August 10, 2008

Chicago Poems: The Individual and the Mass in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum

This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Amid John Sloan's artwork, read from Carl Sandburg’s Chicago Poems (1916) and then take part in an informal book-club-style conversation comparing Sandburg’s and Sloan’s depictions of crowds and individuals in the modern city. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.

July 31, 2008

Daily Candy Lexicon @ Book Cellar

Expand your vocabulary with the editors of Daily Candy Lexicon: Words That Don't Exist But Should. The book is a glossary of clever words you've never heard and the latest hip expressions. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 30, 2008

Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout

It's ladies night at Funny Ha-Ha, which returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 7pm with an (almost) all-female lineup! The show will include readings by author/blogger Wendy McClure, renowned blogger Mimi Smartpyants, 2nd Story reading series curator Megan Stielstra, Chicagoist editor and Time Out critic Margaret Lyons, How Far is the Ocean from Here author Amy Shearn, plus comedy from Lincoln Lodge regular Cameron Esposito and short films (with a feminine bent) by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted by local blogger Claire Zulkey. $5 suggested donation with proceeds benefiting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+

July 30, 2008

Story in Graphics Night @ Book Cellar

Tonight's Story in Graphics Night features graphic novelists Josh Elder, Chris Burnham, Tim Broderick and Jeffrey Brown. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 25, 2008

Christian Lander @ Book Cellar

Christian Lander, of Stuff White People Like fame, comes to the Book Cellar tonight to read from and discuss his book based on the site. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 24, 2008

Poetry Night @ Book Cellar

Come to the Book Cellar tonight for an evening of free poetry readings. Tonight's featured poets are Kathleen Rooney, Cheri Taylor, Gregg Shapiro and Kate Dougherty. 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 23, 2008

Learn to Write Crime Stories @ Book Cellar

Author Michael Harvey (The Chicago Way) will conduct a crime writing class today at the Book Cellar. The free class is presented as part of Time Out Chicago's short crime fiction writing contest. 5pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 19, 2008

Elizabeth Royte @ Chicago Public Library

Journalist and author Elizabeth Royte will read from and sign her book, Garbage Land: On the Secret Trail of Trash, at the Budlong Woods Library, 5630 N. Lincoln Ave., at 1pm today as part of the "Chicago Matters: Growing Forward" series.

July 19, 2008

Hill Harper @ Woodson Regional Library

Actor and author Hill Harper will be at the Carter G. Woodson Regional Library, 9525 S. Halsted St., at 2pm today to discuss and sign his new novel, Letters to a Young Sister: DeFINE Your Destiny, the follow-up to his national bestseller, Letters to a Young Brother. Free.

July 18, 2008

Ann O'Farrell @ Book Cellar

Author Ann O'Farrell comes to the Book Cellar tonight to read from and discuss her new book Michael, the sequel to her first novel Norah's Children. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 17, 2008

Richard Roeper Booksigning @ Barnes & Noble

Sun-Times columnist Richard Roeper signs copies of his latest book, Debunked!, tonight from 7:30pm to 9pm at the Barnes & Noble at Webster Place, 1441 W. Webster. Free.

July 17, 2008

Ethan Canin @ Book Cellar

Author Ethan Canin comes to the Book Cellar tonight to read from and discuss his new book America, America. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 16, 2008

Local Author Night @ Book Cellar

Join Chicago authors Libby Hellman (Easy Innocence), Margot Justes (A Hotel in Paris), Francine Friedman (MatchDotBomb) and Jess Riley (Driving Sideways) for another installment of the Book Cellar's Local Author Night. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 16, 2008

Erotics for Weirdos @ Rec Room

Reconstruction Room's biweekly reading series gets sexy with "
Erotics for Weirdos: The Aesthetics of the Everyday in the Erotic Imagination," curated by Olivia Cronk. This show will include readings, performance art and other sexiness. 8pm at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen.

July 14, 2008

Gapers Block Book Club Meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing Free Burning by Bayo Ojikutu. The meeting begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome! Hope to see you there. Visit the official book club blog for more information.

July 13, 2008

Sister Carrie: Women in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum

This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Discuss Theodore Dreiser’s 1900 novel Sister Carrie and compare the book’s representation of women at work and rest on the streets of Chicago to Sloan’s depiction of female figures in turn-of-the-century New York. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.

July 13, 2008

Talking With Your Mouth Full: New Language for Socially Engaged Art @ ThreeWalls

Small Publications Book Fair with local publications by The Green Lantern Press, InCUBATE, AREA Chicago, Lumpen, and others. InCUBATE hosts Sunday Soup. The more art slides between convention and social action, sculpture and public performance, art and the everyday, the more complicated it is to talk about. As socially engaged art rides the boundaries of multiple subjects simultaneously, historians, critics, and other artists must develop multifaceted responses. To discuss projects that include a broad and unfolding web of topics such as art, racial politics, and gender is to speak in many voices all at the same time. The aim of Talking with Your Mouth Full is to contribute language to the critical framework for these projects in an effort to refine discussions around socially engaged art. Through tomorrow. 1-5 p.m. 119 N. Peoria, #2D. For more info, visit the Website.

July 11, 2008

Interview Show @ The Hideout

Mark Bazer's "Interview Show" returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. Tonight's lineup includes interviews with Rick Perlstein, author of Nixonland, Jon Langford of the Mekons and Waco Brothers, and John Williams, WGN Radio midday talk-show host. Hip hop artist C.O. and Langford will perform. Just $5 at the door. 21+

July 11, 2008

Lumpen 17th Anniversary Action

Lumpen turns 17 with a party at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., tonight from 7pm to 2am. Pick up issue #109, the 1968-2008 redux issue, and check out an installation of all the past issues and related projects, as well as 1968 ephemera and posters. Plus videos, karaoke, performances by Pure Magical Love, Fought and a secret special guest, and more. $5 donation requested.

July 11, 2008

Billie Letts @ Book Cellar

Author Billie Letts (of the famed Where the Heart Is) comes to the Book Cellar tonight to read from and discuss her new book Made in the USA. Free at 3pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 11, 2008

Rick Lax @ Book Cellar

Author Rick Lax comes to the Book Cellar tonight to discuss his new memoir Lawyer Boy: A Case Study on Growing Up. A magic show by the author follows the reading and discussion. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 10, 2008

Great Books Trivia Night @ Book Cellar

Test your knowledge of the great books tonight from 8:30 to 10pm at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. For more information, call 312-235-3543 or email info@shimer.edu.

July 10, 2008

Carol LaChapelle @ Women & Children First

Carol LaChapelle stops by Women & Children First to dicuss her book, Finding Your Voice, Telling Your Stories: 167 Ways to Tell Your Life Stories. The book is a collection of LaChapelle's experiences teaching the craft of memoir writing. Students who have particpated in LaChapelle's workshops in the past will also join her in the discussion. Free at 7pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

July 10, 2008

Great Books Trivia Night @ Book Cellar

Come to the Book Cellar tonight to test your literary wits with fellow fans and students of the Great Books. Hosted by Shimer College, an independent college dedicated to developing critical thought and interpersonal communication through careful reading of the Great Books. Free at 8:30pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 10, 2008

Salman Rushdie @ Harold Washington Library

Highly acclaimed novelist and Booker Prize winner Salman Rushdie comes to the Harold Washington Library tonight to read from and his discuss his latest work The Enchantress of Florence. The 6pm talk is free and open to the public and a booksigning will follow (no more than two books per person). 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

July 09, 2008

Stephanie Kuehnert @ Women & Children First

Author Stephanie Kuehnert stops by Women & Children First to dicuss her novel, I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone. The book follows Emily Black's journey to reconnect with her mother, a social outcast who abandoned her at four months old to follow a punk rock dream. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

July 09, 2008

Steve Kluger @ Book Cellar

Author Steve Kluger comes to the Book Cellar to discuss his latest novel, My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, and Fenway Park. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

