A slow week this week... but still, there are a couple neat things to check out, like Ray Robertson on Jack Kerouac, and the launch of Paul Quarrington's new novel at the Gladstone.

Tuesday, March 18th:

Clara Blackwood (author of Subway Medusa), Rudy Fearon (Noise In My Mind) and Maureen Hynes are reading at tonight's Art Bar Poetry Series.
Clinton's. 8pm. Free (voluntary donations appreciated).

Check out the Coffeehouse Cabaret Open Stage featuring music, spoken word, and comedy, with host Shawn Sage.
Renaissance Cafe. 8:30pm. Free.

The Plasticine Poetry Series presents David Harry Bateman, Yehuda Fisher, Molly Peacock, Elana Wolff, plus an open mic session. Hosted by Cathy Petch.
The Central. 8pm. PWYC.

Wednesday, March 19th:

Celebrate the Toronto launch of Francesca Piredda's new book Bambina. The author will be available to sign copies of her book, and will also give a short reading.
Ben McNally Books. 6:30pm. Free.

Author Kathy Kacer will discuss her book Hiding Edith, the true story of a young fugitive on the run during the Holocaust. Ms. Kacer's new book The Diary of Laura's Twin will also be introduced and discussed at this event.
Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre for Holocaust Studies. 6:30pm. Free (register here).

Ray Robertson is touring to promote his new work, What Happened Later, which provides a follow-up to Jack Kerouac's On the Road, and interweaves the story of an older Kerouac and a young Robertson.
Hart House. 7pm. Free.

Canada Reads 2008 winner Paul Quarrington will celebrate the release of his eagerly anticipated new novel, The Ravine, by singing the blues with Pork Belly Futures, who will also debut their self-titled CD. A This Is Not A Reading Series event.
Gladstone Hotel Ballroom. 7:30pm. Free

Writuals is featuring Jim Johnstone this month, a U of T poet and the editor of Misunderstandings Magazine. Following Jim's set, there will be an open mic session, where readers will have five minutes to show off their poetry, short stories, drama, or anything else literary.
Hart House, Arbor Room. 9pm. Free.

Thursday, March 20th:

Celebrate the official launch of Maureen Jenning's latest book, The K Handshape.
The Sleuth of Baker Street. 6:30pm. Free.

Join producer David Mirvish, author Robert Brockhouse, and photographer Edward Burtynsky for the book launch of The Royal Alexandra Theatre: A Celebration of 100 Years, the story of a Canadian national landmark and beloved Toronto institution.
Indigo Bay & Bloor. 7pm. Free.

Jeffrey Archer, one of the bestselling authors of our time, presents his eagerly awaited new thriller, A Prisoner of Birth. This event includes an on stage interview with CTV's Seamus O'Regan, audience Q&A, and book signing. Richard Clewes hosts.
Harbourfront Centre Premiere Dance Theatre. 7:30pm. $8.

Friday, March 21st:

If you missed him last night, catch him this afternoon... stop by for some tea and a Starbucks scone as international bestselling author Jeffrey Archer talks about and autographs his new book A Prisoner of Birth.
Indigo Bay & Bloor. 3pm. Free.

Saturday, March 22nd:

Toronto's favourite used bookstore in Little Italy is holding its annual 50% off sale.
Balfour Books. Sale on from today until March 19th.