Upcoming Events.
Take It Outside: LA Book Launch
🏳️🌈 Take It Outside: An Anthology of Queer & Trans Desire 🌶
Join us for an intimate Q&A and spicy snippet read-alouds with three contributing authors of the flagship publication from @incision_press.
Writers in attendance include:
🔥@butch4butches
🔥@desdevivo.writes
🔥Ryder West
This event is FREE to attend and for every book you buy in store, including signed copies of Take it Outside, you'll get entered into a giveaway for a chance to win gift cards from @underdogbookstore and @dympasadena!
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Banned Books Club
Our Banned Books Club is celebrating it's 1 year anniversary!
We meet and discuss a new banned or challenged book every third Wednesday, in-store and online.
Our September pick, voted for by our @bookclubshq members, is:
HOW THE GARCIA GIRLS LOST THEIR ACCENT by @writerjalvarez
Uprooted from their family home in the Dominican Republic, the four Garcia sisters - Carla, Sandra, Yolanda, and Sofia - arrive in New York City in 1960 to a life far removed from their existence in the Caribbean. For them, it is at once liberating and excruciating to be caught between the old world and the new. Here they tell their stories about being at home--and not at home--in America.
RSVP: bit.ly/readbannedbooks
Shop paperback & ebook: https://bookshop.org/a/91860/9781565129757
Listen to the audiobook: https://libro.fm/.../9781436101592-how-the-garcia-girls...
Thank you for supporting Underdog with your book purchases and donations!
Open Mic Night
We host an Open Mic Night at Underdog Bookstore on the third Friday of every month to showcase and celebrate the creative talents of our local community, including poetry, music, and more!
While walk-in sign-ups are welcome on the night, if you'd like to be listed as a featured performer and guarantee your spot, you can apply here.
Children’s Improv Workshop
We're hosting two FREE short form improv workshops at Underdog Bookstore for children and teens.
Have fun and boost your confidence with new skills in a safe and welcoming space.
Saturday, 9/20, 9-11AM: ages 6-12
Looking for an activity your child can channel their sense of humor, personal knowledge, and help build self-confidence? Short Form Improv lets your child use their imagination while giving them the courage to express themselves on and off the stage!
Limited spots: RSVP here
Events like this are made possible thanks to our generous donors and sponsors. Please consider adding a tax deductible donation to the Underdog Bookstore 501(c)(3) nonprofit to help us continue providing free programs and resources for our community.
Teens Improv Workshop
We're hosting two FREE short form improv workshops at Underdog Bookstore for children and teens.
Have fun and boost your confidence with new skills in a safe and welcoming space.
Sunday 9/21, 9-11AM: ages 13-18
Are you constantly cracking jokes that have your friends and family laughing? Do you know a little about a lot of subjects? Do you want to get better at speaking in front of people and not fear embarrassing yourself? Get up a little early to learn some skills and play some games!
Limited spots: RSVP here
Events like this are made possible thanks to our generous donors and sponsors. Please consider adding a tax deductible donation to the Underdog Bookstore 501(c)(3) nonprofit to help us continue providing free programs and resources for our community.
Queer Visitors Book Club
Underdog Bookstore is excited to share that we are a local event host for Drag Story Hour's new book club for adults - Queer Visitors!
The first club meeting is Tuesday, September 23rd from 6-8PM. We're starting our journey along the yellow brick road with the first instalment The Wonderful Wizard of Oz!
We are food, drink, and pet friendly, and will have sweet treats available for purchase from our local vendor, Nettie Creations.
Join us in community to discuss queer books, radical joy, and the timeless magic of Oz. All are welcome here!
About Queer Visitors
Queer Visitors is a new book club for LGBTQIA+ adults—where literature, drag, and chosen family come together.
It’s for friends of Dorothy, lovers of language, and anyone who knows the real magic lives in the stories we share—and the ones we live.
So… where did the name Queer Visitors come from?
The club was named after a comic strip L. Frank Baum published in 1904 called Queer Visitors from the Marvelous Land of Oz.
Back then, “queer” meant magical, strange, and beautifully different.
For generations of queer folks, Oz has been more than fantasy—it’s felt like home.
So when we dreamed up a book club rooted in drag, literature, and community,
There's no place like Queer Visitors.
Vision Board Workshop
What vision do you have for your life?
How do you see yourself in the future?
Join us for our first Vision Board Workshop hosted by Underdog Bookstore on September 24th, 7 pm - 9 pm!
Design a personalized vision board!
We will have all the supplies you will need, but please feel free to bring your own personal items to decorate your board!
Cost is $25 and includes Arts & Crafts supplies, light snacks, and of course the space you will need to work!
