Carmegeddon II isn’t the only big event causing commotion this weekend in L.A. The appearance of “Fifty Shades of Grey” author E.L. James at Barnes and Noble on Friday night is sure to have traffic backed up around the Grove at the Farmers Market.

The “Fifty Shades” trilogy is now available in a convenient box set for those few women who have yet to read the sexy series that is putting smiles on happy husbands around the world. The British author and former television executive began writing her erotic novels as “Twilight” fan fiction, but a bit more risqué than the virginal, teen vampire tales. James’ novel features naïve college graduate, Anastasia Steele, and young domineering business magnate, Christian Grey, entangled in a heated relationship.

Two sequels followed: “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed.” All three have held steady on bestseller lists for nearly 30 weeks. First released as an e-book in 2011, the book was quickly snapped up by Vintage, which published the paperback in April, creating an immediate frenzy (and saving marriages).

The publishing phenomena has sold more than 20 million copies, earned $5 million for the film rights from Universal and Focus Features and put James’ net worth at around $32 million.

If you’re looking for something a bit more laid back, hop on the Metro Red Line to the San Fernando Valley on Sunday night, where writers with the New Short Fiction series will be contemplating cars, traffic and the labyrinth of roads that define Los Angeles traffic, as part of ARTMaggedonLA’s response to the 405 Freeway closure. They will be reading at the Federal Bar in North Hollywood, at 7 p.m

As always, we recommend that you check with bookstores and venues listed below for any event changes/cancellations.

Tuesday, 7 p.m.: “Un-Super Heroes,” A talk with writer/director Zak Penn (“The Avengers,” “X-Men: The Last Stand,”). The Crawford Family Forum.

Wednesday, 7 p.m.: Book Soup presents Damien Echols discussing and signing “Life After Death,” with a special guest interviewer, guitarist Dave Navarro. UCLA Freud Playhouse.

Thursday, 7:30 p.m.: T.C. Boyle discusses his new novel, “San Miguel,” Live Talks LA. Track 16 at Bergamot Station.

Thursday, 7 p.m.: Three Quadrants Series Readings with authors Sumner Carnahan, Thomas Frick, L.K. Larsen, and L.A. based video/performance artist Gordon Winiemko. Hosted by L.A. Times book critic David Ulin. Book Soup

Thursday, 7 p.m.: Ann and Nancy Wilson sign and discuss their book, “Kicking and Dreaming: A Story of Heart, Soul and Rock and Roll.” Barnes & Noble, the Grove at Farmers Market.

Thursday, 7:30 p.m.: Wendy Delsol signs her newest YA novel, “Flock.” Mysterious Galaxy.

Friday, 7 p.m.: E.L. James will be signing copies of of her three-volume set, “The Fifty Shades of Grey” trilogy. Barnes & Noble, the Grove at Farmers Market.

Saturday, 1 p.m.: Kim Fay signs “The Map of Lost Memories,” Chevaliers.

Saturday, 4 p.m.: Actor and former Brat Packer Andrew McCarthy discusses and signs, “The Longest Way Home: A Man’s Quest for the Courage to Settle Down.” Vromans.

Sunday, 5 p .m.: Release party for Dito Montiel’s newest book, “The Story of Milk.” Stories

Sunday, 7 p.m.: The New Short Fiction Series. L.A. writers contemplate our cars, freeways and getting around Los Angeles as part of ARTMaggedon LA‘s response to the 405 Freeway closure. The Federal Bar.