sunday/27
“A Guide for the Perplexed.” Discussion about Dara Horn’s novel, with writer Rebecca Spence. Part of One Bay One Book. At Afikomen Judaica, 3042 Claremont Ave., Berkeley. 3 p.m. Free. www.afikomen.com.
“Training in Compassion.” Makor Or spiritual leader Norman Fischer discusses his book about spiritual meditation. At JCCSF, 3200 California St., S.F. 5 p.m. $15-$20. www.jccsf.org.
monday/28
“The Life of Raoul Wallenberg.” Author Ingrid Carlberg discusses her book about the Swedish diplomat’s efforts to save Jews during the Holocaust. At JCCSF, 3200 California St., S.F. 7 p.m. Free with RSVP. [email protected].
friday/1
“Critical Mass.” Author Sara Paretsky discusses her novel about a family’s secrets during the World War II and before. At Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera. 7 p.m. Free. www.bookpassage.com.
tuesday/5
“The Short, Strange Life of Herschel Grynszpan.” Author Jonathan Kirsch discusses his book about the assassination of a Nazi diplomat in Paris leading to Kristallnacht. At Congregation B’nai Tikvah, 25 Hillcroft Way, Walnut Creek. 7:30 p.m. $7; students free. www.tikvah.org.