We’re going to let you in on a little secret: book readings aren’t just about an author promoting his or her new book. Often, the most fascinating conversations stem from the topic at hand and you leave looking at the world around you in a whole new way. Want to try it out? The three highlighted here are your best bets: “The Fugitives” by Christopher Sorrentino National Book Award Finalist Christopher Sorrentino will be reading from his new book — his sixth — “The Fugitives,” about three interconnected characters, all harboring deep secrets and confronting different conflicts. The book provokes questions about obsession, betrayal, race and identity. Get ready for an interesting discussion! “Sudden Death” by Alvaro Enrique in conversation with Daniel Alarcon Set in 1599, “Sudden Death” begins with an epic tennis match between an Italian painter and a Spanish poet, a metaphor for the stage being set for Europe’s violent conquest of the New World. Mexican writer Alvaro Enrique — who is a visiting lecturer at Columbia University — will read an excerpt from his explosive novel, and lead a conversation with celebrated writer Daniel Alarcon about Latin America’s culture and brutal beginnings. “This Is Why You’re Single” Humorous Heart-To-Heart Funny women Chiara Atik (author “Modern Dating: A Field Guide”), Jennifer Wright (author “It Ended Badly”) the Observer’s J-Spot columnist Jasmine Lobe and Cosmopolitan senior editor Julie Vadnal all come together to celebrate singlehood. To attend the event, you must either buy a copy of the book or a $15 Strand Books gift card.
Feb. 9, 7 p.m.
BookCourt, 163 Court St., Brooklyn, 718-875-4677
BookCourt.com
Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m.
McNally Jackson Booksellers
52 Prince St., 212-274-1160
McNallyJackson.com
Feb. 12, 7 p.m.
Strand Books, 828 Broadway, 212-473-1452
StrandBooks.com