Denver’s literary scene is wrapping up September in a big way, with major authors discussing works that cover everything from the Doors to domestic violence. It all culminates in the kickoff for NEA's Big Read at the Botanic Gardens. Keep reading for the five best book events this week.

Jodi Picoult, A Spark of Light
Tuesday, September 24, 7 p.m.
CU South Denver
10035 Peoria Street, Parker
$24
Douglas County Libraries and the Tattered Cover join up to host the inimitable Jodi Picoult (My Sister’s Keeper, Nineteen Minutes, Small Great Things) in conversation with Eleanor Brown (The Light of Paris, The Weird Sisters). These two New York Times best-selling authors come together to discuss Picoult’s newest novel, A Spark of Light. Tickets include admission to the authors' presentation, dessert bites, a pre-signed paperback edition of the novel, and a place in the photo-opportunity line.

Don McPherson, You Throw Like a Girl
Tuesday, September 24, 7 p.m.
Tattered Cover Aspen Grove
7301 South Santa Fe Drive, Littleton
Free
Former Syracuse University quarterback and NFL veteran Don McPherson comes to the Tattered Cover Aspen Grove to discuss and sign his new book, You Throw Like a Girl: The Blind Spot of Masculinity. Using examples from his own life, McPherson argues that viewing violence toward women as a “women’s issue” not only ignores the culpability of men, but also conflates the toxicity of male violence with “being a man.” This free event is co-sponsored by the Blue Bench, a sexual assault prevention group.

NEA Big Read: Julia Alvarez’s In the Time of the Butterflies
Friday, September 27, 5 p.m.
Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York Street
Free with registration
Lighthouse Writers Workshop teams up with Denver Arts & Venues and the Denver Public Library to launch the National Endowment for the Arts’ Big Read program featuring Julia Alvarez's classic, In the Time of the Butterflies. This kick-off celebration includes information, performances and presentations of literature, advocacy, dance, theater and much more, all leading up to the culminating reading with Julia Alvarez on November 6. The event is free, but registration is required.