Matthew McConaugheyMatthew McConaughey looking very writerly in New York City in September 2023. Photo: John Nacion/Getty Images

The Texas Book Festival — one of our favorite events in the Austin calendar — announced its lineup Wednesday, and there’s something for everyone.

Why it matters: It’s a weekend in November when writers get to feel like rock stars, and readers get to show out their fandom.

Circle the date: The big headliner this year is film star Matthew McConaughey, in conversation with director Richard Linklater, at 4pm Nov. 17 at First Baptist Church.

Tickets for that session, which include a copy of McConaughey’s book “Greenlights,” are $35, but nearly all the other sessions at the fest are free.

What we’re eyeing: The festival will feature 275 authors talking about their work, giving readings and (in the case of cookbook writers) demonstrating recipes. We’re looking forward to:

Austin’s Ernest Cline (author of “Ready, Player One”) on his young adult novel “Bridge to Bat City.”
Hanif Abdurraqib talking about “There’s Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension.”


Dai Due owner-chef Jesse Griffiths about “The Turkey Book: A Chef’s Journal of Hunting and Cooking America’s Bird.”
Austin-based illustrator Eliza Kinkz on her new children’s book “Mamá’s Magnificent Dancing Plantitas.”

What they’re saying: “This year’s festival weekend will feature a diverse ensemble of literary voices to engage readers of all ages,” TBF literary director Hannah Gabel said in a statement.

“We believe that reading and access to literature is essential, so we’re proud to present a Festival that includes something for everyone.”