Sign up: https://forms.gle/3T9pUJizJtkbAJzN6
Once payment is received, your spot is secured!
Can't wait to see you there!!
*Be sure to sign up ASAP spaces are limited*
Writing Workshop: Storycraft Unlocked
Discover the art of storytelling with the seven-point structure! In this interactive class, you'll learn how to craft compelling narratives by breaking your story into seven essential beats—from the opening hook to the final resolution.
Whether you're outlining a new idea or refining a draft, this framework will help you create stories that captivate and make readers turn the page.
Guest Authors: S.A. Gibson, Shakyra Dunn, A.J. Runyon
Underdog Bookstore presents an evening with authors S.A. Gibson, Shakyra Dunn, and E.J. Runyon.
Shakyra Dunn is a voice actor, singer, and author of the The Final Lesson and The Sage’s Reign.
S.A. Gibson has been the lead editor for the SFN Anthology for 5 years.
E.J. Runyon is the author of a dozen books and a coach to over 40 authors as well as a professional editor.
Join us for community, conversation, book signings and more!
Storytime & Craft: Queer Latine Heroes
Join us for a storytime reading and coloring page craft with author Sofia Aguilar to celebrate the release of Queer Latine Heroes!
This debut children’s picture book features a collection of brief biographies and portraits of queer Latines from Latin America and the U.S. throughout history and modern-day.
FREE event - little listeners of all ages welcome!
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Writing Workshop: Crafting Bitesize Narratives
Unlock the art of short form storytelling and learn how to distill complex ideas, vivid characters, and rich worlds into a few short paragraphs that linger in the reader's mind long after the last word.
This generative workshop will guide you through the techniques and strategies to create powerful, bite-sized stories that pack a punch.
Students are encouraged, but not required, to share their work.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Writing Workshop: Meditation for Writer's Block
Unlock your creativity by quieting the mind in this calming workshop. Clear mental clutter, reduce stress, and reconnect with your inner voice.
Through guided meditations, breathing exercises, and reflective journaling, you’ll learn to release tension and open up to new ideas, allowing inspiration to flow freely. Ideal for writers seeking a peaceful and restorative approach to overcoming creative obstacles.
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Local Authors Meetup
At Underdog Bookstore we love supporting local authors on the shelves and at our signings and panels, but sometimes you just want to turn off the book selling brain and enjoy each other's company instead.
We hope that these meetups will provide an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and spend time in community. Whether you're self published and new to the industry, or have trade tales to share from your experience in indie or major publishing - all authors are welcome here.
Our space is food, drink, and pet friendly, so feel free to bring your favorite refreshments and animal companions!
Full Moon Writing Meditation
Join us at Underdog Bookstore during the full moon each month for a guided meditation and writing group. We meet at 7PM in store and will also be streaming via Zoom for those joining virtually.
All are welcome and encouraged to write and share or listen and reflect during this peaceful meditative time. You are welcome to bring your own mats, writing supplies, spiritual tools etc. Whatever you need to feel comfortable and enjoy the evening!
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
Books & Brews: Adult Book Fair
🌈 BOOKS & BREWS is back! 🍻
Join Underdog Bookstore and Black Cat Fables at Mt. Lowe Brewing Co. on Saturday, September 6th from 1-6PM for an Adult Book Fair experience!
📚 Pop-up book stores
📚 Book bingo
📚 Collaborative writing game
📚 Book swaps
📚 Book themed drink special
📚 Baked good from @sourdoe_sisters
Don't miss this fun opportunity to gather with your fellow book lovers, support local small businesses, and relive the book fair magic! ✨
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
Dark Olympus Book Club
Join us for book talks and brews as we read our way through Dark Olympus!
Katee Robert’s Dark Olympus series is a spicy collection of standalone dark romance books inspired by different Greek mythology tales.
Whether you read all, some, or none of the books, all are welcome!
Grab your books from Underdog Bookstore or support the store online:
https://bookshop.org/.../the-dark-olympus-series-by-katee...
https://libro.fm/playlists/10184
Find the full meeting schedule and reading order here.
Community Grief Circle
Join Jen Venegas, death doula and grief worker, at Underdog Bookstore on the last Sunday of each month from 12:00-1:30pm. This is a free, all ages event. This is a place where you can be held in community and hold others through our collective grief and individual grief.
This supportive space is open to anyone navigating any type of loss—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a life transition, or any grief that feels too heavy to carry alone. Come as you are to share, connect, and find healing in community.
RSVP here - walk-ins welcome!