July 02, 2008

Wendy Bilen @ Women & Children First

Author Wendy Bilen stops by Women & Children First to dicuss her memoir, Finding Josie. The book traces the life of Bilen's grandmother as the author struggles to find meaning in her own life as a thirty-five year old, childless, newly married woman. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

July 01, 2008

Lisa Holewa @ Women & Children First

Noted journalist Lisa Holewa stops by Women & Children First to dicuss her latest work, What Kindergarten Teachers Know. Co-authored wtih Joan Rice, the book is focused on providing parents with practical advice to get their children to cooperate at home as they do with their favorite teachers. Free at 6:45pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

June 26, 2008

Jessica Abel & Matt Madden @ 57th Street Books

Jessica Abel and Matt Madden will be at 57th Street Books to talk about their book Drawing Words & Writing Pictures: Making Comics from Manga to Graphic Novels. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

June 26, 2008

THE2NDHAND Release Party @ Ronny's

THE2NDHAND celebrates the release of its 28th issue with a shotgun wedding tonight at 8pm at Ronny's, 2103 N. California. Chicago Editor C.T.Ballentine will preside over the ceremony, alongside Fred Sasaki, Jacob Knabb, Jill Summers, Susie Kirkwood, Chris Bower and our maid of honor, Lauren Pretnar. The Spectacles will be the wedding band, and there're $2 PBR cans at the "reception" afterwards. It's $6 at the door, 21 and over.

June 25, 2008

Grandmaster Flash @ International House

Grandmaster Flash will be at International House, sponsored by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his book The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash: My Life, My Beats. Free. 6pm. 1414 E. 59th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

June 22, 2008

2nd Story Pride Show @ @motsphere

The 2nd Story monthly performance series holds yet another performance in June, this one a special Pride performance benefiting the Chicagoland theater community's fundraising effort Season of Concern. Tonight's event features storytellers Byron Flitsch, Deb Lewis and Sharon Greene. The show happens tonight at @mosphere (5355 N. Clark), doors open at 7:00, and admission is $10. See the 2nd Story Website for complete details.

June 21, 2008

June Jamboree Benefit for Literacy Works

The June Jamboree will help Literacy Works, a non-profit organization that offers support to literacy agencies in more than 30 communities throughout the Chicago area, raise much-needed funds to support its work in advancing adult and family literacy. The evening is packed with fun for the entire family, including live music by the Northside Southpaws, plus Henna tattoos, a caricature artist, food and a silent auction. Tickets are $25.00 for adults if purchased in advance, or $30.00 at the door. Children 12 and under are $5.00. To purchase tickets in advance please call 773-334-8255 or email Christine@litworks.org. 6-9pm. North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 North Pulaski Road.

June 18, 2008

Local Author Night @ The Book Cellar

Writers Connie Fairbanks, Jonathan Miles, Howard Johnson and Anastasia Royal are scheduled to participate in this month's installment of Local Author Night at The Book Cellar to read from and talk about their latest work. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

June 18, 2008

Karen Abbott @ 57th Street Books

Karen Abbott will be at 57th Street Books to talk about her book Sin in the Second City: Madams, Ministers, Playboys, & the Battle for America's Soul. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

June 16, 2008

Mental Graffiti Poetry Slam @ Funky Buddha

Mental Graffiti presents an open mic and open poetry slam at the Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand., featuring poet, musician, author and slam champion Bonafide Rojas. Poet Jon Sands will read after the slam. Doors open at 7:30pm, show starts at 8pm. $5 cover, 21+.

June 15, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Today is the last day of the sale, so all books (except rare books) are 50 cents. Free. 10am to 5pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 15, 2008

The Jungle: Labor and Leisure in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum

This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Hear excerpts from Upton Sinclair’s 1906 novel The Jungle and take part in an informal conversation comparing the novel’s representation of work and working-class life in Chicago to John Sloan’s depiction of life on the streets of turn-of-the-century New York. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.

June 14, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 13, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 12, 2008

David Sedaris @ Barbara's Bookstore at UIC

David Sedaris will be at Barbara's Bookstore at UIC to talk about his book When You are Engulfed in Flames. The event will be limited to 100 customers with tickets. Tickets will be given out on a first-come first-serve basis at the store, with the purchase of one copy of the book, after it is released on June 3rd. 7:30pm. 1218 S. Halsted St. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

June 12, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 11, 2008

David Sedaris @ Borders Evanston

David Sedaris will be at Borders Evanston to talk about his new book When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Free. 7:30pm. 1700 Maple Avenue in Evanston. Call 847-733-8852 for more information.

June 11, 2008

Julia Keller @ Newberry Library

Julia Keller will be at the The Newberry Library to talk about her book Mr. Gatling's Terrible Marvel: The Gun That Changed Everything and the Misunderstood Genius Who Invented It. Free. 6pm. 60 W. Walton St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

June 11, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 10, 2008

Ahmed Rashid @ International House

Ahmed Rashid will be at International House, sponsored by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his book Descent into Chaos: The United States and the Failure of Nation Building in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. Free. 6pm. 1414 E. 59th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

June 10, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 09, 2008

Gapers Block Book Club Meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing Naked by David Sedaris. The meeting begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome! Hope to see you there. Visit the official book club blog for more information.

June 09, 2008

Eric Etheridge @ 57th Street Books

Eric Etheridge will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Breach of Peace: Portraits of the 1961 Mississippi Freedom Riders. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

June 09, 2008

Ellen Hopkins @ Chicago Public Library

Ellen Hopkins will be at the Sulzer Regional Library to talk about her book Glass. Free. 6pm. 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 312-744-7616 for more information.

June 09, 2008

Make Magazine Release @ Hideout

Make Magazine celebrates the release of Issue 6 with a party at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight at 7pm. There will be readings by contributors, experimental videos, and music and performances by Punk Band and Califone's Jim Becker and friends. $8 gets you in and gets you a copy of the magazine. 21+

June 09, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 08, 2008

Jennifer Block @ Women & Children First

Jennifer Block will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Pushed: The Painful Truth About Childbirth and Modern Maternity Care. Suggested donation is $10-12. All proceeds benefit the Coalition for Illinois Midwifery. 6:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

June 08, 2008

Printer's Row Book Fair

Booklovers rejoice! The 2008 Printer's Row Book Fair takes place this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, between Dearborn and Polk streets. This year's event includes dozens of booksellers and other vendors, author events and much more. Featured authors on Sunday include Augusten Burroughs, Mark Kurlansky and Aleksandar Hemon. The book fair is free, but advance tickets may be required for some events. Check out the full schedule for complete details. Visit the website or call 312-222-3986 for more information.

June 08, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 07, 2008

Printer's Row Book Fair

Booklovers rejoice! The 2008 Printer's Row Book Fair takes place this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 6pm. This year's event includes dozens of booksellers and other vendors, author events and much more. Featured authors on Saturday include S.E. Hinton, Thomas Cahill, Studs Terkel, Rick Kogan and Scott Turow. The book fair is free, but advance tickets may be required for some events. Check out the full schedule for complete details. Visit the website or call 312-222-3986 for more information.

June 07, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author events and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Free. 10am to 9pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 06, 2008

Steven T. Wax @ International House

Steven T. Wax will be at International House, sponsored by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his book Kafka Comes to America. Free. 4pm. 1414 E. 59th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

June 06, 2008

Stephanie Klein @ Barnes & Noble DePaul Center

Stephanie Klein will be at Barnes & Noble DePaul Center to talk about her book Moose: A memoir of Fat Camp. Free. 11am. 1 East Jackson Blvd. Call 312-362-8792 for more information.

