Willy Vlautin Event on May 3rd!!

Lately I've been reading a couple books in the 600 page range, so I haven't been very good about blogging. But then I saw that we are doing an event with Will Vlautin.

I wasn't the first in the store to read Willy Vlautin; I wasn't even the first to read Lean on Pete; but I am definitely convinced that I don't know of another writer like Willy. He is one of those authors where I was tossed his first book and couldn't wait for the next (but not in one of those mystery series sort of ways). KPR first tossed me Motel Life, Willy's first book and I read it, fully enthralled, in one quick sitting. The next day I read Northline. I will say that none of these books are alike, but Willy's voice and feeling make them a part of a sad and lonely series.

KPR says of Lean on Pete: "Vlautin's prose is skillfully without artifice, telling the story directly and cleanly, and we ache as our protagonist tries to make his way in an indifferent and sometimes dangerous world."

I will say that the event with Willy at the Edinburgh Castle was one of the best readings I have even been privileged to see. Willy read with a pedal steel behind him and once again, KPR's review of that night (or maybe Pete's, not quite sure, but I definitely agree): "Finally, I just have to say...it was the most sublime literary event I've ever attended. This promises to be a rich Monday evening, even if you don't go to author events."

So come by the store, pick up Lean on Pete, and join us on May 3rd.

Join me for a drink?

I’m growing more and more impressed with the quality and uniqueness of literary events in the Bay Area these days - impressed yes, but not surprised… In a city that leads the rest in dollars spent per capita on books and booze, I’ve come to expect (and also work hard to organize) authors from far and wide pimping their wares in watering holes that range from dive bars to speakeasies to penthouses to cafes. If there’s a table and a stage – OK, maybe some haven’t had a stage, but still – literature in The City flows like fine wine; or at least MD2020.

Over the past couple of months I’ve attended sold-out Literary Death Matches, a packed Porchlight and a really rambunctious Quiet Lightning. Sad that I missed the most recent Writers With Drinks, but I do believethat I'll be there next time...

So when I encourage you to brave the rain tonight and join me at The Knockout for another in the continuing Drinks With Tony series, you know that I know what I’m talking about. Tony Dushane has been recording a live talk-radio show there for some time now, but tonight’s scene will be a bit different, as we’re celebrating the release of Tony’s new book, Confessions of a Teenage Jesus Jerk – his memoir of growing up Jehovah Witness. Interesting, indeed! Joining Tony on stage this evening will be Alan Black, Harmon Leon and Marisa Matarazzo with musical guests Vagabondage.

Tonight's event is FREE, so please try and make it down and support your local scene!

Flutter by Butterflies

Well, I guess that I'll come right out and admit it - I've got a serious case of nerves going this weekend. It's the good kind of jitters, the excited kind, but still I feel like I may be getting in a bit over my head. Why? Because this coming Monday evening I've been invited to speak on a panel at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco on 'The Future of Books." And yes, tickets are still available...

It's not that I'm without opinions on this subject. And certainly, I've got a crystal ball and I know how to use it. It's just that not only will I be the lone soul at the table representing the glories of the organic tome, I'm also the only one there without my own wikipedia page. O.K. maybe it's not quite that bad, but we're still talking about heavy hitters like Jared Friedman, co-founder of Scribd and Brewster Kahle, co-founder of InternetArchive.org. Actually, two great sites that I frequent regularly.

This is certain to be a great experience for me - I just hope that the listeners on over 350 radio stations across the nation will feel the same way. So, I'm hoping that some of you might throw some ideas, facts or figures my way so that we can work together and insure that the future is bright enough for us to read by. How can books (or bookstores) compete in a future that seems doomed to rely on extention cords? Why should books survive?

Geeks to gather at Green Apple on Tuesday!

Dust off your ol' D20 and roll on down to Green Apple Books for an amazing event with Ethan Gilsdorf and his new book, Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks.

In an enthralling blend of travelogue, pop culture analysis, and memoir, forty-year-old former D&D addict Ethan Gilsdorf crisscrosses America, the world, and other worlds—from Boston toWisconsin, France to New Zealand, and Planet Earth to the realm of Aggramar. On a quest that begins in his own geeky teenage past and ends in our online gaming future, he asks gaming and fantasy geeks how they balance their escapist urges with the kingdom of adulthood.

