Words > Book signing

If a showcase for offbeat comics and "I really shouldn't be laughing at this" cartoons isn't enough reason to celebrate, your local go-to for "literary finds for mutated minds," Atomic Books' 2nd annual pre-party for this weekend's Small Press Expo (SPX) should be. Friday night, supporters of the indie comic industry (re: comic geeks) cram into the close quarters of Atomic Books (co-owned by occasional City Paper contributor Benn Ray) to celebrate the Bethesda festival with drinking, comic readings, awards, and, don't forget, drinking. The evening includes the 4th annual Nerdlinger Awards, which is more akin to high-school superlatives than the Oscars. And if last year is any indication, this party won't be ending at 10. After all, comic-book excitement can't be contained in a mere three hours. Luckily, Saturday and Sunday's SPX should satisfy one's insatiable love of the small press. Guests include The New Yorker's Paul Karasik, graphic novelists Jeff Lemire and Josh Neufield, and cartoonist Carol Tyler. Amidst the tables of indie comics, authors' discussion panels and signings, and hoards of comic junkies, the SPX looks like a pretty big world. SPX-Plosion Pre-party 7-10 p.m. Sept. 25, Atomic Books, 3620 Falls Road, (410) 662-4444, atomicbooks.com, free.

Bethesda North Marriott Hotel

5701 Marinelli Road

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Event Phone: 301-537-4615

Venue phone: 301-822-9200

Ticket Info: $10, $15 for both days

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