Happening Tuesday: Butterflies of Iguazu Falls and more

BOOKS

“Tablet and Pen: Literary Landscapes From the Middle East” For tonight’s reading, UC Riverside professor Reza Aslan rounded up an all-star cast including actress Heather Graham and writer Aimee Bender to lend their voices to landmark works of literature from the Middle East, many of which appear in English translation for the first time in Aslan’s new compilation. Mark Taper Auditorium, Los Angeles Central Library, 630 W. 5th St., L.A. 7 p.m. Free. https://www.lfla.org.

Butterflies of Iguazu Falls On the border between Argentina and Brazil lies the majestic Iguazu Falls, considered one of the natural wonders of the world. Professor of civil and environmental engineering William Cooper shares the beautiful world of butterflies that inhabit the falls, a presentation based on his new book, “Butterflies of Iguaza Falls.” 7 p.m. $8 for public, $4 for members, free for students with ID. (562) 590-3100. https://www.aquariumofpacific.org.

“The Militarization of the United States: The Need for Change” Former CIA analyst Melvin Goodman discusses his new book on America’s role in foreign engagements and international policing (and its consequences for the American economy) with Jason Leopold. Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. $10. (323) 655-0111

Oscar Andrew Hammerstein The grandson of Oscar II, the most successful lyricist of all time, will discuss and sign “The Hammersteins: A Musical Theatre Family.” Starting with Oscar I, who turned Times Square into the theater capital of the U.S., and culminating with Oscar II’s story and words for the Broadway shows “ Oklahoma,” “Show Boat,” “South Pacific,” “Carousel,” “The King and I” and “The Sound of Music,” Hammerstein will chronicle the successes of his family, along with the scandals and the tragedies. No word on whether any part of Hammerstein’s presentation at Book Soup will be sung, perhaps with the author twirling a parasol at the same time. Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 7 p.m. (310) 659-3110.