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This Monday, on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE) presents a free wine and chocolate tasting, a silent art auction, and a presentation by author Julian Sher. Sher is an award-winning investigative journalist and the author of Somebody's Daughter: The Hidden Story of America's Prostituted Children. Rachel Durchslag, executive director of the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, calls Somebody's Daughter "a brutally honest look into the hidden world of prostituted children in the United States. A compelling book that will touch hearts and minds and inspire people to take action." Norma Ramos, executive director of the Coalition Against Trafficking of Women, calls the book "masterful, absorbing...to date the most definitive account of sex trafficking of children in the United States and the culture that supports it." All the evening's proceeds will benefit work to help victims of sexual exploitation in Chicago. Free. 1130 W. Adams, Monday, January 17th, 6pm-9pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jan 12 2011

Put Your Pen Where Your Resolutions Are

Have a New Year's resolution to write more? Try Story Studio Chicago's Write-A-Thon this Saturday. Come and go as you please, caffeine, food and fellowship provided. Registration not required but recommended. $12 for non-members, $7 for members. Story Studio Chicago, 4043 N. Ravenswood, #222. Saturday, January 15, 9am-7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Jan 07 2011

Cover Stories: The Art of the Book Jacket

Celebrate Printworks Gallery's 30th anniversary throughout January and a little of February (ends February 12) with 68 artists' vision of the book jacket, that outer covering that presents the contents to the world. 311 W Superior St, Tuesdays-Saturdays (11am-5pm).

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Jan 05 2011

Man For A Day, Anyone?

Diane Torr will be at Women and Children First this Thursday to talk about Sex, Drag and Male Roles: Investigating Gender as Performance, co-written with Stephen J. Bottoms. Torr is a pioneer in the drag king scene and has been performing since 1976. She's been featured on HBO, BBC, and NPR and runs "Man for a Day" workshops internationally. Anna Burnside of living.scotsman.com says Torr "pok[es] a sharp feminist stick into issues of gender and identity, showing women that male superiority was as much of a construct as a fake willy." Women and Children First, 5233 North Clark Street,Thursday, January 6 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jan 04 2011

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

First Tuesday Funk of the new year tonight. Come up to the second floor lab and see what's on the slab. Tonight's featured readers are:

  • Suzanne Clores is a fiction/memoir writer from New Jersey. Her book Memoirs of a Spiritual Outsider has just celebrated its ten-year anniversary with a Kindle edition re-release. She teaches writing and yoga and is working on a novel.
  • Mare Swallow is a writer and former actress. A business communication consultant, she's working on a book, tentatively titled Stop Whining, Start Speaking.
  • Cesar Torres is the author of the short story collection The 12 Burning Wheels. He's currently at work on a new novel.
  • Christopher Sweet "has one foot in the nineteenth century and the other in the twenty-first. By this he means: his grandmother, who helped to guide him through his childhood and adolescence, was born in 1875. His iMac was born last year."
  • Alyson Lyon is a makeup artist and co-producer of the popular Essay Fiesta reading series at the Book Cellar.
  • Native Texan and shutterbug Valerie Jupe has worked as a video editor in TV for over seven years. She lived in New York City for several years and has been featured at various poetry readings throughout the country.

Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St., January 4 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Dec 30 2010

Good New Year's Stories

For a low-key, literary New Year's Eve, join 2nd Story at Morseland (1218 W. Morse Avenue), to hear holiday tales from storytellers Molly Each, Bobby Biedrzycki, Andrew Reilly and Megan Stielstra. Doors open at 9:30, and stories start at 10. With the $40 ticket ($35 in advance), you get a complimentary drink ticket, buffet, and live music -- plus a post-performance DJ until 2am.

If you want to party hard on the Eve but calm your aching head with some good writing, head over to the Haymarket Pub & Brewery (737 W. Randolph St.) for Drinking & Writing Theater's first show of 2011. They promise that "Drinking & Writing Volume III: To Cure A Hangover will cure what ales you...yes, ales." Tickets are $15, and brunch (and booze, if you can handle it) will be available for purchase. Hair of the dog, folks, hair of the dog.

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Dec 29 2010

Poet's Life Celebrated in Local Wonders

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The life and work of Ted Kooser, 2004-2006 Poet Laureate, takes to the stage with song in the Chicago Dramatists production of the musical Local Wonders. The Chicago Tribune calls Kooser "a clear-eyed, populist poet of the prairie" and says "if you hail from Iowa or Nebraska, especially the southeastern reaches (what Kooser calls "The Bohemian Alps"), and you find yourself missing home this holiday time, then Local Wonders should offer some balm." Prairie Home Companion fans would probably dig it, too. Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago Ave. The remainder of show runs December 30 through January 9, Thursday through Sunday. Click here or here for tickets.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 29 2010

The Encyclopedia Show @ The Vittum Theatre

For their Jan 5 production, The Encyclopedia Show is taking on the word BRAINS and featuring writers, composers, and even a special interview with a professional neurologist! The show starts at 7:30pm at The Vittum Theatre (1012 N Noble St), with tickets at the door ($8 adults, $5 students).

Emily Wong

Events Tue Dec 28 2010

Hilary Wagner @ Beverly Arts Center

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Still on holiday vacation? Fantasy author Hilary Wagner will be in Beverly tomorrow for an Author Afternoon. She'll be reading from her debut young adult novel Nightshade City, which tells the tale of an underground city of anthropomorphized rats living under a brutal dictatorship and the ragtag heroes that stage a coup. Author Medeia Sharif said "When I was reading it I thought to myself, 'if Dickens wrote about rats, he would have written Nightshade City.'" Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago, (773) 445-3838. $5 admission, $4 for center members. Wednesday, December 29 at 2pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 22 2010

Last Sunday of the Month Reading @ Brewed Awakening

In the suburbs for the holidays (or year-round)? Brewed Awakening in Westmont, in conjunction with the Illinois State Poetry Society and the Westmont Area Friends of the Arts, hosts their last Sunday of the month poetry reading this weekend. Poetry from noon to 1:30pm, music from 1:30 to 2pm. Cover charge of $5 includes refreshments. Bring a few poems to share at the open mic. Brewed Awakening, 19 W. Quincy, Westmont. Sunday, December 26, noon.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 21 2010

And The Reason For The Season Is...

Write Club pits two opposing writers against each other, each given 7 minutes to argue their side, winner chosen by audience. This Wednesday is the first ever holiday-themed installment. Featured readings include Jesus (Ian Belknap) vs. Santa (Mike O'Connell), Naughty (Edward Thomas-Herrera) vs. Nice (John Pierson), and Give (Bilal Dardai) vs. Receive (Shannon Maney-Magnuson). The Hideout, 1354 W Wabansia, (773) 227-4433. Wednesday, December 22 at 7pm. $8.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 15 2010

Story Time With Santa @ The Book Cellar

Wind down after shopping and bring your kids down from their gingerbread highs at Story Time with Santa. Come in your jammies! The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln, Friday, December 17, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 15 2010

Poetry and Prose @ Green Lantern Gallery

Green Lantern Gallery presents We Can Still Chill: Light Vibrations, an evening of poetry and prose. Green Lantern Gallery, 2542 Chicago Ave., December 18, 2010, 7-9:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 14 2010

Author Joanna Wilson, Your Christmas TV Companion

Joanna Wilson is a TV junkie. The author admitted as much during a pleasant interview with Gapers Block, but you'd probably realize it from the titles of her two published books: The Christmas TV Companion: A Guide to Cult Classics, Strange Specials and Outrageous Oddities and Tis the Season TV: The Encyclopedia of Christmas-Themed Episodes, Specials and Made-For-TV Movies.

The Companion is designed for fellow TV aficionados. And while it might be helpful if readers liked Christmas at least a little, the book documents television programs that "broke the rules" of holiday entertainment. "The Companion is divided into 50% cult shows and 50% weird and unusual takes on the holiday tradition," Wilson explained. How weird can Christmas be on TV? Wilson devotes an entire chapter to Christmas-themed, macabre horror shows, Sci-Fi, and other unique and irreverent TV takes on Christmas, like the Native American tradition of the raven explored in Northern Exposure's 1991 episode "Seoul Mates."

Continue reading this entry »

Amy Ganser

Events Wed Dec 08 2010

For the Kids...or the Kids at Heart

On Saturday, Dec. 11, from 2 to 4pm, Chicago Publisher's Gallery (78 E. Washington) will host the Cricket Magazine Holiday Fair. The writers, editors, and artists of Cricket will be on hand to help kids make their own magazines, read stories, write poetry, and even check out science experiments and take-home tricks. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Dec 08 2010

See Me Improving @ Stop Smiling Storefont

Tonight, head to 1371 N. Milwaukee and celebrate Travis Nichols' latest collection of poetry. 6:30pm-9:30pm. Free!

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Dec 08 2010

Under Milk Wood @ Victory Gardens Richard Christiansen Theater

Did you miss The Second City founder Bernard Sahlins directing The Misanthrope in October? Don't despair, he's directing again! This time it's a staged reading of Dylan Thomas's Under Milk Wood (the radio play written by Thomas just a month before his death). Presented by Poetry Foundation at Victory Gardens Richard Christiansen Theater (2433 N. Lincoln), there will be two performances: Dec. 12 and 13, both at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 ($5 for students) and can be purchased here.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Dec 07 2010

Tuesday Funk @ The Hopleaf

It's the first Tuesday of the month, time to warm up with Tuesday Funk at the Hopleaf. Tonight's featured readers are Johanna Stein, Anne Calcagno, Jotham Burrello, Fraser Coffeen, and Naomi Buck Palagi.

Hopleaf, upstairs lounge, 5148 N. Clark St., December 7 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Dec 07 2010

Get on Board with Tour Guides!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Dec 06 2010

Indie Lit Roadshow - Chicago @ The Green Lantern Gallery/The Paper Cave

You don't know about the Indie Lit Roadshow? Well, read up! The best indie lit comes together all over the nation this weekend, and the Chicago roadshow will be held on Dec. 12 at The Green Lantern Gallery (2542 W. Chicago) from 10am to 10pm. Come on over to experience the best Midwest indie lit, random performances, AND a papier-mâché cave.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Dec 06 2010

The Dil Pickle Club - Revived!

The original entrance to the Dil Pickle Club, from wbez.org

No, it's not a club for vinegary cucumber fans. In the 1900s, the Dill Pickle Club was a speakeasy/caberet/theatre that became the center of the "Chicago Renaissance." Formed by Wobbly Jack Jones, and located in Tooker Alley (now Tooker Place), off of Dearborn downtown, the Dil Pickle Club was frequented by many activists, writers, and speakers, such as Clarence Darrow, Elizabeth Davis, Upton Sinclair, and Carl Sandburg. These "Dil Pickle Artisans" convened to promote arts, crafts, science, and literature, the club was a place for debates and sharing ideas, as well as a spot for plays, opera, poetry readings, and jazz. Once the Great Depression hit, the club began to decline, and finally shut down in 1934.

Well, on Thursday, Dec. 9, the Dil Pickle Club is coming back! From 7 to 11pm at the Nightingale (1084 N. Milwaukee), join a discussion group rife with prominent speakers and be prepared to delve into controversial, off-beat, and intellectual topics. The Dec. 9 club emphasis will be on FIGHT/FLIGHT, which will include:


  • How to Take a Punch by Bill Hillmann, with an interlude about Chicago Park District Boxers by Fred Sasaki and Jacob S. Knabb

  • Flight Painting by Peggy Macnamara and notes on Nathan Leopold's Warblers by Paul Genesius Durica

  • Rocket Launch by Nat Ward and Kenneth Morrison

  • And much, much more!

The Dil Pickle Club Revival is free and open to the public, and beverages will be available for sale. (Because you can't have the revival of a controversial club without beverages!)

Emily Wong

Events Wed Dec 01 2010

Sylvia Tonight

Tune into Channel 11 December 14th to see nationally-syndicated cartoonist Nicole Hollander, creator of feminist icon Sylvia and the self-titled strip she populates.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Dec 01 2010

Vanessa Place and Jennifer Karmin @ Green Lantern Gallery

The Pilot Light reading series at Green Lantern Gallery brings together writers at varying stages of their career, each reading from their own work, then engaging in discussion. Tomorrow night's reading features Vanessa Place and Jennifer Karmin.

Vanessa Place is a writer, a lawyer who works with sex offenders, and co-director of
Les Figues Press. Place is the author of several books, including The Guilt Project: Rape, Morality and Law. Kirkus Reviews says "...in richly allusive, frequently witty prose, [The Guilt Project] asks important questions about what it is exactly we want from our criminal laws. A sophisticated, brave look at a topic that too often provokes merely panic, prejudice and posturing." Poet Kenneth Goldsmith has called Statement of Facts, Place's book of conceptual poetry, "arguably the most challenging, complex and controversial literature being written today."

Jennifer Karmin co-curates the Red Rover Reading Series and is a founding member of the public art group Anti Gravity Surprise. She teaches creative writing to immigrants at Truman College and works as a Poet-in-Residence for the Chicago Public Schools. She is the author of Aaaaaaaaaaalice, a book of poetry.

Green Lantern Gallery, 2542 Chicago Ave., Thursday, December 2 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Dec 01 2010

Waiting 4 the Bus @ St. Paul's Cultural Center/Acme Art Works

Poets square off: boys vs. girls!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Nov 30 2010

Wheel...of...Poetry!

Sulzer Regional Library (4455 N. Lincoln) hosts The Poets' Club of Chicago's Poetry Wheel tonight at 7pm. An impulsive, collaborative effort, the Poetry Wheel starts with a kick-off poem, and then other Club readers chime in with poems related by image, theme, subject, or form. After the first finished rotation by the Club, audience members are welcome to join in with their related works. Stop by and watch the wheel go 'round and 'round.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Nov 29 2010

Poets Theater @ Oracle Theatre

On Sunday, December 5, Kenning Editions, Oracle Productions, and The Poetry Foundation are proud to present an evening where six poets will present their work -- which they've come up with just one day prior. The poets will meet for the first time, conceive their brilliant ideas, and rehearse on December 4 and then perform for you the next day at Oracle Theatre (3809 N. Broadway) starting at 6pm with a round table discussion, followed by the performance at 7:30pm. Admission is free but reservations are strongly recommended. Reserve your seat here.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Nov 29 2010

Free Book Swap @ Rainbo Club

New reading material is as close as Damen and Division: every Monday from 4pm-8pm, popular hole-in-the-wall bar Rainbo Club (1150 North Damen Avenue) and MAKE Literary Productions team up to sponsor a no-cover book swap.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Nov 29 2010

RUI: Jews!

Get ready for the Festival of Lights with stories, stiff drinks, and prizes this Wednesday: December's Reading Under the Influence features local horror author Jeff Jacobson, the Columbia Fiction department's own Ann Hemenway, and Robyn Pennacchia, one half of The Burlington's popular "Sunday Night Sex Show". 3258 N Sheffield Ave, 7pm-9pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Nov 25 2010

Conversations in the Arts: Patti Smith @ Columbia College

Shake off the Thanksgiving coma, summon some ambition, and head to Columbia College's Film Row Cinema (1104 S. Wabash Ave.) Tuesday to see National Book Award winner and "Godmother of Punk" Patti Smith talk about Just Kids, a reflection on her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. Be aware: the event is full, though walk-up registration will be provided.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Nov 24 2010

2nd Story @ Morseland Tavern

The next installation of 2nd Story is tonight at the Morseland Tavern. 2nd Story is produced by the Serendipity Theater Collective and features well-rehearsed tales with musical accompaniment for maximum dramatic impact and audience engagement.Tonight's reading is a night of pre-holiday catharsis. The theme? Family. Tonight's featured storytellers are C. P. Chang, Whitney Dibo, and Aimee Perkins. Morseland Tavern, 1218 W. Morse Ave. Wednesday, November 24. Doors open at 7pm, music starts at 7:30pm, stories start at 8pm. Tickets are $10, available at the door or here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Nov 19 2010

Two Cookie Minimum Reading Series

Ever paid a two drink minimum for mediocre stand-up "comedy?" Fritz Pastry, a European-style bakery in Lakeview, offers a sweeter spin on the standard entertainment fee. The price is two cookies for an evening of readings by top-notch literary pupils from Columbia College's Fiction Writing Program.

Featured readers include:
Jenele Anderson (Grad Advanced Fiction)
Liz Baudler (Advanced Fiction/editor of the Toucan Magazine)
Kate Kirk (Arts, Entertainment and Media Management/writer of Glass Sea zine)
Benny Kumming (Grad Advanced Fiction)
Lauryn Allison Lewis (Advanced Fiction)
Frank Migacz (Advanced Fiction)
John Wawrzaszek (Advanced Fiction/writer of the Muse, the News, and the Noose zine)

Two Cookie Minimum promotes self publishers, new writers, and the Chicago zine scene. While the event is free, donations will be accepted towards the upcoming 2011 Chicago Zine Fest. There should be plenty of opportunity to exchange zines and ideas with other self-published writers and artists who just can't wait until the March fest.

Fritz Pastry is located at 1408 W. Diversey Pkwy (between Southport Ave & Janssen Ave). Two Cookie Minimum Reading starts at 4pm on Saturday, November 27.


Amy Ganser

Events Fri Nov 19 2010

Arrrrt Show

What're you doing Saturday night? What you should be doing is heading to Challengers Comics to meet Jeremy Bastian, who draws the charming and whimsical Cursed Pirate Girl, an epic story of nautical adventures, mythical creatures, and a seafaring young lady trying to overcome all forms of adversity. 1845 N. Western Avenue, 6pm-7pm. Free!

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Nov 18 2010

Joe Meno @ Book Cellar

Friday night, Columbia College professor Joe Meno presents the new paperback edition of his story collection Demons in the Spring. Booklist says of Demons, "Intriguing and eccentric, Meno's stories never distract with their surreal flights of fancy but instead draw the reader in deeper to their magical reconfiguration of the modern world." Each of the 20 stories, including the tale of a girl who discovers she is dying from the mysterious construction of a miniature city inside of her chest cavity, features an illustration from a prominent artist. Proceeds benefit tutoring center 826CHI. Free event. Book Cellar, 4736 N Lincoln Ave (773) 293-2665, Friday, November 19, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 17 2010

Christine Sneed @ Women and Children First

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Evanstonian and DePaul assistant professor Christine Sneed reads from her debut story collection tonight. Portraits of a Few of the People I've Made Cry is the winner of the Grace Paley Prize in Short Fiction. Publishers Weekly calls Portraits "ten finely delineated tales featuring protagonists entangled in less-than-ideal romantic scenarios." Steve Almond says "I can't recall a time I tore through a story collection with such unbridled gratitude. Christine Sneed is fearless." Women and Children First, 5233 N Clark St., (773) 769-9299, Wednesday, November 17, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Nov 15 2010

The Universe in Miniature in Miniature Release Party @ The Hideout

Patrick Somerville's latest, The Universe in Miniature in Miniature, is out now from featherproof Books. And to celebrate, featherproof is hosting a release party at The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) on Thursday, November 18 from 8 to 11:30pm. Entrance is free, and if you come dressed as your favorite alien, the first 15 aliens will receive a copy of the book! Other fun stuff: featherproof authors Benjamin Nugent and Hannah Pittard will put in an appearance, along with DJ Fabulette. There will also be an alien costume contest, judged by a surprise guest.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Nov 12 2010

"Escape Route" Exhibit @ Chicago Art Department Gallery

Go to the Chicago Art Department (1837 S. Halsted) tonight from 6 to 10pm to see works of art by the youth at the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center. The art was created as part of the Free Write Jail Arts and Literacy Program, which offers writing and poetry workshops to incarcerated youth.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Nov 11 2010

Crafts and Laughs

Saturday night, the ever-adorable and hilarious Amy Sedaris comes to Borders (830 N. Michigan) to talk about her new book, her new book Simple Times: Crafts For Poor People.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Nov 10 2010

Annual Prose Awards in Short Fiction and Non-Fiction @ California Clipper

The Guild Literary Complex, a community-based organization that aims to represent literary excellence in diverse, divergent, and emerging voices, has announced the winners of its Annual Prose Awards in Short Fiction and Non-Fiction. Come hear them read in a few hours at a bar that serves Purple Martins (Goose Island grape soda, coconut rum, lemon), a host of other less diabetes-inducing cocktails, and tonight, award-winning words. 1002 N. California Ave., 8:30pm. Free!

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Nov 10 2010

Will Fellows @ Women and Children First

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Tomorrow night, writer and anthropologist Will Fellows reads from Gay Bar: The Fabulous True Story of a Daring Woman and Her Boys in the 1950s. Helen P. Branson, a savvy and tender mother hen type, owned and operated a gay bar in the 1950s, providing a rare safe haven for a marginalized community. Gay Bar is a meld of her true memoir (she notes she didn't use parentheses because her typewriter didn't have any) with Fellows' contemporary analysis. Windy City Times calls Gay Bar "a major contribution to gay history." Publishers Weekly says "this stimulating account of support for gay rights pre-Stonewall is an eye-opener." Women and Children First, 5233 N Clark St., (773) 769-9299. Thursday, November 11, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 10 2010

Writers and Philosophers

The Neighborhood Writing Alliance is launching a new blog, "Every Person is a Philosopher," tonight at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art. Meet some of the writer-philosophers behind it (and maybe win some prizes) while Veronda Pitchford of the Urban Libraries Council emcees.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Nov 09 2010

Catch a Moth Before 2011

The renowned Moth StorySLAM gets crowded fast. Still haven't been able to see it? Me neither. Let's both try to make one before the end of the year. They're happening:

Tuesday, November 30 and Tuesday, December 28
Martyr's
3855 North Lincoln Avenue
8pm, $8 at the door

Check back on their site for updates.


Rose Lannin

Chicago Public Library Tue Nov 09 2010

Writing the Poetry of Your Dreams @ Near North Chicago Public Library

Tomorrow, Krista Franklin will teach you how to channel your dreams into insightful, beautiful (and perhaps nightmarish) poems. Bring paper, a pen, and your creativity to Near North (310 W. Division) at 6:30pm. Free!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Nov 03 2010

Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

On Saturday, Nov. 20, Chicago journalist and radio personality Rick Kogan will emcee the inaugural induction ceremony for the fledgling Chicago Literary Hall of Fame.

The ceremony will be honoring notable writers Nelson Algren, Saul Bellow, Gwendolyn Brooks, Lorraine Hansberry, Studs Terkel and Richard Wright for their contributions to local literature. Among those accepting the posthumous honors of their famous writer relatives will be Greg Bellow, Nora Brooks Blakely, Dan Terkell, Dana Smith (grandniece of Richard Wright) and Taye Hansberry (grandniece of Lorraine).

This special event takes place at Northeastern University auditorium at 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. in Chicago and starts at 6pm. Tickets are $45 and can be ordered online here.

For more information, visit the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame website or contact the Chicago Writers Association.

Alice Maggio

Events Wed Nov 03 2010

RUI @ Sheffield's

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It's the first Wednesday of the month, time once again for Reading Under the Influence. This month's theme seems especially cathartic: "I Hate My Family" (just in time for Thanksgiving). Featured readers are Robert McDonald (A Field Guide to Gay and Lesbian Chicago), Two Cookie Minimum reading series founder John Wawrzaszek, local writer Kristen Fiore and RUI's own Jesse Jordan. All read original short stories and host trivia segments related to this month's theme. In the back room at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., $3 cover. Wednesday, November 3. Get there by 7 for a seat (or earlier; it's popular show and seats are scarce). Readings begin at 7:30.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Nov 03 2010

12 Hours of Reading Under the Volcano?

Yes please!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Nov 03 2010

You Still Haven't Been to the Chicago Poetry Brothel?!

First of all, what's wrong with you? Secondly, you better get a move on -- Friday, Nov. 5 is the last Chicago Poetry Brothel of the year. Come to the House of Blues Foundation Room (329 N. Dearborn) at 8pm to see the them take a burlesque twist, featuring Columbia College's recent MFAs, as well as Chicago favorites such as Kathleen Rooney and Susan Slaviero. As always, admission is $5 if you're dressed Victorian and $10 if you're not. Don't miss out this time!

Emily Wong

Events Tue Nov 02 2010

Society of Midland Authors 2010-11 Season: Mobsters, Mayors, and Gangs

The Society of Midland Authors hosts a great monthly lecture series, all open to the public. Next Tuesday, November 9, journalist Jonathan Eig, author of Get Capone, will speak about Chicago's most famous gangster. (Capone has recently been brought back to life thanks to the HBO series Boardwalk Empire -- played by Stephen Graham, he's what Eig says is "maybe the best Capone I've ever seen," including De Niro!)

Some other Society of Midland Authors highlights for the next year include:

  • A discussion of the history of Chicago's mayoral race (Tuesday, January 11).
  • John Hagedorn, UIC criminal-justice professor and author of A World of Gangs: Armed Young Men and Gangsta Culture, will discuss gangs in Chicago and other cities (Tuesday, February 8).
  • A talk by Audrey Niffenegger, author of novels Her Fearful Symmetry and The Time Traveler's Wife and the graphic novel The Night Bookmobile (Tuesday, March 8).

All programs are held at 7pm at the Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan Ave., 22nd floor, free. Complimentary snacks are served at 6pm, with a cash bar.

Ruthie Kott

Events Tue Nov 02 2010

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

hopleaf.jpg

After you vote, grab a drink and take a break from election updates at November's installment of Tuesday Funk. Tonight's featured readers are novelist Lori Ann Stephens, novelist-in-progress Lauryn Allison Lewis , poet Kristin Lueke, poet Sondra Morin, and poet/Huffington Post blogger/rooftop gardener Dave Snyder. Upstairs at the Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St., November 2, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

News Tue Nov 02 2010

Chicagopublishes.com

On Nov. 9, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is launching a new website dedicated to the publishing world: chicagopublishes.com. In a show of support for the creative industries, the site will play host to industry news, Chicago Publishers Gallery featured books and periodicals, and a calendar of area literary events. It will also provide readers with a database of Chicago publishers, as well as the usual social media stuff (Twitter, Facebook, etc.). Read more about the site and what you can get out of it here. Then attend the Nov. 9 public launch event at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) from 4 - 5:30pm.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Nov 01 2010

Open Books Presents The Revelry: A Night Fair @ Salvage One

Award-winning literacy non-profit Open Books presents The Revelry: A
Night Fair
this Friday, a gala celebrating the organization's expansion and mission. Featuring music from The Flat Cats and entertainers like a magician, juggler, stilt-walker, and caricature artist, it's sure to be a night to remember. Drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction are also included in the ticket price of $100, which can be purchased here. 11/5, 7pm -10:30pm, 1840 West Hubbard Street.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Oct 29 2010

Remember Remember

Marked by Guy Fawkes' Night, increasingly frigid temperatures, and Thanksgiving, November has a new meaning for Chicago's literary-minded: Starting Wednesday, November 3, Richard Louv kicks off Chicago Public Library's Free November Authors Series, a number of free events heldat the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.), and at several branch locations throughout Chicago. Authors and speakres include Mexican-born cellist Carlos Prieto (The Adventures of a Cello), Max Grinnell (24 Great Walks in Chicago), and Dr. Regina M. Benjamin, the 18th Surgeon General of the United States Public Health Service. More information and full schedule here.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Oct 27 2010

Adam Levin @ Oak Park Library

Remember that mammoth, 1000+ page book about the 10-year-old who forms an army of misfits, by the Chicago author now being compared to David Foster Wallace? Yeah, he's reading from it tonight. Oak Park Library, 834 Lake Street, Oak Park. Wednesday, October 27, 7-9pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 27 2010

Works In Progress Night @ Quimby's

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Got creative stuff you're fiddling around with - comics, zines, poetry, screenplays? Need some input or just tired of toiling in silence? Head out to Works In Progress at Quimby's tonight, or any last Wednesday of the month. They'll bring the snacks! Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave. Wednesday, October 27, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 26 2010

Alex Ross @ Stop Smiling

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Though he dislikes the term "classical music," 20th Century classical music likely has no greater champion than New Yorker music critic Alex Ross. Stop Smiling magazine calls him "perhaps the best music critic this nation has ever produced." Ross will be at the Stop Smiling storefront this Wednesday to discuss his new book, Listen To This. The Chicago Reader says "[Listen To This] ping-pongs around from Mozart to Björk, recording technology to the history of a bass line. Ross offers a master class in music writing that will likely sell you not only on some music you never thought you'd like but on the importance of criticism to the form." Ross will be joined onstage in conversation with Chicago Sun-Times and WFMT music critic Andrew Patner. Stop Smiling storefront, 1371 N. Milwaukee. Wednesday, October 27, 6:30pm. RSVP to rsvp@stopsmiling.com.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 26 2010

Happy Birthday Revolving Door!

The Revolving Door reading series is turning one year old. Stop by Red Kiva (1108 W. Randolph) at 7:30pm tomorrow to help them celebrate with poet Kevin Coval, soul-singer Candice Marie, and FathomDJ. Word is, there's also going to be goodie bags and balloons!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Oct 21 2010

Chris Lehmann @ Stop Smiling

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Head to the Stop Smiling storefront tonight for an evening with Chris Lehmann. The Baffler and Book Forum editor will be discussing his new book Rich People Things,
a critical and witty look into the overburndened lives of the well-to-do. Not a mere listing of ridiculous trinkets, the titular "Things" are defined very broadly - he mentions the iPad, sure, but also Malcolm Gladwell, Ayn Rand, and the Democratic Party ("One can think of many descriptors for a party that plods so relentlessly down a path of upward-tending, corporate-driven economic aims - but 'populist' and 'socialist' are definitely not among them"). The book is available exclusively from the publisher's website, Lehmann says, "since my publisher has his own separate anti-Amazon crusade, which most definitely should prevent me from joining the ranks of the Rich People." Journalist Tom Frank says "Chris Lehmann gives the mountebanks and plutocrats of this world the drubbing they deserve. His scoffing is a tonic." Nickel and Dimed author Barabara Ehrenreich calls the book "social criticism at its scorching-hot best." Stop Smiling, 1371 N. Milwaukee. Thursday, October 21, 6:30pm. RSVP to rsvp@stopsmilingonline.com.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 20 2010

Zomb-session

Just like cupcakes and bacon, zombies are trendy (and, also like cupcakes and bacon, some might argue that it's not just a trend). But cult favorites like Dawn of the Dead, World War Z, and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies all feature the brain-eaters as the antagonists. Scott Kenemore, zombie enthusiast, takes a different route with his books, which look to zombie behavior for ways to better our lives.

