Do It. Patti Smith book talks/signings.

This week, Patti Smith is making her rounds to present and sign her new book, Just Kids, at Los Angeles' finest bookstores, Book Soup and Skylight Books. She'll be on the Sunset Strip at Book Soup tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m., and at Skylight Books on Vermont on Saturday at 5:00 p.m.

The book is about her youth in New York (hence the title "Just Kids") and relationship with the late, great photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. Based on the excerpt I read in Rolling Stone, it's engrossing. It's inspiration for young people struggling to pursue creative endeavors.

I'm really excited to meet the "Godmother of Punk" and see what she's like in person. The Rock-and-Roll Hall of Famer is definitely one of those people who has stayed cool as she ages. As someone who knew Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and Allen Ginsberg, Smith must have a ton of great memories, many of which are recorded in the book.

If you can't make it to the signings, order the book on Amazon!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: www.rotatingcorpse.com

Check It. The Invention of Lying and Just Kids.

If you didn't catch this cute comedy in the theater, it's out on DVD today. Continuing with the Ricky Gervais theme, The Invention of Lying is a simple yet thought-provoking film (starring Gervais) about the man who invented the lie. The lovely Jennifer Garner co-stars, and Rob Lowe plays the very handsome guy who's his competition.

If you liked Ghost Town, you'll probably like The Invention of Lying. I did see it in the theater, but will probably rent it too. Louis C.K., Jonah Hill, and Tina Fey also make appearances--and of course, add more humor to the already cleverly funny film.

Also out today: Patti Smith's latest book, Just Kids. More to come on this later!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: www.hollywoodoutbreak.com