Literature follows on the heels of Crashed Ice in Saint Paul this week. Attempting a literary trifecta, I started the midweek with the Books and Bars discussion at Amsterdam Bar and Hall, where Patty Smith’s award winning “Just Kids” was on the menu. Unlike last month’s  mostly reviled selection (Freedom) the choice was generally admired for its hindsight view of an era and inner exploration of the artistic life.   Participants at the book club are outspoken and engaged but it’s also okay to be a wallflower Even one who hasn’t read the book. Next on the agenda – Swamplandia.

And tonight, off to the inaugural book club at Kopplins Coffee. We’ll be discussing American Terroir, a love song to the terrains of the north and south American continents and their indigenous products.   

If this topic doesn’t talk to you, head to the Hamline Branch Library for the Fireside Reading Series second installment.  Eric Dregni reads from Vikings in the Attic.