BOOKS

Local author Ann Pearlman will discuss her new book, "A Gift for My Sister" at Nicola's Books. 7 p.m. When a series of tragedies strikes, two sisters must somehow come together in the face of heartbreak, dashed hopes and demons of the past. Pearlman is also the author of "The Christmas Cookie Club." Free. Nicola's is in the Westgate Shopping Center at 2513 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor. 734-662-0600.

COMEDY

Maria Bamford will perform at the Ann Arbor Comedy Show case this weekend. Tonight at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 8 and 10:30 p.m. You might know her as the crazy Target lady from the ads, but she was also one of Variety's "Top Ten Comics to Watch." She's also been on Conan and Leno. Tonight: $15 in advance; $17 at the door. Friday and Saturday: $18 in advance; $20 at the door. The AACS is downstairs at 314 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. 734-996-9080.

ENTERTAINMENT

Quality 16 and Rave movie theaters will broadcast a live show of "This American Life." 8 p.m. The theme will be “The Invisible Made Visible.” The performance will also feature a new short film by Mike Birbiglia, live music by OK Go, original animation and illustration and special surprise guests. $19. Tickets are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. Q16 is at 3686 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor. 734-623-7469. Rave is at 4100 Carpenter Road, Ypsilanti. 734-973-4823.

MUSIC

Amy Ray of The Indigo Girls will perform with The Shadowboxers at the Blind Pig. Doors open at 9 p.m. Long considered the hard-edged, punk-influenced half of Indigo Girls, Ray cites ‘90s alternative radio acts like The Replacements and Husker Du and country-tinged rock as points of musical inspiration. $15 cover. Ages 18+. The Pig is at 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. 734-996-8555.