June 06, 2008

Little City Used Book Sale @ Old Orchard

The Little City Foundation Used Book Sale, which is celebrating its 50th year, takes place at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie from June 6-15. The book sale is expected to have more than 200,000 used books, plus author evens and other activities. All proceeds from the sale benefit Little City Foundation, which provides services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Admission to the event is free, except opening night tonight a $10 donation will be charged. 5pm to 10pm. 34 Old Orchard Shopping Ctr. in Skokie. Visit the website for more information.

June 05, 2008

Stacy Berlein, Gina Frangello and Carolyn Alessio @ Women & Children First

Authors Stacy Berlein, Gina Frangello and Carolyn Alessio will be at Women & Children First to talk about their new work. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

June 05, 2008

Mods vs. Rockers Comic Release Party @ Quimby's

Artist/writer Martin Cimek will be at a href="http://quimbys.com/">Quimby's to promote the release of Mods vs. Rockers #1. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

June 05, 2008

Ed Park @ The Book Cellar

Ed Park will be at The Book Cellar to talk about his book Personal Days. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

June 05, 2008

Lily Koppel @ 57th Street Books

Lily Koppel will be at 57th Street Books to talk about her book The Red Leather Diary: Reclaiming a Life through the Pages of a Lost Journal. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

June 04, 2008

Lovable Losers Literary Revue

Head to El Jardin, 3335 N. Clark St., tonight at 7:30pm for the Lovable Losers Literary Revue, this month featuring Newsweek columnist and NBC correspondent Jonathan Alter, Wall Street Journal writer Jonathan Eig and mystery novelist D.C. Brod (reading her fantasy, "My Heroes Have Always Been Cubbies"). The show also includes Randy Richardson, Jeff Myers, Don Carlquist, Jay Raemont, J.D. Gordon, Kyle Bault and George Rawlinson, skits by actors Joseph Tokarz and John B. Leen, and emcee Donald G. Evans. Free, but you might want to buy a margarita at least.

June 03, 2008

Sarah LeVine @ 57th Street Books

Sarah LeVine will be at 57th Street Books to talk about her book The Saint of Kathmandu: and Other Tales of the Sacred in Distant Lands. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

June 02, 2008

Twilight Tales Open Mic @ The Fixx

The weekly Twilight Tales reading series, which focuses on the horror, fantasy and sci-fi genres, hosts its monthly open mic tonight at The Fixx coffee shop. Participants can read works of prose (20 minutes) or poetry (10 minutes). 3053 N. Sheffield Ave.

June 01, 2008

Steven Faulkner @ Evanston Public Library

Steven Faulkner will be at the Evanston Public Library to talk about his book Waterwalk. Free. 2pm. 1703 Orrington Ave. Call 847-448-8600 for more information.

June 01, 2008

Nicole Hollander @ Woman Made Gallery

Nicole Hollander, creator of the "Sylvia" comic strip, reads from Tales of Graceful Aging from the Planet Denial at Woman Made Gallery. Free. 2pm. 685 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call 312-738-0400 for more information.

May 30, 2008

Lawrence Weinstein @ Transitions Bookplace

Lawrence Weinstein will be at Transitions Bookplace to talk about his book Grammar for the Soul. Free. 7pm. 1000 W. North Ave. Call 312-951-7323 for more information.

May 30, 2008

Tim Joyce & Carl Kozlowski @ Women & Children First

Writers Tim Joyce and Carl Kozlowski will be at Women & Children First to talk about their jointly written book Seize the Day Job: The Humor Book Al-Qaeda Kept You From Reading. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 29, 2008

Sarah Levine @ Women & Children First

Sarah Levine will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book The Saint of Kathmandu: And Other Tales of the Sacred in Distant Lands. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 29, 2008

Josh Kilmer-Purcell @ Borders Lincoln Park

Josh Kilmer-Purcell will be at Borders Lincoln Park to talk about his debut novel Candy Everybody Wants. Free. 7:30pm. 2817 North Clark St. Call 773-935-3909 for more information.

May 29, 2008

Jennifer Stevenson, Gregory Frost and Nnedi Okorafor Mbachu @ The Book Cellar

Fantasy authors Jennifer Stevenson, Gregory Frost and Nnedi Okorafor Mbachu will be at The Book Cellar to read from and talk about their recent work. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 29, 2008

Venus Zine Summer Issue Release Party

Venus Zine's summer issue comes out this week, and they're having a party at Evil Olive, 1551 W. Division, tonight from 8pm to 11pm to celebrate. DJ sets by Pixiu, Miss Gab and Jordan Z, $3 PBR. No cover, 21 and over. More info here.

May 28, 2008

Live Through This: On Creativity and Self-Destruction @ Women & Children First

Editor Sabrina Chapadjiev will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Live Through This: On Creativity and Self-Destruction, which collects stories from women writers sharing the way they have "used their art to survive madness, abuse, incest, depression, and the impulse towards self-destruction." Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 28, 2008

Barbara Walters @ Borders Michigan Ave

Barbara Walters will be at Borders Michigan Ave to talk about her book Audition: A Memoir. Free. Noon. 830 North Michigan Ave. Call 312-573-0564 for more information.

May 28, 2008

Reader Book Swap

The Reader's annual Book Swap is tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland Ave. Bring your used books and pick up new ones, watch a performance by The Janes go-go troupe, meet other Reader readers and possibly win a door prize. Everything is free except the drinks.

May 27, 2008

Andy Austin @ 57th Street Books

Andy Austin will be at 57th Street Books to talk about her book Rule 53: Capturing Hippies, Spies, Politicians, and Murderers in an American Courtroom. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 25, 2008

Sunday Salon Chicago: Chicago Literary Magazines Fiction Editors' Reading

Mike Zapata of Make Magazine; Michael Newwirth of Fifth Wednesday Journal; Robert Baird of Chicago Review; and Simon A. Smith of Bruiser Review are scheduled to read at Charleston as part of the Sunday Salon Chicago Prose Series. Free. 2076 North Hoyne Ave. Call 773-489-4757 for more information.

May 25, 2008

Pilcrow Lit Fest

For four days in May, Pilcrow Lit Fest will bring authors, writers, poets, librarians, booksellers, and publishers from around the country together in support of small presses and independent media through small workshops, panel discussions, lectures and author readings.

May 24, 2008

Kevin Sampsell, James Stegall and Jackie Corley @ Quimby's

Kevin Sampsell, James Stegall and Jackie Corley will be at Quimby's to talk about their most recent work. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

May 23, 2008

Nahid Rachlin @ Women & Children First

Nahid Rachlin will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Persian Girls: A Memoir. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 23, 2008

The Dollar Store Show and Pilcrow Lit Fest @ The Hideout

Jonathan Messinger hosts this month's installment of The Dollar Store Show with special guests Kevin Sampsell and Diana Slickman, as part of the Pilcrow Lit Fest. Free. 7pm. At The Hideout. 1354 W. Wabansia.

May 22, 2008

Jim Munroe: Therefore Repent! @ Quimby's

Novelist Jim Munroe stops by Quimby's tonight to discuss his graphic novel Therefore Repent! The event happens tonight at 7:00, and is free and open to the public. Quimby's: 1854 W. North. (773) 342-0910.

May 22, 2008

Nilita Vachani @ International House

Nilita Vachani will be at International House, sponsored by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about her book Homespun. Free. 6pm. 1414 E. 59th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

May 22, 2008

Evan Fallenberg @ Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park

Evan Fallenberg will be at Barbara's Bookstore in Oak Park to talk about his book Light Fell. Free. 7:30pm. 1100 Lake St., Oak Park. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

May 22, 2008

Pilcrow Lit Fest @ Fixx Coffee Bar

For four days in May, Pilcrow Lit Fest will bring authors, writers, poets, librarians, booksellers, and publishers from around the country together in support of small presses and independent media through small workshops, panel discussions, lectures and author readings.

The Fixx Reading Series takes place tonight as part of the Pilcrow Lit Fest, featuring writers Katie Schwartz and Jami Attenberg, and hosted by Amy Guth. Free. 7:30pm. The Fixx Coffee Bar at 3053 N Sheffield Ave. Visit the Pilcrow Lit Fest website for more information.