His recent manual, The Art of Zombie Warfare: How to Kick Ass Like the Walking Dead, for example, offers advice like, "If you want to fight like a zombie, you need to begin by thinking of ways to withstand massive amounts of damage." And "A zombie army is always moving." My personal favorite -- and one I'm going to heed tonight, probably: "Fight like you're already dead."

On October 21 the rather prolific Kenemore -- he's published five books in four years -- reads from his new-new book, which combines two of everybody's favorite villains: The Code of the Zombie Pirate: How to Become an Undead Master of the High Seas. Join him at the DePaul Center Barnes and Noble, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., 6pm.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Wed Oct 20 2010

Bernard Sahlins Does Poetry

Yep, the founder of The Second City is directing two performances of The Misanthrope by Molière, presented by the Poetry Foundation. Intrigued? Then come see Chicago actors do a staged reading of the French satire, as translated by Richard Wilbur. Performances are Sunday, Oct. 24, at 7:30pm and Monday, Oct. 25, at 7:30pm at the Richard Christiansen Studio, Victory Gardens (2433 N. Lincoln). Tickets can be purchased here for $20 ($10 for students).

Emily Wong

Events Wed Oct 20 2010

Red Rover Series @ Outer Space Studio

The Red Rover series is back with Experiment #40, and this time they're doing Poetry TV. Come to the Outer Space Studio (1474 N. Milwaukee) at 7pm on Saturday, Oct. 23 to watch Red Rover do what it does best -- host a "reading that plays with reading." Participants include Carrie Olivia Adams, Justin Cabrillos, Laura Goldstein, Amira Hanafi, Kurt Heintz, Mark Jeffery, Judd Morrissey, and Marissa Plumb. (Donations suggested.)

Emily Wong

Events Mon Oct 18 2010

An Education in Humanity

The Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies' Feinberg Theater audience was pin-drop silent last Thursday during a talk by scholar and writer Daniel Goldhagen. He was speaking on his 2009 book and documentary Worse than War, a product of his nearly 30 years of research on genocide. Goldhagen, who lives in Boston, was in Chicago thanks to Facing History and Ourselves, an organization that educates teachers, and, through them, generations of students, to understand the civic responsibility needed to prevent human-rights violations.

I'd had experience with Facing History -- just after graduating from college, I taught seventh-grade English at a small private school outside of Boston, and we used Facing History resources in our Holocaust unit. We'd brought students to listen to Holocaust survivors speak at local temples, and there were there were students from local schools at Goldhagen's talk, listening rapt as he spoke about our world's history of genocide and the ways we can prevent it from happening in the future. Both Goldhagen and Facing History senior program associate Chuck Meyers made clear that the post-Holocaust mantra, "Never again," has failed. Since World War II, there have been millions killed in Communist China and Cambodia, and hundreds of thousands killed in Darfur and Rwanda.

Goldhagen is not a Holocaust survivor, but his father, retired Harvard historian Erich Goldhagen, is -- and his research on genocide was what inspired the younger Goldhagen to follow his path. Starting with his 1996 book Hitler's Willing Executioners: Ordinary Germans and the Holocaust, which claims that ordinary Germans not only knew what Hitler and the Nazis were doing but also that they supported their actions, Daniel Goldhagen has been controversial. That doesn't change with Worse Than War, in which he argues that more people have been murdered by genocidal killers than by regular military operations during war: "And almost no one knows it."

Looking at genocide from our position, he said on Thursday, it's hard to imagine being able to help in Darfur or in Rwanda, where people were murdered with machetes every day. We're struck with "emotional helplessness," and our leaders don't consider it a matter of national interest. But, Goldhagen argued, it is in the interest of humanity, and it's not beyond our control. The decision of one leader or group to eradicate a whole group of people is a political choice, and the international community "can change that decision-making moment." One way to do that: put a bounty on the heads of genocidal leaders, Goldhagen suggested, declaring genocide a "war against humanity." A bounty program for terrorists already exist, and both Democratic and Republican administrations have used it. It may sound radical, he said, but, really, "what's radical is the status quo -- standing by while millions of people are being slaughtered."

You can watch the Worse Than War documentary on PBS.com or on YouTube. And Facing History also recommends many other books on genocide, including David Kherdian's The Road from Home, a collection of poetry about his family's experience with the Armenian genocide; Don Cheadle and John Prendergast's Not on Our Watch: The Mission to End Genocide in Darfur and Beyond, strategies to shape political change regarding genocide policies; and Bernard Gotfryd's Anton the Dove Fancier: and Other Tales of the Holocaust, a collection of autobiographical true stories.

Ruthie Kott

Events Mon Oct 18 2010

Mental Graffiti @ Butterfly Social Club

It's the third Monday of the month and that means you need to be at the Mental Graffiti poetry slam at Butterfly Social Club. Tonight's feature is two-time National Poetry Slam champ Kyle "El Guante" Myhre from St. Paul, MN. A quick Google search tells me "guante" means "glove or gauntlet." They'll be ready to throw down - will you? $5 cover, 21 and over. Butterfly Social Club, 722 W. Grand. Monday, October 18, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Oct 18 2010

Get Your Gurl On

When poet Arielle Greenberg says "Gurlesque," she means "an emerging Third Wave feminist aesthetic that foregrounds the girly in work that is subversive, carnal, performative, grotesque, and brash." And Greenberg, along with poet-critic Lara Glenum, have edited an anthology of Gurlesque work for everyone to enjoy. On October 20, hear them tell you what it's all about -- for free! -- at Hokin Hall, Room 109 (623 S. Wabash), at 5pm. Catherine Wagner will also be on hand to read some Gurlesque poems.

Emily Wong

Events Sun Oct 17 2010

Pizza Party

If you like pizza, or zines, or both, this event is for you: ŒZa the Pizza Zine makes its saucy debut at Quimby's on 11/10. Created by Nicki Yowell, the Chicago part of its bi-coastal contributors include Ramsey Everydaypants of List, gore
poet Mason Pierce and Dining with Words' Caroline Liebman. 1854 W North Ave. Actual pizza will be served.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Oct 15 2010

Poetry Round-up

Go hear some poetry tonight!


  • An Evening With Dancing Girl Press @ Potbelly Sandwich Shop (55 E. Jackson), 7pm: Brainchild of Kristy Bowen, Dancing Girl Press strives to promote and publish work by women. (DGP also has a studio/Etsy shop with lovely items for sale. Check them out!)

  • Luis Humberto Valadez @ Barnes & Noble, DePaul University Loop Campus Bookstore (1 E. Jackson), 6pm: Valadez performs some of his new work, followed by a book signing of his March '09 release, "what i'm on."

Emily Wong

Events Fri Oct 15 2010

Robin Chapman @ Unity Temple

This Saturday, October 16, the Unity Temple in Oak Park (875 Lake St., Oak Park, Il.) will host Madison, Wis., poet Robin Chapman. Open mic starts at 8pm (7:30pm sign-up) and Chapman goes on at 9pm. A $3-5 donation is suggested.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Oct 14 2010

Order of Odd-Fish Dome of Doom Dance Party

domeofdoom.jpgBook Club selection author James Kennedy (The Order of Odd-Fish) is once again joining forces with Collaboraction to present a Dome of Doom Dance Party on Saturday at Pritzker Park. Yes, in front of the giant eye. The Dome of Doom brings to life the memorable Odd-Fish scene in which the protagonist and her foe dress up as Eldritch City deities, hurl insults at each other, and fight their battle atop flying ostriches. There will be no ostriches at the park, but there will be a large geodesic dome and people of all ages are invited to come in costume and duke it out Odd-Fish style. (If you can't come up with a costume last minute, don't worry--extra costumes will be handily provided.) The picture at the right is from this summer's Dance Party in Logan Square. Free and open to everyone on October 16, 2pm-5pm, at the Northwest corner of State and Van Buren.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Oct 12 2010

Celebrate Car-Free Culture @ Quimby's

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Bike on down to Quimby's this Thursday for readings from two of Chicago's "active transportation" experts. Jason Rothstein will read from and sign copies of Carless in Chicago. Greg Borzo, author of The Chicago L calls it "very timely, practical not preachy, up-to-date advice about thriving in the Windy City without owning a car. Rothstein coolly lays out some real benefits of selling your car: More cash and better health; more free time and less stress; a cleaner environment and a more human-scale city. This book that will change the way you think about cars. It might even change your life." Local journalist and occasional Gapers Block contributor John Greenfield will read from and sign copies of Bars Across America. It's the story of his 5,000-mile bike journey from Oregon to Maine and the 48 taverns visited along the way. Dave Glowacz, author of Urban Bikers' Tips and Tricks, says "as John spins his yarn across the U.S., you'll wish you'd gone along." As if that's not enough, John will also perform a few songs about cycling at this event. Ride on! Free. Quimby's, 1854 W. North, Thursday, October 14, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Oct 12 2010

Poetry Day @ Cindy Pritzker Auditorium

Started by Robert Frost, the Poetry Day reading series has been around for 56 years. This year, spend your Poetry Day with poet Frank Bidart this Thursday, October 14, at the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium in Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.) starting at 6pm -- for free!

Emily Wong

Events Sun Oct 10 2010

POW-WOW Tuesday series @ Jeffrey Pub

Rumored to be an "authentic alternative reading series," POW-WOW runs every Tuesday at Jeffrey Pub (7104 S. Jeffrey). For the $5 cover, you get food served at 7:30pm with an open mic at 8:30pm. Tuesday, Oct. 12, POW-WOW will celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Week with African drumming (with Yaounde Olu) + poetry readings. Come out in support of boobs! And poetry!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Oct 06 2010

Mortified @ Beat Kitchen

If you'd be an Olympic athlete, were laughing at yourself (or others) a sport, then find "personal redemption through public humiliation" this Thursday at the nationwide phenomenon Mortified. Since 2002, countless participants have willingly shared writing, art or media created before the age of 21 to exorcise their demons for laughs. The concept is such a hit they're making a movie and they've already published two books. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, Thursday, October 7 at 8:30pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door and can be purchased here.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 06 2010

RUI @ Sheffield's

The next installment of the lively Reading Under the Influence series is tonight. The theme? An offer you can't refuse: Gangsters. Featured readers are Get Capone author Jonathan Eig, Felipe Briceno, Jon Gugala, crime writer Ric Hess and RUI host Rob Duffer. As always the readings are interspersed with trivia questions and prizes. $3 cover. Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., in the back room. Wednesday, October 6. Readings begin at 7:30pm. It gets pretty crowded so get there early for a seat.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Oct 06 2010

Edgar Allan Poe: No One Said He Was Sane

Roadtrip out to the 'burbs and take in The Madness of Edgar Allan Poe at First Folio Theatre (in residence at the Mayslake Peabody Estate Forest Preserve in Oak Brook, Ill.). Watch Poe's stories and poetry come to life as you're guided through Mayslake Hall and "deep into the madness of Edgar Allan Poe." The show previews tonight and runs through Nov. 7; check for tickets and pricing here. What a way to start celebrating Halloween, right?

Emily Wong

Events Tue Oct 05 2010

Do You Promise The Funk? The Whole Funk? Nothing But...

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Ready or not, here it comes: It's the first Tuesday of the month, which means Tuesday Funk at the Hopleaf. Tonight's featured readers are Connor Coyne, William Shunn and Jackie Adamski. Connor Coyne is a former Tuesday Funk host and author of the newly-published Hungry Rats, the story of a high school girl on the trail of a serial killer. Mostly Good Girls author Leila Sales says of Hungry Rats: "In confident, purposeful, evocative prose, Connor Coyne places you in a family where no one is watching out for you, and you had better watch your back." William Shunn's short fiction, essays, and poetry have appeared in Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine and Salon.com. He is the author of a memoir, The Accidental Terrorist, and co-author of the novella Cast a Cold Eye. Jackie Adamski holds a degree in Religious Studies and is a short story author and Reading Under the Influence contributor. Free. Hopleaf, upstairs room, 5148 N. Clark St., Tuesday, October 5, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Tue Oct 05 2010

Drizzt Do'Urden Returns

Get your dark elf on: renowned fantasy writer R.A. Salvatore will be signing Gauntlgrym, the latest book in the in the Legend of Drizzt saga, at Chicago Comics (3244 N. Clark St.) from 7-9pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Sat Oct 02 2010

Switchback Books Salon & Fundraiser @ 4745 N. Beacon St.

Help Switchback Books promote women and poetry! Come to their salon and fundraiser at 4745 N Beacon St. #3S at 7pm -- salon starts at 8pm. $10 will get you a Switchback Book, but $20 will get you a book and all-you-can-drink! Enjoy some music, some lit, some food, and oh yeah -- some readings by Arielle Greenberg, Becca Klaver, Dolly Lemke, and Sarah Carson. (And there's talk of an 18-liter bottle of wine!)

Emily Wong

Events Thu Sep 30 2010

Books With A Good Beat You Can Dance To

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The Third Coast International Audio Festival has been celebrating audio documentary work of all styles since 2000. Their work can be heard weekly on Re:sound on NPR. They also host Listening Room events, a bit like a pre-recorded reading (not because anyone has stage fright, but to take full advantage of the audio possibilities). This Friday's Listening Room features winners from the Book Odds challenge, in which participants were asked to produce a short audio story (up to three minutes) inspired by (and named after) song titles from The Books' newly-released record The Way Out. There will also be "guest doodlers" on hand to see how radio inspires art. Hosted by Third Coast Festival's Julie Shapiro and WBEZ's Alison Cuddy. Free. Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 S. Halsted, Friday, October 1, 8:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 29 2010

Encyclopedia Show and Silver Tongue @ The Conway Center

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The Encyclopedia Show is a variety show that has its participants perform pieces on encyclopedia topics. Silver Tongue is Columbia College Chicago's student-run reading series. Watch them come together tonight at The Conway Center (1104 S Wabash) at 7pm and define the topic "bears" with poetry, film, music, and anything else they can think of. Admission is free!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Sep 29 2010

Twenty Four Hour Comics Day @ Various Locations

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NaNoWriMo. The Three Day Novel Contest. The 48 Hour Film Project. If camaraderie and ridiculously demanding deadlines get your creative fires burning, this week there's one for comic book artists. This Saturday is Twenty Four Hour Comics Day, which challenges participants to produce 24 consecutive comic book pages in 24 hours. Three Chicago stores are participating: Challengers Comics at 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R, The Comic Vault at 1530 W. Montrose and Graham Crackers Comics at 5443 N. Broadway. Saturday, October 2, 11 am-11pm. Event is free; contact individual stores for registration information.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Sep 28 2010

WordPlay @ Young Chicago Authors Offices

Chicago's longest running open mic for youth is in play again! Run by Young Chicago Authors every Tuesday at their headquarters (1180 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor), WordPlay gives teens a chance to show their friends -- and the public -- what they've got. The night starts at 6pm with a writing workshop, moves into an open mic at 7pm, and then ends with a performance by a featured poet at 8:30pm. WordPlay runs now until mid-June, so come early and come often!

Emily Wong

Events Mon Sep 27 2010

The Gloves Come Off...

Literally. Leaves of Grass, a Nude Choral Reading is coming to Chicago. And yes, you read that right, "a Nude Choral Reading." Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass, once considered immoral, is transformed by naked performers rhythmically chanting poems from the collection in an adaptation by Jeremy Bloom. You can see it all (yes, all) this Friday, October 1 at Links Hall in Lakeview (3435 N. Sheffield) at 7:30pm or 10pm. Admission is $15 ($10 for students or seniors) online or at the door.

Emily Wong

Events Mon Sep 27 2010

From Krakow to Chicago

If asked to name as many Polish novelists as I can think of, I might only be able to come up with one. But the University of Illinois at Chicago can help save me from my ignorance: they've hired world-renowned scholar of Polish literature and culture Michal Pawel Markowski as the inaugural Stefan and Lucy Hejna family chair in Polish language and literature.

Tonight at UIC, join Markowski as he answers the question "What is Polish Literature?" Room 302 in Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted St., 5pm-7pm.

Ruthie Kott

Events Sun Sep 26 2010

What's the Night Kite Revival?

It's where Robbie Q. Telfer and students from Young Chicago Authors will join forces with Anis Mojgani, Derrick Brown, and Buddy Wakefield to bring you "the ultimate uplift spoken word party experience"! Come to the Chopin Theatre (1543 W Division) on Saturday, October 2 at 4pm for the Poetry Revival's latest and greatest tour. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students at the door.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Sep 24 2010

The Chicago Poetry Brothel is Back

Its first event over the summer was a success (really, poetry + brothel -- who wouldn't love it?!), so the Chicago Poetry Brothel is here to stay. Check out their second costume party/poetry reading/performance art tonight in the Foundation Room at the House of Blues (329 N. Dearborn), starting at 8pm. Tickets at the door are $10, unless you "come dressed Victorian" -- then you only have to shell out $5.

Emily Wong

Events Thu Sep 23 2010

Criminal Class Press Hosts NOIR Anti-Gala

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Criminal Class Press is a literary collective founded in 2008. Publishers of the literary journal Criminal Class Review, they sum up their aesthetic as "where the scumbag's voice is making a genre for itself" and "real life in the trenches. The punks and broads that the rest of us are. And if it's not you, it's looking for you, so watch out." Watch out, indeed: they're kicking off a five city East Coast tour on October 19. If you don't care 'cuz you read Gapers Block to find Chicago hell to raise, then listen up, punk: this Saturday they'll be hosting NOIR, An Anti-Gala, to raise funds for the tour. Featured readers are Jim Goad, Gint Aras, Deb Lewis, Nicollette Kittinger, Brian Murphy, Julia Borcherts, and Windy City Story Slam's Bill Hillman. There will be featured artwork by Ricardo Cozzolino, Tim Piggott, Jansen Sterba, Joe Chavez, Jason Adams and more. $15 gets you all that raucous entertainment, plus drinks and food by Big Bite Catering. Tickets can be purchased here. NOIR will be held at Joone Studios, 1372 N. Ashland. September 25 at 6pm; readings start at 8pm. $15 cover. Afterparty at Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 22 2010

Banned Books Week 2010

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Celebrate your freedom to read this year from September 25 to October 2, with Banned Books Week! What can you do to participate? Attend the Banned Books Week Readout at Bughouse Square on September 25. You can also check out more planned events and ideas for creating your own events on the Banned Books Week website.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Sep 21 2010

Poetry Round-up

So much poetry, so little time!

  • September 22: Danny's Reading Series at Danny's Tavern (1951 W. Dickens), 7:30pm, featuring Adam Novy and Roddy Lumsden
  • September 23: Ponce @nite hosts open mic night (Ponce Restaurant, 4322 W. Fullerton), 7:30pm, with special guests Roberto Plena Irizarry and Nikki Patin
  • September 23: Without a Mic! Poetry Showcase at Let Them Eat Chocolate (5306 N. Damen), 6:30pm

Emily Wong

Events Tue Sep 21 2010

The First Rule About Write Club Is...

Well, I don't know, but I bet a tired movie quote earns a metaphoric sock to the kisser. Write Club takes the concept of a slam competition and makes it more personal, pitting two people head to head. Tonight there will be three bouts: Rock vs. Roll (improvOlympian Katie Rich vs. New Colony's Whit Nelson), Work vs. Play (Write Club host Ian Belknap vs. Neo-Futurist alum Chloe Johnston) and Land vs. Sea (performance poet John Paul Davis vs. Gapers Block's own Lindsay Muscato). Each contestant has seven minutes, winner chosen by the audience. $8 donation; proceeds go to charity of winner's choice. The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, September 21, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Mon Sep 20 2010

CHF Tickets On Sale Now

This fall's Chicago Humanities Festival delves into all disciplines -- anthropology, medicine, human rights -- with its 2010 theme: the body. Running from Sunday, October 24, with the CHF Hyde Park Day, through Sunday, November 14, the events range from a special viewing of rare medical texts at the University of Chicago's Regenstein Library to a lecture about the history of the condom. And, as always, literary events abound:

  • On Saturday, November 6, British author Lady Antonia Fraser discusses her 2010 memoir, Must You Go?, about her life with her late husband, Nobel Prize-winning author Harold Pinter.
  • Also on November 6, two University of Wisconsin-Madison scholars examine the medieval idea of body as a metaphor for book, which has continued to the present -- for example, we describe manuscripts and books as having spines, headers, and footers.
  • On Sunday, November 7, medical doctor Cheryl Kinney and University of Chicago comparative literature and philosophy scholar Elisabeth Lenckos explore how the body is represented in Jane Austen's literature.
  • On Saturday, November 13, playwright, author, and poet Sam Shepard -- who won the 1979 Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his play Buried Child -- accepts the 2010 Chicago Tribune Literary Prize.

Ticket prices vary depending on the event. Check the CHF website for more information.

(And just a tip, if you're a fan of Dan Savage and his hilariously candid "Savage Love" column, I suggest you buy your tickets to his November 12, live podcast soon -- it's bound to sell out fast.)

Ruthie Kott

Events Mon Sep 20 2010

Essay Fiesta @ The Book Cellar

It's the third Monday of the month, which means Essay Fiesta time as the Book Cellar. Featured readers are Write Club host Ian Belknap, Neo-Futurist alum Noelle Krimm, 2nd Story ensemble member Andrew Reilly, Comedian/author/teacher Rebecca Rine-Stone and former Playboy.com editor Scott Smith. Raffle to benefit Howard Brown Health Center. The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave., September 20, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Sep 20 2010

Open Mic Tonight!

Cafe Ballou hosts Waiting 4 the Bus's open mic night, featuring Bob Lawrence. Stop by and showcase your stuff!

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Emily Wong

Events Thu Sep 16 2010

We're Walking Down the Street of Chance

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If you love art, poetry and a good writing prompt, check out an evening of poetry "in conversation with" the exhibit Mano/Mundo/Corazón: Artists Interpret La Lotería. Featured reader is Roddy Lumsden; two dozen Chicago-based writers will also perform. Presented by Poetry magazine, contratiempo, and the Center for the Book & Paper Arts at Columbia College (where the reading is held). Ludington Building, 1104 South Wabash Street, September 16, 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Sep 15 2010

Real Talk Live @ Real Talk Avenue

How do poetry slam champs spend their down time? Why, they keep the fires burning with salons, darling. Real Talk Live is a monthly reading series featuring poetry, music, comedy and dance. This Friday, September 17 they bid adieu to their current home (it's literally in someone's home). Featured performers are poet Krista Franklin, co-founder of the artists' collective Tres Colony and 2nd Sun Salon; and The Gringo Choir, a championship squad of performance poets from New England. Also featured is the artwork of Angela Davis Fegan. Will you really be welcome in a strangers' home? Well, they fully intend to keep the show going at a new (TBD) location, there's a $5 door charge and cash bar that goes toward paying features and keeping the show going, so hell yes, you will! (Plus, I asked). Real Talk Live at "Real Talk Avenue," a.k.a. 4520 N. Monticello, $5 cover, 18+, Friday, September 17, 7pm-midnight.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Tue Sep 14 2010

Rx Reading Series @ Beauty Bar

Newish independent literary journal Two With Water holds the latest installment of their Rx Reading Series within the shimmering teal splendor of Beauty Bar on Sunday, September 19. Open mic starts at 7pm, and the theme is orientation. 1444 W. Chicago.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Sep 13 2010

"A Provocative Night of Lesbian Diversions"

Otherwise known as Women & Children First's (5233 N. Clark St.) monthly Sappho's Salon. This Saturday, September 18, your $7-10 (sliding scale fee), will get you wine, food, and the spoken work of Nikki Patin, the comedy and overall punk-rockishness of Sissy Van Dyke, and Sappho's house DJ SpinNikki's tracks. The "diversions" start at 7:30pm!

Emily Wong

Events Thu Sep 09 2010

Reading With Pictures Workshop @ Sulzer Regional Library

Got a budding Stan Lee in your family? Head out to the Sulzer Regional Library this Saturday for a Reading With Pictures workshop. Comic writer Trevor Mueller, marketing director of Reading With Pictures and author of the webcomic series "The Temple of a Thousand Tears" will teach kids the basics of storytelling, how to write dialogue, and how to make their own comics. There will also be a reading from his latest all-ages story "Albert the Alien is New in School," published in the Reading with Pictures anthology (copies will be available for purchase). For children ages 6 and up. It's the same weekend as Lincoln Square's German American Fest, so public transportation is recommended (by this local, anyway). Sulzer Regional Public Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave., Saturday, September 11, 11am-11:45am. Free. Call (312) 744-7616, extension 3 to register.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Sep 09 2010

Tour the City Through Poetry

What do Gwendolyn Brooks, Carl Sandburg, and The Green Mill have in common? They're on the Chicago Poetry Tour! Take the tour and learn all about Chicago while getting a good dose of poetry. Just download the Downtown Chicago Poetry Tour mp3 onto your mp3 player, lace up your walking shoes, and get out there!

Emily Wong

Events Wed Sep 08 2010

William "Upski" Wimsatt @ 57th Street Books, Chicago Urban Art Society

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William "Upski" Wimsatt first got his name out in the world as a graffiti tagger on the South Side. Growing up in Hyde Park he was entranced by African-American hip hop culture from an early age. As he told the New York Times, "I saw it as my job to get white people to talk about race." In 1993 he published an influential article on "wiggers" in The Source. His books include 1994's Bomb The Suburbs and 2000's No More Prisons. Tupac Shakur declared Bomb The Suburbs "the best book I read in prison" and No More Prisons won the 2000 Firecracker Alternative Book Award for Politics. (Incidentally, "bomb" is slang for "to cover a surface with graffiti"). Wimsatt puts his activist money where his mouth is: In 2003 he founded the League of Young Voters, and he's the Chief Executive Officer of All Hands On Deck, a political, organizational and communications consulting firm designed to organize unlikely voters. His latest book, Please Don't Bomb The Suburbs, comes out this October. If you missed his Wednesday night reading at Quimby's, you can still catch two Chicago stops on his book tour. He'll be at 57th Street Books, 1301 E. 57th Street, Thursday, September 9, 6:30pm. and at Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 South Halsted Street, Friday, September 10, 6-11pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Sep 06 2010

Tuesday Funk @ Hopleaf

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Tomorrow night is Tuesday Funk at Hopleaf. Featured readers are Gina Frangello, Shannon Morley Milliken and Zoe Zolbrod. Hear some great stories, make a dent in the extensive beer list and welcome new host Sara Ross. Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark Street, upstairs room. September 7, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Sun Sep 05 2010

Keir Graff Gives Free Advice

He wrote his own press release to promote his fourth novel, The Price of Liberty, and now he wants to help you, too.

Make use of your lunch break and attend the senior editor of Booklist Online's presentation, "How I kept my day job and became a published author, and you can, too!", which happens September 22nd, 12pm-1pm, at Harold Washington Library. 400 S State St, call (312) 747-4050 for more information.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Sep 01 2010

RUI @ Sheffield's

Next edition of RUI: Reading Under the Influence is at Sheffield's tonight, September 1. Featured readers include JD Adamski, Brandon Will, John Flaherty and RUI's most frequent guest reader, Darwyn Jones. An evening of original short stories and trivia questions with prizes for you! Food menu available as well as drinks. This month's theme is "Sloth." So overcome your inertia and head on out to RUI at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave, 7pm, $3 cover.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 31 2010

Samosas and Self-Publishing

Eastern cuisine is not a new territory for local food writer Colleen Taylor Sen: in Curry, put out by University of Chicago press, she explores the history and culture of the often misunderstood dish. Her new book, Pakoras, Paneer, Pappadums: A Guide to Indian Restaurant Menus (available on Amazon and at Patel Brothers Handicrafts at 2600 W. Devon), helps diners expand their knowledge of Indian food and the culture behind it.

Find out more about this and how to get published on Saturday, September 18, when Sen presents at the Chicago Foodways Roundtable. 10am-12pm, Kendall College, 900 N. Branch. $3, free to Kendall students and faculty with ID.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Aug 26 2010

Poem as Dream @ Mess Hall

Lose yourself in the "outsidereal" with The Next Objectivists at Mess Hall (6932 North Glenwood) in Rogers Park. Starting at 7pm, you'll talk about your dreams, poems about dreams, and do a bit of writing together. The workshop is free and open to the public.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Aug 25 2010

Daddy's Book Release Party @ Hideout

featherproof books and Lindsay Hunter of Quickies! are having a party for the release of her book, Daddy's. Described as "sweet as pie, but she's got one mean dirty mouth", Lindsay's presentation includes featherproofers Blake Butler and Amelia Gray, Lindsey's Dad, and more. $10 gets you admission and your very own copy of Daddy's -- find out what's going down at 1354 West Wabansia, August 30th, 7:30pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Tue Aug 24 2010

Stacks! Soul Library Dance Party @ Late Bar

Who doesn't love a sexy librarian with soul? Come on out this Friday to the Stacks! Soul Library Dance Party to benefit Chicago Underground Library. Featuring DJs John Ciba, Lady J, MLE, and JJ, and prizes for "best '60s/soul/mod librarian style." Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door. Late Bar, 3534 W Belmont Ave., (773) 267-5283, Friday, August 27, 9pm-midnight (true to their name, bar's open 'til 4am).

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 24 2010

Knee-Jerk Magazine Anniverary Party @ Fill In The Blank Gallery

This Friday, August 27, Knee-Jerk magazine hosts a one year anniversary party in north Lincoln Square. Featured readers of the evening include contributors
Billy Lombardo, Zoe Zolbrod and Michael Czyzniejewski. Free beer, raffles, music and a chance to win dinner and a movie with Knee-Jerk's editors. Proceeds benefit debut print issue. Suggested donation: $5. Fill In the Blank Gallery, 5038 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 878-1750, Friday, August 27, 8-11pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri Aug 20 2010

Sappho's Salon @ Women and Children First

This Saturday, August 21, Women and Children First hosts Sappho's Salon: A Provocative Night of Lesbian Diversions. This month's installement features humorist Fay Jacobs, author of As I Lay Frying and Fried and True: Tales from Rehoboth Beach, collections of newspaper columns chronicling life in the gay-friendly resort town of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Singer Ellen Rosner brings the voice Windy City Times describes as "a young Chrissie Hynde, Chris Isaak or Melissa Etheridge." DJ SpinNikki plays eclectic music between sets to keep things rollin'. Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., August 21 at 7:30pm. Cost is $7-$10 sliding scale, food and wine included. Door proceeds to benefit the artists and the Women's Voices Fund.

