sunday/8
“The Crisis of Zionism.” Author Peter Beinart discusses his book about the future of Israel. At Congregation Kol Shofar, 215 Blackfield Drive, Tiburon. 10 a.m. Free. www.kolshofar.org.
wednesday/11
“Flexigidity: The Secret of Jewish Adaptability and the Opportunity Facing Israel.” Author Gidi Grinstein discusses his book about the history of Jewish adaptability. At Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. 7:30 p.m. $8-$12. www.paloaltojcc.org.
“Blue Suede Jews, Part 2.” San Francisco rock-history author Richie Unterberger discusses 1960s and ’70s Jewish rock performers, including Lou Reed, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Carole King, Leonard Cohen and others. At Merced Branch Library, 155 Winston Drive, S.F. 6:30 p.m. Free. www.tinyurl.com/blue-suede-jews.
thursday/12
“Crossing Cairo: A Jewish Woman’s Encounter with Egypt.” Rabbi Ruth Sohn discusses her book about living with her family in Egypt for six months. At Jewish Community Library, 1835 Ellis St., S.F. 7 p.m. Free. www.jewishlearningworks.org/library/adult-events.
sunday/15
“Calling on God.” Rabbi Pamela Frydman discusses her book about Jewish prayer. Bagel brunch served. At Temple Beth Hillel, 801 Park Central, Richmond. 10:30 a.m. $5 suggested donation. www.tbhrichmond.org.
tuesday/17
“Overweight Sensation: The Life and Comedy of Allan Sherman.” Author Mark Cohen discusses his biography of the manic and creative Jewish song parodist. At JCC East Bay, 1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. 7 p.m. $8-$10. www.jcceastbay.org.
wednesday/18
“Women Over 60 Can Have It All!” Author Barbara Rose Brooker reads excerpts from “Should I Sleep in His Dead Wife’s Bed?” her upcoming novel about love and life after 60. At Commonwealth Club, 595 Market St., S.F. 5:15 p.m. $7-$20. www.commonwealthclub.org.