My friend Kelly O'Connor McNees is an accomplished historical fiction author and her newest release, a tale of the relationship between journalist Lorena Hickok and Eleaner Roosevelt, is a real labor of love. Make sure you pick up  Undiscovered Country  and think about it for your next book club, if you have one -- the story of how Kelly researched and fought for this book is nearly as fascinating and inspiring as the book itself.  

Unrelated to Kelly's event, this Thursday I will be appearing at the wonderful show You're Being Ridiculous, alongside performers  Ellen Barish, Mike Blumberg, Sherry & Steve Fine, Elizabeth Gomez Jackie Mantey and Jeremy Owens.  What makes this show special is that a.) It's in Winnetka, so you suburban types can come out to this one, and b.) It won't just be me reading but noted spouse Steve Delahoyde will be a part of the lineup as well. Get your tickets here!

Finally, I am very excited to announce the lineup for the next installment of Funny Ha-Ha. It's a little ways away but I think you'll be glad you saved the date for this one:  

Featuring readings and performances from:

Stoop Storytelling Series producer and host  Lily Be

Actress, storyteller and comedian  Julia  Sweeney Blum

Chicago journalist Cassie Walker Burke Cassie Walker Burke

Windy City Rollers founder  Elizabeth Gomez

Freelance writer, editor, and dance party enthusiast  Jennon Bell Hoffmann

"The Wrong Way to Save Your Life" author  Megan Stielstra  

Official Steve Martin acquaintance  Steve Delahoyde

Ticket pre-ordering info to come. You won't want to miss this!