New London – “Life, Animated: A Story of Sidekicks, Heroes, and Autism,” with journalist and award-winning political writer Ron Suskind, who will discuss his book documenting his family’s quest to engage his autistic son through the medium of Disney cartoons; 7:30 p.m. (preceded by dinner with the author to be held at a private home, 4:30 – 7 p.m.); lecture and book-signing at Congregation Beth El, 660 Ocean Ave., (860) 442-0418, bethel-nl.org. FREE (fee for reception)