May 21, 2008

Marda Dunsky @ Women & Children First

Marda Dunsky will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Pens and Swords: How the American Mainstream Media Report the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 21, 2008

Simon Winchester @ Barnes & Noble Evanston

Writer Simon Winchester will be at Barnes & Noble in Evanston to talk about his new book The Man Who Loved China. Free. 7pm. 1630 Sherman Avenue in Evanston. Call 847-424-0848 for more information.

May 21, 2008

Local Author Night @ The Book Cellar

This month's installment of local author night at The Book Cellar includes Jonathan Eig, Natalie Moore, Rachel Cline and Ellen Blum Barish. Join them as they talk about their recent works. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 20, 2008

Steven J. Heyman @ 57th Street Books

Steven J. Heyman will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Free Speech & Human Dignity. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 20, 2008

Alix Lambert @ Quimby's

Lambert reads from her new novel, CRIME: A Series of Extraordinary Interviews Exposing the World of Crime - Real and Imagined. Long title, but fascinating study that features interviews with cops and robbers, both the real kind and the fake, film kind, about why the subject captures the public's imagination. Featured are interviews with Ben Affleck, Ice-T, Viggo Mortensen and David Mamet. The reading begins at 7 p.m. at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave.

May 20, 2008

Literary Gangs of Chicago @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art hosts another gathering of the Literary Gangs crew, this time hooking up with the Guild Complex. The reading starts at 6:30 p.m. at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Contact the museum for details.

May 19, 2008

Gapers Block Book Club Meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing The Grass Dancer by Susan Power. The meeting begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome! Hope to see you there. Visit the official book club blog for more information.

May 18, 2008

J.A. Flynn @ Women & Children First

J.A. Flynn will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Gumboots, Lesson Plans and Hot Rugby Nights: New Beginnings in New Zealand. Free. 4:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 18, 2008

Writers on the Record: Aleksandar Hemon @ Lookingglass Theatre

Critically acclaimed writer Aleksandar Hemon is the latest participant in the "Writers on the Record" interview series, co-sponsored by Chicago magazine and WFMT radio. He will be talking with host Victoria Lautman about his new novel The Lazarus Project. Free, but reservations are required. 11:45am at the Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N. Michigan Ave. Call 312-832-6789 to RSVP.

May 17, 2008

Hip Lit @ MCA

Head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art from noon to 4 pm for its 3rd annual Zines, Comics, and Other Hip Lit Fair. This one-day festival celebrates independent press in all forms. You'll get a chance to meet the hottest zinesters and comics around, purchase affordable, one-of-a-kind books and original artworks, and get your fave stuff signed. Check the site for a full list of participants.

May 16, 2008

Robert Tanenbaum @ Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park

Lawyer-turned-writer Robert Tanenbaum will be at Barbara's Bookstore in Oak Park to talk about his book Escape. Free. 7:30pm. 1100 Lake St., Oak Park. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

May 15, 2008

Lynne McTaggart @ Transitions Bookplace

Bestselling author Lynne McTaggart will be at Transitions Bookplace to talk about her book The Intention Experiment. Free. 7pm. 1000 W. North Ave. Call 312-951-7323 for more information.

May 15, 2008

Anne Laughlin & Kate Sweeney @ Women & Children First

Local authors Anne Laughlin and Kate Sweeney will be at Women & Children First to talk about their books Sometimes Quickly and The Trouble with Murder, respectively. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 15, 2008

Powell's North Reading Series

Poet Dan Beachy-Quick and emerging authors Erin O'Neill and Kristen Courtney Phillip are the featured writers at this installment of the Powell's North Reading Series. Free. 7pm. Powell's Bookstore at 2850 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-525-8822 for more information.

May 15, 2008

Jimmie Briggs @ International House

Jimmie Briggs will be at International House, sponsored by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his book Innocents Lost: When Child Soldiers Go to War. Free. 6pm. 1414 E. 59th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

May 15, 2008

Cory Doctorow @ Barnes & Noble Clybourn

Writer Cory Doctorow will be at Barnes & Noble Clybourn to talk about his new book Little Brother. Free. 7:30pm. 1441 W. Webster Ave. Call 773-871-3610 for more information.

May 14, 2008

Kat Hibbard @ Transitions Bookplace

Kat Hibbard will be at Transitions Bookplace to talk about her book Bullets: Growing Up in the Crossfire. Free. 7pm. 1000 W. North Ave. Call 312-951-7323 for more information.

May 14, 2008

Charles M. Payne @ 57th Street Book

Charles M. Payne will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Teach Freedom. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 14, 2008

Chip Kidd @ Quimby's

Writer and graphic designer extraordinaire Chip Kidd will be at Quimby's to talk about his book The Learners. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 or visit the website for more information.

May 13, 2008

Arianna Huffington @ Borders Michigan Ave

Arianna Huffington will be at Borders Michigan Ave to talk about her book Right Is Wrong: How the Lunatic Fringe Hijacked America, Shredded the Constitution, and Made Us All Less Safe. Free. 7pm. 830 N. Michigan Ave. Call 312-573-0564 for more information.

May 13, 2008

Elizabeth George @ Borders State Street

Bestselling mystery writer Elizabeth George will be at Borders State Street to talk about her book Careless in Red. Free. 12:30pm. 150 N. State St. Call 312-606-0750 for more information.

May 13, 2008

David G. Whiteis @ 57th Street Books

David G. Whiteis will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Chicago Blues: Portraits & Stories. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 13, 2008

Nuruddin Farah @ Barnes & Noble Evanston

Author Nuruddin Farah will be at Barnes & Noble in Evanston to talk about his new book Knots. Free. 7pm. 1630 Sherman Avenue in Evanston. Call 847-424-0848 for more information.

May 12, 2008

Elizabeth Hand and Matthew Sharpe @ The Book Cellar

Authors Elizabeth Hand and Matthew Sharpe will be at The Book Cellar to talk about their books Generation Loss and Jamestown. Free. 7:30pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 10, 2008

Michel Valdes @ Quimby's

Michel Valdes will read from the latest issue of his zine School Daze at Quimby's. Free. 5pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 or visit the website for more information.

May 09, 2008

John Sandford @ Borders State Street

Mystery writer John Sandford will be at Borders on State Street to talk about his book Phantom Prey. Free. 12:30pm. 150 N. State St. Call 312-606-0750 for more information.

May 09, 2008

F Magazine Reading @ Women & Children First

Local authors Betty Shiflett, Patricia Ann McNair and Mahmoud Saeed will be at Women & Children First as F Magazine celebrates the release of issue F7: "Story, The Rescue of What Would Otherwise Be Lost." Free. 7:00pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

May 09, 2008

George Motz @ Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park

George Motz will be at Barbara's Bookstore in Oak Park to talk about his book Hamburger America. Free. 7:30pm. 1100 Lake St., Oak Park. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

May 09, 2008

Tim W. Brown and Paul McComas @ The Book Cellar

Authors Tim W. Brown and Paul McComas will be at The Book Cellar to talk about their books Walking Man and Planet of the Dates. Free. 7:30pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 08, 2008

John Hagedorn @ 57th Street Books

John Hagedorn will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book A World of Gangs: Armed Young Men & Gangsta Culture. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 08, 2008

I Speak of Simple Things @ Harold Washington Library Center

Chicago actresses Rebecca Spence and Michelle Roberts will present a dramatic reading of poems from I Speak of Simple Things by Donna G. Humphrey. At the Harold Washington Library Center. Free. 6:30pm. 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 or visit the website for more information.

