Professor of Animal Science, Colorado State University; Co-author, The Autistic Brain: Thinking Across the Spectrum

The number of children and adults diagnosed with autism has skyrocketed over the past 10 years, with a recent CDC report estimating that 1 out of 88 U.S. children are on the autism spectrum. Grandin will share her own experiences and discuss how we can better understand and diagnose autism. From advances in neuroimaging to cutting-edge genetic research, find out what unique and revolutionary treatments might soon be available.

Location: Schultz Cultural Hall, Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto 
Time: 6:30 p.m. check-in, 7 p.m. program, 8 p.m. book signing
Cost: General: $20 non-member, $12 members, $7 students. Premium: $40 non-member, $40 members (priority seating and copy of book)
Also know: Underwritten by The Bernard Osher Foundation

Since 1931, the California Book Awards have honored literary excellence among authors in the Golden State. At our special awards ceremony, we will bestow gold and silver medals in several categories, including: fiction, nonfiction, first fiction, poetry, young adult, juvenile, Californiana and contribution to publishing. Hear from some literary giants and amazing writers. See you at the ceremony!

Winning authors confirmed to attend thus far:

Location: SF Club Office
Time: 5:15 p.m. check-in/pre-program reception, 6 p.m. awards ceremony, 7:15 p.m. book signing and reception
Cost: $20 standard, $15 members, $7 students (with valid ID)
Also know: Part of the Good Lit Series, underwritten by The Bernard Osher Foundation. Special thanks to Dr. Martha Cox and the late Ambassador Bill Lane for their generous endowment, allowing the California Book Awards to take place. Sponsored by Bank of the West.

Lieutenant Commander Rorke Denver, U.S. Navy SEAL

Lieutenant Commander Denver has run every phase of training for the U.S. Navy SEALs and led special-forces missions in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and other international hot spots. He starred in the 2012 hit film Act of Valor, which is based on true SEAL adventures. Don't miss this chance to go inside the personal story and the fascinating, demanding SEAL training program of a veteran of the front lines. Denver will share lessons learned from both the theater of war and his time directing SEAL instruction.

MLF: International Relations
Location: SF Club Office
Time: 5:30 p.m. networking reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing
Cost: $20 non-members, $8 members, $7 students (with valid ID)
Program Organizer: Norma Walden
Also know: Photo by Rob Greer. Part of the Good Lit Series, underwritten by The Bernard Osher Foundation.