Let’s leapfrog over the election, shall we? Two days after America selects a new president, the Sebastopol Grange hosts a holiday book fair featuring more than two dozen local authors selling their books for your personal pleasure and to help with your holiday shopping. See? You have a reason to get out of bed, no matter what happens on November 8. You’re welcome.

In addition to at least 24 individual author “booths,” there will be a table featuring books by local poets. Throughout the evening, there will be short readings on the stage by participating authors. This will be done rather quietly, so that visitors can continue their shopping and talk to individual authors as much as they like.

Authors are encouraged to decorate their spaces and guests will vote on the best decor for a People’s Choice award. Guests are urged to dress as a favorite author; the best costume will receive a prize. A raffle of books will benefit the Sonoma County Library.

The evening takes place on Thursday, November 10, from 6 to 9  p.m. And you needn’t worry about dinner. There will be a no-host polenta bar, featuring my Slow-Cooker Polenta and an array of toppings contributed by local restaurants. You’ll also be able to buy a glass of wine or cup of hot cider.

Robert Kourik and I are co-hosting the evening and will share a table. As soon as we have our confirmed list of participating authors, I’ll post it.