Rebecca Hyland

On the Web Thu Aug 19 2010

"He has written the press release in third-person..."

I receive dozens of press releases a day at my job, so I got a laugh out of this mock release from author and senior editor of Booklist Online Keir Graff, to promote his fourth novel, The Price of Liberty. Highlights:

Misspellings and grammatical errors throughout are should contributing to this effect.

As is customary, key information has been set in boldface.

"For my fourth novel, I wanted to try something different," Graff quotes himself as saying.

The Price of Liberty's launch party will be Thursday, September 9, 5:30-7:30pm. After Words Books, 23 E. Illinois St., 312-464-1110.

Ruthie Kott

Events Thu Aug 19 2010

Tamale Hut Reading Series @ Tamale Hut Cafe

Head on out to the near west suburbs this Saturday for the Tamale Hut Reading Series. Columbia MFA candidate Jenny Seay hosts this always welcoming, roughly monthly event. This Saturday's featured reader is Andrew Reilly, an ensemble member of 2nd Story. Visitors encouraged to get scribblin' and participate in the open mic. Tamales are buy two, get one free, and the event is BYOB, making for a cheap date. About three miles from Brookfield Zoo, so make a day of it. Tamale Hut Cafe, 8300 W. Cermak Road, North Riverside, August 21 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 18 2010

Ninth Anniversary Reading Series @ Danny's

Tonight is the 9th anniversary of the Danny's Tavern Reading Series. Featured readers are Patrick Culliton, Devin King, and Caroline Picard. Danny's Tavern, 1951 W. Dickens, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Aug 16 2010

Essay Fiesta @ The Book Cellar

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It's Essay Fiesta night at The Book Cellar, a night of first-person essays including a raffle to benefit the Howard Brown Health Center. Tonight's readers include Paper Machete host Christopher Piatt, improvisor and puppeteer Kristen Studard, actor and Second Story contributor John Wilson, Impress These Apes producer Paul Luikart and stand-up comedian John Barry. The Book Cellar, 4736 North Lincoln Avenue, (773) 293-2665, Monday, August 16 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 11 2010

Don't Be Superstitious!

Celebrate the life of the late Carlos Cortez (1923 - 2005) this Friday the 13th! Carlos & Dominguez Fine Arts in Pilsen is hosting his 87th birthday party with readings, speakers, and a book and poetry sale.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Aug 10 2010

This Much Is True Chicago @ The Hopleaf

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Head to the upstairs lounge at the Hopleaf tonight, August 10, for an evening of "the humorous, embarrassing and poignant moments that make up a life remembered" with This Much Is True Chicago. A monthly series, August's edition features regulars Dorrie Ferguson, Deanna Moffitt, and Scott Whitehair, with special guests Jennifer Bosworth, Don Hall, Jessica McCloud, and Jill Summers. The Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Aug 10 2010

Chicago Antiquarian Book Fair @ Plumbers Union Hall

This Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14, is the Chicago Antiquarian Book Fair. Hunt for what's missing from your collection or bring your own first edition family heirlooms. Over 40 dealers from the United States, Canada and the UK will be displaying portions of their stock and many will be delighted to answer questions and make arrangements to appraise or even purchase collections of books (especially if signed!). Prices seldom fall under $20, but there will be a few bargain book tables as well as author readings and glimpses of rare books seldom seen outside academic libraries. Sponsored by the Midwest Antiquarian Booksellers Association. Plumbers Union Hall, 1340 W. Washington, August 13 from 3-8pm and August 14 from 10am-4pm. Admission is $6.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 04 2010

Mixing Meat and Milk While Kissing Is Totally Unkosher

Not going to Lollapalooza on Sunday? Try a little Challapalooza! Los Angeles author and singles columnist for the the Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles Carin Davis comes to Evanston on Sunday to talk about her 2010 book Life, Love, Lox: Real-World Advice for the Modern Jewish Girl. Now, I'm a modern Jewish girl, I guess--I love bacon, I don't go to temple, I've dated my fair share of atheists--but I worry that this book would implant in my head some of that Jewish guilt I try to avoid. Here's an excerpt, from a chapter about a date with a Jewish movie executive:

As I enjoyed my last morsel of cheesy perfection, Jeff took a bite of meatloaf, slid my way, and stole a kiss. Or at least he started to until I ducked. Yes, ducked. No, I'm not a big tease, I'm a big Jew, and technically a mid-bite kiss would have meant mixing milk and meat. When Jeff 's mouth touched mine, I didn't see fireworks, I didn't hear wedding bells: I heard the great rabbis reminding me not to seethe a calf in its mother's milk.

I would never (I mean, never) have thought of that (and don't really even want to think about it). But for those of you modern gals who want to know "how to put together Shabbat dinner for the real world, how to meet the (observant) parents, and how to embrace the high holy days with style," go see Davis read from her book August 8 at 1pm. Evanston's BooCoo Cafe & Cultural Center, 1823 Church St., 773-362-4760.

Update: There's also a Lakeview reading at 4pm. Uncommon Ground, 3800 N. Clark St., 773-362-4760.

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Aug 04 2010

John Presta @ Borders

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This Friday, John Presta discusses and signs his book Mr. and Mrs. Grassroots: How Barack Obama, Two Bookstore Owners and 300 Volunteers Did It at the Evanston Borders. A first-person account of the early days of Obama's political career, the "Mr. and Mrs." of the title refers to Presta and his wife, owners of the (now closed) Reading on Walden bookstore in Beverly, whom Obama called his "Southwest Side powerhouses." Dan Shomon, former campaign manager and political director for Senator Barack Obama says "Michelle and John Presta were really there at the beginning. They were true grassroots organizers, and John's memory and the intimate details of this book provide a true picture of the real story of Barack Obama's meteoric rise. It was people like Michelle and John who really made it happen and stuck their neck out for the skinny guy with the funny name. There are many Michelle and Johns out there, and I hope they all decide to write their stories like John did." Borders, 1700 Maple Ave., Evanston, Friday, August 6 at 5pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 04 2010

Gerry and Janet Souter @ Barnes and Noble

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Next weekend, the air fills with majestic Blue Angels aerobatics as the 52nd annual Chicago Air and Water Show comes to the lakefront. Learn more about the history of the show this Thursday, August 5, when aviation buffs Gerry and Janet Souter visit the downtown Barnes and Noble to discuss their book The Chicago Air and Water Show: A History of Wings Above the Waves. Barnes and Noble, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., (312) 362-8792, Thursday, August 5, 6-7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Aug 04 2010

Literature Does Dance Parties, Too

Come see Chicago translated through literature at Chicago Translation: Lit, Music, and Dance Party at The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) on August 13 at 10pm. Artists work to reinterpret the city through sound, syntax, and image, while Magical Beautiful provides the tunes, and DJ Kevin Smith gets the dance party going. Featured writers include James Tadd Adcox, Kathleen Rooney, Kristin Orser, and Nell Taylor.

Emily Wong

Events Wed Aug 04 2010

Reading with Pictures and Hot Dogs

Nothing goes together like bbq and helping children read through comic books: this Saturday, Challengers Comics hosts a cookout benefiting Reading With Pictures, a nonprofit organization that uses sequential art to help kids become more literate. Saturday, August 5th, 1-5pm at 1845 N. Western. Stop by and enjoy a range of $1 foodstuffs, pick up the latest Avengers, and help a good cause.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Jul 29 2010

Make Can Just About Start Kindergarten

"Wheels, wheels, feet, feet, all day."

"Spoke-thin rungs poked in the side plotted a dizzying ascent, and the thought of climbing that far skyward made my knees weak."

"The expressway ramps soar above, residents hunker underneath, and in the soot and debris, St. Jude was wrapped in a blue cloak both brilliant and stern, with the words 'Pray for Us' painted on a golden background."

The Silver-Colored Yesterday, a blog written by Joseph Drogos, is one of the online features for Make, a Chicago-based literary magazine. A "commentary on the real and imagined social, cultural, and literary heritage of Make's hometown," TSCY tells Chicago's story through beautiful, haunting imagery and explores hidden facets about the city that only a true Chicagoan would even know to look for: neglected spaces between warehouses and factories, the final days of baseball at Comiskey, the essence of Bridgeport .

Of course, this blog is only a small part of Make's nine-issue history -- the magazine, started in 2005, delivers short stories, essays, poetry, reviews, and interviews, as well as art and photography, in a biannual package, with themes like "Truthiness" and "Property Lines."

Tomorrow, after the sixth annual Printers' Ball (of which Gapers Block is a proud sponsor), Make is throwing itself a party: the Printers' Ball After-Party and Make Five-Year Anniversary Fiesta. Musical comedy game show Shame That Tune and bands like Magical Beautiful and Coupleskate make an appearance, but what really makes it a party are the candy, $5 shots of Templeton Rye, and (hell yes) piñatas.

Friday, July 30, 9pm, Reggie's Music Joint, 2105 S. State St., 21+

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Tue Jul 27 2010

TallGrass Writers Guild @ Bourgeois Pig

TallGrass Writers Guild is an independent, largely self-supporting arts guild that's been around since 1980, open to all who write seriously at any level. Since 1996 they've published annual anthologies in conjunction with Outrider Press. They host readings and events throughout the year across Chicagoland. Tonight, as they do the fourth Tuesday of every month, they host an open mic at the Bourgeois Pig. Featured reader is Catherine Fitzpatrick. Bourgeois Pig, 738 W. Fullerton Ave., July 27, 7:30pm, $6.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jul 26 2010

Swashbuckling Adventure on North Avenue

Local, recently profiled illustrator Aaron Renier brings his seafaring graphic novel to Quimby's August 26, celebrating a tale that's appealing to young and old alike. 1854 W. North Ave, 7pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Jul 23 2010

Audrey Niffenegger @ Women and Children First

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Time Traveler's Wife author Audrey Niffeneger will be at Women and Children First tonight. She'll be reading from her latest, Her Fearful Symmetry, just out in paperback. A story of ghosts, twins, London cemeteries and OCD, The New York Times calls it "mature, complex and convincing - a dreamy yet visceral tale of loves both familial and erotic, a search for Self in the midst of obsession with an Other." Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., July 23, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jul 22 2010

Nathan Rabin @ Women and Children First

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On July 22, Onion AV Club head writer Nathan Rabin reads from The Big Rewind: A Memoir Brought to You by Pop Culture, just out in paperback. It's a confessional bio told through the lens of the pop culture that kept him sane through a childhood of parental abandonment and mental institutions. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, for example, taught him "if you're going to be stuck in this movie, the point is to be Jack Nicholson, not one of the gargoyle-faced character actors stumbling around in a Klonopin haze." The New York Times says "Rabin has packed [The Big Rewind], like a cannon, full of caustic wit and bruised feelings. The result is a lo-fi, sometimes crude book that is nonetheless more effective (and affecting) than it has any right to be." Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., July 22 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jul 20 2010

The Old Man and the Legacy

hemingway.jpgJuly 21 is Ernest Hemingway's 101st birthday. To celebrate, the Ernest Hemingway Museum is having an open house at 3:30pm, then at 7:30pm Thomas J. Putnam, Director of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum will present the lecture Treasures from Hemingway's Trunk: Highlights from the Ernest Hemingway Collection at the John F. Kennedy Library. Ernest Hemingway Museum, 200 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park. Admission is $20; $10 for Foundation members, seniors and students. Phone: (708) 848-2222 or email to ehfop@sbcglobal.net for reservations.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 14 2010

"The hungry and the hunted/explode into rock 'n roll bands"

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I can still remember blasting Born To Run in my sister's bedroom, the room filling with blue collar poetry and soaring, bittersweet optimism. David Masciotra must have similar memories. Thursday, July 15, he'll be at Revolution Books reading from Working on a Dream: The Progressive Political Vision of Bruce Springsteen. "What really draws me to his music and makes me come back to it from a political perspective is, [in] his (lyrical) world, he places everyday people at the front and center," Masciotra said. "He views the world through their lens, and that's a very powerful and important message in a democracy." Revolution Books, 1103 N. Ashland Ave., 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Jul 12 2010

Quickies! @ Innertown Pub

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Tuesday, July 13, hie thee to the Innertown Pub for a quickie. Several, actually. Mary Hamilton and Lindsay Hunter host the monthly Quickies! flash fiction reading series. Each reader has four minutes to read a complete work of prose. "No poetry. No excerpts. No cheating." This month's series features readings by James Tadd Adcox, Alex Bonner, Chris Bower, Jason Bredle (Standing In Line for the Beast), Barry Graham (The National Virginity Pledge: Short Stories and Other Lies), Allison Gruber, Elizabeth Ellen (Before You She Was A Pitbull), Devin King (Clops), Davis Schneiderman (Drain), Rebekah Silverman and Jill Summers. The Innertown Pub, 1935 W. Thomas; free, 21 and over, 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jul 07 2010

Mary Karr @ The Book Stall

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Thursday, July 8, The Book Stall welcomes poet and memoirist extraordinaire Mary Karr. She'll be reading from Lit, her memoir of recovery from alcoholism and conversion to Catholicism. The Washington Post says "her acute self-awareness conquers any hint that hers is the only version of this story." Susan Cheever of the New York Times says "in a gravelly, ground-glass-under-your-heel voice that can take you from laughter to awe in a few sen­tences, Karr has written the best book about being a woman in America I have read in years." Lit was just released in paperback this month. The Book Stall at Chestnut Court, 811 E. Elm, Winnetka, (847) 847-446-8880, Thursday, July 8 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jul 06 2010

Sam Weller @ The Book Cellar

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Wednesday, July 7, The Book Cellar welcomes Sam Weller, reading from his recently released Listen to the Echoes: The Ray Bradbury Interviews.
Weller's The Bradbury Chronicles was the winner of the Society of Midland Authors award for best biography in 2005. Weller is a local journalist, Columbia College professor and highly sought after lecturer on the life and works of celebrated science fiction author Ray Bradbury. Julia Keller of The Chicago Tribune calls Listen "a book that's feisty and that charges full-speed ahead, a book that practically levitates out of your hands as you turn the pages - there is that much energy in it, that much love for life and for books and for the people who make and read them." Ray Bradbury himself says "Sam Weller knows more about my life than I do." The Book Cellar, 4736 North Lincoln Avenue, (773) 293-2665, Wednesday, July 7 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 29 2010

Moth Story Slam @ Martyr's

Tuesday, June 29, welcomes the next edition of the Moth Story Slam, held the last Tuesday of every month. Tonight's theme is "Scars." Martyr's, 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. Stories start at 8pm (get there early to ensure seating). Cost: $7 at the door.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 29 2010

Zombies: Is There Anything They Can't Do?

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Tuesday, June 29, Quimby's features Alan Goldsher & Jeffrey Brown, the writer and artist who collaborated on Paul Is UnDead - The British Zombie Invasion. Publishers Weekly says "are readers ready for a world in which the Beatles just wanna eat your brains? Roughly paralleling the real-world career of the Beatles, this alternate history reimagines successes, failures, and rivalries with over-the-top bizarro charm." Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W North Ave., (773) 342-0910, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 29 2010

A Brothel in Chicago?

Don't worry, it's The Poetry Brothel! The poets/artists/designers organization is coming to the House of Blues Foundation Room (329 N. Dearborn) on July 10 from 8pm to midnight. This event series incorporates a bit of performance art as the showcased poets...well...seduce you. Tickets are $15 at the door, $10 if you bring along the flier. Stop by and enjoy poetry + absinthe + music + anything else you may expect at a brothel.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Jun 29 2010

Radical Currents Form a Literary Whirlwhind

Tomorrow -- learn about radical social movements in the U.S. through Uses of a Whirlwind: Movement, Movements, and Contemporary Radical Currents in the United States, a joint effort from Team Colors Collective recently released by AK Press. The 30+ contributors make up "a snapshot of current activity, organizing, ideas, and questions circulating among today's radicals", and their pieces cover such topics as community organizing, movement building, and all levels of revolution.

7pm, Biblioteca Popular del Barrio -- 1921 South Blue Island Ave.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Jun 24 2010

Orange Alert Reading Series @ The Whistler

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This Sunday is the Orange Alert Reading Series. Orange Alert is a blog and book publisher whose mission is "to support the independent arts and to introduce, inform, interact, and instigate ideas." Sunday's reading features John Cotter,
Martin Seay, Kathleen Rooney and Stephen Markley. The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., (773) 227-3530, Sunday, June 27 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 24 2010

Irish Eyes Are Rhymin'

The ladies who run Switchback Books will be bartending at Irish Eyes Pub (2519 N Lincoln Ave) tonight, with all tips to benefit Switchback. Stop by at 7:30pm to not only grab a drink, but get your custom erasure poem, put some change in the coin-operated poetry machine, and receive an "unprofessional" tarot reading. No cover charge!

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jun 23 2010

What To Do on Thursday Night: Literary-Style

I am torn: three exciting literary events, all on Thursday, June 24, between 6pm and 8pm:

*Anthony Bourdain and his sweet, dimpled chin (and not-so-sweet vocabulary) will be at Harold Washington Library at 6pm, talking about his new book, Medium Raw: A Bloody Valentine to the World of Food and the People Who Cook. For free.

*Jonathan Alter speaks at his alma mater, the Francis W. Parker School (330 W. Webster) as part of the Chicago Humanities Festival at 7pm. A senior editor at Newsweek, Alter will talk about his book The Promise: President Obama, Year One, which Chicago Magazine says, "is just as much a profile of Obama's behind-the-curtain personality as it is a recap of his triumphs, failures, and other pivotal moments thus far." Tickets are $5 for CHF members, $10 for the general public.

*Interior designer and founder of ApartmentTherapy.com Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan hosts a signing party for his new book, Apartment Therapy's Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces, which gives tips on how make small spaces feel bigger and more comfortable (this will definitely come in handy with my impending move into a new apartment). The party is at furniture and home-decor store Ligne Rose, 440 N. Wells, at 6pm.

Alas, because I can only go to one, I would love to hear from anyone who goes to any of these events. It'll be a game-time decision for me, I guess.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Mon Jun 21 2010

Essay Fiesta @ Book Cellar

It's the third Monday of the month, which means Essay Fiesta time at the Book Cellar. Essay Fiesta brings together a cross-section of Chicago's art and writing communities for a night of first-person, non-fiction essays and charity. Tonight features 2nd Story literary director Megan Stielstra, Neo-Futurist alum and playwright Andy Bayiates, stand-up comic Kelsie Huff, Story Club host and producer Dana Norris, and author and humorist Tom Wolferman. A representative from Howard Brown Health Center, one of the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) organizations, will be present to speak about the organization's critical service offerings. Book Cellar, 4736 North Lincoln Avenue, (773) 293-2665. Monday, June 21, 7pm. Free; charitable donations accepted.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 16 2010

Free Independent Publishing Workshops @ Quimby's

This Saturday is the Learnapalooza festival, held at various spots around Wicker Park from 10am to 5pm. The event is a community skill exchange chock full of free workshops: yoga, cooking, self-defense, swing dancing, poker, and more. Complete at-a-glance schedule of events here. Quimby's Bookstore is getting in on the action with three free 45 minute workshops on how to get involved in independent publishing. RSVP not necessary but appreciated. Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 West North Avenue, (773) 342-0910. Saturday, June 19, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 16 2010

Local Author Night @ the Book Cellar

Tonight is a packed Local Author Night at Lincoln Square's Book Cellar. Zoe Zolbrod reads from her novel Currency, where an American woman in Thailand gets drawn into a smuggling operation and romantic entanglements with a local man. Davis Schneiderman reads from his forthcoming novel Drain, a post-apocalyptic novel about a dried-out Lake Michigan and the struggle for political control of the strange new landscape. Author Steve Tomasula calls Drain "the Clockwork Orange of our age." UIC professor Cris Mazza reads from her forthcoming novel Various Men Who Knew Us as Girls, a novel about the border sex trade in Southern California. Last but not least, Gina Frangello reads from Slut Lullabies. Frangello ranked #19 on New City's Lit 50: Who Really Books in Chicago list for 2010. The Chicago Reader says "[Frangello] articulates truths about the selfishness of love in a way few people would admit but everyone has likely felt." The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., Wednesday, June 16 at 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Jun 15 2010

National Story Slam Competition @ CPL

Windy City Story Slam's first ever National Story Slam Competition was held at the Harold Washington Library as part of the Printer's Row Lit Fest on Sunday. Ten storytellers from around the country had five minutes each to wow an audience of avid listeners and a panel of judges that included the Chicago Tribune's Rick Kogan; playwright Alexis Pride; writer James Finn Garner; StoryCorps booster Whitney Henry-Lester; diversity speaker Susan O'Halloran; curator of Serendipity Theater's 2nd Story J. Adams Oaks; and an audience member known simply as "Mike from the crowd."

Storytellers from seven states and the District of Columbia told tales as various as the home towns they represented. Phil Kasitz from West Chester PA's West Chester Story Slam started the evening off with a story of love and loss, followed by Philadelphia's Michael McCarry of First Person Arts, who spoke of a condition no insurance company would ever cover. Massmouth's Jim Stahl followed with an eye-opening story of things seen and unseen, Porchlight's Anthony Bedard went all the way back to junior high school, local favorite Alex Bonner recalled an old friend, and Portland Story Theater's Lynne Duddy told the audience what she once bought for just $20. Nancy Donoval from Story Slam Twin Cities picked up the pace with the shifting tectonic plates in her head, SpeakeasyDC's Regie Cabico taught the audience a whole new way to pronounce "Oprah", Anderson Story Slam's Michelle Buscher explained exactly how not to stop a rushing goat, and The Stoop Storytelling Series' Ab Logan rounded out the event by explaining the relative importance of mashed potatoes and gravy.

At the end of the slam two winners were declared: Nancy Donoval, who lived up to her reputation as "the Michael Jordan of storytelling," won first place from the judges, and Alex Bonner won the audience favorite award, which was measured in applause. If you missed Sunday's event, it will soon be available for your listening pleasure on Chicago Amplified.

J.H. Palmer / Comments (1)

Events Mon Jun 14 2010

Lit After Dark: Recap

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Deb Lewis tells a story at Lit After Dark, photo by J.H. Palmer

Windy City Story Slam, 2nd Story, and Reading Under the Influence converged at the Printers Row Lit fest Saturday night for three hours of nonstop storytelling at Lit After Dark. The three organizations have different styles, but the love of a good story binds them together. In case you missed it, below are snippets from the twelve stories told that night, which make a kind of short, nonsensical story:

Like they couldn't just stick a little lime in the coffin. He forgot the Korean word for hope and began screaming in English. He figures out that the situation in Eastern Europe is much worse than the situation in Berwyn. Ingrown hairs can look like herpes, and that's just bad for business. She is fuckin' laughing, and I'm about to crap my pants. Satan's minion, in my back yard, pooping. With the exception of two butches, me being one, every butch dyke we knew was taking male hormones and making surgical dates to get their tits cut off. I can't smoke pot before class, Megan talks too damn fast. Motherfucker breaks into my house and thinks he can judge me? Do you want to go to the cemetery when your nails are finished? The voice believes inspirational quotes and cries at the end of Rudy. I saw Tony Bennett in a pharmacy buying Laxatone and nasal spray.

J.H. Palmer

Events Wed Jun 09 2010

Daniel Clowes @ Quimby's, Printer's Row Lit Fest

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You have two chances to check out Ghost World author/artist Daniel Clowes this weekend. He'll be at Quimby's Saturday for a book signing and appearing at the Printers Row Lit Fest on Sunday. His latest book is Wilson, the story of a middle-aged misanthrope searching to reconnect with the ex-wife who's become a prostitute since leaving him, and their daughter, put up for adoption years earlier. The New York Times says "[Clowes has] explored the tedium and mystery of contemporary American life with more wit and insight than most novelists or filmmakers." Author signing at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., Saturday, June 12 at 7pm; in conversation with film critic Ray Pride at the Printers Row Lit Fest, Center Stage, Sunday, June 13 at 11am.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Wed Jun 09 2010

Printers Row Lit Fest This Weekend

This weekend is the 26th annual Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest, the largest free outdoor literary event in the Midwest. The event features more than 100 free literary programs and nearly 140 new, used and antiquarian booksellers. Author programs take place at 10 locations throughout the festival, including a Good Eating stage featuring appearances by Chef Rick Tramonto, executive chef at Tru. Approximately 200 authors are scheduled to appear, including Daniel Clowes, Barbara Ehrenreich, Anne Lamott, and Christopher Hitchens. An exhaustive list of readers and performers can be found here. Printers Row Lit Fest is located on historic Printers Row, on and around the area of Dearborn Street, from Congress to Polk streets in Chicago. Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13. Free. Some events require pre-registration.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Jun 03 2010

Windy City Story Slam @ Empty Bottle

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This Saturday is the next installment of the Windy City Story Slam, now held the first Saturday of every month at Empty Bottle. Bill Hillman, Columbia College student and 2002 Golden Gloves boxing champ, started the Slam in 2007 after being inspired by a trip to the legendary Uptown Poetry Slam at the Green Mill. Windy City Story Slam employs similar tactics - adrenaline-fueled competition, audience heckling and cheering encouraged. Past performances have included Marc Smith of the Uptown Poetry Slam and Ernest Hemingway's grandson John, author of Strange Tribe: A Family Memoir, whom Hillmann met - where else? - while running with the bulls in Pamplona. The Onion calls Windy City Story Slam "Chicago's best kept secret" and salon.com calls it "The hippest literary event this un-hip correspondent has ever attended." This Saturday's event is a fundraiser for the National Story Slam Championships on June 13, part of the Printer's Row Lit Fest. Readers TBA. June 5, Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. at 7:30pm. Admission is $5 donation, 21+.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 02 2010

David Sedaris Can't Get Enough of Chicago

If you missed David Sedaris' April reading at the Auditorium Theatre, you'll have an opportunity to see him June 8-13 at Steppenwolf's Upstairs Theatre, where he'll be sharing excerpts from his book (to be released in October) Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary. But considering all but two of the performances are sold out (you can still get $35 tickets for the 3:30pm, June 12, and the 7:30pm, June 13, shows), you need to act fast.

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Jun 02 2010

Reginald Gibbons @ Stop Smiling

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This Thursday, Northwestern University professor Reginald Gibbons reads from
Slow Trains Overhead: Chicago Poems and Stories. Author Rosellen Brown says "The poems and stories in Slow Trains Overhead are a constantly surprising tour through the loveliness and desperation of Chicago. By their attentive listening, they pay homage to the city's uncountable souls wherever they are to be found -- on the map, on the street, at home, in the solitary mind's eye. This is a necessary, enlivening book by a keen observer with an open spirit who makes impassioned music out of the most ordinary encounters, without cynicism or sentimentality." Release party hosted by Make Magazine, Stop Smiling Books and the University of Chicago Press. There will be beer, appetizers and music. Gapers Block's own Ramsin Canon will be there with a multimedia presentation on "The Chicago Ward Primer: Celebrities, Scandals and Snacks," followed by the reading. Stop Smiling Storefront, 1371 N. Milwaukee Avenue, (773) 342-1124. Thursday, June 3 at 7:30pm. Free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Jun 02 2010

Printers Row Lit Fest 2010

On June 12 and 13, the one of the Midwest's largest literary festivals will once again descend on Printers Row in the South Loop. You'll find tons of books for sale (old, new, rare -- you name it, they've got it), author readings, panel discussions, and much much more. They even have special events just for kids. Admission is free, but some events may require pre-registration. Check out the daily schedule of events and all that Printers Row Lit Fest has to offer here.

Emily Wong

Events Thu May 27 2010

Chicago's Historic Bars (With Benefits)

We are a city that loves our tours: architecture tours (by land and by sea), gangster tours, guides to the World's Columbian Exposition -- why not one that centers on booze? The creator of the Chicago Bar Project and author of 2010 book Historic Bars of Chicago Sean Parnell offers three summer pub crawls (June 24, July 15, and August 19, each from 6-10pm) that take participants around to five different historic bars and giving them some fun facts to impress that cute hipster girl at the bar.

(Here's how that dialogue will go:
You: Hey there. Did you know that Hunter S. Thompson smashed a urinal in this bar?
HG: Oh my god, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is my favorite movie.
You: I'd like to buy you a PBR.
HG: [says nothing because she's too busy making out with you])

$40 buys entry to the crawl, a copy of the book, and trolley transportation (you'll have to purchase the beverages on your own). Itinerary will come via email after ticket purchase.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (2)

Events Thu May 27 2010

Science of Obscurity Proposals Due June 1

The Chicago Underground Library welcomes proposals for their second annual "Science of Obscurity" event: a science-themed book/literary project/zine/publication fair. Last year's festivities saw giant slugs, junk drawer personal effects, homemade cookies, awards, and much, much more.

Confused? Think of the fair as an opportunity to promote your own literary projects- new, unpublished, or works-in-progress- in 3D form. The Underground Library folks highly encourage dioramas, backboard displays, posters, and sixth grade chemistry sets to visually enhance your work's scientific significance.Table space is limited, so send a brief explanation of your display to info@underground-library.org by June 1.

Not to be missed is the literal "book launcher" trebuchet. Last year participants kicked their all-too-commonly-received rejection letters into the almighty heavens. This year, catapult your own anxiety-inducing text, be it your first novel, mind-numbing master's thesis, or notebook full of prosaic love sonnets.

Remember to keep July 10 open for the "Son of Science of Obscurity" at Jupiter Outpost, 1139 W. Fulton Market. RSVP on Facebook!

Amy Ganser

Events Thu May 27 2010

Red Rover, Red Rover, Send Reading Right Over!

Founded in 2005, the Red Rover Series is an experiment in reading, with writers, artists, and performers from all over the city, the United States, and the world as participants. Experiment #37, Part One will take place June 3, from 2pm to 8pm, at the intersection of North, Damen, and Milwaukee Ave. Be there to ask Jen Hofer to type up a Spanish or English letter for you (letters are $2, with $3 for a love letter and $5 for an "illicit" love letter). Part two will follow on June 5, from 7pm to 9pm at the Outer Space Studio (1474 N. Milwaukee Ave., 3rd floor). With a suggested donation of $4, David Emanuel will lead you in writing letters in the pages of your very own hand-assembled chapbook or zine (materials provided).

