Each week, we offer a roundup of the best literary events in the city. All events are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. Want to submit an upcoming event for consideration? Go here.
Monica Trasandes (Broken Like This)
Friday, December 7, 7:30 pm, at Books Inc. Castro (2275 Market St.)
The first novel by Trasandes, who is GLAAD's director of Spanish-language media, is the story of American Kate Harrington, who's left comatose after a tragic car accident in Ibiza. Her former lovers, Angela and Louis, both fly to her side, as does her no-good stepfather. As Angela and Louis recall how they fell in love with Kate and fight her stepfather for access to her care, Kate conceals a secret that will change everything.
Anne Lamott (Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers)
Wednesday, December 5, 7 pm, at Saint Andrews Church (101 Donahue St., Sausalito.)
Friday, December 14, 6:30-9 pm, at Congregational Church of San Mateo (225 Tilton Ave.)
Lamott, a progressive Christian, is known for her funny and perceptive writing about religious faith, and her latest work details the three prayers that allow her to get through daily life: a prayer for assistance, a prayer of gratitude, and a prayer of awe at the world around us. Even those who aren't religious can appreciate Lamott's quest to navigate the world with more mindfulness and gratitude. Tickets to her Sausalito reading are $25 and include a copy of the book; tickets to her San Mateo reading are also $25, and include a reception (book sold separately).
Lemony Snicket (Who Could That Be at This Hour?)
Wednesday, December 5, 5 pm, at The Booksmith (1644 Haight St.)
Local author Daniel Handler is perhaps better known as his alter-ego, Lemony Snicket, author of the Series of Unfortunate Events books. Handler/Snicket's latest is the first in a series for middle-grade readers, focusing on his childhood apprenticeship in a shadowy organization, and featuring illustrations by acclaimed comics artist Seth. The author will sign books, chat with fans, and pose for photos; bring along the kid in your life (or your inner child).
McSweeney's Holiday Party
Thursday, December 6, 7-10 pm, at the Make-Out Room (3225 22nd St.)
The folks behind McSweeney's are throwing a holiday bash with a liberal dose of karaoke. Kick off the evening with a reading from Paul Legault, whose latest work is The Emily Dickinson Reader, followed by a round of karaoke with KJ Glenny Kravitz. Tiger beer and Dandelion Chocolate will provide drinks and snacks, and a DJ will wrap up the evening with a dance party. Tickets are $18 and include a free copy of either The Believer or Lucky Peach magazines (your choice).
