In one week, it'll be World Book Night — a night on which people around the world who might not ordinarily have access are given books by various benefactors. It's also the anniversary of the death of both Cervantes and Shakespeare, who would undoubtedly love to take part in World Book Night if they weren't already dead. Something so inescapably global needs preparation, of course — and tonight's World Book Night Advance Party is brimming with good will, free pie and door prizes. Some of the books selected for World Book Night: Zeitoun by Dave Eggers; The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot; Just Kids by Patti Smith; and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou (and she knows from pies!). So, if you've signed up to give the gift of literacy (or, at the very least, the blessing of annihilated boredom), pick up your boxes of chosen books at Diesel and have some pie as you do. Wash your hands first, though. Diesel Books, 225 26th St., Ste. 33; Brentwood; Mon., April 16, 6 p.m.; free. (310) 576-9960, dieselbookstore.com

Mon., April 16, 6 p.m., 2012

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