May 08, 2008

David Samuels @ Quimby's

Author David Samuels will be at Quimby's to talk about his books Only Love Can Break Your Heart and The Runner. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

May 08, 2008

Patricia Wells @ The Book Cellar

Join Patricia Wells for a wine and cheese reception at The Book Cellar as she talks about her book We've Always Had Paris…and Provence: A Scrapbook of Our Life In France. Free. 4pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 07, 2008

"Did a Woman Write Shakespeare?" @ Newberry Library

Author Robin P. Williams will be at the Newberry Library as part of the Wednesday Club series to talk about her book Sweet Swan of Avon, which argues that a woman--Mary Sidney, the Countess of Pembroke--wrote the works attributed to Shakespeare. $9. Doors open at 5:30pm. Lecture begins at 6:15pm. 60 W. Walton St. Call 312-255-3700 for more information.

May 07, 2008

Rick Spaulding @ 57th Street Books

Rick Spaulding will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Ralph Waldo Emerson: The Infinitude of the Private Man. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 07, 2008

Lovable Losers Literary Revue @ El Jardin

Photojournalist Tammy Lechner reads original work and discusses her photo documentary of 15 seasons with the Chicago Cubs, Our Team-Our Dream: A Cubs Fan's Journey Into Baseball's Greatest Romance. Poet Sid Yiddish and Evanston writer Christine Sneed will also read. Good Money After Bad author Donald Evans emcees. Free. 7:30pm. At El Jardín, 3335 N Clark St. Call 773-528-6775 or visit the official website for more information.

May 06, 2008

Wen Huang @ 57th Street Books

Wen Huang will be at 57th Street Books to talk about The Corpse Walker by Liao Yiwu. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

May 06, 2008

Jen Lancaster @ Barnes & Noble Clybourn

Author Jen Lancaster will be at Barnes & Noble Clybourn to talk about her new book Such a Pretty Fat. Free. 7:30pm. 1441 W. Webster Ave. Call 773-871-3610 for more information.

May 05, 2008

New Releases Party @ Quimby's

Quimby’s is hosting an evening of new books and publications by nine authors, artists and publishers, including Devin Bustin, Rebecca Cooling-Mallard, Ariane Nelson, Cortney Philip, Sean O’Connell, Mary Kiolbasa, Stephanie Sauer, Kristine Servia and Danielle Sommer. Whew. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 or visit the website for more information.

May 05, 2008

Nina Revoyr, Elizabeth Crane and Joe Meno @ The Book Cellar

Authors Nina Revoyr, Elizabeth Crane and Joe Meno will be at The Book Cellar to talk about their books The Age of Dreaming, You Must Be This Happy To Enter and Tender as Hellfire. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 04, 2008

Cornelia Funke and The Thief Lord @ Harold Washington Library Center

As the library's event page states, "Don't miss the rare opportunity to not only see The Thief Lord on the big screen, but to also hear New York Times bestselling author Cornelia Funke and her world renowned translator Anthea Bell read from and answer questions about her work. A book signing will follow." At the Harold Washington Library Center in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Free. 1:30pm. 400 S. State St. An RSVP is required for this event. Call 312-683-0121 ext. 130 or email marketing@chicagofilmfestival.com to attend.

May 04, 2008

Lisa See @ The Book Cellar

Lisa See will be at The Book Cellar to talk about her book Peony in Love. Free. 3pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 02, 2008

Kalisha Buckhanon @ 57th Street Books

Kalisha Buckhanon will be at 57th Street Books to talk about her book Conception. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 or visit the website for more information.

May 02, 2008

The Tall Grass Writer's Guild @ The Book Cellar

Join The Tall Grass Writer's Guild at The Book Cellar as they present their work with the theme The Mechanical Age. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

May 01, 2008

Kevin Phillips @ Harold Washington Library Center

Former White House strategist Kevin Phillips will be at the Harold Washington Library Center in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium to talk about his new book Bad Money: Reckless Finance, Failed Politics and the Global Crisis of American Capitalism. Free. 6pm. 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 or visit the website for more information.

May 01, 2008

Aleksandar Hemon @ Barnes & Noble Evanston

Acclaimed local author Aleksandar Hemon will be at Barnes & Noble in Evanston to talk about his new book The Lazarus Project. Free. 7pm. 1630 Sherman Avenue in Evanston. Call 847-424-0848 for more information.

April 30, 2008

Steven Greenhouse @ Chicago Public Library

The acclaimed New York Times journalist discusses and signs his new book, The Big Squeeze: Tough Times for the American Worker. Greenhouse takes a fresh, probing, and often shocking look at the stresses and strains faced by millions of American workers as wages have stagnated, health and pension benefits have grown stingier, and job security has shriveled. Cosponsored by Interfaith Worker Justice. Free. 6 p.m. Cindy Pritzker Auditorium (Lower Level) of the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. For more information, visit the Website.

April 29, 2008

Gordon Ramsay @ Barbara's Books

Omg, omg, omg! The man himself, Gordon Ramsay, descends on Barbara's Bookstore in the State Street Macy's, ready to sign copies of his publications and, one can only hope, scream at patrons about the consistency of their risotto. In a good way. I don't think I'm alone in my desire to take my pants off whenever Ramsay heats up on screen, let alone takes off his chef's jacket and acts like a normal human being -- Barbara's expects a big enough crowd that only devotees who've purchased books at the shop will be able to get a coveted signature/verbal spanking. Buy a book, get a wristband, jump in line. Mr. Ramsay will hold court from 1-3pm, 111 N. State Street on the Lower Level.

April 24, 2008

Marilynne Robinson @ DePaul

Pulitzer Prize winning author Marilynne Robinson (Gilead, Housekeeping) comes to DePaul 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.

April 23, 2008

Books and Beers @ Little Rascals Bar and Grill

This might be the coolest book swap ever. You can win beer, and you can buy books cheap. You can get a burger for a buck! What could be better? (OK -- maybe a combination of vitamin water, free books, and vegan tofu scramble. But let's not be too picky.) Shuttle running from the Kimball stop on the blue line to Little Rascals from 6:45-8 p.m., and then from 9:30-10 p.m. Hosted by the n.u.f.a.n. ensemble. 7:30 p.m. 4356 W. Belmont Ave. For more info, call 708-557-0717 or email info@nufanensemble.com.

April 22, 2008

Neil Shubin @ Revolution Books

Neil Shubin, Provost of the Field Museum, comes to Revolution Books to discuss his new work Your Inner Fish: A Journey into the 3.5 Billion Year History of the Human Body. The book looks at the inner working of the human body and traces the origins of many of our most common diseases through evolutionary theory. There will be a slide show presentation and a book signing at the event. Free at 7pm, 1103 N. Ashland Ave. Call 773-489-0930 for more information.

April 22, 2008

Judy Chicago @ Women & Children First

Acclaimed feminist artist Judy Chicago comes to Women & Children First to celebrate the release of her new book The Dinner Party: From Creation to Preservation. The book focuses on Chicago's exhibit of the same name, now on permanent display in Brooklyn. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

April 21, 2008

Literaturlenz @ Goethe-Institut Chicago

This annual event from the Goethe-Institut Chicago showcases unique voices in German-languange literature. Readings are in English and German and feature authors Michael Kleeberg, Catalin Dorian Florescu and Thomas Glavinic. Free, but a $5 donation is appreciated. 6pm. 150 N. Michigan Ave. 312-263-0472.

April 20, 2008

Hopper & Burian Reading

Al Burian and Jessica Hopper read pieces they wrote where they wrote them -- at 1809 W. Ohio, the empty lot between their former residences -- at 3pm today. Free.

April 20, 2008

Myopic Poetry Series @ Myopic Books

Kathleen Rooney & Elisa Gabbert. 7 p.m. 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor.

April 19, 2008

A Night of Zine Readings @ Quimby's

Quimby's Bookstore hosts an evening of readings from zines Hot Food, Panic Attack, and Milk Milk Lemonade, as well as lyrics from local band I-Attack and more. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. 773-342-0910.

