LINCOLN SQUARE — If you've yet to make good on your resolution to attend at least one live lit event in 2014, there's still time to keep your promise.
Storytelling series abound in Lincoln Square and North Center:
Is This a Thing?: The Greatest Show on Earth? No, this live lit series isn't bragging — "The Circus" is December's storytelling theme with performances expected from Jill Howe, Maggie Jenkins, Scott Kanter, Kyna Lenhof, Mare Swallow and Ted Wesenbergs. Hosted by Ines Bellina; co-produced by Jake Cowan, Suzy Weinberg and Damian Raszewski. 7 p.m., Dec. 8 (second Monday of every month), O'Shaughnessy's Public House, 4557 N. Ravenswood Ave. Free.
This Much Is True: December's show will feature series regulars Stephanie Douglass and Scott Whitehair, along with special guests GPA (aka, James Gordon), Andy Kerns, Jim May, Jennifer Peepas and Jane Stenson. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 9 (second Tuesday of every month), Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro, 3905 N. Lincoln Ave. Free.
Essay Fiesta: How do you follow up a monster fifth anniversary show? With an Essay Festivus for the Rest of Us. Scheduled to perform: Moth Grandslam champion Lily Be, Curbside Splendor Publishing managing editor Naomi Huffman, comedian Dave Stinton, The Old Neighborhood author Bill Hillmann and writer Mike Manship. Co-hosted by Willy Nast and Karen Shimmin. 7 p.m., Dec. 15, The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Free, with donations accepted on behalf of 826CHI.
Poetry's Love Letter: An evening of poetry, storytelling, music and comedy, hosted by G.P.A. (Greatest Poet Alive) Livingston. The lineup features storyteller JH Palmer, poet and author Drgnflyy Laureate, musician Amanda Costner and funnyman Russ Shurbet. 7 p.m., Dec. 12, Let Them Eat Chocolate, 5306 N. Damen Ave.
Louder Than a Mom: This month's theme "You'll Poke Your Eye Out" draws inspiration from the holiday classic "A Christmas Story." Prepare for tales of holiday cheer and family smears. The format: 10 5-minute stories told by both professional and aspiring performers. "The Teresa" round of 1-minute stories at the end of each event is a great way for newbies to get their feet wet. 8 p.m., Dec. 15, Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. $8.
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