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San Antonio boy Joe Jiménez sets the page alight with his new young adult novel, which hits a lighter tone than his Hamlet-esque debut, Bloodline. In Hot Boy Summer, freshly out Texan teen Mac struggles to find his place and let go of shame while making new gay friends who both help and complicate his journey. Author Sandra Cisneros (The House on Mango Street) showers effusive praise on the coming-of-gayge book, calling it “[hotter] than a Jalapeño Whataburger with spicy ketchup and Cholula.” Celebrate the release of what’s sure to be a queer summertime classic with the author at BookPeople, where you can get a signed copy. – James Scott

Over 13 years slinging first editions, signed copies, and more from their literary haven on SoCo – now shifted to the equally iconic Kerbey Lane – and South Congress Books remains That Girl for the serious bibliophile. Most of the bookstore’s staff have been with ’em since the start, soaking up mondo knowledge about all the tomes tucked within. Stop in to celebrate later in the evening as there’ll be drinks and music from 6-8pm – but the real ones will be cruising SCB’s shelves all day to score primo print for a whopping 13% off. That’s one percent off for every lovely year they’ve been around. – James Scott

Hurrah! It’s the only good thing about summer – sorry to summer-enjoyers – come back once more. Austin Public Library’s summer reading program runs from June 1 until Aug. 10 and challenges readers of all ages to get 20 minutes of reading done a day. They’ve also got activity badges you can earn – fun biz like using APL’s seed library, making a DIY nature journal, attending any of APL’s free events. Finish 10 reading hours and three activity badges to earn prizes like a free book (kids 0-17) or a camping mug (adults). But isn’t the real reward the great books you read along the way? – James Scott