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Wed May 26 2010

2nd Story @ Strawdog Theater

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This Friday 2nd Story will be at Strawdog Theater. 2nd Story is a hybrid performance event combining storytelling, wine, and music that is produced by the Serendipity Theater Collective. It's got the polished, dynamic feel of a theatrical event in a relaxed atmosphere. Megan Stielstra, Director of Story Development, sums up their M.O. as "the best stories I've ever heard come from hanging out with friends over a good bottle of wine. That's when people really start talking, really get to the meat of their experiences - the wild beauty of it all, the destruction and the hope. That's the feeling we're going for: the intimacy of my own living room and the crazy secrets that have been told there." Friday's theme is Body Movin'. Featured readers are Nick Kawahara, Johanna Stein, Jen Shin and Byron Flitsch. Strawdog Theater, 3829 N. Broadway. Tickets are $10. Friday, May 28. Doors open at 10:30pm, stories at 11pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 25 2010

Robert K. Elder @ Blackstone Library

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On Wednesday, Robert K. Elder will talk about his forthcoming book Last Words of the Executed. Rob Warden, executive director of the Center on Wrongful Convictions, says "this is a powerful, haunting book. Whether you favor or oppose the death penalty, you won't think about it the same way after reading the last words of the condemned - some remorseful, some spiteful, some humorous, all tragic. Most horrifying is the realization that some of those who claimed innocence until the end probably were telling the truth." Actors will be performing dramatic readings of some of the more famous cases. Wednesday's reading is part of the Leon Despres Memorial Lectures series. Blackstone Library, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave., (312) 747-1105, May 26, 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon May 24 2010

Come and Sample a Literary Buffet at California Clipper

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On Wednesday, May 26, the Guild Complex hosts their first BYOP (Bring Your Own People) party of the year at the fabulous California Clipper, home of The Clipper Ghost. Held three or four times a year, BYOP is "a 90-minute literary cocktail party which gathers writers and presenters with different styles and artistic practices into a kind of sampler...a fast track to learning the broader spectrum of literary offerings around Chicago." The May 2010 BYOP show features The Encyclopedia Show, The Reconstruction Room and Rhino Reads! Co-hosted by Kimberly Dixon and Kurt Heintz. The California Clipper, 1002 N. California, May 26, 8:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon May 24 2010

Daniel Stolar @ Richardson Library, DePaul University

On Tuesday, DePaul professor Daniel Stolar (who, incidentally, gets a red chili pepper for "hot professor" on ratemyprofessors.com), reads from new fiction tonight. His previous work includes the 2003 short story collection The Middle of the Night. Set in his hometown of St. Louis, where his mother was an alderman for eight years, Publishers Weekly says of The Middle of the Night: "it revolves around the continual surprises life springs on us when we are least expecting them...these stories are intelligently written, thoughtful, precise and memorable." DePaul University, Richardson Library, Room 300, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., May 25, 2010 at 6pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri May 21 2010

Anita Diamant @ Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies

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Anita Diamant reads at the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies this Sunday. Diamant, author of the word-of-mouth book club sensation The Red Tent, will be reading from her latest book, Day After Night. Her newest tells the story of refugees at a British-run internment camp set up in Palestine after WWII. The Washington Post says Day After Night "offers all the satisfactions found in [Diamant's} previous works: Rich portraits of female friendship, unflinching acknowledgment of life's cruelty and resolute assertion of hope, enfolded in a strong story line developed in lucid prose." Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, 610 S. Michigan Ave., $18, $8 for students. Sunday, May 23 at 2pm.

Rebecca Hyland / Comments (1)

Events Thu May 20 2010

Printers' Ball 2010!

For those of you who love free literature, Printers' Ball is the place to be. The annual party for all things print, produced again this year by Poetry magazine and Columbia College Chicago, will take place on July 30 from 6 to 11 p.m. and will be held at the 1104 South Wabash building on Columbia's campus. This year's theme is Print Loves Digital, so not only can you stock up on the printed word, but you can check out how print and digital media can actually be quite good companions.

Emily Wong

Events Wed May 19 2010

Puppy Love

I didn't grow up with dogs. In fact, I was kind of scared of them, like some people are scared of lizards or children -- I knew they were harmless, but they were so alien to me that I didn't really know what to do with them. I didn't even know the proper way to pet a dog, so I'd just kind of pat it on the back and avoid any contact with its tongue.

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But then I met Max. The day my roommate brought him back to our Chicago apartment, I fell in love. An all-black mini schnauzer with huge dark eyes, he was the size of my roommate's foot and excited by everything. He's bigger now (11 pounds at his most recent vet appointment), but he hasn't lost his puppy personality: searching through the trash for tissues to rip apart and eat, jumping up and down when he knows he's going for a walk, hiding in his carrying bag when he knows he's done something bad. He's not even my dog, but I can't imagine my life without the tiny pup.

Fellow dog lover W. Bruce Cameron (who's written such books as 8 Simple Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter and How to Remodel a Man) shows the influence a dog can have on his humans with Cameron's first foray into fiction, A Dog's Purpose (coming out in July 2010). Told from a dog's point of view, the book shows the animal on a very human quest: to figure out why he's here.

Through July 6 Women & Children First Bookstore (5233 N. Clark St.) is running an advanced book sales promotion for A Dog's Purpose. Ten percent of the proceeds will be donated to New Leash on Life, a local no-kill shelter.

Note: I haven't actually read the book yet -- I am currently in the middle of about five other books, and I just got this one. But when I do, I promise a review from a true canophile.

Photo by Jeana Abboud.

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed May 19 2010

Erica Johnson-Debeljak @ Women and Children First

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This Thursday Erica Johnson-Debeljak reads from her memoir Forbidden Bread. The book details her adventures moving from America to Slovenia to live with her husband, esteemed poet Ales Debeljak. Critics call it "a tribute to the lengths people go for love" and "a book of wit and fascinating observations [that] says as much about the United States as it does about Slovenia. Informative and often funny, it opens a window onto a world of drastic differences and surprising similarities." The book's title comes from a Slovene saying, roughly translated as "you always eat the bread that you've forbidden yourself." Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., (773) 769-9299, Thursday, May 20 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Fri May 14 2010

Legs for Literacy

It's not too late to sign-up for the Cabrini Green Tutoring Program's Legs for Literacy 5K run and walk this Sunday, May 16 at 9am. The course takes you through scenic Lincoln Park near Diversey Harbor and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. The entry fee is $25 pre-race or $30 on race day, plus a new or gently used children's book. All proceeds benefit this 43-year-old, after-school tutoring program.

Amy Ganser

Events Thu May 13 2010

Thinking Green From an Early Age

lstecovercrop-thumb-640xauto-141550.jpg Local author, illustrator, and self-described "eco-chick" Alexandra Gnoske celebrates the release of her children's book Loui Saves the Earth, about a little boy in Chicago and his dog, who try to clean up the planet one discarded bottle or plastic bag at a time. Founder of organic-cotton clothing company Recycle Me, Gnoske plans to give free signed copies to the first 15 people and distribute free passes to the Chicago Green Festival. Readings Saturday, May 15th, 3:30 and 4:30pm; Drew's Eatery, 2207 W. Montrose Ave.

Ruthie Kott

News Thu May 13 2010

Poetry Promotes Conservation

The Brookfield Zoo is opening a Language of Conservation exhibit that will permanently display poems throughout their Great Bear Wilderness sanctuary. The official opening is May 22 at 10am and will feature Chicago Zoological Society's poet-in-residence Sandra Alcosser, as well as other poets and guest speakers. Go for the poetry, stay for the bears.

Emily Wong

Events Tue May 11 2010

Performance Poetry Gives Voice to Misunderstood Community

Poetry is like love, hard to define, often badly imitated, but you know the real thing when you find it by how hard it is to forget and how uncomfortable it makes you. That's how I felt hearing about the 1700% Project on NPR the other day. The title refers to the rise in hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims (and those perceived as such) since September 11, 2001. The poem is a Cento, which is 100 lines of found writings, comprised of some of the individual news stories that fill out that percentage. It's an ingenious technique that's all the more arresting for its simplicity and straightforwardness. The brainchild of "artist/writer/agitator" Anida Yoeu Ali, "1700% Project: Otherance" was "conceived as a collaborative project utilizing art not just as a means to address critical issues but also as strategic intervention." Check out the last two performances, which include the poem, video, dance, audio recording and performance-installation, at Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor, (312) 629-6635, Saturday, May 15 at 12:30pm and Friday, May 21 at 4:30pm.

Update, 05/13/2010: Ali's project was vandalized some time between May 6 and May 11.

Rebecca Hyland

Chicago Public Library Sun May 09 2010

Cory Doctorow @ Harold Washington Library

Science fiction novelist, co-editor of Boing Boing Cory Doctorow is also a Young Adult author: Thursday, May 13th, he comes to Harold Washington Library to talk about For the Win, a tale of online gaming and international political intrigue. 5pm, 400 S. State St. Preregistration required.

Rose Lannin

Events Fri May 07 2010

Ladydrawers @ Hungry Brain

Head to Hungry Brain (2319 W Belmont Ave) on Monday to hear Anne Elizabeth Moore, author of Unmarketable: Brandalism, Copyfighting, Mocketing, and the Erosion of Integrity (The New Press, 2007), and Hey Kidz, Buy This Book: A Radical Primer on Corporate and Governmental Propaganda and Artistic Activism for Short People talk about "the Thrilling World of Female Cartoonists and the Underthings They Are Expected to Draw". 9pm. Free with suggested donation.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu May 06 2010

Calling All Writers

DePaul University, along with the Chicago Public Library, is hosting a Summer Writing Conference July 16-18 at DePaul's Loop Campus. This year's conference will feature: craft classes in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as classes on playwriting and writing for children and teenagers; panel topics such as "Why Writers Should Blog" and "What Publishers Want", and keynote speaker Michele Rubin, literary agent with Writers House in NYC. It's pre-registration only and registration is limited! So check out each day's schedule and register for one day o' writing-related fun ($110) or for the whole conference ($260) here.

Emily Wong

Events Tue May 04 2010

History of Hip Hop and Technology Marks Local Publisher's Debut Book

What do the Styx song "Mr. Roboto" and the Pentagon have in common? Why, use of the vocoder, of course. Invented by Bell Labs in 1928, the vocoder was originally designed to guard phones from eavesdroppers, and has expanded beyond its original purpose to become a widely used voice-altering tool for musicians.This Thursday, Stop Smiling magazine hosts Dave Tompkins, reading from his years-in-the-making book How to Wreck a Nice Beach: The Vocoder From World War II To Hip-Hop, The Machine Speaks. Tompkins is hailed by American Book Award winners and NPR commentators as "one of the best hip hop writers ever born" and "one of the most bugged, brilliant guys I know." There will be a slide show and discussion moderated by editor James Hughes at Stop Smiling Storefront, 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday, May 6, 7-9pm. Book release afterparty with DJ sets by Dante Carfagna, Courtland Green and Dave Tompkins at The Charleston, 2076 N. Hoyne. Both events are free. Books sold at a discount throughout the night.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 04 2010

How Prohibition Shaped America

Tonight Daniel Okrent, former public editor of the New York Times, reads from his new book, Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition. Critics call it "a fascinating look at a fantastically complex battle that was fought out over decades - no easy feat." Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., May 4, 7pm. $10 public, $8 museum members; cash bar available prior to the program.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue May 04 2010

Midwest Represent: Local Lambda Award Nominees Read

The Lambda Literary Foundation, which "nurtures, celebrates, and preserves LGBT literature through programs that honor excellence, promote visibility and encourage development of emerging writers," is hosting their 22nd annual Lambda Literary Awards ceremony May 27 in New York. Tonight there's some hometown love for local nominees. The Gerber/Hart Library in Edgewater will be hosting a reading by Chicago and Midwestern finalists, including Deborah B. Gould (nominated in the LGBT Studies category), J. E. Knowles (Bisexual Fiction), Kristin Naca (Lesbian Poetry) and Trace Richardson (Lesbian Romance). Books will be available for purchase and refreshments will be served. Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 West Granville, Tuesday, May 4, 7pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon May 03 2010

Meet James Shapiro @ Newberry Library

Author and Columbia University professor James Shapiro speaks at the Newberry Library this Wednesday, May 5, at 6pm. Shapiro's latest book Contested Will: Who Wrote Shakespeare examines the centuries-old hypothesis of some historians and critics (including Mark Twain and Sigmund Freud) who argued multiple writers or more affluent, well-educated authors penned the Bard's works. After all, William Shakespeare, the son of a glove maker, could not have experienced personally the regal storylines of many of his most famous plays. Shapiro reveals not only his own perspective on the literary controversy, but why the skeptics' persistent significance continues to shape our notions of art-making, creativity, and life. Free and Open to the public. The Newberry Library is at 60 West Walton Street.

Amy Ganser / Comments (1)

News Mon May 03 2010

Juried Reading Finalists

The Poetry Center of Chicago has announced seven finalists for their 16th Annual Juried Reading Competition -- read about them here. The first through third place winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 19, 7:30pm at the SAIC Ballroom (112 S. Michigan). Admission is free.

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Fri Apr 30 2010

Manifest 2010

Columbia College's urban arts festival, Manifest, starts May 14 on Columbia's Loop campus. It will feature graduate and undergraduate poetry showcases, a creative nonfiction showcase, and readings from Columbia's fiction writers. It's free and open to the public, so check out the schedule of events here. This year, the festival will include the Po-Tent (at Balbo and Wabash): Columbia poetry students at typewriters will create verses right in front of you, and/or you can use provided materials to compose your own found poems. You may even get to meet Allen Ginsberg or Alexander Pope! Or...their impersonators.

Emily Wong

Events Fri Apr 30 2010

Cheeni Rao @ University of Chicago Bookstore

University of Chicago grad Cheeni Rao reads from In Hanuman's Hands on May 4. A memoir of Rao's addiction and the spiritual awakening that led to his recovery, In Hanuman's Hands is the the 2009 winner of the Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers Award for Fiction. The title is a cultural idiom which roughly means "God help you." University of Chicago Bookstore, 970 E. 58th St., (773) 702-7712. 2-4pm. Free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 28 2010

Under the Dome

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Author James Kennedy's Apr. 17 Dome of Doom party started off calmly enough with a gallery show, featuring fan art inspired by Kennedy's 2008 book The Order of Odd-Fish (the May Gapers Block Book Club selection).

But the event later transformed into a costumed dance-off -- those brave enough to enter the PVC-pipe Dome of Doom as dance-fighters got in for free. See Time Out Chicago for a photo gallery.

If you missed the insanity, there's a possibility that there will be a repeat next year. If Chicago theater group Collaboraction -- who helped organize the event -- has its way, says Kennedy, "I think it will become an annual thing (though not always Order of Odd-Fish themed). They've even kept the Dome!"

Photo courtesy jameskennedy.com, and thanks to designer Erick Delgado for photo resizing.

Ruthie Kott

Events Wed Apr 28 2010

"Friday Night Live" @ Transistor

Spoken word performers Michelle Renae and Sondra Morin read at Transistor, 5045 N. Clark, as part of "Friday Night Live," April 30 at 8pm. The event is BYOB with a suggested donation of $5. Transistor is an eclectic, "arty" space, selling quality, well-chosen books, music, and electronics, and encourages community interaction through classes, performances, podcasts, and more.

Amy Ganser

Events Wed Apr 28 2010

CPR...

Otherwise known as Columbia Poetry Review, the student-edited poetry magazine published annually by Columbia College Chicago's English Department. CPR's issue no. 23 is being released April 29 at a reading/release party at Columbia College's Ferguson Hall. Contributors to the issue, along with special guest Zachary Schomburg, will be there to read their work.

Emily Wong

Events Tue Apr 27 2010

Honor Thy Mother Literary Luncheon

Saturday, May 1 marks the 10th annual "Honor Thy Mother" literary event and luncheon sponsored by Literature for All of Us, a 501(c)(3) organization which connects young people to their strengths through literature, engaging them in book groups where they read and discuss literature and write poetry. Event includes lunch, poetry readings by teen LFAOU poets, and keynote speech from author Elizabeth Berg. Doubletree Hotel, 9599 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie. Begins at 11:30am. Tickets are $100 per person. Registration details available on the LFAOU website or contact Maria Ballantyne at (847) 869-2249.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 27 2010

Free Books and Beer @ Sheffield's Beer Garden

Wednesday marks the release of the Not For Tourists Guide To Chicago 2010 iPhone app. Attendees of the launch party who print a voucher from the NFT site can pick up a free NFT Guide to Chicago 2010 and enjoy a 312 Urban Wheat Ale while supplies last. Sheffield's Beer Garden and BBQ Restaurant, 3258 N. Sheffield, Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 7-10pm, FREE, 21+.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Mon Apr 26 2010

How to Drop a Poetry Bomb

Poet/actor S.A. Griffin is touring the country on his Poetry Bomb Tour of Words, and the Chicago Slam Works is hosting the launch party on May 26! CSW strives to promote performance poetry through events, and this event in particular will benefit OUTSPOKEN: Chicago's Poetry & Spoken Arts Festival in September 2010.

Emily Wong

Events Sun Apr 25 2010

Read On! Chicago

Are you determined to read more but can't seem to find the time? Is that stack of books you promised to read slowly collecting a thin layer of dust? Perhaps you just need some motivation--apart from your personal desire to be more literate. How about raising money for a good cause? Starting May 1, Open Books is hosting their first annual read-a-thon. So clean off those shelves, gather a group of friends and get reading!

Open Books' Read On 2010 raises funds for their literacy programs, helping children and adults from around Chicago and the world learn to read and write. Readers of all ages can sign up for the event. Youth readers under the age of 13 must commit to raise $50, adults 13 or older must commit to raise $100. All readers will keep track of their pledges gathered from friends, family and sponsors, and monitor the number of pages or books they have read between May 1 and May 26.

Throughout the month, readers will be invited to events at Open Books to celebrate the read-a-thon and the noteworthy efforts of all who participate. Events will include the Open Books Birthday celebration on May 1, Saturday read-ins and book discussion, and a wrap-up party where prizes will be awarded. Yes, there are prizes, it wouldn't be complete without them.

So if you want to join in the fun, check some books off your reading list and raise some money for Open Books, then sign-up today!

Vanessa Day

Events Sun Apr 25 2010

National Poetry Month

April is National Poetry Month, which means you have about a week left to celebrate. Mindful Metropolis has a great list of Chicago poetry events -- go out and get your poetry fix!

Emily Wong / Comments (1)

Events Sat Apr 24 2010

Free Comic Book Day

The first Saturday in May (this year it falls on May 1st) means free comic books for all, Chicago stores are celebrating with celebrity appearances (Mike Norten and Katie Cook , local artist group Trubble Club), music, and most importantly free comics!

Rose Lannin

Events Fri Apr 23 2010

Logan Square Literary Review Issue III Release Reception tonight @ Cafe Con Leche

Stop by Cafe Con Leche, 2714 N. Milwaukee Ave, tonight between 7pm and 9pm to purchase a copy of the latest Logan Square Literary Review. Mingle with contributors, supporters, and the folks who publish the eclectic compilation of works submitted by the general public. Find out how to contribute to their upcoming Summer Issue and ask about the Tim Tam Slam, coming to Logan Square this September...

Amy Ganser

Events Thu Apr 22 2010

Where's Willy?

How cool is it that William Shakespeare decided to spend his 446th birthday in Chicago? Friday, April 23 (the Bard's birthday), is Talk Like Shakespeare Day, and the man himself will be hanging around city landmarks, just waiting for you to approach him and say, "Good morrow to thee, cousin." Just remember: Rhymed couplets are all the rage.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Thu Apr 22 2010

Columbia's Literary Death Match

Silver Tongue, Columbia College's word-based reading series, presents a jammed packed lineup of literary insight and entertainment next Tuesday, April 27. At 2pm Opium Magazine's founding editor, Todd Zuniga, will lead the free Workshop: How to Start a Literary Publication offering way more useful advice than "post on Craig's List."

Opium's Literary Death Match will follow at 7pm featuring emerging Columbia College writers. A panel of judges including local Chicago writers Lindsay Hunter, Chris Bower, Robbie Q.Telfer and Jason Bredle provides witty commentary, critiquing the short (7 minutes or less) stories down to the merciful, final two contestants guaranteed to make you laugh...or else. Zuniga hosts the hilarity. To close the night, Speak Easy Ensemble, a comedic word performance group, takes the stage.

All events take place April 27 and are free and open to the public. Todd Zuniga's Workshop: How to Start a Literary Publication starts at 2pm in the Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th Floor.

Literary Death Match begins at 7pm in the Conaway Center, 1104 S. Wabash, 1st Floor, with Speak Easy Ensemble to follow.

Amy Ganser

News Thu Apr 22 2010

One Book, Lots of Chicago

Wednesday night's Colm Tóibín talk was way full, to the point of overflow. Thanks to the tip from reader Julie at Publish Chicago.

Ruthie Kott

Events Tue Apr 20 2010

David Sedaris: Fable Writer?

David Sedaris's cousin Nancy is principal of an elementary school for troubled children in Florida. One time, Sedaris recalled in a Jan. 29, 2010, diary entry, she showed him a photo of a "certified therapy horse" wearing sneakers that was brought to the school for the children to read to. His first question: "Why is he wearing sneakers?"

At a Saturday night reading at Roosevelt University's Auditorium Theatre, Sedaris, best-selling author of seven personal-essay collections, delivered excerpts from his personal diary and from unpublished pieces to a sold-out audience, commenting with his inimitable, dry wit on the world we live in. From the theater's sixth floor (row B), it was impossible to make out Sedaris's facial features, but his high-pitched voice with a hint of a Southern accent -- often heard on public-radio shows like This American Life -- was unmistakable.

This deceptively sweet voice, with its mischievous tone and perfectly timed pauses, made each snarky blow hit harder. Reading from an unpublished essay about issues that befall airline passengers, which he "may have read a few pages [from] the last time he was here," he told a story of being in line at a Colorado airport's customer-service desk, waiting to reschedule a connecting flight to Portland. He noticed a family in line in front of him, with two 50-ish parents, two teenage boys, and a teenage girl holding a baby. One of the boys -- the one wearing the "freaky mothafucka T-shirt," of course -- was the father. When a woman in line commented to Sedaris about how the ones having babies are the ones who shouldn't, the humorist wanted to agree with her, as long as her opinion wasn't "tied to a conservative agenda" and instead came from a "petty and judgmental" place, like his. Just to be safe, he simply responded, "What gets me is that they couldn't even spell 'motherfucker' right."

On a tour of 36 cities in 36 days, Sedaris also read stories from his forthcoming book, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary (Little Brown & Company), set to come out in October. Illustrated by Ian Falconer, best known for the Olivia series, the book includes fable-like stories about "animals that do things that people do." In "Faithful Setter," for example, a purebred Irish setter tells the story of his marriage to a "mixed-breed country girl," who is one-quarter spaniel and cusses like a sailor. Even when she cheats on him with the bull terrier that lives across the street, the setter remains loyal because he can't imagine loving anyone else (if that description sounds cheesy, don't fear--there is definitely some classic Sedaris raunch in there -- at one point, our narrator wonders what his wife's hysterectomy tastes like).


According to Brian Babylon, host of Chicago Moth StorySLAM, who introduced Sedaris, you've really made it when you have at least seven Facebook pages with your name on them.

Sedaris's next stop is Akron, OH, on Apr. 21. For a full schedule of his appearances, go here.

Ruthie Kott

Events Tue Apr 20 2010

Colm Tóibín at Harold Washington

Irish writer, gay writer -- bald writer? In a 2009 interview with Boldtype, Colm Tóibín discusses his identity and his novel Brooklyn, the 2010 One Book, One Chicago selection. Tóibín will be speaking Wednesday, April 21, 6pm, at Harold Washington Library.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Tue Apr 20 2010

The Awful Possibilities Spins Strange Tales

Next Monday author Christian TeBordo reads from his new short story collection, The Awful Possibilities, which Jeff Parker, author of Ovenman, calls "Quentin Tarantino on short story juice. The violence and depravity ride the surface, where I like them, and the heart is a lyrical heart. Add to that creepy postcards with cryptic messages and this collection attacks from all sides." Published by local Featherproof Books, this is a book release party including special guests Jeff Parker, Lindsay Hunter, Adam Levin, and Tim Kinsella, with music by DJ Baby Sloth. Free, 21+. At The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., (773) 227-3530, Monday, April 26 at 8 p.m.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 20 2010

Giving Voice to A Grieving Nation

This Thursday and Friday, author Lisa Shannon reads from
A Thousand Sisters: My Journey into the Worst Place on Earth to Be a Woman
. The book tells of her 2007 and 2008 trips to the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo, a region in which "rape is the norm. It is a weapon of war," according to the group Human Rights Watch. John Prendergast, co-founder of The Enough Project, says A Thousand Sisters "shines a spotlight on the hope that emanates so stubbornly from this complex country, primarily through [Shannon's] loving portrayal of her Congolese sisters. Instead of victims, these women are determined survivors, three-dimensional human beings who deserve our respect and solidarity." Lisa Shannon is the founder of the fundraising group Run For Congo Women and an ambassador for Women for Women International. She'll be appearing at Barbara's Bookstore, 1218 S. Halsted, on Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm. and at Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark, on Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Tue Apr 20 2010

Peter Carey @ Chicago Public Library

This Thursday author Peter Carey will be at the downtown Chicago Public Library. He'll be reading from Olivier and Parrot in America, an historical novel about a spoiled aristocrat fleeing the 1830 July Revolution in France, the ex-con sent along as his servant, and their impressions of "The New World." Chicago Public Library, 400 S. State Street, Thursday, April 22, 6 p.m.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Thu Apr 15 2010

The Chicago Underground Library Hosts Pan Dulces Work Sessions

The Pan Dulces Work Session, a new collaborative writing workshop hosted by the Chicago Underground Library, argues writers can receive the benefits of a traditional writing seminar and more from a free, self-directed, open workshop. The Pan Dulces experiment establishes two key tenets.

1. "All writers really need is to read and to know some good readers."
2. "Writing can be practiced with strong roots in the city."

Denise Dooley, the creator of Pan Dulces, has dabbled in all sorts of writing and creative forums such as zine-making, theater, and slam. Her inspiration to organize this new approach came first from studying in the United Kingdom where she found academic writing programs (or lack thereof), the editing process, and creative collaboration dramatically different from the writing practices in the United States. "My sense was that when I met writers there, they would give you stuff to read, and you could just kick back and enjoy it. While here people exchange stuff with the expectation that you will have your pen out, and you will tear stuff up," Denise explains.

In Chicago Denise credits the Next Objectivists poetry workshop at Mess Hall in Rogers Park with additional inspiration, focusing more on writing and reading poetry than on "the scramble to get published." To put it simply she says, "The main idea [behind Pan Dulces] is trading work and getting to know each other."

To give you a better idea of what may happen and entice you to show up this Sunday at the Chicago Underground Library, Denise graciously answered a few questions about what she expects Pan Dulces to offer.

First off, how is this kind of workshop different from a "paid" writing seminar or an academic course? Why is that important?

If something is free, it doesn't take up as much of your time, it's self directed, it's totally open. You don't have to pretend you're an expert. You don't have to move to another state to do it. You will have access to all these people and resources if you want them.

Writing classes are really generous, they give you a lot of what writers are looking for: specific advice, a pre-set group of writers to interact with, a list of things to read. And that's so simplified, and it works so well that we've forgotten how to do it without that framework. You can debate "are writing programs good or bad for literature?" forever. We already know there are limits, but it's a sweet hustle if you can make it work for you. It seems more interesting to come up with a third option- remembering how it went before that setting was so dominant.

There's also another layer of advantage; innovation is challenging. Formulating new activities for writers to do together is going to force us to go back to a lot of basic questions about the process. It's going to be harder to come up with our own materials than to follow someone's canon, and we will learn a lot from the process of figuring it out together. The "do" in DIY is lots of work, and work is a good way to learn.

Continue reading this entry »

Amy Ganser

Events Thu Apr 15 2010

Stephen T. Asma @ Barnes and Noble

If you're in need of some calm this tax day, Barnes and Noble downtown is hosting Columbia College professor Stephen T. Asma
tonight. He'll be reading from his new book Why I Am a Buddhist: No-Nonsense Buddhism With Red Meat and Whiskey. As the title suggests, Asma's aim is to "take the humorless brown rice eaters...the California, out of Buddhism. If a guy like me can be a Buddhist...trust me, there's room for you." In addition to personal anecdotes about his own spiritual journey, there are down-to-earth explanations of reincarnation, karma, the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and how Buddhism differs from Hinduism. Barnes and Noble, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., (312) 362-8792, April 15 at 6pm. Free.

Rebecca Hyland

Events Wed Apr 14 2010

Elizabeth Berg Wants Your High School Reunion Stories

High school reunions: a chance to bring that hot new girlfriend to show off to those classmates who used to make fun of you for actually reading in study hall. To hear your sophomore-year crush Steve Feldman whisper softly in your ear that he's actually been in love with you since he first laid eyes on you. To tell people all about your successful patent for small papers that stick to surfaces. Ah, the latent possibilities!

Of course, none of that happened to me when I went to my five-year a few years ago, but I did learn some things that amused me: a surprising amount of my former classmates still lived in New Jersey (and thus made me feel superior), and being able to drink with Señor Gomez and Doc Schaffler was kind of awesome.

Chicago author Elizabeth Berg wants to hear your reunion stories for a Tuesday, April 20, event, sponsored by the Book Table. Berg, who publishes The Last Time I Saw You (Random House) this month, will read from her new book, told from the perspectives of five former classmates attending their 40th reunion, and will also read an essay about a fan's high-school reunion experience.

Below are essay-submission instructions from the Book Table:

  • Write a one-page essay about your own experience at a high-school reunion.

  • Submit it to the Book Table no later than Friday, April 16, either in person (at 1045 Lake Street in Oak Park) or e-mailed to mail@booktable.net.

  • Plan on attending the event on April 20 to find out the winner. (You must be in attendance to win.)

  • Elizabeth will read aloud the winning story at the event. The winner will also be presented with a bottle of champagne and a box of chocolates.

The reading will be held at Unity Temple, 875 Lake St. in Oak Park, April 20 at 7:30pm.

