sunday/6
“From Enemy to Friend.” Rabbi Amy Eilberg discusses her book about peacemaking as a spiritual practice. At Congregation Etz Chayim, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. 2:30 p.m. Free. www.etzchayim.org
wednesday/9
“The Pope and Mussolini.” Book discussion about David Kertzer’s stories from the Vatican’s secret archives, including the suppressed statement by Pope Pius XI condemning the Nazis. At Commonwealth Club, 555 Post St., S.F. 5:30 p.m. $5, free with membership or student ID. www.commonwealthclub.org
“An Evening with Sasha Abramsky.” Sacramento journalist discusses his new memoir “The House of Twenty Thousand Books,” which details a renowned library and salon created by his grandparents. At Mrs. Dalloway’s Bookstore, 2904 College Ave., Berkeley. 7:30 p.m. Free. Also Sept. 10 in conversation with U.C. Davis history professor David Biale at Mechanics’ Institute Library, 57 Post St., S.F. 6 p.m. $15. Also Sept. 17 at Book Passage Marin, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera. 7 p.m. Free. www.tinyurl.com/abramsky-readings
thursday/17
“Divinity School.” Book release event for debut poetry volume by poet, Torah scholar and indie-rock musician Alicia Jo Rabins, plus other authors. At Alley Cat Books, 3036 24th St., S.F. 7 p.m. Free. www.alleycatbookshop.com