THURSDAY 12/2
* Craig Rosebraugh
In the midst of running the struggling vegan restaurant Calendula, Rosebraugh somehow found time to write Burning Rage of a Dying Planet, a book on the militant environmental group Earth Liberation Front (ELF). Love him or loathe him, Rosebraugh is always articulate and interesting. Powell’s Books on Hawthorne, 3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 238-1668, 7:30 pm
SATURDAY 12/4
* David H. Price
Price presents Threatening Anthropology, his fiery account of the ways in which the FBI suppressed the work of activist anthropologists during the McCarthy Era. Millar Library at PSU, 1875 SW Park, 725-4552, 7-9:30 pm, free
MONDAY 12/6
* Boxing Day Kill Santa Cabaret
The local periodical Gobshite Quarterly is an eclectic blend of international literature, poetry, essays, and artwork that can at times be fascinating, and at other times be mind-numbingly boring. In an attempt to boost the pizzazz factor, they’re becoming more socially active, with upcoming events like tonight’s readings with Richard Melo and the crafty Kevin Sampsell, followed by music from Julian Tulip’s Licorice. Berbati’s, 10 SW 3rd, TIME, $5, or $3 with can of food
* Clive & Dirk Cussler
Clive Cussler wrote Black, the latest addition to his popular Dirk Pitt adventure series, with his son… Dirk. Very sweet, but the point is: if you’re a fan of action and kamikaze excitement, this is the reading for you. Powell’s City of Books, 1005 W Burnside St., 228-4651, 7:30 pm
TUESDAY 12/7
Christopher Moore
The popular humorist presents his latest book, The Stupidest Angel, a really twisted take on the holiday season. Powell’s City of Books, 1005 W Burnside St., 228-4651, 7:30 pm
The Stars Will Shine
The Willamette Writers group presents 13 Oregon Book Award finalists, including winners Scott Nadelson (short fiction), Michelle McCann (children’s literature), and Shelly Lipkin, Louanne Moldovan, and Sherry Lamoreaux (drama). Talk to ’em about writing and get your books signed. The Old Church, 1422 SW 11th, 452-1592, 7 pm, $10
WEDNESDAY 12/8
* Shelley Berman
Portland Arts and Lectures presents Berman, an ancient comedian and actor who you young’uns may know best from his role as Larry David’s father on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, SW Broadway & Main, 227-2583, 7:30 pm, $25