April 18, 2008

Benefit for Chicago Books for Women in Prison @ AV-aerie

Come out to rock, and help the Chicago Books for Women in Prison group raise funds for its very worthy cause this Friday, 4/18 at AV-aerie. Lineup includes: Jessica Hopper, GutterButter (Ben & Logan) & Special Guests! $10 suggested donation, $8 with donation of paperback dictionary. Plus, Raffles! Bring your extra books to donate! AV-aerie is located at 2000 W. Fulton St. #310 (at Damen). Music starts at 8pm. All ages welcome.

April 14, 2008

Gapers Block Book Club 3rd Anniversary Meeting

This month we celebrate three years of Gapers Block Book Club meetings! Tonight we'll discuss Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides and all attendees will be treated to some desserts and beverages. Thanks to everyone who's been a part of the Book Club over the past three years, whether online or in person. Your enthusiasm and insights are what keep us going. As always, we'll meet at The Book Cellar at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. at 7:30pm and new members are always welcome. Hope to see you there! Visit the official book club blog for more information.

April 14, 2008

Peace Party to Benefit Open Books

Open Books, the city's first nonprofit literacy bookstore, will be at Danny's Tavern tonight for drinks, dancing and netwroking. Special guest DJ Michael Ardiaolo will provide the beats and half of all of your drink purchases will go to Open Books and their partner programs. You get to have fun and fight illiteracy at the same time - what could be better? Admission is free and the event goes from 9pm-2am at 1951 W. Dickens. For more information, email info[at]open-books[dot]org.

April 10, 2008

Steve Darnall & Ted Okuda @ The Book Cellar

Steve Darnall, publisher of Nostalgia Digest Magazine, and Ted Okuda, co-author of Chicago TV Horror Movie Hosts: From Shock Theatre to Svengoolie discuss Chicago radio and television at The Book Cellar. Free. 7pm. 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-293-2665.

April 09, 2008

Isabel Allende @ Swedish American Museum

Isabel Allende joins Women & Children First at the Swedish American Museum for a special reading of her new memoir The Sum of Our Days. Tickets are free with a purchase of the book which must be bought from Women & Children First, either at the store or online. An additional ticket may be purchased for $5. The reading starts at 7:30pm at 5211 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

April 08, 2008

Jhumpa Lahiri @ Swedish American Museum

Pulitzer Prize winning author Jhumpa Lahiri joins Women & Children First at the Swedish American Museum for a special reading of her new book of short stories Unaccustomed Earth. Tickets are free with a purchase of the book which must be bought from Women & Children First, either at the store or online. An additional ticket may be purchased for $5. The reading starts at 7:30pm at 5211 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

April 02, 2008

Julie Klam @ Standard Club

Julie Klam comes to the Standard Club to read from and discuss her memoir Please Excuse My Daughter. The book is account of Klam's childhood growing up in an exclusive enclave of New York where her father made the money, her mother stayed home and Klam was expected to grow up and find a rich man to marry. It's also the story of how Klam broke free of those expectations and came to instill in her own daughter the same sense of self-reliance and independence she greatly valued in herself. Tickets to the reading are $30 and includes a reception, lunch and book signing. 11:30 am at 320 S. Plymouth Ct. Call 847-446-8880 for tickets and information.

March 30, 2008

Myopic Poetry Series @ Myopic Books

Christine Hume & Patrick Durgin. 7 p.m. 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor.

March 29, 2008

Rock for Reading & Open Books Sort-A-Thon

Join Rock for Reading and Open Books for their second Sort-A-Thon. The two non-profit organizations will be sorting through 15,000 children's books donated by The Child's World to be distributed to local schools and reading programs and they need your help to get it all done. The event starts at 10:30am and runs until 1:30pm. If you're not free to sort, but still want to help you can drop off books to donate at the Sort-A-Thon or you can donate food and drink to sustain all the hard workers. The sorting will happen at the Open Books Warehouse at 600 N. Albany Ave. Email Becca Keaty at bkeaty[at]open-books[dot]org to for more information or to sign up.

March 25, 2008

Amy Bloom @ Newberry Library

Amy Bloom discusses her new novel, Away, at 6:30 PM in this event sponsored by Nextbook. Tickets are $6 to $8. 60 W Walton. For more information and to buy tickets, call 312-747-4074 or visit the website

March 20, 2008

Literary Rock & Roll @ Metro

As part of Story Week 2008: Festival of Writers, Columbia College Chicago presents Literary Rock & Roll, an evening of readings and music. The authors scheduled to attend are: Junot Diaz (The Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao); ZZ Packer (Drinking Coffee Elsewhere); Colin Channer (The Girl with the Golden Shoes); and Hillary Carlip (A la Cart: The Secret Lives of Grocery
Shoppers). Music will be provided by circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza. The show starts at 6:00 PM, book signings will follow the readings, and it's a free all-ages show. Metro: 3830 N. Clark.

March 19, 2008

Silver Tongue with Nazirah P. Mickey @ Hokin Gallery

Mickey reads "All About My Mother." Columbia students also read. Catered event with door prizes. 7-9 p.m. 623 S. Wabash. For more info, call 312-344-7928.

March 18, 2008

Authors Aimee Bender and Cristina Garcia @ Cindy Pritzker Auditorium

Part of Columbia College Chicago's Story Week Festival of Writers 2008: Stories Without Borders, sponsored by Columbia’s Fiction Writing Department. Bender discusses her book, The Girl in the Flammable Skirt, and Garcia talks about her novel, Dreaming in Cuban, with host Ann Hemenway, a professor in the Fiction Writing Department at Columbia College. Free. 2:30 p.m. Another program at 6 p.m. Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. For more information, please visit the Website.

March 18, 2008

LWN Prose Show @ Mecury Cafe

The Literary Writers Network is holding their fourth Prose Show, a literary reading that is the collaborative effort of Chicago-area writers and readers interested in promiting literary expression and appreciation for literary excellence. The show is free at 7pm, but a donation of $3 is suggested. Mercury Cafe, 1505 W. Chicago Ave. Email info[at]literarywritersnetwork[dot]org for more information.

March 17, 2008

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni @ Chicago Public Library

Writer Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni will discuss her collection of work with Booklist associate editor and Open Books WLUW-FM radio host Donna Seaman at the Harold Washington Library Center at 400 S. State St. The event starts at 6pm, and a book signing will follow. It is presented in conjunction with Columbia College Chicago's "Conversation in the Arts: Up Close with..." series. The event is part of Story Week Festival of Writers 2008: Stories without Borders, and will be recorded by Chicago Public Radio for Chicago Amplified.

March 17, 2008

Faculty Reading Open Mic @ Columbia College

Part-time faculty members of the Columbia College Fiction Writing Department will read from their work and conduct an open mic on Monday, March 17, 11 a.m., at the school's Film Row Cinema room, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th floor. The event is part of the college's Story Week 2008. Slated to read are Gina Frangello, Lila Jokanovic and Devon Polderman.

March 16, 2008

Pugilist Specialist Show & Baudrillard Book Discussion

After a showing of their Puglilist Specialist show about four US soldiers on their mission in the Middle East, Red Tape Theatre is holding a panel discussion about Jean Baudrillard's book The Gulf War Did Not Take Place. In the book, Baudrillard argues that the Gulf War did not happen, but was a media event or a "virtual" war. The show starts at 3pm and the discussion will follow at the Studio Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph. Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 for students and seniors. Call 312-742-8497 or visit www.dcatheater.org for tickets and information.

March 12, 2008

Pouring Tea: Black Gay Men of the South Tell their Tales

DePaul welcomes performance artist and author E. Patrick Johnson for "Pouring Tea: Black Gay Men of the South Tell their Tales," a one man shows using ethnographic performance to tell the stories of the black gay men of the south. The show explores issues of sexuality, identity, family, religion, violence, class, racism and homophobia and is drawn from Johnson's forthcoming book Sweet Tea: An Oral History of Black Gay Men of the South. Johnson is also Professor and Chair of Northwestern's Department of Performance Studies. Free from 6pm-8pm in the Student Center, Room 120B, 2250 N. Sheffield. Call 773-325-7346 for more information.