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
A Midsummer Night's Dream
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet / Are of imagination all compact …”
Come experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream, an immersive, intimate theatre experience. Enter the only queer bookstore in Athens, where a pair of lovers are attempting to elope, a group of employees are trying their hands at puppetry, and supernatural forces drag you and the characters into the realm of fairytales.
This collaborative process is facilitated by Romeo Samwise Maybrier, Elliot Eatinger, Avery Graham-Howard, Meriam Shams, and I Bi.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS - $15 per person
Local Authors Meetup
At Underdog Bookstore we love supporting local authors on the shelves and at our signings and panels, but sometimes you just want to turn off the book selling brain and enjoy each other's company instead.
We hope that these meetups will provide an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and spend time in community. Whether you're self published and new to the industry, or have trade tales to share from your experience in indie or major publishing - all authors are welcome here.
Our space is food, drink, and pet friendly, so feel free to bring your favorite refreshments and animal companions!
Writing Workshop: Persona Poems
In this generative workshop, writers explore the power of persona—writing in the voice of someone (or something) other than themselves.
Participants will learn how embodying a fictional, historical, or imagined perspective can expand creative possibilities and deepen empathy.
Through examples, discussion, and guided writing prompts, you'll craft your own persona poem and leave with tools to keep experimenting with voice and identity.
Banned Books Club
Our Banned Books Club pick for August 20th is Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”.
You can pick up a copy in store or keep supporting Underdog by purchasing the audiobook through us on Libro.fm
Banned Books Club meets every third Wednesday in store and online to discuss a new banned or challenged book each month. We're also now on the BookClubsHQ app!
RSVP: bit.ly/readbannedbooks
A Glimpse within the Audiobook Booth
Join us in store on Saturday August 16th at 2PM for live snippet readings and insights into the audiobook production process with @voiceofhel & @zackr.vo 🎙️
All are welcome to attend this FREE event, whether you're an established or aspiring author or narrator, or an audiobook lover who wants to support local authors and get some behind-the-scenes insights 🎧
Book Signing with author ST Melia
Meet ST Melia, author of the Boys of the Paddock series on Saturday August 16th, 2025 between 11 am - 1 pm.
About book 1, Racing Hearts:
Formula 1 racing was her nightmare. She wanted nothing to do with the sport.
After the death of her legendary brother and best friend, she swore off anything that could relate to the sport. However, when money grew tight, Araceli Fernandez knew that she had to accept the job as a journalist for Alveni Racing. It wasn't her first option, but after her plans of fleeing to America turned sour, she had no other choice but to take the position. Her only goal: stay as far away from the drivers as possible.
There was one problem however, the team's number one driver wasn't making the transition easy on her.
To Louis Maes, Araceli was a forbidden fruit he wanted to sink his teeth into and enjoy. The only thing stopping him is the fact that he has been watching her for five years. A drunken pact turned into reality when Alejandro, Araceli's brother, and Louis's teammate, died.
Open Mic Night
We host an Open Mic Night at Underdog Bookstore on the third Friday of every month to showcase and celebrate the creative talents of our local community, including poetry, music, and more!
While walk-in sign-ups are welcome on the night, if you'd like to be listed as a featured performer and guarantee your spot, you can apply here.
Life Balance Workshop
Join us for a Life Balance Workshop with Life By Natalie at Underdog Bookstore!
Looking for more balance, growth and purpose?
Attend this 1 hour workshop that will:
- Create a plan for your life that work
- Acknowledge every forward moving step
- Teach the tools to combat emotional blockers
- Focus on gratitude for all things in life
Local Authors Meetup
At Underdog Bookstore we love supporting local authors on the shelves and at our signings and panels, but sometimes you just want to turn off the book selling brain and enjoy each other's company instead.
We hope that these meetups will provide an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and spend time in community. Whether you're self published and new to the industry, or have trade tales to share from your experience in indie or major publishing - all authors are welcome here.
Our space is food, drink, and pet friendly, so feel free to bring your favorite refreshments and animal companions!
Romance Author Speed Dating
Join us in celebrating @bkstoreromanceday with Romance Author Speed-Dating at Underdog Bookstore!
💖 Fall in love with your next great read
💖 Rapid-fire meet-and-greets between romance readers and romance authors
💖 Book signings and opportunities to ask your romance writing questions
💖 Jump in and join the fun at any time during this FREE adults only event!
Featuring 10 local authors:
Des DeVivo
ST Melia
Cee Yang
Jeannie Choe
Emerie Hart
Laina Villenueve
Georgia K. Boone
Cierra Martinez
Kristen Jennings
Jessika Grewe Glover
Shop their books in store or on Bookshop.org.
Full Moon Writing Meditation
Join us at Underdog Bookstore during the full moon each month for a guided meditation and writing group. We meet at 7PM in store and will also be streaming via Zoom for those joining virtually.
