Readings/Book Signings

• DAVE BARRY The Pulitzer prize-winning columnist reads from his new collection, "History of the Millennium," a witty trip through the highlights (and lowlights) of our young new era. For a quarter decade, Barry's syndicated column has appeared in more that 500 newspapers. Thu, Sept. 20, noon, FREE , Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine St., 215-686-5322.
• DAVID FRIEND The author reads from his new book, "Watching the World Change: The stories behind the images of 9/11." This event is co-sponsered by the Annenberg School for Communication. Thu, Sept. 20, 4:30-5:30pm, FREE , Penn Bookstore, 3601 Walnut St., 215-898-7595.
• JULIUS THOMPSON The former sportswriter reads from his new novel, "Philly Style and Philly Profile," the second in a trilogy. In this installment, Andy Michael Pilgrim moves from Brooklyn to Philadelphia to work as a sportswriter. Thu, Sept. 13, 6-8pm, FREE , Robin's Bookstore, 108 S. 13th St., 215-735-9600.
• MARYBETH GASMAN The author discusses her book, "Envisioning Black Colleges: A history of the United Negro College Fund." Wed, Sept. 19, 3-4pm, FREE , Penn Bookstore, 3601 Walnut St., 215-898-7595.
• PEPPER SCHWARTZ The relationship expert reads from her new memoir, "Prime: Adventures and Advice on Sex, Love and the Sensual Years." The sexual autobiography recalls the five years after her divorce and offers sex and dating advice for women in the same situation. Wed, Sept. 19, noon-2pm, $20-$25, Gershman Y, 401 S. Broad St., 215-446-3027.
• RAE ARMANTROUT The poet reads some of her new work, including "Extremities," "The Invention of Hunger," "Precedence," "Necromance" and "Next Life." Thu, Sept. 20, 6pm, FREE , Kelly Writers House, 3805 Locust Walk, 215-573-WRIT.
• ROBERT KANIGEL The author will read from his latest book, "Faux Real: Genuine Leather and 200 Years of Inspired Fakes," which examines how synthetics have challenged the leather industry. Thu, Sept. 20, 7-9pm, FREE , Hagley Museum & Library, 298 Buck Rd., Wilmington, DE, 302-658-2400.
• STEVEN PINKER The Pulitzer prize-nominated and best-selling science author reads from his new work, "The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature," which explores the complex relationship between language and human nature. Tue, Sept. 18, noon, FREE , Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine St., 215-686-5322.