Three events of interest at our neighbor south of the border, i.e. Pasadena:

• Author talk: Pasadena kicks off its tenth year of "One City, One Story" with Geraldine Brooks, author of this year's selected novel, "People of the Book," this Thurs., March 22, at 7 PM in the sanctuary at All Saints Church, 132 N. Euclid. Pasadena Library Director Jan Sanders will moderate the discussion, which will include questions from the audience.  Bring your copy for Brooks to sign following the discussion, and if you don't have a copy, they will be available for purchase.  The event is free and open to the public.
• Plant a tree: To celebrate Arbor Day, the Pasadena Public Works Department and Pasadena Beautiful Foundation invite you to help plant trees on Sat., March 31.  Meet at McDonald Park (Mountain Street at Wilson Avenue) at 8 AM.   Planting demonstration at 8:15, and teams will be sent out to plant oaks and camphors in Bungalow Heaven, Historic Highlands, and Mentor/Villa neighborhoods.  Under 14 must be accompanied by adult; wear comfortable clothes and close-toed shoes, bring gloves and shovels if available.  More information: 626-744-4321.
• History Lit: Unbound Productions, the people that produce "Wicked Lit" at the Mountain View Mausoleum and Cemetery every Halloween, are partnering with the Pasadena Museum of History to present "History Lit," three plays that reflect stage adaptations of literature that reflect history in creative ways.  The playlets are based on "The Garden Party" by Katherine Mansfield, "The Two Altars: or Two Pictures in One" by Harriet Beecher Stowe, and "The Yellow Wallpaper" adapted from the short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman.  As with Wicked Llt, theatergoers will wander around the Feynes Mansion and the Pasadena Museum of History complex to see the plays performed.  The production will be presented May 11-20, but tickets area available now.  More information: historylit.org