Ruthie Kott / Comments (1)

Events Wed Apr 14 2010

Tamale Hut Cafe Presents Billy Lombardo This Saturday

Local author Jenny Seay has been bringing art and culture to the Near West suburbs for over three years hosting Tamale Hut Cafe Presents. Next installment of this roughly monthly reading is this Saturday, April 17. Featured reader of the night is born and raised Chicago author Billy Lombardo. He'll be reading from his new book, The Man With Two Arms, the story of ambidextrous baseball star Danny Granville, which his website calls "more than a baseball novel, it is an exploration of friendship, marriage, and philosophy; of balance, art, and love. It is a story of the ways in which we protect, betray, forgive, love, and shape each other as we attempt to find our way through life." Tamale Hut Cafe, 8300 W. Cermak Road (between 10th and 11th Ave.), North Riverside, IL, (708) 442-0948, April 17 at 7 p.m. BYOB. Reading is free, but you'll want to bring money for Jaime's tamales. There's also an open mic, so bring stories, poems, essays or songs.

Rebecca Hyland

Book Club Mon Apr 12 2010

Dome of Doom & Special Book Club Odd-Fish Tour

carnaval_banner.jpgOur May Book Club selection is the wonderfully imaginative The Order of Odd-Fish by James Kennedy. The young adult novel follows protagonist Jo on her fantastical journey into Eldritch City where three-foot cockroaches serve as uppity butlers, knights persue studies as varied as esoteric weaponry and bizarre smells and Jo must come to terms with the horrible legend surrounding her birth. It's a great read and I hope you all enjoy it. In a stroke of good timing, Saturday, April 17, also sees the opening of The Dome of Doom, a combination art show, dance party and fight inspired by the Odd-Fish fan art James has received. The opening gallery show is free and lasts from 7pm-9pm, while the costumed dance party and fight are $20 for general admission ($25 if you purchase your tickets after April 15). The show is put on in partnership with Collaboraction and will be held at 437 N. Wolcott. Get an idea of what the fighting will be like here and check out some of the great art that will be on display here.

As a special offer to Book Club members, James will give a tour of the gallery, discuss the book and give a short reading on Monday, April 19, at 7:30pm. Just tell them you're with the Gapers Block Book Club and you'll be admitted. Can't make it on Monday? Fret not, as James will also join us at our meeting on May 10 when we discuss The Order of Odd-Fish. New members to the Book Club are always welcome to join--no special actions needed other than showing up and stating your affiliation with us. I hope to see many of you at both the gallery show and our discussion!

To get a feel of the novel, read my original review and check out my interview with the author.

Veronica Bond

Events Sun Apr 11 2010

Meno at Quimby's

Columbia College graduate and accomplished author Joe Meno brings it back to Chicago with his latest novel The Great Perhaps. Come see him read from this at Quimby's Books: Tuesday, April 13th, 7pm.

Rose Lannin

Feature Tue Apr 06 2010

One-Shots: Lance Fensterman and C2E2

In a little over a week, Chicago's going to explode in a burst of comics, toys, and all manner of pop culture excitement. The source of this KAPOW is C2E2, the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, a new convention packed with panels, merchandise, celebrities (Alex Ross! Colleen Doran! Anya from Buffy!) and more. I had the chance to talk to Lance Fensterman, the man behind the booths and exhibitions. Lance has had an interesting career in his own right, and shared his perspective on conventions, fans, and the details and methodology that make up planning a big event.

Name: Lance Fensterman
Job: Vice President of Pop Culture for Reed Exhibitions
Age: 32
Education: Just enough.
Location: Norwalk, CT, 35 miles outside of NYC
Hometown: Fargo, ND
Website: http://www.mediumatlarge.net/
Favorite place in Chicago: The Blue Frog? Or maybe Gino's East Pizza.

     
Portrait by Andrea Topalian

How did you get into running comic book conventions? Did it stem out of a love of comics, or something else?

I was a ward of the state and Reed adopted me and put me to work...actually, I was an independent bookseller for many years and hired by Reed to run the publishing industry's annual gathering. From there I took over New York Comic Con and the New York Anime Fest. As our group of events grew, so did my role, and I now oversee ReedPop our group of pop culture shows, including Penny Arcade Expo (PAX,) PAX East, UFC Fan Expo, New York Comic Con, Star Wars Celebration, and of course C2E2.

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Rose Lannin

Events Mon Apr 05 2010

Love and Louisa

Louisa May Alcott is well-known for her novel Little Women, and the romance and heartbreak it entails. Less is known about her own romances (or lack thereof?), something Kelly O'Connor McNees explores in her latest novel, The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott. McNees will be reading this Thursday at Barnes & Noble (1441 West Webster Ave), 7:30pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Apr 05 2010

Celebrate First Inductees at Benefit for Chicago Literary Hall of Fame

The first six writers to be inducted into the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame will be announced Saturday, May 1, during a special benefit presentation and concert at the magnificent Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills.

This special evening of words and music, hosted by the Chicago Writers Association, will feature appearances by acclaimed local authors Elizabeth Berg, Joe Meno, Sara Paretsky, Rosellen Brown and Achy Obejas. Marc Kelly Smith, creator and founder of the poetry slam movement, will emcee.

The night will also feature a concert at the Estate's Music Theater by Jelani Eddington, performing on the world's largest restored theater pipe organ. The original theater organ, a 1927 Wurlitzer from the Omaha Theater, has been expanded and now controls 8,000 pipes, percussions and sound effects.

The Sanfilippo Estate, nicknamed the Place de la Musique, is a 44,000-square-foot private residence filled with magnificent collections of beautifully restored antique music machines, chandeliers, art glass, the world's largest restored theater pipe organ, the most spectacular European salon carousel in existence, street and clock towers, steam engines and other functional mechanical antiques. The Estate, owned by Jasper Sanfilippo, former CEO of the parent company of Fisher Nut, hosts charities holding fundraisers through the Sanfilippo Foundation. View a picture gallery of the Sanfilippo Estate or watch the WTTW Chicago Tonight video featuring the Sanfilippo Estate.

Doors will open at 6pm, at which time guests will be able to tour the Residence and its collections. The announcement ceremony will begin at 7:15, followed by the concert at 8 pm. Attire is business casual.

Tickets must be purchased in advance, and are available online now: $55 for CWA members; $65 for non-members. Tickets WILL NOT be available at the door. Proceeds will benefit the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame, a project of the nonprofit Chicago Writers Association.

Directions to the Sanfilippo Estate will be included with your ticket purchase. The Estate is about 45 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Alice Maggio

Events Sun Mar 28 2010

Books for Teens

Chicago Desk Set, a group of bibliophiles, librarians, archivists, information professionals, and friends of libraries, kicks off National Library Week with a book drive for incarcerated teens in the Chicago area, April 10th at The Grafton. 4530 North Lincoln Avenue, 3pm-5pm.

Rose Lannin / Comments (1)

Events Fri Mar 26 2010

New Year, New Stories

We've talked about it before, but it's worth mentioning again: the Chicago chapter of The Moth StorySLAMs meets on the last Tuesday of each month at Martyr's (3855 N. Lincoln Ave.) at 8pm. Tell your story or just show up. The week's theme is "Busted," and since I was nice enough to remind you, save me a seat.

Rose Lannin

Events Wed Mar 10 2010

A Taste for Books

Columbia College celebrates The International Edible Book Festival, which takes place annually on the first of April, by asking chefs who like books, book-lovers who like food, and anyone in-between to create a piece of literature good enough to eat.

Want to try your hand? Contact contact Gina Ordaz at (312) 369-6630 by 5pm, March 26. Just want to attend? Buy tickets in advance or at the door.

Last year's toothsome tomes can be seen here.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon Mar 08 2010

Exploring Chicago's Comic Scene

Comics have found a home in Chicago. The Second City has an abundant amount of artists, working hard to get their material seen. These experts will present their ideas, opinions and techniques at the first-ever Comic Symposium of Chicago, hosted by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). For two days, panels of comic creators will discuss Chicago's influence on this art form.

Starting Thursday, March 11 and continuing until Friday, March 12, the symposium will feature four panel discussions with numerous artists answering questions from attendees. The panelists will investigate not only the trials of self-publication, film and education, but also the difficulties of maintaining independent comic shops around the city. The event will bring all fans of the comic world together to listen to local comic makers discuss their passion, their art.

The event is free and open to the public. It will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m. this Thursday and Friday at the SAIC Ballroom: 112 S. Michigan Ave.

Vanessa Day

Events Fri Feb 12 2010

A Slam Festival

Feel beats and rhythm as Chicago youths perform their inspirational poetry and spoken-word hip-hop. Next week, February 19, one of the largest festivals of its kind will begin. Presented by Young Chicago Authors, Louder Than A Bomb is a teen poetry festival aimed at bringing kids together from across all racial, gang, and socio-economic lines. Inspired by their own lives, teens will present their written works to a crowd of over 6,500.

Since it began working with students across the city 10 years ago, LTAB has boasted an 85% high school graduation rate and has had no incidents of violence. With this being the 10th Anniversary of the slam poetry festival, the event is expected to be even bigger, with 60 teams and over 650 Chicago-area participants. Because of the program's success, even Hollywood caught on to the phenomenon. Emmy award-winning filmmakers Jon Siskel and Greg Jacobs are finalizing a documentary, aptly named "Louder Than A Bomb," which followed students in the year leading up to the 2008 festival.

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Vanessa Day / Comments (1)

Events Tue Jan 19 2010

High and Low Literary Events Tonight

Dueling book readings give you two options at 6pm tonight.

At the Washington Library, Dr. Temple Grandin, an expert in animal behavior and humane animal slaughter as well as an autism activist, reads from and discusses her latest book, Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals.

Meanwhile, down at 57th Street Books, Alexander Aciman and Emmett Rensin, authors of Twitterature, read their distillations of literary classics boiled down to 140-character tweets.

Andrew Huff

Events Thu Jan 14 2010

THE2NDHAND Questions Your Nerves

Contributors of the quarterly Broadsheets and online literary magazine, THE2NDHAND, are calling you out. Tonight they beg the question, so you think you have nerves of steel? In the first installment of what will soon become a monthly Monday series, host "Harold Ray" (better known as coeditor Jacob Knabb) along with playwright Chris Bower, writer and performer Jill Summers, and literary addict Amanda Marbais, will present a performance ready to deliver verbal fireworks.

The idea behind the series is to feature one writer every month--tonight there will be two--who will comment on the question in the reading's title in any manner he or she sees fit. To witness the literary witticisms of these authors, head over to Quimby's Bookstore at 1854 W. North Ave. in Wicker Park. The festivities begin at 7 p.m. and--another bonus--admission is free.

Vanessa Day

Events Wed Jan 06 2010

A Literary Post-Holiday Party

The Chicago Writers Association (CWA) is celebrating the latest authors nominated for the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame. The Deck the Hall party will feature local acclaimed authors Bayo Ojikutu, Marcus Sakey and Don De Grazia as special guests of honor. Also a silent auction will take place featuring autographed books, gift certificates, manuscript editing services, and much more. Tickets are available for sale online, $25 for members, $30 for non-members. The ticket allows entry to the event as well as unlimited specialty beers and appetizers. If tickets are purchased at the door, the price is $5 more.

So celebrate the end of the holiday season with good food, cold beer, and a bustling literary crowd. Deck the Hall is Thursday, January 7, at Sheffields 3258 N Sheffield Ave. from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Vanessa Day

Events Mon Nov 16 2009

Event Spotlight: Open Books Grand Opening

On Saturday and Sunday, non-profit literacy organization Open Books will celebrate the grand opening of their used bookstore and literacy center. Come by from 10am-7pm on both days to get some new (to you) reads and learn more about the programs the organization is using to combat illiteracy in Chicago. There will also be a series of special programs throughout the weekend. Saturday will include a children's storytime and fairy tale puppet show, a discussion with Underground Railroad Historian Glenette Tilley Turney, bookmaking and crafts for children and two author panels. The first author panel will feature local young adult authors Daniel Kraus, Adam Selzer, FoGB Claire Zulkey and May 2010 Book Club selection author James Kennedy. The second author panel will feature local mystery/crime authors Marcus Sakey, Libby Fischer Hellmann and November 2006 Book Club selection author Kevin Guilfoile. (Full disclosure: yours truly will moderate both panels, so come say hi and bring along all the questions you've ever wanted to ask these authors about their work.)

On Sunday, you can take part in more bookmaking and crafts, a discussion with Ilene Fine and rescue dogs Brandy and Val, a WeWrite open mic performance, a reading and Q&A with inaugural Book Club selection author Joe Meno, and a poetry panel with local poets Kristy Bowen, Michael Kadela and Kathleeen Rooney. You can check out the full schedule of events here. The weekend promises to be a rousing celebration of all things literary and will provide a valiant introduction into all the work needed to make the city as literate as it can be. 213 W. Institute Pl.; email info[at]open-books[dot]org for questions and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 26 2009

Event Spotlight: Rick Kogan & Charles Osgood @ Lincoln-Belmont Library

On Thursday, Rick Kogan and Charles Osgood celebrate the release of Sidewalks (Volume II), the second volume of their collected Tribune columns and photographs. This book will be of particular interest to regular Book Club attendees as you might recall, several months ago, finding yourself on the business end of Osgood's exacting lens. No confirmation on whether we made it into the final cut, but regardless the book is sure to be a wonderful compendium of all things Chicago told in Kogan's inimitable voice and accompanied by Osgood's fine photography. Free at 7pm at the Lincoln-Belmont Branch Library, 1659 W. Melrose. Call 312-744-0166 for more information.

Veronica Bond / Comments (2)

Events Mon Oct 12 2009

Event Spotlight: Salman Rushdie @ Harold Washington Library

As the recipient of the 2009 Chicago Public Library Foundation Carl Sandburg Literary Award, notable and much lauded author Salman Rushide will be at the Harold Washington Library on Thursday to read from and discuss his work. This is a great opportunity to see one of literature's greatest living authors, so if you have the opportunity to attend this talk I highly suggest you do so (I'd also recommend you get there early because these talks tend to fill up quickly). The talk is free and will be moderated by Booklist's Donna Seaman; 12pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 05 2009

Event Spotlight: Sara Paretsky @ 57th St. Books

Join Book Club selection author Sara Paretsky as she celebrates the relese of her latest book, Hardball, on Wednesday. The book is the next installment in Paretsky's popular V.I. Warshawski series. Free at 6pm at 57th St. Books, 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Wed Sep 30 2009

Audrey Appearances

If you're a fan of Audrey Niffenegger and didn't get the chance to see her at the Newberry Library yesterday, I highly recommend you make the effort to see her at the Swedish American Museum, presented by Women & Children First, tonight. Audrey was very welcoming and encouraged all audience questions last night, answering everything from whether there will be a Time Traveler's Wife sequel (not for the foreseeable future) to how she thinks e-books will affect reading and publishing (she does not believe they will replace paper books but is optimistic that they will find a place for themselves in art and literature). Most impressive, Audrey took a few moments to talk with each person who stood in line to have their books signed. While this did make the line move slowly - and several people near me quite vociferously expressed their displeasure at this (though I couldn't help but notice that they also took their sweet time getting a picture of themselves with Audrey) - it was very heartening to see how much she clearly still values her readers.

Meanwhile, today you can read this interview with Audrey in Newcity where she talks about the wild success of The Time Traveler's Wife and how Her Fearful Symmetry came to fruition. Says Audrey on how she thinks the new book will be received by fans: "There's really nothing I can do about it. I have a feeling people who liked the first book will probably like the new book, but some of them might not, because it's not producing the same effect. This is a much more astringent book. Who knows if the book clubs will embrace it, and all that other crazy stuff that happened with the first one."

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 28 2009

Event Spotlight: Audrey Niffenegger @ Newberry Library & Swedish American Museum

In celebration of the release of her second book, Her Fearful Symmetry, Audrey Niffenegger is making two appearances this week. The first is on Tuesday at the Newberry Library where she will read from and discuss the book. Free at 6pm at 60 W. Walton. For questions, call 312-255-3520. The second appearance will be on Wednesday where she will read from and discuss the book at the Swedish American Museum. This event is presented by Women & Children First and, though free with the purchase of the book ($26.99 without tax), is ticketed. Call 773-769-9299 to reserve your spot to the 7:30pm reading. The Swedish American Museum is located at 5211 N. Clark St.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 21 2009

Event Spotlight: Banned Books Read-Out

On Saturday, take a moment to celebrate all those books that have been banned or challenged last year and in years past by coming to the American Library Association's Banned Books Read-Out. Author Chris Crutcher will host the authors of six of the most challenged books of 2008 and City Lit Theatre Company with Chicago Public Library Readers' Theatre will perform work from frequently challenged authors. This celebration of banned books is as important as ever as books continue to be challenged in schools and libraries and children run the risk of not being exposed to some of literature's greatest works. Show your support for the right to read at 12pm in Bughouse Square, across from the Newberry Library at 60 W. Walton. Call 800-545-2433 for questions and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Sep 15 2009

Granta Kick-Off Event Review

Robert Duffer of the Chicago Examiner gives a lukewarm review of last night's Granta kick-off discussion with Audrey Niffenegger and Aleksandar Hemon, saying, "As much as I love this city and as excited and oddly flattered as I was that Granta devoted an issue to our broken-nosed lovely, there's only so much that three writers can say about the influence of their figurative home. It helps to have good acoustics to say it." I admit, I was a bit regretful that I wasn't going to be able to see this discussion due to our Book Club meeting, but I guess I didn't miss much after all. (And I'm not at all regretful that I got to be part of our very vibrant discussion of varied opinions on The Echo Maker. The books that some people love and some people hate quite often make for the best discussions.) Hopefully the rest of Granta's celebration week will be on par with the excellence of the magazine.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 14 2009

Event Spotlight: Granta Celebrates Chicago

The literary magazine Granta is in Chicago this week to celebrate the release of their all Chicago issue. Here's a roundup of of their celebratory events, all of which are free and open to the public:

• Monday - Audrey Niffenegger and Aleksandar Hemon discuss "how artists and writers from around the world represent Chicago in their work." A reception will follow. 6pm in Preston Bradley Hall, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. Reservations are required. RSVP to Emily Long at emily.long[at]cityofchicago[dot]org or 312-742-0821.

• Tuesday - The Poetry Foundation joins Granta to present Poetry Night. Anne Winters, Reginald Gibbons and Diego Baez will read a selection of their poems and David Trinidad will read a selection of James Schuyler poems. 7pm at Stop Smiling Storefront, 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave.

• Wednesday - Camilo Vergara will be at the Dining Hall of Hull House to show his photo essay on Chicago Public Housing. A discussion with Tim Samuelson and Peter Hales will follow. 6pm at 800 S. Halsted St. Also, the Hideout will join Granta for an Evening of Jazz and Improvised Music. Performers include Nicole Mittchell, Artur Majewski, Nate McBride, Wojciech Romanowski and DJ Jeb Bishop. 9:30pm at 1354 W. Wabansia.

• Thursday - Alex Kotlowitz, Maria Venegas and Stuart Dybek will be at the Harold Washington Library to read from their pieces published in the magazine. 6pm at 400 S. State St. in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium.

• Friday - Granta invites all to celebrate the Chicago issue with a party at Women and Children First. 7pm-9pm at 5233 N. Clark St.

• Sunday - Art Shay will show photos and discuss the life of Nelson Algren at the Rainbo Club. 6pm at 1150 N. Damen.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Sep 08 2009

Event Spotlight: Nami Mun @ Women & Children First

Catch the latest rising local literary star Nami Mun when she comes to Women & Children First on Wednesday to read from her first novel Miles from Nowhere. The book, about a runaway teenager in New York, is getting some serious press and praise, so the reading will likely be well worth your time. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Fri Sep 04 2009

Unabridged ARC Giveaway

unabridged.jpgI fear bringing on more competition for myself, but I must bring some attention to the fact that Unabridged Bookstore in Lakeview is giving away free Advance Review Copies of as-yet unpublished books with the purchase of one book on Saturday. Free copies of new titles? You can bet I'll be there in the morning, waiting to take first pick. Unabridged is already one of my most favorite bookstores in the city, so I need little incentive to visit them, but perhaps you'll be tempted to check them out, too. You can find them at 3251 N. Broadway; the store opens at 10am.

Veronica Bond / Comments (1)

Events Mon Aug 31 2009

Event Spotlight: Reading Under the Influence

This month marks the 50th installment of RUI: Reading Under the Influence, the theme of which will be "Fighting Words." On hand to help celebrate will be 2nd Story ensemble members J. Adams Oaks, author of Why I Fight, and Nadine Warner, as well as GB's own Mechanics editor Ramsin Canon, and local writer Kyle Chaney. Come see Ramsin get down and dirty with words on Wednesday, 7:30pm, at Sheffield's 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. $3 admission; email info[at]readingundertheinfluence[dot]com for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 24 2009

Event Spotlight: The Girls' Guide to Rocking @ Hideout

Local music journalist Jessica Hopper comes to the Hideout on Saturday to read from her debut book, The Girls' Guide to Rocking. The book is a how-to guide for girls (or anyone, really) who wans to start a band, get on stage, write songs and further their love of music. Hopper will be joined by music acts Katie Stelmanis and Ghost Bees. Admission is $7 for adults and $4 for kids; 1pm-4pm at 1354 W. Wabansia. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 17 2009

Event Spotlight: Jen Lancaster @ Hopleaf

Local author Jen Lancaster, known for her biting wit in chick-lit type novels, comes to the Hopleaf on Wednesday to read from her new work Pretty in Plaid: A Life, a Witch, and a Wardrobe, or, the Wonder Years Before the Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smart Ass Phase. The great thing about this reading is not only that you'll get to hear Lancaster talk about her work, but you'll also help Literacy Works in the process. All proceeds from the reading's $10 suggested donation will go toward helping fund this local literacy non-profit and that's always a good place to send your money. The reading will take place at 7:30pm at 5148 N. Clark St. Email info[at]litworks[dot]org for questions and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 10 2009

"The Night Bookmobile" Exhibit

Just caught this in the Reader: Audrey Niffenegger's illustrated story "The Night Bookmobile" (published in the Guardian and collected here) is up on exhibit at Printworks. Go read the original story through August 22 at 311 W. Superior, #105.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 03 2009

Event Spotlight: Chicago Visionaries

In celebration of their current One Book, One Chicago selection, the Harold Washington Library is presenting a panel discussion on Tuesday titled "Chicago Visionaries: From Burnham to Today and Beyond." The panelists include Carl Smith, author of the current One Book, One Chicago selection Plan of Chicago: Daniel Burnham and the Remaking of the American City, Nichole Pinkard of the University of Chicago's Urban Education Institute, architects Sarah Dunn and Martin Felsen, and Angela Hulock of Claretian Associates, developers of green and affordable housing on the Southeast side. MarySue Barrett, President of the Metropolitan Planning Council, will moderate. Free at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 27 2009

Event Spotlight: Printers' Ball

For the fifth year in a row, all of Chicago's print types are getting together to showcase their wares on Friday at the Printers' Ball. Come celebrate local magazines, books and broadsides and listen to readings, live music and live interviews. The list of scheduled organizations and guests is too great to list here, so take a look at the website and see if your favorite printmakers will be there (and, be assured, you'll find some new ones to enjoy as well). Word has it that some GB folk will be there as well. Admission is free and open to the public, 5pm-11pm at 1104 S. Wabash on the 1st and 8th floors. For more information, email editors[at]poetrymagazine[dot]org.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 20 2009

Open Books Blogathon

What's a Blogathon, you ask? Essentially, it's a marathon of blogging during which time bloggers will update their websites every 30 minutes for 24 hours straight. For this effort, sponsorships are collected and the money goes to the charity or organization of each blogger's choice. It's not just blogging for fun, but blogging for a cause. This year the local non-profit Open Books is joining in the race on July 25 and asking your help to get them to their goal of $2,500. You can simply be one of their readers, checking in throughout the day, you can sign up to offer your blogging talents, or you can offer monetary aid and be a sponsor. During the blogathon, Open Books looks forward to presenting their readers with Mad Libs drawn from classic fiction pieces, a contest, jokes, quotes and prizes. All of the hard work is going toward providing a class of elementary school students with an entire semester of Open Books Buddies. All of Open Books's effort go to increasing literacy in our city and this is a fun way to support their cause. I can't wait to tune in to their blog on Saturday and see what they come up with.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 20 2009

Event Spotlight: Newberry Library Book Fair

newberry book fair.jpgThe weekend all us used-book-lovers wait for in rapt anticipation is upon us -- that of the Newberry Library Book Fair. With four days and 110,000 donated used books in 70 categories to go through, it'll be a task not to come home with arms sore from carrying loads of cheaply priced books (most are under $2!). The Fair will run Thursday-Sunday with varying hours; check the website for hours on the specific day you'd like to visit. On Saturday there will also be a round of Bughouse Square debates in the nearby Washington Square Park where you can celerate the city's long history of promoting free speech. And don't overlook that Sunday is Half Price Day, so if you can stand to wait until then your patience will likely be rewarded. The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton and admission is free. Call 312-255-3510 for questions and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 13 2009

Event Spotlight: Achy Obejas @ Harold Washington Library & Book Cellar

Book Club selection author Achy Obejas (Memory Mambo) makes two appearances this week. The first is at the Harold Washington Library on Friday where she will present the keynote address, "Writing and Responsibility," for DePaul's Summer Writing Conference. The address is free and occurs at 12pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Call 312-362-8916 for information.

Obejas's second appearance will be at the Book Cellar on Saturday, where she will be joined by authors Derek McCormack (The Show That Smells) and Patrick Somerville (The Cradle) for a reading and discussion of their work. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Wed Jul 08 2009

The Back Page Release

Quick event mention here:

Bill Ott has been Editor and Publisher of Booklist for 25 years and his Back Page column has been a great source of literary humor, anecdotes, stories, quizzes and much more. Those columns have been compiled into a book, aptly titled The Back Page, and on Sunday there will be a release party celebrating Ott's work. The party is free from 5pm-7pm at Pritzker Park, just north of the Harold Washington Library at State and Van Buren. You'll get to see Ott interviewed by Frank Sennett, Editor-in-Chief of Time Out Chicago, and he'll also sign copies of his book which will be available for purchase at the party at a discounted price. It'll be a great way to celebrate both the book's release and bibliophilia in general.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 06 2009

Event Spotlight: James Kennedy & Jonathan Messinger @ Quimby's

Two of our brightest literary stars are meeting at Quimby's on Friday. James Kennedy, author of The Order of Odd-Fish, and Jonathan Messinger, of Time Out Chicago and Featherproof Books, join forces for what will surely be an entertaining and enlightening discussion of their works. Free at 7pm at 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 29 2009

Event Spotlight: Henry Louis Gates, Jr. @ Harold Washington Library

One of the preeminent scholars of our time, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Research at Harvard University, will be at the Harold Washington Library tonight for a discussion on "Our Histories, Our Stories," a look at how the way we tell stories shapes our history and how our history shapes the way we tell stories. Joining him will be Chicago Tribune columnist, author, and FoBC (Friend of the Book Club) Rick Kogan. For some time now Gates has been an influential and important voice in the academic study of literature and the African American experience, so if the idea of either of those interests you, this is not a talk you'll want to miss. Free at 6pm (doors open at 5pm) in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 22 2009

Event Spotlight: Dollar Store Super Summer Tour

The Dollar Store is going on tour! Of course, with Chicago being the show's home, you've been lucky enough to see the show whenever it's on. Fittingly, this Sunday the show kicks off their tour right here with a huge party at the Hideout featuring readings from Tobias Amadon Benglesdorf, Elizabeth Crane, Amelia Gray, Patrick Somerville, Caroline Picard, and Zach Dodson and Jonathan Messinger of Featherproof, among others. Come eat some barbeque (vegetarian desires will be kept in mind), enjoy improv by 1,2, Fag and Hag! and An Oak and enter into a raffle for which the prize is a custom-built, Featherproof-themed bike. 1pm-6pm at 1354 W. Wabansia. $8 admission; purchase your tickets here.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 15 2009

Event Spotlight: Literacy Works June Jamboree Benefit

Literacy Works is holding their 7th annual June Jamboree Benefit, a night filled with live music, silent auctions, food, drink and children's activities. Tickets are $25 if purchased in advance and $30 at the door. Literacy Works's mission is to promote adult and family literacy in Chicago, helping to fulfill everyone's basic rights "to read, write, and interpret the world." By attending the Jamboree, your money will go toward working to achieve that goal and creating a richer community engaged in literature. Purchase your tickets by calling 773-543-2784 or emailing colleen[at]litworks[dot]org. The Jamborbee will take place at the North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd., from 6pm-9pm.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 08 2009

Girl of Tomorrow

I met comic book artist Gene Ha through his brother Donn, not longer after I'd connected "my brother Gene" to the name I'd seen on some of my favorite titles. When he e-mailed asking if another friend and I wanted to be photo models for the upcoming DC title JSA vs. Kobra: Engines of Faith, I tried not to reply too eagerly. As I wrote him back, I started to think: while it's become increasingly apparent that comic books aren't just for white guys in basements, I feel that as a female loving cape and cowl set -- as Michael Chabon put it in The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, "fictional characters of unprecedented powers dedicated to acts of derring-do in the public interest," -- I'm still in somewhat of a minority. I gravitate towards Batman and Superman (or Prince Namor or Kitty Pride) as easily as (though differently than) Heraclio and Carmen, Chunky Rice, or Jimmy Corrigan. There is much speculation regarding why traditional superheroes don't appeal to a largely female demographic, or anyone who takes issue with the following tropes: they tend to be action-, not plot- and emotion-oriented, concerned more with punches and epithets than feelings and nuance. Morality is more black and white than shades of gray. Female characters in superhero tales tend to be passive or she-devils, serving as eye candy or villain but not much in between. And there's the obligatory gravity-defying boobs. There are some excellent exceptions to these rules, but they're still that- exceptions.

Basketball-sized breasts are kind of ridiculous, Mary Jane doesn't get too many great lines, and there's the Women in Refrigerators Syndrome (it seems that every female or female superheroine has been killed, raped, depowered, crippled, turned evil, maimed, tortured, contracted a disease or had other life-derailing tragedies befall her). In spite of this, I love the genre, flawed and sexist as it can (but doesn't have to) be. I want good guys and bad guys, the glorification of power and vengeance, the satisfaction of seeing evil beat down in a fantastical scenario. All these reasons, coupled with Gene Ha's exceptional artistic talent, made the choice to be drawn as Power Girl an easy one.

