Best headline ever: “Man Killed Driving Backward to Retrieve Hat.” That poor fellow didn't live (or die) in California, but if he did, his story might have made it into this new book: Death in California: The Bizarre, Freakish, and Just Curious Ways People Die in the Golden State (Craven Street Books). Author David Kulczyk “will amuse and horrify with true local stories of strange death” at this local appearance, where you can find answers to such questions as “What's the deadliest nature spot in California, whose scenic beauty has lured 14 tourists to their deaths?” Metropolis Books, 440 S. Main St., dwntwn.; Sat., May 15, 4 p.m.; free, book is $15.95. (213) 612-0174. –Libby Molyneaux

Sat., May 15, 4 p.m., 2010

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