March 11, 2008

Ida: A Sword Among Lions @ Women & Children First

Paula J. Giddings comes to Women & Children First to read from and discuss her biography of the famous civil rights activist Ida B. Wells. Ida: A Sword Among Lions is a thoroughly researched look at the suffragist, newspaper publisher, political candidate and co-founder of the NAACP. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

March 10, 2008

Gapers Block Book Club Meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing Fire Sale by Sara Paretsky. The meeting begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome! Hope to see you there. Visit the official book club blog for more information.

March 10, 2008

Susan Jacoby @ Chicago Public Library

The renowned author of Freethinkers discusses and signs her latest book, The Age of American Unreason. Combining historical analysis with contemporary observation, Jacoby dissects a new American cultural phenomenon -- one that is at odds with our heritage of reason, secular knowledge and science. According to Jacoby, the public's contempt for logic and evidence defines a malaise perpetuated by the mass media, infotainment, religious fundamentalism, mediocre public education, and a shortage of fair-minded public intellectuals on the right and the left. Free. 6 p.m. Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, Lower Level, at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. For more info, visit the Website or call the Chicago Public Library Press Office at 312-747-4050.

March 10, 2008

Your Brain on Cubs Book Launch

Come to the Cubby Bear to celebrate the release of the latest Cubs fan book Your Brain on Cubs: Inside the Heads of Players and Fans. There will be a panel discussion of notable fans, including Jeremy Mainer of the Chicago Tribune as moderator, contributor Steven Small of the University of Chicago, editor Dan Gordon and Aryeh Routtenberg of Northwestern. Free, but reservations are required and can be made by email info[at]illinoisscience[dot]org (be sure to include your name and the number of people who will be attending). 6:30pm-8:30pm at 1059 W. Addison St.

March 09, 2008

Myopic Poetry Series

"A Night of Translation" is the theme of this Sunday's Myopic Poetry Series and all of the featured poets have served in some way as poetry translators. Mark Tardi is slated to guest edit some work on Polish poet Miron Bialoszewski, Daniel Borzutzky's translations have appeared in American Letters and Commentary, Mississippi Review and Chicago Review, and Joel Calahan has worked on the translation of Holograms by Marcello Fixione. Free at 7pm, 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the 2nd floor. Call 773-862-4882 for more information.

March 06, 2008

Jamaica Kincaid @ Northwestern

Esteemed author Jamaica Kincaid comes to Northwestern University to present the 2008 Leon Forrest Lecture, "On Writing." Kincaid's writing has been greatly influenced by issues of race, gender, poverty and mother-daughter relationships. Having emigrated from Antiqua at the age of 17, Kincaid went on to find success as a staff writer at the New Yorker and is now a professor at Harvard University. Her books include Lucy, The Autobiography of My Mother and Mr. Potter, among others. Free and open to the public at 5pm in Harris Hall 107, 1881 Sheridan Rd. in Evanston. Call 847-467-3005 for more information.

March 06, 2008

Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout

Reading series Funny Ha-Ha is all new this month, with Chicago Tribune blogger and columnist Eric Zorn, Perfect From Now On author John Sellers, Schadenfreude, columnist and "Interview Show" host Mark Bazer, and films by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted, as always, by Claire Zulkey. 6-8pm tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. $5, 21+.

March 05, 2008

Antigone Cabaret @ DePaul

The Theatre School at DePaul University sponsors The Antigone Cabaret, an evening of performances and readings, as part of the Philosophy Department's Year of Antigone's Project. Pieces will reflect and meditate on Antigone's resonance today and one's relationship between the individual and the state. March 5 from 7:30-9:30 pm at Cortelyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont Street, between Corcoran and McCabe Halls. This is a free event.

March 05, 2008

Reading Under the Influence @ Sheffield's Beer & Wine Garden

In honor of RUI's birthday, all six RUI "regulars" (Julia Borcherts, Rob Duffer, Carly Huegelmann, Jesse Jordan, Amanda Snyder and Joe Tower) read their favorite pieces from past RUIs. For the published/trivia rounds, they pick their favorite works by their favorite authors. Food and raffles. $3. 7-10 p.m. 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. For more info, visit the website.

March 03, 2008

Louder Than a Bomb Poetry Semifinals @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art hosts the semifinal rounds of the teen poetry slam competition at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. This is the largest team-oriented teen poetry slam in the nation. Tickets are a suggested $5 donation at the door. 220 E. Chicago Ave. 312-280-2660.

March 02, 2008

Red Rover Series: Experiment #19

Red Rover Series is holding their 19th reading experiment tonight. Titled "That's Not the Way I Remember It," the reading features writers Kate Greenstreet and Jen Tynes with two versions of the same story. $3 is the suggested donation for admission. Held at SpareRoom, 4100 W. Grand Ave., suite 210-212, at 7pm. Call 773-645-1853 for more information.

February 29, 2008

Aaron Christensen @ The Book Cellar

Aaron Christensen will be at The Book Cellar to talk about his book Horror 101: The A-List of Horror Films and Monster Movies. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

February 29, 2008

Garry Wills @ Seminary Co-op Bookstore

Garry Wills will be at the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his new book What the Gospels Meant. Free. 6pm. 5757 S. University Ave. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

February 28, 2008

The Underworld: Reading from Homer, Virgil, and Dante @ Social Sciences Research Building

Join translator and classicist Stanley Lombardo as he captures the living voice of poetry while reading selections from his contemporary adaptations of Homer, Virgil, and Dante. Lombardo is Professor of Classics at the University of Kansas. Co-sponsored by the Poem Present Reading and Lecture Series at the University of Chicago, the Chicago Poetry Project, and the Smart Museum of Art. 6 p.m. 1126 E. 59th St., Room 122.

February 28, 2008

Bookslut reading @ Clever Alice

Bookslut presents the latest in its series of monthly readings. Tonight's reading starts at 7:30 PM at Clever Alice in River North, and features authors Paul Verhaeghen (Omega Minor), Deb Olin Unferth (One Hundred and Forty Five Stories in a Small Box) and Dominique Fabre (The Waitress Was New). The event is free and open to the public. See the Bookslut site for full details. Clever Alice: 750 N. Franklin. (312) 587-8693.

February 28, 2008

Martha Nussbaum @ Women & Children First

University of Chicago Professor Martha Nussbaum will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Liberty of Conscience: In Defense of America's Tradition of Religious Equality. Nussbaum uses historical, philosophical, political, and legal arguments to examine how religious freedom in America faces serious threats. Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

February 27, 2008

Literary Lesbo-A-Go-Go @ Women & Children First

Lesbian authors come together tonight to read their latest works at Women & Children First. Past GB Book Club selection author Achy Obejas will read from her poetry collection This is What Happened in Our Other Life; Nairne Holtz will read for her novel The Skin Beneath, and Kathie Bergquist will read from her novel in progress Beautiful, Radiant Things. Refreshments will be served. Free at 7pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

February 27, 2008

100 Essential Modern Poems by Women @ Women & Children First

Editors Joseph Parisi and Kathleen Welton and poet Lisel Mueller come to Women & Children First to celebrate the release of their new poetry anthology 100 Essential Modern Poems by Women. The anthology features the works of women poets ranging from Emily Dickenson to Rita Dove. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

February 25, 2008

John Edgar Wideman @ Chicago Public Library

John Edgar Wideman will be at the Harold Washington Library Center in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium to talk about his book Fanon. Free. 6pm. 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

February 25, 2008

Heat Wave Opening @ Pegasus Players

Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm opening performance can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

February 24, 2008

Heat Wave Preview @ Pegasus Players

Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for today's 3pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

February 23, 2008

Timuel Black @ Revolution Books

Professor, historian and author Timuel Black comes to Revolution Books to discuss "the dreams and expectations of Black people in their migration to Chicago" and their struggles and realities. Black's work includes the oral histories Bridges of Memory - Chicago's First Wave of Black Migration and Bridges of Memory - Chicago's Second Generation of Black Migration; volume three is on its way. Free at 2pm, 1103 N. Ashland Ave. Call 773-489-0930 for more information.

