august 23 

Tim Huggins has carved out a neat little spot in the world of indy bookstores with his Newtonville Books. His pal, the increasingly famous Dennis Lehane, first read from his new book "Coronado: Stories," and the store's Books and Brews Series (generally the reading is at the store, you mix and mingle at the nearby Attic) has been wildly successful. On Aug. 23, Sonny Brewer takes part, reading from his second novel, "A Sound Like Thunder: A Novel," a return to Fairhope, Alabama, the setting of his debut. Here, our protagonist, Rove MacNee, recalls what his youth was like as World War II beckoned in 1941. Not that pretty at all. Especially his violent, alcoholic father and his (maybe) cheatin' mum. But there is romance ahead for young Rove. Also, Brewer clearly loves the sea and sailing and it's where McNee takes comfort.

296 Walnut St., Newtonville, 617-244-6619 or newtonvillebooks.com.