Literary happenings around town

If the weather outside frightful and the fire is so delightful, January's a great time to snuggle up with a good book, or a movie. Recently a fellow writer recommended to me to watch the director's cuts and interviews on DVDs for some great tips that can apply to any kind of storytelling, not just screenwriting and directing. I'm in the habit of skipping those bonus features, but now I realize I've been missing out. Sounds sort of like taking a film class from the comfort of your couch!

If you're cruising the Web, take a few minutes to read the winners and runners-up of the Inlander Short Fiction Contest. The talent of Spokane writers Ross Carder and John Whalen, Pullman writer Richard Harlan Miller, and more will reaffirm the conviction that Inland Northwest writers really do rock.

On the other hand, if you've been cooped up for days and the walls are starting to close in on you, don't give in to cabin fever! Bundle up and head out to see what's going on in the wider world.

Catch the film version of the widely loved James Thurber story The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, starring Ben Stiller, at local theaters.

Author Deby Fredericks will sign copies of her latest sci-fi novel, The Seven Exalted Orders, at 1 p.m. on January 11 at Hastings, 1704 W. Wellesley Ave., Spokane.

Moscow-based author Janet Richards will present and sign copies of her book, Crossing the River Sorrow: One Nurse's Story, January 11 at 2 p.m. at Auntie's, 402 W. Main, Spokane.

Also at Auntie's, a new poetry workshop called the Wordwright's Workshop will be held on the second Saturday of the month, open to all ages. January 11 at 4:30 p.m. Free. For information, visit Spokane Poetry Slam (838-0206)

Later in January, in Coeur d'Alene, Athol-based author Alexander Hencoski will sign copies of his book The Adventures of Rathdrum Willie and His Motor Car. Rathdrum Willie is an uproariously funny hermit who lives in the small town of Rathdrum, Idaho. When he’s not being a public nuisance, you can usually find him inventing a unique contraption or practicing his finely tuned hermit skills. This time, Willie has created a car that has no brakes! Follow Willie as he rides around town, wreaking havoc on all who cross his path. 1-4 p.m. on January 18 at Hastings, 101 Best Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

Up in Sandpoint on January 15, writers, musicians, and listeners can check out the Five Minutes of Fame open mic event beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Cafe Bodega, located inside Foster's Crossing at 504 Oak St. Original material only, please -- arrive at 6 p.m. for dinner.