You can ask Mr. Gilsdorf about his hit point count and choice of warrior class on Tuesday, November 10th at 7 pm. No mead allowed.

DETAILS:
Ethan Gilsdorf at Green Apple Books
Tuesday November 10th 7-8pm
506 Clement Street at 6th Avenue
SF CA 94118

Signed and on Sale: Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer

We have signed copies of Jonathan Safran Foer's latest, Eating Animals, now on sale for 20% off! We have a limited stock, so if you're an early holiday shopper.. this is one ideal gift. Don't sleep on this, son! Cop this now!

Green Appler Jenn has this to report from Mr. Foer's event at the Jewish Community Center last night: "He signed until we got kicked out of the building, and even bought a copy for a vegan lady!"

What a nice fella!

New Author Events!

Our Events widget has been updated with tons of upcoming readings and signings. There's even a puppet show coming to the store!

Don't miss Sherman Alexie signing books this Friday!!!!

(No, Daniel Handler won't be there. And authors won't have any more apocalyptic visions... hopefully)

Aloha, nui loa

It's official - i've got just 45 minutes left on the clock and then it's off to the Big Island of Hawaii for two weeks of fun in the sun!

I've narrowed my beach reading list down to three titles which should cover most of the bases, but I'm wondering if anyone has a suggestion that might augment this short list? Buzzsaw loved Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, and I've heard nothing but the ravest of reviews for both the 2008 Booker Prize Winner, White Tiger and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Is there anything else out there that would really go well with sunscreen and a Mai Tai?

Certainly, if I hadn't already read Doug Dorst's Alive in Necropolis, it would make the trek. But since I have, I'm really looking forward to a great event happening on the eve of my return from paradise. I'll be working with the SFPL at The Page Bar on Monday Oct. 12th from 6-8PM when we host Mr. Dorst for an evening of themed cocktails, tarot card readings and who knows what else. 21up, please. The Page Bar inspired a bar in the book, so you know it's da ono, brah!

Dave Eggers Signing in the Store on Tuesday!

That's right Green Apple fans, Eggers will be signing his new book Zeitoun in the store on Tuesday the 18th of August.


(That's this Tuesday for those who didn't realize that August is already half over.)


He will only be here from 12pm-1pm, so if you can't make it during the day give us a call & pre-order your very own signed copy...more if you want them. Only $24.00 + tax for your very own signed Eggers book.


If you want to know more about the Egger's book Pete wrote about it at the beginning of July:

http://thegreenapplecore.blogspot.com/2009/07/new-dave-eggers.html.

Hurry, you have little time left.

BIX Here, not There

Sure looks good, doesn't it? And the best part about it (aside from the alcohol...er, olive) is that it can be yours! How? It's simple, educational, and fun. And free!!! Here's the deal, but pay attention because it's a two-parter, pardner:

Drop by Green Apple Books on Saturday, July 18th from 1:00pm - 2:00pm and enjoy a unique opportunity to meet Doug "Bix" Beiderbecke, owner of Bix Restaurant, and co-author of the fantastic compendium to the good-life, Bixology. And as if that's not enough...

Purchase a copy of Bixology at Green Apple anytime before Tuesday, July 21st, (on-line sales are OK) and you will be entered in a drawing which may enable you to become one of the lucky few who will enjoy a private, behind the scenes tour of Bix on Wed. July 22nd at 5:00pm,led by Doug, and culminating with a Martini reception and various mini-bites at the bar. Chance of a lifetime? Maybe. The best thing to do in San Francisco on Wednesday July 22nd? Certainly!

So grab a copy (or three) of Bixology, either in-store or on-line, and cross your fingers. Drop by the store on Saturday the 18th from 1-2 and ask Doug how he gets those Martinis so consistently perfect. Win a spot on our Martini tour. Life is grand!

Remember last week, when I mentioned the new radio show from Peter Finch of KFOG fame? As promised then, new details have emerged. It's called Beat of the Bay, and the segment that includes me will be aired this Saturday the 18th at the enjoyable time of 5:45AM. Not a typo, but 5:45 in the morning. Good news however, as the show will be archived on-line, and can be enjoyed again and again here (after the Saturday broadcast). Tune In, Turn On, Buy Books!