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Rose Lannin / Comments (7)

Events Mon Jun 08 2009

Event Spotlight: Adrian Tomine & Seth @ Quimby's

No comic lover will want to miss the wonderful and talented Adrian Tomine and Seth at Quimby's on Wednesday. The two will talk about their new books, both of their own work and their efforts editing others' works. Tomine will discuss his new editions of Shortcomings and 32 Stories and his editing work on Yoshihiro Tatsumi's A Drifting Life, while Seth will discuss his new graphic novel George Sprott 1894-1975 and his work on The Collected Doug Wright: Canada's Master Cartoonist. Free at 7pm, but I'd make sure to get there early if you want to get nice and closer. Quimby's is located at 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Wed Jun 03 2009

GB Book Club Guide to the Printers Row Lit Fest

It's time once again for the Printers Row Lit Fest, that annual event that features authors from all over the country and booksellers as far as the eye can see. If you've been to the Fest in the past, you know what you're in for, but if not, here is a guide to help direct you to some authors that will be of particular interest to Book Club members.

Luis Alberto Urrea - Saturday, 11:30am in the University Center/Loop Room
Luis Alberto Urrea speaks with Carolyn Alessio about his latest book Into the Beautiful North, a story about a young woman in a Mexican village who dreams about her father who crossed the US border to find work, only to realize that almost all the men in her village have done the same. Urrea's The Hummingbird's Daughter, about a girl's struggles on her rise to fame as a faith healer in Mexico, was our March 2007 selection.

Billy Lombardo, Joe Meno and Peter Ferry - Saturday, 11:45am in the Hotel Blake Burnham Room
The three authors speak with Donna Seaman of NPR's Eight Forty-Eight. Joe Meno's latest work, The Great Perhaps, follows a Chicago family on the brink of dissolution as they struggle to find something to keep them together. Meno's Hairstyles of the Damned was the inaugural Book Club selection. Peter Ferry's Travel Writing is this English teacher's debut, semi-autobiographical novel about a mysterious car accident and the beautiful woman who, as a result, is killed. We will read Travel Writing in November of this year. Billy Lombardo's first collection of stories, The Logic of a Rose, focuses on a young boy living in Bridgeport and the everyday life of boyhood and adolescence.

Aleksander Hemon and Joseph O'Neill - Saturday 2:30pm in the Harold Washington Library Center Multi-Purpose Room
Aleksander Hemon's Nowhere Man was our October 2005 selection. His latest collection of stories, Love and Obstacles, is a starkly realistic portrait of a life as a Bosnian living in America. Hemon is joined by Joseph O'Neill, author of Netherland, a book about a man left alone in New York after 9/11 who shares his immigrant experience with a Trinidadian through the subculture of cricket. This is a ticketed event.

Continue reading this entry »

Veronica Bond / Comments (4)

Events Mon Jun 01 2009

Event Spotlight: Printers Row Lit Fest

It's time once again for the premier literary event in Chicago: the Printers Row Lit Fest. Stretching over both Saturday and Sunday, the Fest will feature numerous publishers and book sellers, both local and throughout the country, featuring their wares and a wealth of authors reading from and discussing their works. This year's Fest will feature the likes of Dave Eggers, Neil Gaiman, Chris Ware and Elizabeth Berg, just to name a few. You can view the full schedule of events here. Keep in mind that some of the big name author events are ticketed (admission is free) and while some of the events have sold out, there's always the possibility that they'll have some last minute empty seats, so it never hurts to stake out the venue if you weren't able to get a ticket to see an author you love. Come check back with us later this week when we'll have our full Book Club guide to the Fest, highlighting some of the notable local authors, sellers and organizations. For questions about the Fest, call 312-222-3986 or email ctc-events[at]tribune[dot]com.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue May 26 2009

Event Spotlight: Switchback Books Fundraiser

The great independent publisher Switchback Books will hold a fundraiser on Thursday to help the production of their latest book, The Haunted House by Marisa Crawford. The book is the 2008 winner for the Gatewood Prize for a debut book of poems by a woman. The fundraiser will take place at Irish Eyes, 2519 N. Lincoln Ave., where your tips will go toward Switchback. With beers at only $2.50 for the night, you'll have plenty leftover in your wallet to donate. The event starts at 7pm; call 773-348-9548 or email editors[at]switchbackbooks[dot]com for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Thu May 21 2009

Away We Go Screening

Focus Features is offering Book Club members the opportunity to attend a free screening of Away We Go, a film written by local literary superstar Dave Eggers and his wife, author Vendela Vida. The film stars John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph as a couple traveling the country in search of a place to plant their roots and raise a family. The screening will be on Wednesday, May 27th, at 7pm at AMC 600 N. Michigan Ave. and each person is invited to bring one guest. To reserve your spot, send an email to rsvpchicago[at]43kix[dot]com. Keep in mind, however, that even with the reservation, seating is first come, first served, so getting there early is probably a good idea. Thank you to Focus Features for presenting us with this great offer!

Veronica Bond / Comments (3)

Events Sun May 17 2009

A Book Club, But With Pictures

Join Challengers Comics 6/18 for their ongoing monthly book club, Chattingers, which really emphasizes the "conversation" in their motto. The must-read book for June is The Filth , described as "vicious counter-pop erosion revolution 101" by Grant Morrison, author of The Invisibles, New X-men, and much much more. 1845 N. Western Ave, (773)-278-0155.

Rose Lannin

Events Mon May 11 2009

Event Spotlight: Book Swap & Drive

Just a reminder that on Thursday we're holding our very first Book Swap & Drive with Open Books, a local non-profit literacy organization. Get cracking on your shelves and bring as many books as you want and leave with as many books as you want. Any books left over will be donated to Open Books who will sell them and use the proceeds to fund their literacy programs. 6pm-9pm at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen. Email us at bookclub[at]gapersblock[dot]com for any questions. Hope to see you there!

Veronica Bond

Events Mon May 04 2009

Event Spotlight: Joe Meno Book Release @ Quimby's

On Thursday, Quimby's welcomes Joe Meno to celebrate the release of his new book The Great Perhaps. Joining Joe will be Featherproof's Jonathan Messinger and author Jon Resh, along with music by The Astronomer. Free at 7pm, 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for questions and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Sat May 02 2009

Savage Dragon Engulfs Comic Book Store in Flames of Rock

Or, more free comics. Challengers Comics welcomes Erik Larsen, creator of (Chicago cop) "Savage Dragon" in celebration of Free Comic Book Day. He will be signing books from 12pm to 3pm.

Rose Lannin

Events Thu Apr 30 2009

Free Comic Book Day!

Saturday is Free Comic Book Day, which means that you can go into any participating comic shop and choose from a selection of comics that you'll get to take home for free. Chicago Comics, at 3244 N. Clark St., is getting in the game not only by offering free comics from 11am-9pm, but also offering 20% off anything in the store for anyone who comes in dressed as a superhero. And they don't mean just a Superman logo T-shirt either - they mean the whole she-bang. I know I've got two costumes from Halloweens past hanging in my closet (Clark Kent becoming Superman and The Cheerleader from Heroes)...who will you be?

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Apr 27 2009

Event Spotlight: The House on Mango Street Events

I'm torn between shining the spotlight on the continuing Big Read Fahrenheit 451 events and the One Book, One Chicago events, but I'll be democratic and not lean towards my Bradbury preference and just point you to the list of events on the right side where you can find more about this Big Read selection.

Instead, let's give some attention to two One Book, One Chicago events: today Steppenwolf Theatre will present a staged reading of Sandra Cisnero's classic novel The House on Mango Street (also one of our past Book Club selections). The reading will surely bring some light to some already vibrant characters and I'm sure that it'll be a great way to spend a Monday night. The reading is free, but reservations are required. Call 312-335-1650 to save your spot. 7pm at 1650 N. Halsted.

On Wednesday, distinguished faculty from DePaul University will hold a panel discussion about the importance of The House on Mango Street, chiefly the representation of Latino communities in Chicago and the portrayal of challenges faced by immigrants. This would be a great event for you if you've read the book and want to learn more about it from an academic standpoint. Free and open to the public at 6pm in DePaul's Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield, Room 120. Call 773-325-7485 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Apr 13 2009

Event Spotlight: Happy Birthday to Us! & More

First, just a quick note to say Happy 4th Birthday to us! The Book Club turns four years old today - that's 44 books about Chicago or written by Chicago authors that we've read together with many more that we're just waiting to dig into. Tonight we'll celebrate with some treats during our discussion of Joshua Ferris's Then We Came to the End, a book that I think many of us are very eager to start discussing. Thank you to everyone who keeps up with us on the mailing list, reads the blog and comes to the meetings - whether you've been to just one meeting or you've become a regular and familiar face - to indulge us in our love of literature. It would be so much less fun without all of you.

Normally I highlight one great event that's happening during the week, but this week there's a slew of exceptional literary happenings that I can't help but mention them all.

First: Today is Drop Everything and Read Day and Open Books is celebrating by opening their office to anyone who wants to come by and have a nice quite place to spend some time reading. They'll also be dropping off books throughout the city for unsuspecting readers to find, so let them know if you come across one of their tagged books. Stop by their office at 213 W. Institute Pl, Suite 305, between 9am-5pm to delve into your current read. Email info[at]open-books[dot]org for questions.

Second: If you're unable to get to the Book Cellar to join us tonight or if you didn't read this month's book but still want to partake in something literary, the wonderful and talented Michael Chabon will be at Northwestern University to give a lecture on Edgar Allan Poe as part of the University's "Great Authors" lecture series. Yes, I am jealous that I won't be able to make it...I love Michael Chabon. Free and open to the public, 7:30pm-10pm, at the Owen L. Coon Forum Jacobs Center, Leverone Hall, 2001 Sheridan Rd. Call 847-491-3525 for more information.

Third: The Big Read continues at Columbia College on Tuesday with a lecture on this year's celebrated author Ray Bradbury by his biographer, Columbia faculty member Sam Weller. I've had the pleasure of hearing Sam talk about Bradbury's work in the past and, trust me, it is an experience not to be missed by any Bradbury fan. Free from 7pm-9pm at 1104 S. Wabash in Columbia College's Film Row Center, 8th floor. For questions, email Kim Hale at khale[at]colum[dot]edu.

Finally: Not one, but two Book Club authors will be giving talks this Tuesday. Sandra Cisneros, author of The House on Mango Street which is also the current One Book, One Chicago selection, will be at the Harold Washington Library to discuss her work and career. Free and open to the public at 6pm at 400 S. State St. in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Call 312-747-8191 for questions and information. And, Karen Abbott, author of Sin in the Second City, will be at the Chicago History Museum to discuss her research and book. 7pm at 1601 N. Clark St. $10 for the general public and $8 for members; tickets can be purchased online. Call 312-642-4600 for more information.

With such a wealth of literary things happening this week, you're sure to find at least one thing that will pique your interest. Enjoy!

Veronica Bond / Comments (1)

Events Mon Mar 30 2009

Event Spotlight: Big Read Kick-Off @ Columbia College

This April, Columbia College is joining the National Endowment for the Arts in their Big Read literacy endeavor. If you haven't heard of it before, the Big Read is an initiative "designed to restore reading to the center of American culture...[providing] citizens with the opportunity to read and discuss a single book within their communities." On Thursday, Columbia celebrates Chicago's particiation in the endeavor with their Big Read selection -- local author Ray Bradbury's seminal work on censorship and intellectual freedom, Fahrenheit 451. The event will feature a documentary about Bradbury's works and librarian, teacher and literacy advocate Esme Raji Codell will serve as the keynote speaker. Haven't read the book before? Come to the reception where copies of the book in English and in Spanish will be passed out. Free and open to the public, 6pm-8pm, at 1104 S. Wabash in Columbia College's Film Row Center, 8th floor. For questions, email Kim Hale at khale[at]colum[dot]edu. And be sure to check our events sidebar for upcoming Big Read events throughout the month.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Feb 09 2009

Event Spotlight: Orange Alert Reading & Polyphony H.S.

There are a couple good events to tell you about this week. The first is Orange Alert Press's special reading series in honor of the AWP conference, held at the Book Cellar on Wednesday. You'll get a number of local authors, including Blake Butler, Barry Graham, S. Craig Renfroe, Jason Jordan, John Domini, Peter Schwartz and Ben Tanzer, reading their works all for free. 7:30pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave.

The second great happening is Thursday's Polyphony H.S. benefit at the School of the Art Institute. Local authors Stuart Dybek, Aleksander Hemon (both of whom are authors of past Book Club selections) and Gina Nahai will read and sign their books as part of a fundraiser for this nonprofit organization that provices writing and editing opportunities to high school students throughout the country. The reading is from 7-8pm at an admission price of $10; admission to the subsequent reception is a donation of $50 or more. Purchase your tickets here, then come to the SAIC's Sullivan Galleries at 33 S. State St. It's not only a good chance to hear some great local talent, but also a particularly good cause that you'll help at the same time.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 26 2009

Open Books Free Writing Workshops

The good people over at Open Books have cooked up another great offering for adults in the Chicago community. February 3 - March 5, free writing workshops will be held every Tuesday and Thursday and will cover all manner of topics. Tuesdays will focus on creative writing and Thursdays will focus on career-related writing (think resumes and job applications) with Open Books volunteers serving as writing coaches. It's bound be a good time to get some free advice on how to improve your writing skills without the committment and cost of joining a formal class. The workshops will be located at Mitchell Elementary School at 2233 W. Ohio. Email info[at]open-books[dot]org for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 19 2009

Event Spotlight: Local Author Night @ Book Cellar

On Wednesday, the Book Cellar continues their Local Author Night series. I'm particularly looking forward to this month's installment as they feature the great James Kenney, the author of The Order of Odd-Fish. Joining him will be Laura Benedict (Calling Mr. Lonely Hearts), Bryan W. Alaspa (Rig), Joe Kilgore (The Blunder) and Travis Thrasher (Isolation). The readings are, as always, free. 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 12 2009

Event Spotlight: Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout

The humor reading series Funny Ha-Ha is back and this Friday they'll be at their usual haunt, the Hideout, for another round of great funny readings. Featured authors include Jen Lancaster, Steve Heisler, Mark Bazer and members of the AV Club. Joining them will be comedian Robert Buscemi, Steve Delahoyde and your lovely host Claire Zulkey. Your $5 admission benefits the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 05 2009

Event Spotlight: Wage Theft in America @ Women & Children First

Interested in learning more about the exploitation of American workers? Kim Bobo will be at Women & Children First on Friday to discuss Wage Theft in America, her handbook for activists, workers and concered people of all types who want to learn how to prevent such exploitation. The book includes an analysis of this crisis along with statistics and moving first-person accounts. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Dec 15 2008

Event Spotlight: Orange Alert Reading Series @ The Whistler

Orange Alert Press continues their brand spankin' new reading series tonight with presentations from Jac Jemc, Mary Hamilton, Amy Guth and Tim Hall. It's free at 7pm at the Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave. Not only does it provide the chance to hear some fresh new readings, but it'll be a great way to get exposed to some new local talent as well.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Dec 08 2008

Event Spotlight: Kramers Ergot Book Tour @ Chicago Comics

Come to Chicago Comics on Saturday to help comic book lovers and comic book creators celebrate the release of the 7th volume of the comic anthology Kramers Ergot. Not only will drinks be served, but you'll get the opportunity to meet several comic authors and have them sign your books, including locals Ivan Brunetti, Chris Ware and Anders Nilsen. Free at 3244 N. Clark St. from 5pm-9pm. Call 773-528-1983 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Dec 01 2008

Event Spotlight: Rock and Roll Reading @ Book Cellar

Book Club author Joe Meno comes to the Book Cellar tonight to read from his latest work Demons in the Spring. Joining him will be will be Chris Connelly reading from his memoir Concrete, Bulletproof, Invisible + Fried: My Life as a Revoling C*ck, Stephanie Kuehnert reading from her novel I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone and Jolene Siana reading from her collection of published letters Go Ask Ogre: Letters from a Deathrock Cutter. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Nov 25 2008

Upcoming Open Books Holiday Auction

open books2.JPGThe holidays are almost here and local literary organization Open Books is offering the chance to pick up some unique gifts. Starting December 2, Open Books will open up bidding for their holiday auction where they've collected some great literary paraphernalia and other goodies. Auction items include memberships to Fitness Formula Clubs; a 7-night stay at a resort in Maui; a private Beauty-Bash party at Benefit Cosmetics; tickets to the Neo-Futurists, Steppenwolf, Zanies, and more; autographed John Updike novels; autographed novels by some great local authors; a "Get Your Book Published" package and much more. Proceeds from the auction will go directly to Open Books and will help promote their mission to improve literacy throughout the city. It's cliché, I know, but these really are the gifts that keep on giving. Check back here soon to start getting ideas on what you'll get your friends and family and place your bids next week once the auction opens up.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 24 2008

Event Spotlight: NaNoWriMo Grand Finale Writefest & Cookie Swap

Have you been working studiously all month on your National Novel Writing Month novel? Do you need a slew of hours at the last minute to get it all done? If so, Open Books is hosting a 15-Hour You Can Do It Yay Yay Writefest and Cookie Swap this Sunday to enourage all of you who need that final push. And at the end of the night, you can celebrate with your fellow writers with tons of cookies. Free from 9am-midnight, 213 W. Institute Pl, Suite 305. Email info[at]open-books[dot]org for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 17 2008

Event Spotlight: Studs Terkel Tribute @ Steppenwolf

Admittedly, tickets to this event may no longer be available (it's free, but you have to have reservations), but I couldn't help but draw attention to what will surely be a touching show. Tonight at the Steppenwolf Theatre, a whole host of notable performers will offer a tribute to the late Studs Terkel. The cast includes Tribune reporter and author Rick Kogan, Steppenwolf artistic director Martha Lavey, director Joyce Piven, a number of Steppenwolf ensemble members and David Schwimmer. (Yes, that David Schwimmer.) Call 312-322-1650 to see if there's still a chance to go the 7:30pm show; 1650 N. Halsted St.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 10 2008

Event Spotlight: Alison Bechdel @ Women & Children First

Graphic novelist Alison Bechdel, author of Fun Home and Dykes to Watch Out For, will be at Women & Children First on Thursday to discuss her newly published anthology The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For. The book contains Bechdel's own selection of her best comics and 60 more strips that have never been published. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 03 2008

Event Spotlight: Reading Under the Influence

Whichever way the election goes, everyone is sure to still be talking about it the next day. On Wednesday, Reading Under the Influence will provide some literary diversion on the topic of "Red States, Blue States." Published and well-known pieces on the theme will be read, with trivia questions posed to the audience and prizes given for correct answers, and original pieces keeping with the theme will also be presented. This month's special guests will be Bill Hillman of the Windy City Story Slam and Ben Tanzer, author of Most Likely You Go Your Way and I'll Go Mine. RUI regulars will be Jesse Jordan and Amada Snyder, along with guests Cynthia Vargas and Simon Smith. $3 at the door at Sheffiel's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. 7-10pm. Email info[at]readingundertheinfluence[dot]com.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 27 2008

Event Spotlight: Poe Discussion @ Sulzer Regional Library

It's Halloween! And what better way to celebrate it than to discuss one of the darkest, most macabre writers in American history? Come to the Sulzer Regional Library on Thursday for a discussion of Edgar Allan Poe's poems and prose. The discussion is part of the library's Great Books Discussion Group. Free at 7pm at 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 312-744-7616 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Thu Oct 23 2008

Book Drive Reminder

gabd.jpgDon't forget that on Sunday you can bring all your used and unwanted books to Open Books's Great American Book Drive. The drive will take place from 10am-4pm at their office, 213 W. Institute Pl.

If you can't make it downtown this weekend, The House Theatre is offering another chance for you to donate books. Today through Sunday you can bring used science fiction books to one of their shows and you'll get a $10 gift certificate to use on future House Theatre ticket purchases. The Theatre will then turn those books over to Open Books. House Theatre shows take place at the Chopin Theatre at 1543 W. Division St.; call 773-251-2195 for more information.

Veronica Bond / Comments (2)

Events Tue Oct 21 2008

Event Spotlight: Windy City Comicon

Chicago holds its first ever Comicon this Saturday. Come to the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., where a slew of comic book artists, publishers and vendors will be on site to share their work. Events include writing workshops, drawing workshops, gaming tournaments and an after-party at Villains Bar & Grill (649 S. Clark St.), complete with a Halloween costume contest. Featured guests are Jeffrey Brown, Gail Potocki, Chris Burnham, Gene Ha, Sarah Becan and many more. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online. 10am-6pm. Go here to enter your questions and get more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 13 2008

Event Spotlight: Writers & Cartoonists for Obama

First, just a quick note that tickets are still available for tonight's David Sedaris reading at the Auditorium Theatre. It's a bit pricey, but probably worth it.

On Wednesday, an interesting and diverse group of writers and cartoonists will gather together to hold a fundraiser for Barack Obama's Presidential campaign and watch the last debate with John McCain. S.L. Wisenberg will host and featured authors include Sara Paretsky, Libby Hellman, Jonathan Messinger, Haki Madhubuti and many more. There will be a silent auction of signed books during the 5:30pm-6:30pm reception, after which authors will read from their works and a number of political cartoons will be auctioned off. At 8pm, everyone will watch the debate. Tickets are $50 if you purchase them now and $60 if you purchase them at the door; people under 25 may pay their ages with all proceeds of ticket sales going to Obama for America. The fundraiser will take place at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. Email oct15obama[at]gmail[dot]com for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Oct 07 2008

Great American Book Drive

Coming up in a few weeks on October 26, Open Books is hosting their Great American Book Drive. All day, the non-profit bookstore is accepting donations of used books from everyone, so if you've been wondering how to clear out some space on your shelves this would be a really great time to get those books together and get them out of your house. All you have to do is get them to Open Books - volunteers will take them off your hands or out of your car for sorting and boxing. And if you can't get them there, you can sign up to have Open Books make a house call to pick up your books from you. All the proceeds of used book sales go to funding literacy programs throughout the city.

More importantly, Open Books is still in need of volunteers for the Drive. If you've got a few hours to spare on that Sunday, fill out their volunteer form and pick a morning or afternoon shift to donate your time. Tasks include everything from greeting to sorting to boxing and loading. Then spread the word to your friends (you can print out flyers and postcards) and bring your own books along to take part in what will surely be a great Drive. Have questions? Call 312-239-6649 or email info[at]open-books[dot]org to get more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 06 2008

Event Spotlight: The Right Stuff @ Steppenwolf

For everyone that's been following along with this season's One Book, One Chicago pick, Steppenwolf Theatre offers a treat. Tonight, the actors from Steppenwolf will perform a dramatic reading of selections from Tom Wolfe's The Right Stuff using archival footage NASA to show how the media covered the Project Mercury launches. The reading is free, but reservations are required and can be had by calling 312-335-1650. 7pm-8:30pm in the Upstairs Theatre at 1650 N. Halsted St.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 29 2008

Event Spotlight: Richard Russo @ Harold Washington Library

On Thursday, the Harold Washington Library welcomes a Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Richard Russo, author of Empire Falls, will read from and sign his latest book Bridge of Sighs. The reading is free at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Fri Sep 26 2008

Special Offer: Chicago Shakespeare Theater Edward II Discount

The good people over at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater is offering GB Book Club readers a discount on tickets to their latest work, a production of Christopher Marlowe's The Troublesome Reign and Lamentable Death of Edward II, King of England, with the Tragical Fall of Proud Mortimer. Here's what the CST has to say:

Now's your chance to come face-to-face with the action at CST! Director Sean Graney brings Christopher Marlowe's vicious exploration of power and persuasion to the stage in this innovative promenade production where audiences are able and encouraged to move freely about the playing area. This is theater like you've never seen it before! Gapers Block readers can become part of the action for only $15. Visit www.chicagoshakes.com/edward and enter promo code: GAPERS to access your exclusive discount.

The show starts October 1 and runs through November 9 at Navy Pier. Contact the box office at 312-595-5600 for questions on purchasing tickets. Thank you to the CST offering us this great discount!

Veronica Bond / Comments (1)

Events Mon Sep 22 2008

Event Spotlight: Banned Books Week Read-Out

Saturday marks the start the annual celebration of all books that have been banned or challenged and you can take part in the celebration by joining the American Library Assocation, Chicago Tribune, and the Freedom Museum for a Read-Out. Authors will read from popular banned books as well as from some of their own that have been challenged - well-known authors Judy Blume and Stephen Chbosky will be there as well as a number of local literary celebrities. For an interesting twist, City Lit Theatre will perform theatrical readings of some challenged works. The Read-Out is free at Pioneer Plaza from 12pm-4:30pm. You can contact the ALA at 800-545-2433 for more information and learn more about their efforts to preserve Intellectual Freedom on their website.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 15 2008

Event Spotlight: Achy Obejas, Kevin Guilfoile, Ana Castillo

There are several events this week that will be of particular interest to Book Club members. First, Achy Obejas, whose Memory Mambo we read in April 2006 will be at Radio Arte on Monday as part of their Proyecto Latina open mic. The reading is free at 7pm at 1401 W. 18th St. (773-492-8350 for more info.)

Next, on Wednesday, Kevin Guilfoile, author of November 2006's Cast of Shadows, will take the spotlight at the Downers Grove Public Library to read from and discuss his work. This reading is also free at 7pm at 1050 Curtiss. (630-960-1200 for more info.)

Finally, Friday brings us to Ana Castillo, author of our September 2007 selection Peel My Love Like an Onion, who will discuss and sign her new novel The Guardians at Tianguis. You can also read Alice's review of the book here. Free at 7pm at 2003 S. Damen. (312-492-8350 for more info.)

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 08 2008

Event Spotlight: Junot Diaz & Open Book Swap

This week there are two great events for you to attend. The first is Writers on the Record, which is hosted by Victoria Lautman and this month features Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Junot Diaz, author of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. The talk is free and takes place on Friday at 6pm at the Harold Washington Library.

The second event is a Book Swap put on by the great people at Open Books. It's a great way to get rid of some of the books that are cluttering up your shelves and to pick up some new reads to take their places. The Swap takes place on Saturday from 10am-2pm at the North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6219 N. Sheridan Rd. Email info[at]open-books[dot]org for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Thu Sep 04 2008

Weekend Event Alert: Orange Alert Press Book Release Party

New kid on the block Orange Alert Press, founded by Gapers Block staffer Jason Behrends, is celebrating the release of its first novel, Most Likely You Go Your Way and I'll Go Mine by Ben Tanzer, this Saturday, Sept. 6, at DvA Gallery. The event begins at 6pm and is scheduled to include music by various artists and readings by writers Jill Summers, Tim Hall, Jason Fisk, Nick Ostdick and, of course, Ben Tanzer. DvA Gallery is located at 2568 N. Lincoln Ave. For more information, visit the Orange Alert Press website.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Aug 25 2008

Event Spotlight: Featherproof Books @ Book Cellar

A while back I read and reviewed several of Featherproof's mini-books and found them to be, actually, quite delightful. If you've taken some time to peruse what is quickly becoming a large and diverse collection of writings, you'll be interested to know that you can meet some of these writers at the Book Cellar on Thursday. Authors will include Lindsay Hunter, Caroline Picard and Scott Stealy. Free at 8pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. You can call 773-293-2665 for more information. And if you haven't checked out the mini-books -- they're free, downloadable, printable, foldable and pocket-sizable! Get to it!

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 18 2008

Event Spotlight: 4th Annual Printers' Ball

Whether you're just getting into local publications or you've been reading them for a while and are interested in finding what else is out there, the Printers' Ball is the best place for you to go. Completely free, the Ball features tons of local magazines, posters, broadsides and journals from great publishers like Featherproof Books, Lake Claremont Press, Other Voices, the Neigborhood Writing Alliance and more, all with samples of their work for you to take. This year the Ball will be held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., and will feature live music and DJs. 5:30-10pm; call Fred Sasaki at 312-787-7070x8005 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 04 2008

Event Spotlight: Harry Potter Terminus

I don't know whether this really kind of cool or really kind of sad. On the one hand, while the idea of people from all over the world gathering together to discuss a series of books and the impact they've made on our culture speaks to my literature-loving, sociology-enthused heart, the fact that the subject matter is Harry Potter remains a little disappointing. Nevertheless, this five day conference will take place on August 7-11 at the Hilton Chicago Hotel and even though it's only a few days away, you can still purchase tickets at the door for $60 per day or $200 for the whole she-bang. Programming includes presentations, roundtable discussions, fanfiction readings, art and writing challenges, Quidditch matches (though I doubt the organization was able to get the insurance coverage for real flying brooms, so don't get your hopes up too high) and much more. All of this information can be found by perusing the website. Lest you think this would be a great venture for your children, keep in mind that the conference is designed for adults and any children under 18 must be accompanied by a chaperone over 21. Email help[at]terminus2008[dot]org for any questions. (And next time we decide to have a worldwide conference on a series of books, maybe we could focus it on something with a bit more depth? Please?)

