monday/12
“Israel: A Concise History of a Nation Reborn.” Daniel Gordis, Israel analyst and former Conservative rabbi, discusses his latest book. Signing follows. At Commonwealth Club, 555 Post St., S.F. 12 p.m. $20, members and students free. www.commonwealthclub
thursday/15
“Hybrid Judaism.” Rabbi Darren Kleinberg, head of Kehillah Jewish High School in Palo Alto, discusses his new book on the changing face of American Jewish identity. In conversation with San Francisco State professor Marc Dollinger. At Osher Marin JCC, 200 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael. 7 p.m. Free, but RSVP requested. www.marinjcc.org
saturday/17
“Dreidels on the Brain.” Author Joel ben Izzy discusses his memoir about growing up and surviving Hanukkah in the L.A. suburbs. At Book Passage Marin, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera. 1 p.m. Free. www.bookpassage.com (For complete listing, see story, 25)
“Moonglow.” Michael Chabon discusses his new semi-autobiographical novel. At Book Passage Marin, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera. 4 p.m. Free. www.bookpassage.com