February 23, 2008

Open Mic/Poetry Slam @ Chicago Public Library

Local poets Ida Barnes (Words of Wisdom) and Syreeta L. Williams (Woman of Words) will moderate this special Open Mic/Poetry Slam at North Austin Branch will be presented as part of the Chicago Public Library’s African American History Month celebration. Free. 2pm. 5724 W. North Ave. Call 312-747-4050 for more information.

February 23, 2008

Heat Wave Preview @ Pegasus Players

Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

February 23, 2008

Alan Gottlieb @ 57th Street Books

Alan Gottlieb will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Ultimate Excursions. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

February 23, 2008

Phillipa Gregory @ Borders Oak Brook

Best-seller Gregory signs and discusses the movie tie in to The Other Boleyn Girl, in which two sisters compete for the love of a king. 2 p.m. 1500 16th St., Oak Brook. For more info, call 630-574-0800.

February 22, 2008

Heat Wave Preview @ Pegasus Players

Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

February 21, 2008

John Weagly @ The Book Cellar

Author John Weagly will be at The Book Cellar to talk about his books Book of Dead Things and Tales from the Red Lion. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

February 21, 2008

Bayo Ojikutu @ Blackstone Library

The Friends of the Blackstone Library presents their quarterly reading series Voices From Home: Local Authors Speak, this month welcoming Free Burning's Bayo Ojikutu. The story follows 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. Free at 7pm at 4904 S. Lake Park Ave. Call 312-747-0511 for more information.

February 21, 2008

Powell's North Reading Series

Poet Daniel Tiffany and emerging writers Ira Murfin and Meredith Clark are the featured readers at this installment of the Powell's North Reading Series. Free. 7pm. 2850 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-248-1444 for more information.

February 21, 2008

Heat Wave Preview @ Pegasus Players

Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

February 21, 2008

Jonathan Genzen @ Bucktown Library

Jonathan Genzen stops by the Bucktown-Wicker Park Library to discuss his bookThe Chicago River: A History in Photographs. The book is a collection of historical photographs, lithographs and maps detailing the effect the Chicago River has had on the city's development. Free at 7pm, 1701 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call 312-744-6022 for more information.

February 21, 2008

George Anastaplo @ 57th Street Books

George Anastaplo will be at 57th Street Books to talk about his book Reflections on Freedom of Speech & the First Amendment. Free. 7pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.

February 20, 2008

Silver Tongue with Billy Tuggle @ Hokin Gallery

Tuggle reads with Columbia College Fiction Writing and Poetry students. 7-9 p.m. 623 S. Wabash. For more info, call 312-344-7459.

February 20, 2008

Local Author Night @ The Book Cellar

Writers Alexis Pride (Where the River Ends), Gary D. Wilson (Sing, Ronnie Blue) and Mahmoud Saeed (em>Saddam City) will be at The Book Cellar for this month's Local Author Night. Free. 7pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

February 20, 2008

Out of the Hospital @ Reconstruction Room

Tonight Reconstruction Room partners with the Snow City Arts Foundation and Eric Elshtain, a poet-in-residence at Children's Memorial Hospital. Elshtain's work with the Children's Hospital has produced poetry that reaches beyond those who are ill and hospital-bound and Rec Room is giving all poetry lovers the chance to hear these children's poems. The poems will be presented/peformed by other local poets. Free at 8pm, 3614 N. Damen Ave. Email recroom[at]recroomers[dot]com for more information.

February 20, 2008

Richard Wirik @ Women & Children First

Lawyer/writer Richard Wirik makes a stop at Women & Children First to discuss his new work One Hundred Siberian Postcards. The book grew out of Wirik's assignments in the Ukraine and Siberia and from his adoption of a Siberian daughter. Free at 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

February 20, 2008

Palabra Pura in Pilsen @ Decima Musa

Stephanie Gentry-Fernandez (of the sold out play Machos) and American Book Award winner Tim Z. Hernandez will be reading tonight as part of The Guild Literary Complex's Palabra Pura reading series. Hosted at Decima Musa, Palabra Pura is a unique, bilingual series presented in partnership with Letras Latinas of the Institute for Latino Studies at the University of Notre Dame and the Rafael Cintron Ortiz Cultural Center at UIC. Readings begin promptly at 8:00pm. Free. For more information contact The Guild Complex.

February 20, 2008

Pope Brock @ Chicago Public Library

Pope Brock will be at the Harold Washington Library Center in the Chicago Authors Room to talk about his book Charlatan: America’s Most Dangerous Huckster, the Man Who Pursued Him, and the Age of Flimflam. Free. 6pm. 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

February 19, 2008

Lit Gangs of Chicago @ MCA

This month, the Museum of Contemporary Art welcomes Young Chicago Authors to their Literary Gangs of Chicago series. Tonight's reading will give teen slam poets a chance to test their skills in preparation for the Louder than a Bomb city competition. Free from 6:30-8pm at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.

February 19, 2008

Catholicism & the American Literary Tradition @ DePaul

DePaul University discusses Catholicism and the American Literary Tradition tonight through a study of four acclaimed American authors: Flannery O'Connor, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Walker Percy and Edgar Allen Poe. The talk is presented by Dr. Farrell O'Gorman, Professor of Catholic Studies at DePaul, in the Student Center, Room 120, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave. Free and open to the public at 7pm. Call 773-325-7346 for more information.

February 19, 2008

Experimental Writing Showcase @ Hyde Park Art Center

Poets Lori Shine and Betsy Wheeler will present excerpts from their work at the next installment of "Series A", a reading of experimental writing at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., on Tuesday, February 19, 7-8 p.m.

February 18, 2008

Jim Wallis @ Seminary Co-op Bookstore

Author Jim Wallis will be at the Seminary Co-op Bookstore to talk about his book The Great Awakening: Reviving Faith & Politics in a Post-Religious Right America. Free. 4pm. 5757 S. University Ave. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

February 17, 2008

Elizabeth Matthews @ The Book Cellar

Elizabeth Matthews will be at The Book Cellar to talk about her book HMS Resolute. Free. 2pm. 4736-8 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

February 16, 2008

Reading @ Brown Triangle

Poetry from Brenda Cardenas, Johannes Goransson, and Roberto Harrison. Curated by Daniel Borzutzky. Additionally, the current art show at the Brown Triangle is open for viewing, featuring work by John Almanza, Karolina Gnatowski and Carol Jackson. 7 p.m. 2214 W. 21st St. For more info, please call Cameron at 773-354-9060

February 16, 2008

Iron Ladies of Liberia Premiere @ Chicago Cultural Center

This film chronicles the first year in office of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa's first elected female head of state. Afterwards is a panel discussion on gender, democracy, and civil strife in Africa and beyond with Martha Biondi, Lynette Jackson, Prexy Nesbitt, and Paul Tiyambe Zeleza. Independent Television Service (ITVS), the Chicago Cultural Center, Independent Lens, WTTW Channel 11, and CARE USA are the co-sponsors of this special screening. Free. 6:30 p.m. Claudia Cassidy Theater, 77 E. Randolph St. Reservations are required and can be made by e-mailing events@thepublicsquare.org or by calling 312-422-5580.

February 15, 2008

Jennifer Parello @ Women & Children First

Jennifer Parello stops by Women & Children First to read from and discuss her debut novel Dateland. The story "follows the romantic adventures of Julia and Trician, best friends and law partners," both dealing with painful breakups. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

February 13, 2008

Harold! @ Women &