Local author appearances

• Author Julie Kramer discusses and signs copies of her book "Missing Mark & Stalking Susan" at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at Centuries and Sleuths bookstore, 7419 W. Madison St., Forest Park. (708) 771-7243.

• Meet author and Northwestern University professor Carl Smith as he discusses and signs copies of his book "The Plan of Chicago: Daniel Burnham and the Remaking of the American City" at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. Copies of Smith's book will be on sale at the event. (847) 392-0100.