Veronica Bond / Comments (3)

Events Mon Jul 28 2008

Event Spotlight: Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout

Funny Ha-Ha's back with an all new installment of hilarious readings by talented writers. On Wednesday, Wendy McClure, Mimi Smartypants, Megan Stielstra of 2nd Story, Margaret Lyons of Time Out Chicago, author Amy Shearn, Lincoln Lodge regular Cameron Esposit and filmmaker Steve Delahoyde provide the laughgs. Hosted, as always, by very funny lady Claire Zulkey. $5 is the suggested donation for admission, all of which benefits the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 7pm at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 21 2008

Event Spotlight: Newbery Library Book Fair

The Newberry Library Book Fair is simply a book lover's dream. Lasting four days (Thursday-Sunday) and offering over 100,000 donated books in more than 60 categories for prices averaging below $2, you just can't go wrong by stopping over for an hour or two of browsing. Admission to the fair is free - check the website for the scheduled hours on each day. On Satuday, there will also be bughouse music and soapbox debates across the street in Washington Square Park. 60 W. Walton. Call 312-943-9090 for general information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 14 2008

Event Spotlight: Local Author Night @ Book Cellar

The Book Cellar continues their great monthly series spotlighting local authors this Wednesday. This time four new authors join the ranks - Libby Hellman (Easy Innocence), Margot Justes (A Hotel in Paris), Francince Friedman (MatchDotBomb) and Jess Riley (Driving Sideways). Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jul 07 2008

Event Spotlight: Salman Rushdie @ Harold Washington Library

Here's a chance to see one of the greatest novelists of our time in the flesh: Salman Rushdie. Come to the Harold Washington Library on Thursday to read from and discuss his newest work The Enchantress of Florence. He'll also be available to sign books, but only two per person so if you're a big fan you'll unfortunately have to leave your personal Rushide library at home. Free at 6pm. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 23 2008

Event Spotlight: Jessica Abel & Matt Madden @ 57th St. Books

Join graphic novelists/artists Jessica Abel and Matt Madden as they stop by 57th St. Books on Thursday to discuss their latest publication Drawing Words & Writing Pictures: Making Comics from Manga to Graphic Novels. This might be a good one to go to if you've got graphic novel aspirations of your own. Free at 6pm, 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

Veronica Bond

News Fri Jun 20 2008

Lovable Losers Essay Contest

The Lovable Losers Literary Revue is hosting an essay contest for fans of Chicago's lovable losers (a.k.a. the Cubs). Tune in this Sunday to "Memories of the Game" on WRMN, 1410-AM, scheduled to air from Noon to 5pm, to hear some of the best entries received so far. The contest continues through the summer and will conclude with at the Revue's September event with Rick Kogan. If you want to share your favorite story about life as a Cub's fan, visit the website to find out how to enter.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Jun 16 2008

Happy Bloomsday

June 16 is known to James Joyce fans as Bloomsday, the day that is chronicled in his massive novel Ulysses. If you feel like celebrating, drop by the Irish American Heritage Center for its Bloomsday Celebration, starting tonight at 8pm. The event will include readings, music and performances. Tickets are $10. 4626 N. Knox Ave. Call 773-282-7035 for more information.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Jun 16 2008

Event Spotlight: June Jamboree Benefit for Literacy Works

This Saturday, join non-profit organization Literacy Works for a June Jamboree Benefit and help them continue in their efforts to support Chicago-area literacy agencies. The family-friendly event will include live music from the Northside Southpaws, a caricature artist, Henna tattoos, and a silent auction. Tickets are $25 if purchased in advance, $30 at the door; tickets for children 12 and under are $5. Advance tickets can be bought by calling 773-334-8255 or emailing christine[at]litworks[dot]org. 6-9pm at North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jun 09 2008

Event Spotlight: David Sedaris Readings

Tonight we're meeting to discuss David Sedaris's Naked at the Book Cellar, but Sedaris will also be in town this week for readings from his latest book of essays When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Catch him at Borders in Evanston on Wednesday (7:30pm, 1700 Maple Ave., 847-733-8852) and at Barbara's UIC on Thursday (7:30pm, 1218 S. Halsted St., 312-413-2665). Both events are free, although the Barbara's event is ticketed and tickets can be had by purchasing the book at their store. I'd suggest getting to either one early - Sedaris draws a huge crowd and there is a great risk of being shut out of the reading (I speak from personal experience).

Veronica Bond

Feature Thu Jun 05 2008

GB Book Club Guide to the 2008 Printers Row Book Fair

The 24th annual Printers Row Book Fair takes place this weekend in the South Loop, on Dearborn, between Congress and Polk. It is the biggest literary extravaganza in the city, and admission to all the events is free. More than 200 authors and 150 booksellers are scheduled to participate in this year's fair, so we've put together this guide to highlight the best of the best of the fair, pointing out authors of current and past Book Club selections appearing at the fair, don't-miss events and our favorite local booksellers and publishers.

Tell Them You Read It for the Book Club

How many of these books did you read along with us? Meet the writers of some of our past (and future) book club picks. You might even get your books signed.

Achy Obejas – Saturday at 11am at the Gwendolyn Brooks Poetry Stage
Memory Mambo by Achy Obejas was our April 2006 selection, and the novel's unforgettable climax still gives me the willies. But in addition to writing award-winning novels, Obejas is also an accomplished poet. She will be giving a poetry reading this morning as the fair gets underway.

Alex Kotlowitz – Saturday at Noon at the Heartland Stage
Kotlowitz talks to author Nancy Horan during this event about her debut novel Loving Frank, which tells the true story of the affair between architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwick Chesney. We just read Never a City So Real by Kotlowitz for our January 2008 book.

Studs Terkel and Rick Kogan – Saturday at 3pm at the Harold Washington Library Center Cindy Pritzker Auditorium [Ticketed Event]
The venerable Studs Terkel holds court at the Chicago Public Library Saturday afternoon. His most recent book is his long-awaited memoir Touch and Go, but we read his first book, Division Street: America, in February 2006. Terkel never fails to entertain, and his wit is still sharp as a tack at 96 years old. He'll be talking to another favorite Chicagoan, Tribune journalist and WGN radio personality Rick Kogan. We read his book A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse, and the American Dream for our April 2007 meeting, and Kogan's appearance at and participation in our discussion was one of our most memorable book club meetings. This event will draw a big crowd, so be sure to reserve your free tickets ASAP.

Kevin Guilfoile – Saturday at 4pm at Grace Place, Sanctuary, 2nd Floor
Kevin Guilfoile moderates a discussion titled "Murder Most Foul," featuring a panel of fellow local crime writers, including Libby Fischer Hellman, Marcus Sakey, Sean Chercover and Michael Dymmoch. Guilfoile joined the book club for a highly memorable meeting when we read his first novel Cast of Shadows in November 2006.

Elizabeth Berg, Elizabeth Crane and Amy Krouse Rosenthal – Sunday at 11am at the Heartland Stage
Three – yes, three – book club authors in one great event! Don't miss this one as Amy Krouse Rosenthal moderates a discussion with Elizabeth Berg and Elizabeth Crane. Bestselling author Elizabeth Berg's new book is Dream When You're Feeling Blue, and we read her novel The Year of Pleasures in May 2007. Crane is promoting her new story collection titled You Must Be This Happy to Enter. We read her previous book All This Heavenly Glory for our February 2007 meeting. And Rosenthal's unconventional memoir Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life was our June 2006 selection.

Karen Abbott in conversation with Rick Kogan – Sunday at 3pm at the Heartland Stage
Abbott will be talking to Rick Kogan about her best-selling nonfiction work Sin in the Second City about Chicago's infamous Everleigh Club. The book is coming out in paperback now, and we'll be reading Sin in the Second City for our November 2008 meeting.

Aleksandar Hemon – Sunday at 3:30pm at the Harold Washington Library Center Multi-Purpose Room [Ticketed Event]
Hemon is the author of the critically acclaimed novels The Question of Bruno and Nowhere Man, which was our October 2005 selection. Now he's due to repeat that success with his new book The Lazarus Project. Reserve your free tickets for a chance to see this still-rising local literary star.

Audrey Niffenegger and Elizabeth Crane – Sunday at 4pm at the Heartland Stage
If you go to see Karen Abbott at 3pm, don't get out of your seat, because Audrey Niffenegger and Elizabeth Crane are up next, participating in the Other Voices finale reading along with fellow local writers Billy Lombardo and Gina Frangello. Niffenegger is the author of the best-selling novel The Time Traveler's Wife, our June 2005 book club book, and this is your second chance to see Crane at the fair (see above).

More Local Authors and Don't-Miss Events

Scott Turow – Saturday at 10am at the Harold Washington Library Center Cindy Pritzker Auditorium [Ticketed Event]
Turow is a prominent Chicago lawyer and author of such wildly popular novels as Presumed Innocent and Reversible Errors. This year he is receiving the Harold Washington Literary Award.

S.E. Hinton – Saturday at Noon at the Harold Washington Library Center Cindy Pritzker Auditorium [Ticketed Event]
This is the event not to miss. The S.E. Hinton, author of the modern classics The Outsiders and That Was Then, This Is Now, will be at the book fair to receive the 2008 Chicago Tribune Young Adult Book Prize. Get tickets now if you still can, otherwise you'll be left standing outside, clutching your dog-eared copy of The Outsiders and telling complete strangers how Pony Boy was your favorite character ever when you were 12.

Chris Ware, Ivan Brunetti and Chris Oliveros – Saturday at 1pm at the Heartland Stage
Well-known local comics artist Chris Ware will be appearing with fellow cartoonist Ivan Brunetti and Drawn & Quarterly publisher Chris Oliveros to talk about "Cartoonists Editing Comics." This event is another don't-miss in my book.

Augusten Burroughs – Sunday at 1:30pm at the Harold Washington Library Center Cindy Pritzker Auditorium [Ticketed Event]
Burroughs is the author of the best-selling books Running with Scissors and Dry. His most recent memoir is A Wolf at the Table. Reserve your tickets now for a chance to see him at the fair.

Alpana Singh and Charles Blackstone – Sunday at 3pm at the Good Eating Stage
Alpana Singh is the host of the popular local PBS series "Check Please!" and the author of Alpana Pours. In this event she talks with hubby Charles Blackstone, author of the novel The Week You Weren't Here.

Local Booksellers, Publishers and Other Friends of the Book Club

Be sure to stop by these booths, and tell them Gapers Block sent you (results may vary).

The Book Cellar – OO
The Book Cellar has been generously hosting the GB Book Club's monthly meetings since our group's inception. Not only is The Book Cellar a great local bookshop (and not a bad place for lunch, either), but the staff also works tirelessly to support and promote local authors through the store's monthly Local Author Night series and other events on its typically packed schedule.

Chicago Writers Association – 245, 247
The Chicago Writers Association is a creative community of hardworking up-and-coming local writers. Members will be manning the tables at the fair. Check out the CWA website to see which writers will be appearing at the fair.

Featherproof Books – 327, 329
Local indie publisher Featherproof Books is gaining a respectable track record for publishing some pretty cool novels by some pretty cool new writers, including its latest, the typographical graphic novel boring boring boring boring boring boring boring by Zach Plague. We read the Featherproof's first publishing effort, The Enchanters Vs. Sprawlburg Springs by Brian Costello, for our February 2008 book.

Lake Claremont Press – DD
We love local publisher Lake Claremont Press because they publish book about our favorite topic — Chicago. From the city's food to its history, ghosts, culture, music, geography and more, the books from Lake Claremont Press all read like love letters to our city.

The Newberry Library – 142
What is The Newberry Library? Besides being one of the world's leading independent research libraries, it is also host to dozens of events throughout the year, including musical and theatrical performances, exhibits, lectures, workshops and seminars in the humanities. And, best of all, this incredible resource is free and open to the public. The Newberry also holds an annual book fair in July that should not be missed.

The Poetry Center of Chicago – PBP2
The Poetry Center of Chicago is dedicated to supporting and promoting poets and their work throughout the city through regular events, readings and its successful Hands on Stanzas program which places Chicago poets in public school classrooms to encourage students to read and write poetry.

TallGrass Writers Guild – 225
The TallGrass Writers Guild is an active community of local writers that holds regular readings and literary events at venues around the city. The group also publishes an annual anthology of writings in association with Outrider Press.

Third World Press – F
Local publisher Third World Press is one of the country's "oldest and well-respected independent publishers of Black thought and literature." It was founded in 1967 and the publisher's extensive catalog includes works by Gwendolyn Brooks, press founder and author Haki R. Madhubuti, Sterling Plumpp, Tavis Smiley and more.

Women & Children First – PP
Women & Children First is one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country and has been one of Chicago's best-loved indie bookstores since it first opened in 1979. Although the store carries titles on every topic imaginable, its real strengths are in its excellent stock of books by and about women, children's books, and lesbian and gay fiction and nonfiction.

~*~

For complete information about the fair, including the full schedule, maps and ticket information for the special events, visit the official Printers Row Book Fair website.

Alice Maggio

Events Tue Jun 03 2008

See Sedaris, If You Hurry

David Sedaris, author of our June book, Naked, is going to be at the UIC location of Barbara's Bookstore on June 12 to discuss his latest collection of essays, When You are Engulfed in Flames, which comes out today. The audience for the reading will be very limited: only 100 seats, and you'll need a ticket to attend, which you can only get by purchasing the new book at the bookstore starting today.

If you don't land one of the 100 tickets, don't fret -- there will also be a book-signing that's open for all. Expect a long, long line for it, though. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing you at our Naked discussion on Monday at the Book Cellar.

Andrew Huff

Events Mon Jun 02 2008

Event Spotlight: Printer's Row Book Fair

It's that time again...time to head down to Dearborn and Polk and walk through bookseller-lined blocks, checking out all the wonderful literary ware our fine city has to offer at the Printer's Row Book Fair. Don't forget to check the schedule of readings, too. Notable authors such as Studs Terkel, Ivan Brunetti, Aleksander Hemon and Chris Ware will be there, along with other local authors of particular interest to Book Club members. You can find the full schedule of readings here and the full list of vendors here. The Fair runs Saturday and Sunday, 10am-6pm.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon May 26 2008

Event Spotlight: Reader Bookswap

Who among us doesn't have books that we either bought and didn't like or simply no longer have room for? Bring your excess literature to Cobra Lounge on Wednesday for the Reader's annual Book Swap. Not only will you get to unload your used books, but you may find some treasures to take home with you. The Janes go-go dance troupe will provide entertainment and door prizes will be given away. Free from 6-9pm at 235 N. Ashland Ave. Call 312-226-6300 for mroe information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon May 19 2008

Event Spotlight: Dollar Store @ Hideout

The Dollar Store's been on hiatus for the past few months, but on Friday it comes out of retirement as part of the Pilcrow Lit Fest. Join host Jonathan Messinger and special guests Kevin Sampsell and Diana Slickman for all the dollar-inspired short literature you've been missing. 7pm at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. $1 gets you in. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon May 12 2008

Event Spotlight: Chip Kidd @ Quimby's

Chip Kidd, who has created some of the greatest book covers you've seen, among other graphic design projects, comes to Quimby's on Wednesday to talk about his new book The Learners. The novel is about a college graduate who lands his first job as a graphic designer at an ad agency that leads him to participate in an experiment in the Yale psychology department, forcing him to reexamine "his past, his soul, and the nature of human cruelty." Free at 7pm at 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon May 05 2008

Event Spotlight: "Did a Woman Write Shakespeare?"

We've all the theories that it was Bacon or Marlowe that penned the great works we attribute to William Shakespeare, but what if it was really a woman? On Wednesday, Robin P. Williams will be at the Newberry Library to discuss her book, Sweet Swan of Avon, that addresses that very question. Through eight years of research, the book speculates on the possibility that it was Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke, that wrote the sonnets and plays, thus developing the English language and publishing the first play in English written by a woman. Admission to the lecture is $9 and can be had by calling 312-255-3556. Doors open at 5:30pm and the lecture starts at 6:15pm at 60 W. Walton.

Veronica Bond

News Thu May 01 2008

Free Comics

Yes, Free Comic Book Day is here again. Stop by participating stores this Saturday, May 3, to get your fee comic book. Use the official store locater to find a retailer near you.

But, there are two great reasons to make Chicago Comics your stop for Free Comic Book Day on Saturday: local comics artist Jeffrey Brown and former Disney animator Christian Slade will be in-store signing books and comics from noon to 4pm.

Chicago Comics is located at 3244 N. Clark St. Call them at 773-528-1983 or visit the website for more info.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Apr 28 2008

Event Spotlight: Aleksandar Hemon in Evanston

Critically acclaimed local author Aleksandar Hemon will be at Barnes & Noble in Evanston on Thursday to promote the release of his third novel, The Lazarus Project. Hemon's last book, Nowhere Man, was the book club's October 2005 selection. The event is free, and it begins at 7pm. The Evanston Barnes & Noble is located at 1630 Sherman Avenue. See Slowdown for more.

Alice Maggio / Comments (2)

Events Mon Apr 21 2008

Event Spotlight: Marilynne Robinson @ DePaul

Pulitzer Prize winning author Marilynne Robinson (Gilead, Housekeeping) comes to DePaul on Thursday to discuss her works as part of their "Writing and the Catholic Imagination" series. Free and open to the public at 7pm in the Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield. Call 773-325-7346 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Apr 14 2008

Event Spotlight: Happy Birthday to Us!

This week I'm going to take a moment to toot our own horn - tonight's Book Club meeting marks three years since we first started getting together to discuss the wealth of local literature our city provides. From angsty punk adolescents to cyborg bounty hunters to a depression-era circus, we've had some interesting and exciting travels. To celebrate the past three years and to thank all of you who have joined and supported us, both online and in real life, we welcome you to enjoy some desserts and beverages with us as we discuss our current book, Middlesex. We look forward to discovering more local classic and emerging work with you in the years to come. 7:30pm tonight at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Apr 07 2008

Event Spotlight: Jhumpa Lahiri & Isabel Allende @ Swedish American Museum

This week Women & Children First offers you the opportunity to see two renowned women writers at the Swedish American Museum. On Tuesday you can see Pulitzer Prize-winner Jhumpa Lahiri, who will read from her new book Unaccustomed Earth. On Wednesday, Isabel Allende reads from her new memoir The Sum of Our Days. Tickets to both events are free with the purchase of the respective books at W&CF (you can request an additional ticket for $5 with your purchase). Both readings start at 7:30pm at 5211 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Mar 31 2008

Event Spotlight: Julie Klam @ Standard Club

On Wednesday, Julie Klam comes to the Standard Club to read from and discuss her memoir Please Excuse My Daughter, an account of her experiences growing up in a traditional and privileged family in New York. Klam also writes about raising her own daughter with the self-reliance and indepedence she developed despite her family's lack of encouragement. Anyone who's had their own experience dealing with class issues and marriage will surely find this interesting. 11:30am at 320 S. Plymouth Ct. Tickets are $30 and include a reception, lunch and a book signing. Call 847-446-8880 for reservations and information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Mar 24 2008

Event Spotlight: Rock for Reading & Open Books Sort-A-Thon

Rock for Reading and Open Books are holding their second Sort-A-Thon on Saturday. They have 15,000 children's books to go through and they need your help to get them sorted for distribution to local schools and reading programs. The Sort-A-Thon will start at 10:30am and go until 1:30pm. If you can't stay and sort, but still want to help, drop off your own books to donate, or bring food and drink to keep all the hard workers going. The event takes place at the Open Books Warehouse at 600 N. Albany Ave. Email Becca Keaty at bkeaty[at]open-books[dot]org for more information or to sign up.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Mar 17 2008

Event Spotlight: Literary Rock & Roll @ Metro

It's a little bit lit, it's a little bit rock 'n roll at the Metro's Literary Rock & Roll night this Thursday. Part of Columbia College's Story Week 2008, authors Junot Diaz, ZZ Packer, Colin Channer and Hillary Carlip come to the Metro along with punk marching band Mucca Pazza to do readings and book signings. The show is all ages and it's free, so it's a good opportunity to get the not-yet-21 kids out for some literary fun. 6pm at 3830 N. Clark St. Call 773-549-0203 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Fri Mar 14 2008

Mystery and More Book Fair

Since we just read a mystery for the book club, members might like to know that the 16th Annual Mystery and More Book Fair is taking place this weekend at the Newberry Library. The huge selection usually includes not only mysteries, but also fantasy, science fiction, true crime and romance novels. Admission is free, and the event takes place from 9am-2pm on Saturday, March 15.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Mar 10 2008

Event Spotlight: Ida: A Sword Among Lions

It's Women's History Month and what better way to celebrate than learn more about local heroines? The new book Ida: A Sword Among Lions takes an in depth look at life of Ida B. Wells, famed Chicago civil rights activist. Biographer Paula J. Giddings will be at Women & Children First on Tuesday to discuss Wells and the research that went into the biography. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-768-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Thu Mar 06 2008

Meet Lake Claremont Press

The wonderful folks at local publisher Lake Claremont Press have started a monthly get-together that takes place on the first Friday of the month. This month's "First Fridays for Family, Friends, and Fans" (FFFFFF) will take place at Stanley's Kitchen & Tap on Racine on Friday, March 7, beginning at 5:30pm. Meet cool people, network and make new friends. Visit the publisher's blog for more information.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Mar 03 2008

Event Spotlight: Jamaica Kincaid @ Northwestern

Acclaimed Antiguan author Jamaica Kincaid (I read a couple of her books in college - did you?) comes to Northwestern on Thursday for the 2008 Leon Forrest Lecutre "On Writing." Having left her home country at 17 to comes to the US, Kincaid has been a staff writer at the New Yorker and is now teaching at Harvard. If you get the chance, check out her memoir My Brother for a very interesting and raw account of her family and the way she does and does not fit in. If you're interested in seeing her talk, head to Harris Hall 107 at 1181 Sheridan Rd. in Evanston for her 5pm lecture (free and open to the public). Call 847-467-3005 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Feb 25 2008

Event Spotlight: Heat Wave Opening

Tonight the stage version of Eric Klinenberg's sociological study Heat Wave officially opens at Pegasus Players. The show is a recreation of the choas that occurred between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens when hundreds of people died owing to the extreme heat in the summer of 1995. Tickets for tonight's 8pm show are $17 and can be purchased online or by calling 773-878-9761. Pegasus Players is located at 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Feb 18 2008

Event Spotlight: Bayo Ojikutu @ Blackstone Library

Author of our July selection, Free Burning, Bayo Ojikutu joins the Friends of the Blackstone Library on Thursday for their reading series Voices From Home: Local Authors Speak. The story is about a young black man who leaves the crime of the south side for a corporate job, only to lose the job and find himself back in his old neighborhood. The reading is free and starts at 7pm at 4904 S. Lake Park Ave. Call 312-747-0511 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Feb 11 2008

Event Spotlight: Harold! @ Women & Children First

Get to know Mayor Harold Washington as the contributors to Harold! Photographs from the Harold Washington Years stop by Women & Children First first on Wednesday to share and discuss their work. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Feb 04 2008

Event Spotlight: Jonathan Messinger @ The Parlor

Friendly small press co-publisher of featherproof Books and Time Out Chicago editor Jonathan Messinger gives everyone an opportunity to hear a bit about his latest work. Messinger will read from his novel-in-progress Take Your Own Advice on Tuesday at the Parlor. The event is free at 7pm at the Green Latern, 1511 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call 773-235-0936 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 28 2008

Event Spotlight: Winter: A Time of Telling

Larry Lockwood and Florence Dunham return to the Newberry Library, along with students from Audubon Elementary School, for an evening of traditional (and not-so-traditional) Native American storytelling. This free event begins at 6:30pm and takes place on Thursday, Jan. 31 at the Newberry Library. Visit the website for more details.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Jan 21 2008

Event Spotlight: Make Readings Work for You

If you're a writer who needs a little help getting your work out to the people, the Uptown Writers Space might have the perfect workshop for you. Saturday's "Make Readings Work for You" focuses on teaching you the essentials of public reading, a skill necessary for all writers wishing to build their audience. The workshop is a bit pricey at $70 for members and $75 for non-members, but the money will likely be worth it. Taught by performer and author Marianna Swallow. Call 312-391-8554 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Jan 07 2008

Event Spotlight: Sara Paretsky @ Women & Children First

In March we'll discuss Sara Paretsky's mystery novel Fire Sale, but tonight you can get a taste of the author early as she visits Women & Children First. She'll discuss her latest novel, Bleeding Kansas, but if you're ahead of the Book Club schedule, I bet she'll answer any questions you have on her previous works too. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Wed Dec 19 2007

Calling All Writers

Feeling uninspired? Want to get away for a couple days and meet with other local writers? Local author Laura Mazzuca Toops (we reviewed her novel Hudson Lake here) is organizing a writing workshop, tenatively scheduled for February 22-24, 2008, to take place at the Lakeside Inn near New Buffalo, Michigan. If a little creative retreat sounds like just the thing you need this winter, visit the author's website for all the details.

Alice Maggio

Events Wed Dec 19 2007

Last Minute Events

• Photographer Pat Graham, who is best known for his photos of indie bands such as Modest Mouse, Bikini Kill and Fugazi, will be at The Book Cellar on Thursday, December 20, to talk about his new book, Silent Pictures: Living Music Photography 1990-2005. This free event begins at 7pm. The Book Cellar is located at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

• This week is also your last chance to catch "Drinking & Writing Vol. IV: The 12 Steps of X-Mas" at Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, starring Neo-Futurists Sean Benjamin and Steve Mosqueda and exploring "the connection between creativity and alcohol." And, yes, the theater bar will be open throughout the performance. The show ends December 21, and tickets are just $15, so get one now at victorygardens.org or by calling 773-871-3000.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Dec 17 2007

Event Spotlight: Literary Gangs of Chicago

The Museum of Contemporary Art is continuing their Literary Gangs of Chicago series with a show from 2nd Story, a performance event that uses wine and music to present great stories. Produced by Serendipity Theater Collective, 2nd Story can usually be found at Webster's Wine Bar for their monthly series and annual festival. The event is free from 6:30-8pm at Cafe Puck in the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Dec 03 2007

Event Spotlight: Rock for Reading & Open Books Sort-A-Thon

On Saturday, Rock for Reading and Open Books are holding their inagural Grand Sort-A-Thon. Rock for Reading is a non-profit organization that fights the rising trend of illiteracy by providing communities with the tools and incentives needed to promote the love of reading. They raise awareness through concernts and benefits and award grants, among other activities. Open Books is Chicago's first non-profit literarcy bookstore -- the proceeds of the store go toward funding adult and family literacy programs. Together, the two have over 10,000 children's books that need to be sorted for distribution and they need your help to get it done. If you can't stay to sort, you can also donate your own books or donate food and drink to keep the hardworking sorters going. The sorting starts at 10am at the Open Books Warehouse, 600 N. Albany Ave. Call 773-209-6878 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 26 2007

Event Spotlight: Anne Elizabeth Moore @ Women & Children First

Punk Planet editor and publisher, contributor to Bitch Magazine, editor of the Best American Comics series (and GB's own Sky in Five columnist) Anne Elizabeth Moore is stopping by Women & Children First on Thursday to discuss her latest book Unmarketable: Brandalism, Copyfighting, Mocketing, and the Erosion of Integrity. As always, the event is free, and if you've ever had the chance to hear Moore speak, you know it'll be a good one. 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 19 2007

Event Spotlight: Jonathan Messinger @ Funky Buddha

It's a short week for most of us, but there are still interesting literary things to see. Tonight (Monday), Jonathan Messinger takes part in Funky Buddha's poetry slam/open mic, reading from his debut book of short stories Hiding Out. Slam poet Chesko will be at the lounge to perform some of his work as well. $5 admission and 21+ at 728 W. Grand. 7:30pm.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Nov 12 2007

Event Spotlight: Chicago Blues @ Book Cellar

If you missed the chance to meet all your favorite local mystery/crime fiction writers at the Chicago Blues debut in October, the Book Cellar is offering you another opportunity. Come by on Thursday at 7pm where many of the authors will be on site to discuss their contributions and sign your books. Free at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 29 2007

Event Spotlight: Lance Bass @ Borders

Okay, so it's not the most literary of events, but it's bound to be amusing, right? Former Nsync member Lance Bass has a book out, titled (most uncreatively) Out of Sync, in which he details what it's like to be gay while in a band adored by millions of teenybopper girls. As if his homosexuality were ever a secret (I think we're more surprised that he's the only one). Don't miss your chance to see him tonight and ask all of your burning, boy band questions at Borders Lakeview, 2817 N. Clark St, 7:30pm. Free, of course.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 22 2007

Event Spotlight: Essential Feminist Reader @ Women & Children First

Whether you're tentative about the idea of feminism and want to learn a little bit more or you've long considered yourself a feminist and want to take in all the history you can, the new anthology The Essential Feminist Reader will provide you with decades-worth of feminist ideas and texts. On Thursday, the book's editor Estelle B. Freedman will come to Women & Children First to discuss where feminism has been and where it's going now. It promises to be a good learning experience for feminists of all kinds. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 15 2007

Event Spotlight: Achy Obejas @ Women & Children First

Achy Obejas, author of book club selection Memory Mambo, comes to Women & Children First on Thursday to celebrate the release of her latest work, Havana Noir. The free event will also include Cuban food, cocktails and music and should prove to be a great time to get to know of the authors we've read. 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 08 2007

Event Spotlight: Chicago Blues Launch Party

Come celebrate the release of the new crime fiction anthology Chicago Blues on Friday at Buddy Guy's Legends. The book is packed full of local authors, including the likes of Sara Paretsky, Sean Chercover, Barbara D'Amato, Marcus Sakey, Brian Pinkerton, editor Libby Fischer Hellman and more, with contributions from Book Club authors Kevin Guilfoile and Rick Kogan. Many of the authors will be at the party to discuss their work in person, making this a great opportunity to get to know some of the faces behind the pages you read. Free at 754 S. Wabash from 5pm-8pm. Call 312-427-0333 for more information. (To get an idea of what the book is about, check out our review here.)

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Oct 01 2007

Event Spotlight: Midwest Literary Festival

You've got to go to Aurora for this one, but my guess is it'll be worth it. The Midwest Literary Festival runs this entire weekend, with appearances from authors such as Sean Chercover, Karen Abbott, Daniel Wallace and even chef Rocco DiSpirito. You'll get to hear what it's like for an author when their novel is transformed into a hit movie, female perspectives on becoming a writer, writing great cookbooks, general writing career advice and much more. There are even workshops especially geared toward children. Workshops and discussions go throughout Saturday and Sunday, so be sure to check the schedule of events to ensure you see who and what you want to see. Call 630-844-4731 for more specific information.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Sep 25 2007

Last Minute Events

• Jonathan Katz, co-creator of "Dr. Katz: Professional Therapist" on Comedy Central, will be at Quimby's today to promote his first comedy CD, Caffeinated. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave.

Free Shakespeare at Victory Gardens Theater. For one night only, tomorrow, Sept. 26, Victory Gardens Theater will be performing The Completely Inaccurate and Adventurous Adventures of Young William Shakespeare, a new comedic play by Kyle More. And it's FREE. Show starts at 7pm. 2433 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-871-3000 for complete information.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Sep 24 2007

Event Spotlight: Hiding Out Release Party

Jonathan Messinger of Dollar Store and featherproof fame has just put out his first book of short stories and on Thursday you can join him and his friends at the Hideout to celebrate its release. In addition to Messinger, featured guests include comedian Kumail Nanjiani, shadow puppeteer Jill Summers and music from DJ Nathan Keay and His Seven Inches of Love. $5 admission to the 8pm party at 1354 W. Wabansia. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

If you're interested in learning more about Hiding Out, come back later in the week when we'll post our pre-release review of Messinger's debut.

