If you’re sick of Twilight rip-offs, maybe you should give Steven Arntson a try. The local author has published two books that read more like classics in young adult literature (like A Wrinkle in Time) than cynical cash-grabs. His newest novel, The Wrap-Up List, is about a teenager who receives a letter from the grim reaper warning that she’ll die in a week’s time. Arntson’s book-debut parties involve lots of live music and great conversation about a female character who doesn’t fall hopelessly in love with a wan vampire creep. (Elliott Bay Book Company, 1521 10th Ave, elliottbaybook.com, 7 pm, free)