Dr. Pedram Navab: The Alchemy of Sleep at Vroman's

Sleep gets plenty of attention in Los Angeles, mostly in the form of trackers, supplements and optimization routines. On Wednesday, November 4, Pasadena's Vroman's Bookstore hosts a different take: neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Pedram Navab talks about his book The Alchemy of Sleep and signs copies for readers. It is a good pick among the things to do in Los Angeles this week if you like a literary evening with a bit of depth.

When: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM Where: Vroman's Bookstore, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Price: Not listed by the source. Check the event page or call the store.

What to expect

Navab will appear in conversation with Blake Boyd, so this is a discussion rather than a straight reading. The listing also promises a special musical performance by Vanagon.

The book treats sleep as more than a biological chore. Navab, who works as a neurologist, sleep specialist and integrative medicine practitioner, mixes sleep medicine and neuroscience with ideas from psychology, religion and ancient traditions. He pushes back on the data-driven hunt for "perfect" sleep and looks instead at rest as a time of healing, insight and personal growth.

Practical techniques come up in the book too: shadow work, dream journaling, breathwork, sound therapy and mindfulness. It also covers common problems such as insomnia, sleep apnea and parasomnia. If you have ever lain awake wondering why the tips are not working, the Q&A and signing line are a chance to ask someone who treats it for a living.

Getting there

Vroman's sits on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, one of the city's best-known independent bookstores. Book events here tend to draw a full room, so arriving a little early helps if you want a seat and a spot near the signing table. Parking in the area is mostly paid garages and street meters, and the Metro A Line stops within a short walk in Old Pasadena.

For anyone building a list of upcoming events in Los Angeles this month, this one pairs well with dinner nearby before the 7 PM start. Browse more arts and culture events or see what else is happening in Pasadena.

Questions about the evening go straight to the store: email promo@vromansbookstore.com or call (626) 449-5320. Because the listing does not state a ticket price, confirm any purchase or registration requirement with Vroman's before you go.