Texas Book Festival highlights McConaughey

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."