Hubba Hubba Ding Ding

But I'll bet that you missed it. . .

Maybe the coolest author event that I've ever organized happened last night, and unless you were one of the lucky group that packed the house at The Hypnodrome, I'm afraid that you missed it. C'mon people, what part of FREE BURLESQUE didn't you understand? We certainly could have made room for a few more.

Lily Burana read briefly from her new one, I Love a Man in Uniform, but mostly she (like everyone else) whooped it up for Sugar Shack burlesque troupe, who entertained us all with the finest bumps and grinds. Pasties were bouncing while costumes were falling all through the night, and we even managed to raise a grip of bills through a prize-laden raffle for Lily's favorite charity, Soldiers Angels. Thanks to all performers, especially my co-host for the evening Lady Satan. So what have we learned? That's right - check the event section at the Green Apple Books website often for more upcoming good times, and don't miss out again. We won't always promise the best in burlesque like last night, but we do promise that there will be books.

Yes, I did take pictures, but I'm not sure that you should see them, though. Should have been there. Instead, here's another blast of 3 Easy Pieces (and why I read) with one of The City's special residents, Frank Chu (aka That Guy With The Sign Who Seems To Be Everywhere I Go). I think this one should be called "Why I Read (and 1 really difficult answer)." Enjoy!

Frank Chu does Green Apple Books 3 Easy Pieces (and why I read) from kevin hunsanger on Vimeo.

Tune your FM dial to 104.5 on Wed Morning!

Maybe you knew, or maybe you didn't know, but I'm the official 'Book Guy of the 'KFOG Morning Show. And what that means (in addition to having my very own theme song) is that on Wed. morning I'll be going live at 7:30AM (ugh, i know) with the usual gang, and rapping about a handful of new titles that I'm most excited about. Like Oprah, I'm not telling til I tell, so tune-in WED MORNING and find out which tomes deserve the place of honor on your nightstand. 104.5FM in San Francisco (and North Bay) or 97.7FM in the South Bay.

And if you've got some free time on Tuesday night, the place to be is at Tosca, when Green Apple welcomes Wells Tower reading from his new collection of short-stories, "Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned." I haven't been this excited about a batch of short stories since reading Jesus' Son, and I'm not alone. In fact (Shhhhh....) I've been conspiring with another author to throw a little after-party for Wells for invited guests only. You may well flip your lid when you get to meet her, too. Drop me an email with your name, and you'll be sure to make the scene: kevhun@gmail.com. The event details are at the bottom of our upcoming events page.

Keep Reading and Go Giants!

Author Author

Geoff Dyer stopped by the store today to sign copies of his new book, Jeff In Venice, Death in Varanasi (you can read the gushing N.Y. Times Book Review by Pico Iyer here).

Mr. Dyer holds a special place in our collective Green Apple hearts (as we do in his). In his brilliant and hilarious 1997 study of D.H. Lawrence, Out of Sheer Rage (out of print at the moment, but due to be reissued in December), Dyer searches the world for the Penguin edition of Lawrence's Phoenix.

Finally, he stumbles upon it in a little bookstore in San Francisco: "Back in San Francisco, at the Green Apple bookstore, I found a copy of Phoenix: the Penguin edition. I saw it and snatched it up in the way that one does in these circumstances, fearful that at the last moment someone else was going to beat me to it. Ten dollars- and, right next to it, was Phoenix II."

In other author news, we're doing an event with David LaBua for his book on parking in San Francisco, Finding the Sweet Spot, Saturday at 4. He got a nice little write-up in today's Examiner. Should be fun.

And last, on Sunday we're doing a launch party for the local author of a new environmental-themed young adult novel called Operation Redwood by S. Terrell French. She's been getting great reviews from librarians and kids' book specialists. Come on by Sunday at 5 for some snacks, meet the author, and get a book signed.

I DID!!!

