Christopher Swann, "Shadow of the Lions." Swann's literary thriller and coming-of-age story explores friendship, redemption, and what it means to lay the past to rest. 6 p.m. Feb. 6. Signing. Free. Atlanta-Fulton Public Library, Milton Branch, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton, 404-613-4402, www.afpls.org
Susan Stachler, "The Cookie Cure." The homemade ginger cookies Stachler's mother baked to soothe the side effects of her daughter's cancer treatments had unexpected benefits: The mother-daughter duo found themselves sharing their gingersnaps with the world. 7 p.m. Feb. 6, Barnes & Noble Buckhead, 2900 Peachtree Road NE., Atlanta, 404-261-7747, store-locator.barnesandnoble.com
Erica Dawson. Dawson is the author of two prize-winning collections of poetry: "The Small Blades Hurt," and "Big-Eyed Afraid." 6:30 p.m. Feb. 7. Reading, signing, reception. Free. Emory University, Joseph W. Jones Room, Level 3, Woodruff Library, 540 Asbury Circle, 404-727-6861, creativewriting.emory.edu. Also appearing: 2 p.m. Feb. 7. Colloquium. Free. Emory University, Kemp Malone Library, N301 Callaway Memorial Center, 537 Kilgo Circle, Atlanta.
David Peisner, "Homey Don't Play That." Discover the behind-the-scenes stories and lasting impact of the trailblazing comedy show that upended television, launched the careers of some of our biggest stars, and changed the way we talk, think, and laugh about race: "In Living Color." 7:15 p.m. Feb. 7. Talk, signing. Free. Decatur Library Auditorium, 215 Sycamore St., Decatur, 404-370-3070, Ext. 2285, www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/
Morgan Jerkins, "This Will Be My Undoing." Feminist and critic Jerkins' collection of linked essays interweaves incisive commentary on pop culture, feminism, black history, misogyny, and racism with her own experiences to confront the challenges of being a black woman today. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7. Free. $5 suggested donation. Charis Books & More, 1189 Euclid Ave NE., Atlanta, 404-524-0304, www.charisbooksandmore.com/
Tayari Jones, "An American Marriage." Jones' fourth novel follows two newlyweds whose lives are upended when the husband is arrested and sentenced to 12 years in prison; the conviction is overturned five years later, and he returns to his wife to start over. In conversation with Pearl Cleage. 7 p.m. Feb. 9. Conversation, champagne reception, signing. Free. RSVP suggested. Center Space Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta, 404-524-0304, www.charisbooksandmore.com
Love Our Readers Luncheon: Patti Callahan Henry. Co-hosted by authors Lindi Peterson and Ciara Knight, this annual luncheon features keynote speaker Henry ("The Bookshop at Water's End"), joined by fellow authors Ane Mulligan, Patty Smith Hall, Pam Mantovani, and Rachel Jones. 10 a.m. Feb. 10. Talk, signing. $37.50 includes lunch, meet n' greets, two free books, readings. RSVP required. Marietta Educational Garden Center, 505 Kennesaw Ave., Marietta, 770-427-3494, www.foxtalebookshoppe.com
