BOOKISH: No gossipy tell-alls here

Hosting readings in Philly this week are Dov S. Zakheim @ FPRI Library, Josh Ritter @ The Free Library and Jane Hampton Cook @ the National Constitution Center.

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BOOKISH: No gossipy tell-alls here

POSTED: Wednesday, July 27, 2011, 10:00 AM

Each week, Emily Apisa puts together a rundown of book-centric events that’ll keep you “lit” like a lightning bug all week long.

[ Wednesday ]

➤ Dov S. Zakheim
This former adviser to President G.W. Bush offers a unique perspective on the political fumbles contributing to the conflict in Afghanistan. A Vulcan’s Tale: How the Bush Administration Mismanaged the Reconstruction of Afghanistan serves not as a gossipy tell-all, but rather as an analysis of the mismanagement of various governmental agencies. Reservations are required for this free and public event. Wed., July 27, 11:30 a.m., free, FPRI Library, 1528 Walnut St., 215-732-3774, ext. 303.

[ Thursday ]

➤ Josh Ritter
Best known for his singing and songwriting ability, Josh Ritter is branching out into the world of fiction with his first novel Bright’s Passage. The main character, a WWI survivor, suffers from PTSD and struggles to find security upon his return to civilian life. Ritter maintains his musical chops by infusing a lyrical quality to his prose. Joining Ritter at this author talk is Philly’s World Café Live radio host, David Dye. Thu., July 28, 7:30 p.m., free, The Free Library, Central Branch, 1901 Vine St., 215-567-4341.

[ Friday ]

➤ Fact-Simile Equinox Chapbook Release Party
Bookworms need neither karaoke machine nor disco ball to have a party, and Moonstone knows this better than anyone. At this chapbook release party, four readings will serve as the entertainment. C. McCallister Williams won Fact-Simile’s 2010 Exquinox Chapbook contest, and will be sharing some of his work. Also reading are poets Debrah Morkun, Andrew K. Peterson and Jess Wigent. Fri., July 29, 7 p.m., free, Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St., 215-735-9600.

[ Saturday ]

➤ Jane Hampton Cook
With the current the National Constituion Center's George Washington exhibit as her backdrop, this author will discuss the American values that took root during the Revolutionary War: freedom and liberty. Cook will host two talks, each followed by a book signing. Bring your own, or purchase copies of Stories of Faith and Courage from the Revolutionary War and What Does the President Look Like? to get the author’s John Hancock inscribed within. Sat., July, 30, 1 and 2 p.m., free with museum admission, National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St., 215-409-6700.

[ Sunday ]

➤ King Alexander
While this poet’s name conjures images of unattainable royalty, his poems draw inspiration from his own, relatable experiences. Hear King Alexander bring life to the words on his pages at this reading. Emotion is a key element in his poetry, and a live reading will amp up his book I Am Heir. Sun., July 31, 5:30 p.m., free, Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St., 215-923-2906

[ Monday ]

➤ Raspberry Cream Pie Day
The Internet says today is National Raspberry Cream Pie Day, so it must be true. Oddly specific and totally delicious I will show my support of this day and dessert with the purchase of Karen Jean Matsko Hood’s cookbook Raspberry Delights Cookbook. If the cream pie doesn’t sit well with your lactose intolerant stomach, maybe a nice crumble or fruit salad will serve as a suitable substitute. Mon., Aug. 1, all day, free.

[ Tuesday ]

➤ Juan Williams
Freedom of speech is a pillar of America’s foundations, but journalist and author Juan Williams suggests in his book Muzzled: The Assault on Honest Debate that our foundations are crumbling. Williams explains how political correctness interferes with the flow of ideas in America, citing his own experiences as a prime example of interruption. This NPR journalist was fired after saying he felt nervous around people donning certain religious garments on airplanes. Listen to Williams as he explains how the truth gets lost in the P.C. shuffle. Tue., Aug, 2, 7:30 p.m., $7-$15, The Free Library (Central Branch), 1901 Vine St., 215-567-4341.

(emily.apisa@citypaper.net)

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Featuring everything from event roundups to concert reviews and sex talk, City Paper's Critical Mass is a space for off-the-wall coverage of Philly's A&E scene.

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