Just go ahead and bump me to the top of the 'Luckiest Guys Alive' list! On April 1st, my lovely bride and I got hitched in a small ceremony at San Francisco City Hall, no fooling! Some time later, we found ourselves firmly ensconced in the back room of Tosca with a grip of our nearest and dearest, popping corks into the wee-hours of the morning. What a time. What a city. What a doll!!!

Ah, Tosca. Safe to say it's one of SF's classic spots. And if you've never been, or need a good reason to revisit, keep reading...

Tosca marks the spot once again on Tuesday April 28th from 7-8:30pm when Green Apple goes on the road to celebrate the debut release Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned from Wells Tower, and trust us folks, you won’t want to miss a word from this amazing talent. Tower’s work has appeared in Esquire, The Paris Review and McSweeney’s. He’s won a couple of Pushcart Prizes. His fiction is tight, tough and laugh-out-loud funny. There will certainly be more awards in his future. He’s really damn good!

Walk, bike or take public transportation (or even drive) to San Francisco’s favorite watering hole, Tosca Café, for a night of stiff drinks and tall tales with Wells Tower. This is a free event, but more than that, it’s a unique chance to hang out with the freshest voice to hit the literary scene in a long while. So be there or be square, daddy-o!

Tower takes Tosca on Tuesday April 28th 7:00-8:30pm

242 Columbus Avenue at Broadway SF CA 94133

Scribd, anyone?

So obviously, this whole e-book thing is a prickly situation for bookstores, authors and publishers alike. Those of us in the 'dead tree' business love the books we sell, but more than that, we cherish the tradition of bookselling itself; how then to reconcile this growing trend away from printed words of all types?

First, why not buy a book and just read the dang thing on a beach, or sit in your favorite chair and flip through a magazine? But if you really need to use batteries, and still don't want to give Amazon anymore power, check out Scribd, a social publishing site where tens of millions of people share original writings and documents. Think Napster, but with a sense of social justice...

If anyone uses scribd, please drop a line in the comments and let me know what you think.

And if you need a real book to toss in the backpack, may I suggest Don Herron's Dashiell Hammett Tour of San Francisco. This is an updated, 30th Anniversary edition of an absolute classic of trivia and tours (both walking and driving). Chock full of photos, this new edition is a must have, and Green Apple is thrilled to be hosting the launch of this tome as part of our Side Room Series - click here for full info (on this and other upcoming events), or just mark your calendar and be here on Thursday March 26th from 7-8pm in the Green Apple sideroom.

KFOG titles & Josh Bazell Beat(s) the Reaper at the 540 Club

So, I did it! I drug my weary bones out of bed at 6:15 yesterday morning to go downtown to the KFOG station for my regular book review spot on the Morning Show. Webster, Dave Morey's replacement, is a right-on guy who digs the Giants and loves to read! I think that we'll get along famously. The 5 books I reviewed Tuesday morning are listed on our site, but for those of you who may be click-impaired, here they are: Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell (more on this later), Bases Loaded by Kirk Radomski, The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, Bay Area Graffiti by Rotman and Brennan and March's "Book of the Month", Little Bee by Chris Cleave. So there you go - check 'em out. Rather, DON'T check 'em out, but buy them here instead.

NOIR AT THE BAR 5


A couple of Kevins agree that Josh Bazell's debut novel Beat the Reaper was classic pulpy fun in a very modern manner. Josh has agreed to take part in our ongoing reading series, NOIR AT THE BAR, at the 540 Club (540 Clement Street) next Thursday March 5th from 630-800pm. All the details are available on our events page.

Please Keep Reading.

Suicide Girls heading our way 2/27

Green Apple doesn't have a regular events series--our store is packed with bookcases and books, not chairs. But on occasion, just the right thing comes along. This is not right for everyone, but for certain folks, our upcoming event with some Suicide Girls is just the thing to start off a Friday night.

Friday, February 27: SuicideGirls at the 540 Club


SuicideGirls has gone from a "membership-only pin-up website" to encompass magazines, tours, and books; their latest book is Suicide Girls: Beauty Redefined, featuring more of their trademark pictorials and style.

No tickets are required for this event. The 540 Club is on the same block as Green Apple, at 540 Clement St. Festivities begin at 8:00 p.m. Join us and some Suicide Girls for some vaguely edgy, sexy fun.