Jonathan Lethem is an interesting cat: The New York Times best-selling author of eight novels (including Chronic City, The Fortress of Solitude and Motherless Brooklyn), he also penned a delicious look at John Carpenter's anticapitalist ghoulfest, They Live, and acted as co-editor of Philip K. Dick's astounding Exegesis. (At a recent talk, Lethem admitted having a Ubik tattoo.) As if we still need to convince you of his literary hepness, Lethem was appointed professor in creative writing at Pomona College in 2010, beating out 75 other applicants for a post held by David Foster Wallace until his suicide in 2008. Some Favorite Writers: Jonathan Lethem finds the author reading from his newest volume, The Ecstasy of Influence, a collection of essays that focus on everything from 9/11 to sex in cinema, the lit world and Marlon Brando, followed by a discussion with organizer Mona Simpson. Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Wstwd.; Tues., March 13, 7 p.m.; free; reservations not required. (310) 443-7000; hammer.ucla.edu/calendar/detail/type/program/id/1156.

Tue., March 13, 7 p.m., 2012

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