Veronica Bond

Events Tue Sep 18 2007

Event Spotlight: Luis Alberto Urrea @ Lozano Branch Library

Author of our March selection, The Hummingbird's Daughter, Luis Alberto Urrea stops by the Lozano Branch Library on Thursday to discuss his works. The discussion is sponsored by the Chicago Matters: Beyond Borders program which explores the affect immigration has on political, economic and cultural life in Chicago. With his books focusing on his Mexican heritage, Urrea is a perfect speaker for the program. Free at 6:30pm at 1805 S. Loomis St. Call 312-746-4329 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 10 2007

Event Spotlight: Rick Kogan & Charles Osgood @ Book Cellar

If you missed our April book club meeting during which we had the pleasure of listening to Tribune columnist Rick Kogan enlighten us with his memories and love of Chicago and the journalists whose legacies are entwined with the city, here's your second chance. On Wednesday the Book Cellar welcomes Kogan and photographer Charles Osgood for a discussion of their book Sidewalks, a collection of the Kogan/Osgood weekly column. The 7pm event is free and is sure to draw a crowd, so you'd do well to get there a little early. 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Sep 03 2007

Event Spotlight: The Beatles in Contemporary Pop Culture

Perhaps having a bit more to do with music than with literature, on Wednesday the Newberry Library is offering an interesting look at how much the famous British foursome has influenced popular culture both then and now. The literary connection is that this talk stems from June Skinner's work Read the Beatles which looks at the band's careers together and separately. Skinner will be at the Newberry to carry the discussion forth and singer-songwriter Bucky Halker will perform his own interpretations of Beatles classics. Admission is $9 and the 6:15pm talk will be preceded by a 5:30pm reception. The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton; call 312-255-3556 for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 27 2007

Event Spotlight: Storytelling as Cultural Memory

The ability to tell a good story is certainly different from the ability to write a good piece of fiction, but the two often go hand in hand. The art of storytelling has firm roots in the propogation of cultural history and on Wednesday the Chicago Public Library welcomes Ramon Lopez for a discussion on the value of storytelling in cultural identity. In addition to being a storytelling himself, Lopez is also an anthropologist and textile artist whose expertise lies in Afro-Caribbean and Puerto Rican cultural history. His books include Puerto Rican Popular Cultural in the US and A History of Puerto Rican Artisanry, among others. Lopez not only employs storytelling for its entertainment value, but also to preserve memories, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs. The free discussion will take place at the Humbolt Park Library, 1605 N. Troy, from 6pm-9pm and the audience will be invited to share their thoughts.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 20 2007

Event Spotlight: Elizabeth Crane & Funny Ha-Ha

There are not one, but two literary events worth mentioning this week, although they're on the same night so you will be forced to choose between the two.

If you're in the mood for a single-author sort of thing, stop by the Silver Cloud Bar & Grill where Elizabeth Crane will discuss When the Messenger is Hot, her debut collection of short stories. (We read her second book, All This Heavenly Glory earlier in the year.) The event is free and will take place at 6:30pm at 1700 N. Damen.

On the other hand, if you're looking for more of a group thing, head on over to the Hideout where a host of local authors will gather for another installment of Funny Ha-Ha. Claire Zulkey hosts the collection of humorous readings and short films and notables such as Wendy McClure, Mark Bazer, Steve Delahoyde and Alpana Singh will provide their talents. Your $5 admission benefits the Neighborhood Writing Alliance, so you get the funny and a good deed all in one deal. 7pm at 1354 W. Wabansia.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 13 2007

Event Spotlight: MAKE Magazine Issue #5 Release

MAKE Magazine is all about telling stories. Filled with fiction, poetry, essays and art, MAKE's goal is to "expand on the Chicago tradition to entertain and to inform." The magazine publishes quarterly and can be found at Quimby's, Women and Children First, the Seminary Co-op Bookstore, the Book Cellar, Reckless Records, Laurie's Planet of Sound and at many of the literary festivals that occur throughout the year. Past issues have included interviews with notable locals Aleksandar Hemon, Alex Kotlowitz and Adam Langer, as well as numerous pieces by emerging local writers. On Saturday, MAKE celebrates the release of their fifth issue, "City in Biography" at the Hideout with readings from contributors, musical performances and a Hideout Dance Party with DJ Matt Fields.

8:30pm at 1354 W. Wabansia. Admission is $8. Call 773-227-4433 or email info[at]makemag[dot]com for more information.

Veronica Bond

Events Mon Aug 06 2007

Event Spotlight: The Outfit Collective

My Slowdown literary event of the week is the appearance of The Outfit Collective at the Harold Washington Library Center on Tuesday. The Outfit is comprised of seven outstanding local authors — Sara Paretsky, Sean Chercover, Barbara D'Amato, Michael Dymmoch, Libby Hellman, Kevin Guilfoile and Marcus Sakey, and they are all scheduled to attend this discussion to talk about their work. You can also read their thoughts about writing, Chicago and many other topics on The Outfit Collective blog.

Tuesday, August 7. 6pm. Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.). Free.

Alice Maggio

Events Wed Jun 06 2007

GB Book Club Guide to the Printers Row Book Fair

What's the Printers Row Book Fair, you ask, and why are we at the Book Club so excited about it? Founded in 1985 for the purpose of attracting people to the Printers Row neighborhood, the Book Fair is the largest free outdoor literary event in the city, and quite possibly in the entire Midwest. The fair spans two days and five city blocks, bringing in more than 190 sellers of new, used and antiquarian books, and offering over 90 free literary programs. Author readings and panel discussions are held over eleven stages, and each author stays after the event to offer visitors the chance to have their books signed. This is a great place to get acquainted with the city's numerous independent booksellers as well as local publishers and literacy and cultural organizations that make the Chicago literary scene as vibrant as it is. But the best part is that it's all free, accessible to anyone and everyone. That's exactly the way literature should be.

With so many author events and book tents, navigating the Printers Row Book Fair can be a daunting task. Below we've created a guide to the fair, highlighting authors of past Book Club selections, other notable local author events and booksellers we've come to know and love. By no means exhaustive, we hope this will provide a little guidance to Printers Row newcomers or to anyone revisiting the fair who just needs a little help deciding where to go.

* * *

If you've been keeping up with the Book Club picks, Printers Row offers a great chance to see some of these authors in person.

Erik Larson – Saturday at 12pm in the University Center River Room/Loop Room
Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City was a huge hit and it was nearly impossible to avoid seeing someone reading it wherever you went. Based on the two true stories of America's first serial killer, H.H. Holmes, and Daniel Burnham's struggle to build the 1893 World's Fair, the book is steeped in mystery and suspense, made even more so by the knowledge that everything actually transpired. Lessons on Chicago history that would otherwise be boring are vibrant and convincing in Larson's hands. Larson is also the author of Isaac's Storm, about a massive hurricane that hit Galveston, Texas, and more recently Thunderstruck, which revisits the dichotomy between a killer and a genius. You can read our August 2006 introduction to The Devil in White City here.

Amy Krouse Rosenthal – Saturday at 12pm in the Chicago Tribune Kids Alley
Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life put the traditional idea of a memoir on its head. Less about the big, important events that shape a life, Rosenthal focuses on the minute and sometimes mundane details that come together to truly make us who we are. Krouse's work can also be found in the children's section, with Little Pea making an appearance in a well-seen Banana Republic ad. Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life made for an excellent June 2006 selection.

Audrey Niffenegger – Saturday at 1:20pm in the University Center/Private Dining Room
What can you say about a man who travels through time to ensure that he ends up with the love of his life? If you've read The Time Traveler's Wife, you can say that you've probably fallen a little bit in love with the story of Henry and Clare, the former of whom is afflicted with a genetic disorder that causes him to fall through time. It's the perfect combination of science fiction and romance that leans just far enough to each side to create a cohesive and captivating story. The Time Traveler's Wife was Audrey Niffenegger's debut and she's since authored the illustrated novels The Three Incestuous Sisters and The Adventuress. The Time Traveler's Wife was one of our earliest picks, coming in at number three in June 2005.

Studs Terkel in conversation with Rick Kogan – Saturday at 3:15pm in the Harold Washington Library Center Cindy Pritzker Auditorium
It's impossible to go wrong with Studs Terkel. One of the most influential figures in sociology and the practice of oral histories, Terkel has written numerous books on race, war, economic divides and social structures and hosted his own radio show. He has been a film narrator, movie actor, playwright, sportscaster, civil service employee and winner of the Pulitzer Prize. At 95 he is still an engaging speaker. This event is ticketed so be sure to reserve your spot as chairs are likely to fill up fast. Many of us made our introduction to Terkel with Division Street: America in February 2006. Rick Kogan is an award-winning Chicago journalist and host of "Sunday Papers with Rick Kogan" on WGN radio. Kogan is also the author of A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse, and the American Dream, which was a big hit when he joined us to discuss his book at our April 2007 book club meeting.

Elizabeth Berg – Sunday at 4pm in the Heartland Stage presented by Barnes & Noble
Elizabeth Berg is the author of ten novels, all of which have become national bestsellers and one of which was chosen to be a part of Oprah's book club. Her debut novel, Durable Goods, was named Best Book of the Year by the American Library Association in 1993. Berg's attention to detail and focus on emotions make her novels – which often focus on the minutiae of family and everyday life – realistic and touching. The Year of Pleasures follows a woman who has just lost her husband as she struggles to regain some normalcy and was our May 2007 book club selection.

* * *

Though all the author events at the fair will be worth attending, below are a few events with local authors that are sure to inspire.

Sara Paretsky
Saturday, 12pm in the Harold Washington Library Cindy Pritzker Auditorium

Sara Paretsky is one of the city's most notable and noticed mystery writers. Her series of books focusing on female private eye V.I. Warshawski has been translated into nearly thirty languages. Her latest book, Writing in an Age of Silence, takes a look at the repression of free speech in the U.S. and the traditions of political and literary dissent that have influenced her life and work.

Criminal Minds: C.J. Box, Marcus Sakey & Sean Chercover moderated by Kevin Guilfoile
Saturday, 2:30pm in the University Center/Private Dining Room

Book Club author Kevin Guilfoile leads three local writers in a discussion of the mystery and crime genre. C.J. Box is the author of eight novels and has won numerous awards, including an Edgar Award, and has been featured in the Best American Mystery Stories series. Marcus Sakey's debut novel, The Blade Itself, led the author to shadow homicide detectives in the name of research and was a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice. Sean Chercover was once a private investigator in Chicago and New Orleans and has written for film, television and print. His debut novel is Big City, Bad Blood.

Drawings on a Page – Anne Elizabeth Moore & Anders Nilsen in conversation with Julia Keller
Saturday, 3:30pm at Hotel Blake in the Burnham Room

Punk Planet editor, Best American Comics series editor and contributor to Bitch magazine, the Chicago Reader and the Journal of Popular Culture and more, Anne Elizabeth Moore joins comic artist Anders Nilsen, who has been published by Drawn & Quarterly, Fantagraphics and McSweeney's.

Murder Most Foul – Jeffery Deaver & Lori Andrews moderated by Kevin Guilfoile
Sunday, 11am at the Nelson Algren Stage

Kevin Guilfoile returns for a conversation with two more local mystery writers. Jeffrey Deaver has been a poet, a journalist, a lawyer and, since 1990, an author of mystery and suspense. With twenty-two books to his name, Deaver's novels have been translated into 35 languages and have been international bestsellers. In addition to being an award-winning writer, Lori Andrews is also a law professor and the director of the Institute for Science, Law and Technology at the Illinois Institute of Technology. An expert on genetics and law, Andrews was chosen to chair the federal advisory committee for legal, ethical and social implications of the Human Genome Project.

American Heritage Dictionary Define-A-Thon
Sunday, 2pm at the Nelson Algren Stage

This just sounds like fun. A word-based competition, the American Heritage Dictionary Define-A-Thon goes way beyond the spelling bee to test the intimate knowledge of English word use. The game will give each contestant a definition and several possible answers, with each contestant picking the right one to progress to the next round. For the first time ever, it may be fun to read the dictionary.


* * *

Below are booksellers and publishers who work tirelessly to keep Chicago literature dynamic and exciting through the publication of commendable books and the support they offer to local authors, both established and unknown. They are simply the ones we have come to know and love. (Sidewalk/tent placement is listed next to each name.)

Barbara's Bookstore – PP4
Barbara's Bookstore opened its doors in 1963 and has grown to occupy several stores throughout Chicago, from Macy's on State St. to UIC to Oak Park. Though wholly independent, Barbara's has since expanded to New York, Minneapolis, Boston and Philadelphia. They feature a great array of fiction, nonfiction and local writings as well as playing host to numerous up and coming and established writers. Multiple locations; call 312-666-3161 for information.

Bookworks – 152, 154
This Lakeview used bookstore offers not only contemporary reads and literary classics, but also out-of-print and rare books and used and rare recordings. Genres include cookbooks, philosophy, science fiction, children's books, humor, pop culture and more. Their online store provides a useful tool for out of town fans of the store or anyone who wants to avoid ordering from the big chain sellers. 3444 N. Clark St.; call 773-871-5318 for information.

Chicago Rare Book Center – C4
Located in Evanston, this used bookstore is for the serious rare book collector. Focusing on children's books, modern literature, jazz and blues, art, Chicago, Americana and bindings and sets, the store also gives the opportunity to search for and purchase rare books online. They'll also buy your rare books from you, offering their own appraisal service. 703 W. Washington St. in Evanston; call 847-328-2132 for information.

Featherproof Books – 333
A local, independent publisher, Featherproof's most unique aspect is the free mini-books they feature on their website. They're downloadable, foldable, staple-able and ready to carry in your back pocket everywhere. This young publisher has also put out three full-size books, with one more to come out in the fall. In the world of independent publishing, these guys are ones to watch.

Illinois Women's Press Association – FF
Founded in 1185, the Illinois Women's Press Association is an organization of professionals who work to maintain and improve the standards of mass communication in the state. Members are privy to job announcements, regular newsletters and valuable networking opportunities. The IWPA's own book fair occurs every fall. Call 312-458-9151 for information.

Kate the Great's Book Emporium – G2
Named for the Russian Empress Katherine the Great, Kate the Great's houses new books as well as used, out-of-print and rare collectibles. They even offer a Recycle & Save special, allowing visitors to bring in up to 15 books to be evaluated and traded in for store credit. With plenty of free readings and literary events, Kate is an Edgewater must-stop. 5550 N. Broadway; call 773-561-1932 for information.

Lake Claremont Press – DD1
Lake Claremont Press publishes some of the most in-depth and well-researched books about the city. Learn about Chicago ghostlore and graveyards, brush on the great Chicago fires, take in a drink and a burger at the infamous Billy Goat Tavern or pick up one of their guidebooks, such as those catering to foodies, blues fans and gays and lesbians. Lake Claremont celebrates Chicago in a way that only a true lover of the city can.

McSweeney's Publishing – PP2
Although McSweeney's doesn't publish in Chicago, we're all too happy to play up the connection between Chicago-born, Lake Forest-bred Dave Eggers, founder of McSweeney's the literary magazine and its publishing counterpart. McSweeney's has published several unknown authors who have gone on to literary success, proving that independent literature should be both great and accessible.

Powell's Bookstore – U
Everyone knows Powell's from their massive Portland location, but few know that it started right here in Hyde Park. With two other locations – one in Printers Row and the other in Lakeview – Powell's has some of the greatest used and remained books for impossible to beat prices. Each store has its own feel and focuses on slightly different genres, meaning that everyone favors one particular store and will go out of their way to visit it. The Powell's North location also holds a monthly reading series, matching established writers with rising local talent. 2850 N. Lincoln Ave; 773-248-1444. 828 S. Wabash, 312-341-0748. 1501 E. 57th St., 773-955-7780.

The Book Cellar – HH3
Home to the Gapers Block Book Club, the Book Cellar holds some of the greatest free literary events in the city. They've held readings from many authors, including Studs Terkel and Alpana Singh, hold their own monthly book club discussion group, encourage romance with their Date and Dash nights and every month give a platform to emerging writers with their Local Author Night. Their events schedule alone is a must-read and the welcoming staff makes an everyday visit a great time. 4736 N. Lincoln Ave.; call 773-293-2665 for information.

The Newberry Library – 142
The Newberry Library has always been free and open to public and is one of the leading independent research libraries in the nation. With classes, lectures, exhibits, concerts and other public programming, the Newberry holds treasures for everyone interested in the humanities. The Newberry also holds its own book fair every July, accompanied by music, poetry and debates in the neighboring square. 60 W. Walton St.; call 312-255-3510 for information.

Women & Children First – PP1
In addition to being a general fiction bookstore, Women & Children First is also one the best places to pick up literature on feminism and gender studies. The women-owned store offers its own book club, free events with everyone from Erica Jong to the women of Bitch magazine, and the Women's Voices Fund, which works to preserve the discussion of feminist issues and culture and nurture children's interest in books. 5233 N. Clark St.; call 773-769-9299 for information.

* * *

The Printers Row Book Fair is held in the Printers Row neighborhood, in the blocks surrounding the intersection of Dearborn and Polk streets. Call 312-222-3986 for more information or visit their website at www.chicagotribune.com/about/custom/events/printersrow/.

Veronica Bond

Events Wed May 23 2007

Sara Gruen @ W&CF

Sara Gruen is appearing tonight at 7:30pm at Women & Children First (5233 N Clark St.). Gruen is the author of our upcoming August book club selection, Water for Elephants, which quickly became a surprise indie bestseller when it was published last year.

Alice Maggio

Events Thu Feb 22 2007

History of Beer in Chicago

Last minute event alert: Bob Skilnik, the author of Beer: The History of Beer and Brewing in Chicago, 1833–1978, is appearing tonight at the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St.) to talk about researching "Chicago’s beer-soaked past." The lecture is part of the library's genealogy events series. It is a free event, and it starts at 6pm.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Feb 19 2007

The Audible Ballad of the Whiskey Robber

Biographer Julian Rubenstein's already got an interesting idea in his non-fiction book, Ballad of the Whiskey Robber, in which he follows a Transylvanian bank robber named Attila Ambrus who makes his way over to Hungary and ends up on a hockey team. But Rubenstein steps it up a bit with the release of the book's accompaniment CD, a special audio performance featuring the talents of Jonathan Ames, Eric Bogosian, Gary Shteyngart, Tommy Ramone, Demetri Martin, Mary Birdsong and more. The CD also includes musical performances from five bands around the world who have composed tributes to Attila, who now resides in a Hungarian prison. It's not quite your usual audio adaptation -- more like a well-thought out audio enhancement. The CD is not for sale in stores (you can purchase it at audible[dot]com or iTunes), but you can pick one up for free at Rubenstein's Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park reading on Tuesday (details in Slowdown) or listen to samples on Rubenstein's home page.

Veronica Bond

Events Sat Jan 27 2007

Love is Murder

The Love is Murder conference returns next weekend, Feb. 2-4, at the Wyndham O'Hare hotel in Rosemont. The conference, which is now in its ninth year, is for "fans, authors, and aspiring writers of mysteries, romantic suspense, horror and thrillers." This year's event is scheduled to include appearances by Anne Perry, Nancy Pickard, Max Allan Collins and many others. Check out the website for full conference details.

Alice Maggio

Events Mon Jul 31 2006

Booked in Chicago: 7/31—8/6

Stay cool this week by checking out some of these great literary events happening around town.

Monday: 7/31
Twilight Tales @ Red Lion Pub
The long-running Twilight Tales reading series takes place tonight at the Red Lion Pub (2446 N. Lincoln Ave.). This week's open mike event will be dedicated to writer Mickey Spillane, who recently passed away. 7:30pm. $4 suggested donation.

Tuesday: 8/1
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
Funny Ha-Ha returns! Claire Zulkey, Eric Spitznagel, Mimi Smartypants, John Green and many others are scheduled to appear for this reading event at the Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia). 7pm. $5 suggested donation. See Slowdown for details.

Wednesday: 8/2
Reading Under the Influence @ Sheffield's
RUI also returns this week with another full night of alcohol-fueled readings. This month's event at Sheffield's (3258 N. Sheffield) is scheduled to include writers Jotham Burrello, Drew Bazini, Darwyn Jones and Allison Spangenberg, among others. 7pm. $3. [Slowdown]

Thursday: 8/3
Lip @ The Spot
Lip is a new reading series from the Poetry Center of Chicago "dedicated to emerging writers and performers." Tonight Lip takes place at The Spot (4437 N. Broadway). Participants will include Dave Awl and Mike Kadela. 8pm. $5 admission.

Saturday: 8/5
God Does Not Eat Meat @ Quimby's
Arthur Poletti, the author of God Does Not Eat Meat, a novel that envisions a future in which Americans no longer eat meat, will be appearing at Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) to talk about his controversial book. 7pm. Free.

Sunday: 8/6
Used Book Sale @ Women & Children First
Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark St.) is having its first used book sale this weekend. Saturday and Sunday, 10am-6pm. [Slowdown]

Alice Maggio

Events Fri Jul 28 2006

Calling All Booklovers

It's that time of the year again — time to run, not walk, to the Newberry Library Book Fair. The fair has thousands and thousands of books, organized by category, and spread over the entire main floor. Most of the books are only $2 or less — including hardcover books in near mint condition! Admission to the book fair is free, and it runs today from noon to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am-6pm. Also, on Sunday all the remaining books are half-price. Visit the Newberry website for more information.

Alice Maggio

Events Wed Jul 19 2006

La Tienda Dolar and Library Opening

There are a couple more interesting events that have popped up that I thought you might enjoying having brought to your attention. The first is a special Dollar Store reading held at the Rudy Lozano Branch Library in Pilsen. What makes it special is that this reading will be bilingual, with authors Tanya Saracho and Ignacio de Alba and a translated reading of a Jonathan Messinger original. 7pm at 1805 S. Loomis on Thursday. (And after that you can catch a bus with the Dollar Store crew to head to the Double Door for the Printers' Ball. Thursday's just chock full of literary things to do.)

The second is the opening of the Bucktown/Wicker Park Branch of the Chicago Public Library, situated at 1701 N. Milwaukee. Maylor Daley and others will be there for the dedication ceremony and the reception that follows, starting at 10:30am on Friday. The opening is free and open to the public, so if you've got the morning free go and celebrate the city bringing the books to the people.

Veronica Bond

Events Sun Jul 16 2006

Booked in Chicago: 7/17-7/23

Monday: 7/17
"Brokeback Locker Room" @ Harold Washington Library
In celebration of the Gay Games, author and NY Times columnist Robert Lipsyte moderates a discussion of gays and lesbians in sports. Free at 6:30pm. [Slowdown]

Tuesday: 7/18
"The Commercial Closet" @ Harold Washington Library
Also in acknowledgement of the Gay Games, the Harold Washington Library is holding a talk on the history of queer representation in marketing media through the past 30 years. Free at 6pm. [Slowdown]

Wednesday: 7/19
Local Author Night @ Book Cellar
Elizabeth Crane, Melissa Fraterrigo, David Case and Iris Waichler stop at the Book Cellar for their regular local authors series. Free at 7pm. [Slowdown]

Thursday: 7/20
Voices from Home: Local Authors Speak
The Friends of the Blackstone Branch Library host Elizabeth Fama for their regular series of local author readings. 4909 S. Lake Park Ave at 3pm. [Slowdown]

2nd Annual Printers' Ball
Local prints abound at the Double Door tonight. Come check out publications from Punk Planet, Make Magazine, Newcity, Featherproof Books and more and get to know the great people who keep local, independent publishing alive. Free at 8pm. [Slowdown]

Powell's North Reading Series
This month Powell's hosts Kathy Regina, Amanda Traxler and feature poet Srikanth Reddy. Free at 7pm. [Slowdown]

Friday: 7/21
Saturation Series: Youth, Innocence & Doubt
Featuring new writing, film, music and thought, this month's series focuses on the "joys and troubles of childhood." 8pm at South Union Arts, 1352 S. Union. [Slowdown]

Saturday: 7/22
Dragon Boat Race for Literacy
Magnificent races in dragon boats along the Chicago River in China Town. Admission is free to the races and the food, games, crafts and performances throughout the day. 9am-4pm. [Slowdown]

Veronica Bond

Events Sun Jul 02 2006

Booked in Chicago: 7/3-7/9

Monday: 7/3
Jello Biafra @ Lakeshore Theater
Jello Biafra, former lead singer of the Dead Kennedys does the spoken word thing at The Lakeshore Theater tonight at 7pm. Tickets are $12. [Slowdown]

Tuesday: 7/4
Poetry Wheel Night @ The Café
Participants are encourage to bring "lots of poems" because each poem read must link with the poem that came before. The Café is at 5115 N. Lincoln Ave., and the event begins at 8pm. Free. Call 773-275-5025 for more information.

Wednesday: 7/5
RUI: Reading Under the Influence @ Sheffield's
Special guest Sam Weller joins Frank Crist, Jenny Seay, Charlie Vlahogiannis, Nicholas Ladendorf and more for a night of alcohol-fueled readings. 7pm at Sheffield's (3258 N. Sheffield Ave.). $3 cover. [Slowdown]

Thursday: 7/6
Melissa Fraterrigo @ Women & Children First
Local writer Melissa Fraterrigo reads from her new collection of short stories, The Longest Pregnancy, at Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark St.). 7:30pm. Free. [Slowdown]

Friday: 7/7
First Friday Lecture @ Chicago Cultural Center
University of Chicago instructor Claudia Traudt will be discussing pain and love in the works of William Faulkner today at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) in the Cassidy Theater. 12:15pm. Free. Visit the Cultural Center website for more information.

Saturday: 7/8
Millennium Park: Creating a Chicago Landmark @ Newberry Library
Author Timothy Gilfoyle talks about his critcally acclaimed new book which traces the history of the Millennium Park area from the 19th century to the present. This free event takes place at the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St.). 11am. [Slowdown]

Sunday: 7/9
Alison Bechdel @ Women & Children First
Cartoonist Alison Bechdel reads from her new "tragicomic," Fun Home, at Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark St.). 4:30pm. Free. [Slowdown]

Alice Maggio

Events Sun Jun 25 2006

Booked in Chicago: 6/26-7/2

Running through the entire summer, the University of Chicago's Regenstein Library is holding a book sale, offering their used volumes for insanely cheap prices. Head down to Hyde Park and start your personal academic library today.

As always, more information on these events can be found in the lovely and amazing Slowdown. Click on the provided links to get there.

Tuesday: 6/27
Richard Brookhiser @ Harold Washington Library
Brookhiser discusses and signs his latest book What Would the Founders Do?: Our Questions, Their Answers. Free and open to the public at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. [Slowdown]

Julius Rosenwald Biographer @ Newberry Library
Peter M. Ascoli, Rosenwald's grandson, discusses his new biography profiling one of the major architects and philanthropists in Chicago history. Free at 6pm at the Newberry Library. [Slowdown]

Wednesday: 6/28
Lori Andrews @ Chicago Public Library
Combining thrillers with biotechnology, Lori Andrews reads and signs her latest novel, Sequence, at 5:30pm at the Harold Washington Library. Free. [Slowdown]

Thursday: 6/29
Field Guide to Gay and Lesbian Chicago @ Women & Children First
The authors of this latest Chicago guide will be at Women & Children First to celebrate and read from their new release. Join them for the wine and cheese and question and answer sessions. Free from 7:30-9pm. [Slowdown]

Audrey Niffenegger & Sam Weller @ Book Cellar
Not only do we love us some Book Cellar, but we're also pretty big fans of past Book Club author Audrey Niffenegger and Ray Bradbury biographer Sam Weller. Head to our meeting spot to listen to the two discuss their works, both past and future. Free at 7:30pm. [Slowdown]

Saturday: 7/1
Drinking & Writing III @ Edgewater Lounge
Got a little Hemmingway in ya? Join Neo-Futurist alums for the latest version of Drinking and Writing, a look at how the two practices help each other. $10 at Edgewater Lounge, 7pm. [Slowdown]

Veronica Bond

Events Sun Jun 18 2006

Booked in Chicago: 6/19-6/25

Every Sunday Booked in Chicago will highlight some of the literary and books related events happening around the city in the coming week. For a more complete list of area events, see the Slowdown calendar on the Gapers Block homepage.

Monday: 6/19
Music with Meaning 7 @ Quimby's
Readings from Brian Costello (author of The Enchanters vs. Sprawlburg Springs), Jim Derogatis (Chicago Sun-Times music critic), Jessica Hopper (Punk Planet columnist), blogger J.R. Nelson and Amy Phillips (Pitchfork Media editor). 7pm. See Slowdown for details.

Tuesday: 6/20
Wine and Words benefit @ Heartland Cafe
Meet "Check Please!" host Alpana Singh, plus local authors Charles Blackstone, Gina Frangello and Cris Mazza at this benefit event for 826CHI. See Slowdown for details.

Wednesday: 6/21
Local Author Night @ The Book Cellar
Meet Amy Krouse Rosenthal, author of our June book club pick The Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, tonight at The Book Cellar as she joins fellow authors Sean Callahan, Esme Raji Codell and Aaron Reynold to talk about their children's books. This free event begins at 7pm. Visit Slowdown for more information.

Thursday: 6/22
Midwestern Ladies Auxiliary Love Revue @ The Hideout
Join authors Jami Attenberg, Emily Flake, Hana Schank and Wendy McClure, author of our November 2005 book club pick I'm Not the New Me, for an evening of readings at the Hideout. Admission is $5 and proceeds benefit the Rainbow House. The event begins at 7pm, and you can visit Slowdown for more details.

Friday: 6/23
River Forest Public Library Book Sale
The Friends of the River Forest Public Library kick off their biennial book sale tonight from 6-9pm at the River Forest Public Library. There is a $5 entrance fee, and all proceeds from the sale go to benefit the library. So, stock up on your summer reading. The library is located at 735 Lathrop Ave. in suburban River Forest. Visit the library website for complete book sale details.

Saturday: 6/24
A Celebration of the Life and Times of Barney Ross @ Barbara's Bookstore
Meet Douglas Century, author of a new biography about local boxer Barney Ross, as part of a full day of events paying tribute to the life of the boxer on Chicago's Near West Side. See Slowdown for details.

Sunday: 6/25
Sunday Salon @ Charleston
Writers Charles Blackstone, Paul Jones and Ted Grossman are the participants in this month's Sunday Salon series at the Charleston bar in Bucktown. The event begins at 7:30pm, and you can get the details in Slowdown.

Alice Maggio

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Book Club is the literary section of Gapers Block, covering Chicago's authors, poets and literary events. More...

Editor: Andrew Huff, ah@gapersblock.com
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