Noted rabbinical scholar Harold S. Kushner will kick off this fall’s San Diego Center for Jewish Culture Distinguished Author Series at a special appearance Sept. 16 with a lively discussion of his new book, “The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Healing Wisdom of the Twenty-Third Psalm.” The book seeks to illuminate the biblical passage with an understanding of modern-day worries and concerns.

The event hosts four best-selling authors over four months, including book signings, discussions and lectures about the entertainment industry, current events, history, politics, religion, music, cooking and family life. The series offers the public a view of the world from a Jewish perspective and creates an awareness of the Jewish Community Center’s library.

“The event is for people of all races, all ages and all faiths,” says Jacqueline Gmach, associate executive director of the JCC. “It is a chance for people to get acquainted with books, celebrities and the Jewish culture.”

One of these appearances includes National Book Award winner James Carroll. On Sept. 22, he will speak about his first novel in nine years, “Secret Father,” a tale of espionage and love set in 1961 Berlin.

The Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center is located at 4126 Executive Drive in La Jolla. Tickets for the series range from $11 to $16. Call the box office at (858) 362-1348 or visit www.lfjcc.org for a complete schedule of events and to purchase tickets.