Actress-comedian-writer Julia Sweeney is returning to her hometown on Friday to read from her new book, “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s Your Mother.”

The reading, at 7 p.m. at Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave., will also feature a giveaway – call it the after-Mother’s Day gift basket. The goodies include gift certificates for nail and hair service, chocolates, paper flowers, a journal, a bookmark and a bottle of wine. Those attending the event will automatically receive a ticket, and those who purchase Sweeney’s book will receive two additional tickets.

For more information, call Auntie’s at (509) 838-0206.

Writers workshop

Spokane author Bruce Holbert, whose debut novel “Lonesome Animals” is now out in paperback, will participate in a workshop, reading and book signing event hosted by Lost Horse Press in Sandpoint next month.

The writers workshop, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 1, is called Dialogue and Character. Enrollment is limited, and there are a few spaces available. The workshop costs $40 and will be at The Readery, 209 N. First Ave., in Sandpoint.

Then at 3 p.m., Holbert will visit the Rude Girls Room of the East Bonner Library branch in Sandpoint for a free reading and book signing. For more information, call the library at (208) 263-6930.

Looking down the road, Holbert will do a reading, question-and-answer session and signing at Auntie’s, along with poet John Whalen. That event is at 7 p.m. May 30.