All are welcome and encouraged to write and share or listen and reflect during this peaceful meditative time. You are welcome to bring your own mats, writing supplies, spiritual tools etc. Whatever you need to feel comfortable and enjoy the evening!
Tarot & Teeth Reading
Visit @underdogbookstore in Monrovia on the next full moon for a unique reading that combines tarot and bone throwing divination techniques - with a fistful of real teeth!
• Friday, August 8 from 5-7pm
• Readings will be around 10-15 minutes
• All walk-ins! No signup required
• This event is “pay what you can” with all proceeds are going to support Underdog Bookstore, a 501(c)(3) non-profit!
• The teeth witch will not be reading your teeth and/or looking into your mouth. Your teeth are safe! All teeth have been ethically sourced and acquired 🦷
Stop by for a reading and maybe you’ll find your next read while you’re there, all supporting a great local organization and LA indie bookshop 📖🔮✨
Life Balance Workshop
Join us for a Life Balance Workshop with Life By Natalie at Underdog Bookstore!
Looking for more balance, growth and purpose?
Attend this 1 hour workshop that will:
- Create a plan for your life that work
- Acknowledge every forward moving step
- Teach the tools to combat emotional blockers
- Focus on gratitude for all things in life
Writing Workshop: How to Perform Poetry
Poetry isn't just meant to be read—it’s meant to be felt. In this class, you'll learn to bring your words to life with presence, power, and purpose.
Whether you're stepping onto a stage for the first time or looking to refine your delivery, this class guides you through the essentials of voice, movement, and emotional connection.
Through practical exercises, peer feedback, and performance techniques, you’ll gain the confidence to turn your poems into unforgettable experiences.
Life Balance Workshop
Join us for a Life Balance Workshop with Life By Natalie at Underdog Bookstore!
Looking for more balance, growth and purpose?
Attend this 1 hour workshop that will:
- Create a plan for your life that work
- Acknowledge every forward moving step
- Teach the tools to combat emotional blockers
- Focus on gratitude for all things in life
Community Grief Circle
Join Jen Venegas, death doula and grief worker, at Underdog Bookstore on the last Sunday of each month from 12:00-1:30pm. This is a free, all ages event. This is a place where you can be held in community and hold others through our collective grief and individual grief.
This supportive space is open to anyone navigating any type of loss—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a life transition, or any grief that feels too heavy to carry alone. Come as you are to share, connect, and find healing in community.
RSVP here - walk-ins welcome!
Reading with Reptiles
Join us on Friday, July 25th for another Reading with Reptiles at Underdog Bookstore!
Readers of all ages are invited to book a visit to practice their reading skills. Our friends at The Little Zoo will be bringing snakes, lizards and tortoises for you to meet and read to.
RSVP REQUIRED: CLICK HERE
Please stick to the time slot on your booking so we can ensure that everyone who signs up is able to enjoy their visit.
Happy reading!
Local Authors Meetup
At Underdog Bookstore we love supporting local authors on the shelves and at our signings and panels, but sometimes you just want to turn off the book selling brain and enjoy each other's company instead.
We hope that these meetups will provide an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and spend time in community. Whether you're self published and new to the industry, or have trade tales to share from your experience in indie or major publishing - all authors are welcome here.
Our space is food, drink, and pet friendly, so feel free to bring your favorite refreshments and animal companions!
Dungeons & Dragons
Hail, and well met! Ever wanted to learn D&D but never had the chance?
Well now you can! Join us for magic and monsters at Underdog Bookstore on Thursday July 24th at 2:00PM.
This event is open to players of all ages, with all experience levels welcome. Our Dungeon Master of almost 10 years of experience ready to guide you through the game and bring your imagination to life.
Spaces are limited so please be sure to RSVP at bit.ly/underdogdnd
See you in store for what's sure to be a great game filled with fun and creativity!
Fun Run Fundraiser
Thank you to @adrenalinerunclub for supporting @underdogbookstore!
All are welcome to join the Fun Run Fundraiser on Wednesday, July 23rd. We'll meet at 6:30PM at the bookstore and start at 6:45PM for a 4 mile run or 2 mile walk.
Click here to sponsor the team and raise funds for the Underdog Bookstore 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Our mission is to foster community engagement with literacy and learning through diverse books and inclusive events. We are committed to uplifting underrepresented voices and providing a safe space with free programs and resources for our community.
Come for the books, stay for the cause, and let’s make a difference together!
Underdog Vendor Markets
We host monthly themed markets showcasing diverse talents from local authors, artisans and small businesses. If you would like to apply for one of our upcoming markets please submit an application here.
