Author appearances and book signings

• Meet author Richard C. Lindberg as he discusses and signs copies of his books "The Gambler King of Clark Street: Michael C. McDonald & the Rise of Chicago's Democratic Machine" and "Chicago Yesterday and Today" at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Centuries and Sleuths bookstore, 7419 W. Madison St., Forest Park. (708) 771-7243.

•"The Defector" author Daniel Silva signs copies of his book at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Borders Books and Music, 1500 16th St., Oak Brook. (630) 574-0800.

• "Short Girls" author Bich Nguyen will read from her debut novel at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, at Women and Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 769-9299.

• Meet Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer and author Fergie Jenkins, as he signs copies of his biography "Fergie: My Life from the Cubs to Cooperstown" at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Anderson's Bookshop, 123 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville. Note: No memorabilia may be signed during event. (630) 355-2665.