Having the Thurber House around the corner offers an the perfect spot to explore your love of literature and laughter. And, all year long, Thurber House offers a wide range of programming. That includes the Thurber Prize for American Humor, writing classes for kids and adults, and month-long residencies for writers. Plus, they bring loads of authors in for readings, from the internationally famous to talented locals. And, this week kicks off their series of Summer Literary Picnics. So, on June 13 check out award-winning journalist and writer, Anietra Hamper presenting her book Secret Columbus: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure. First, enjoy some picnic time at 5:30 p.m. on the Thurber House lawn, followed by the program at 6:45 p.m.

The Summer Literary Picnics feature readings with authors with an Ohio connection. So, get together with friends and fellow literature-lovers for some good food, good fun and good books. And, this week you’ll love to dig into the quirky questions you’ve always had about Cbus, as Hamper shares from her fascinating book. Indeed, as a former Emmy-nominated investigative reporter, Hamper set her sights on our capital city. And, she explores everything from trash-eating pigs to how the Short North got its name.

Tickets are $40 for dinner and the reading, with a delicious menu of a Thai chicken wrap, Asian broccoli salad and a white chocolate-macadamia nut cookie. Yum. But, if you would rather nosh before at a local spot, you can purchase tickets for the reading only for $25 for adults and just $5 for children 12 and under. Or, pack your own basket with dinner and drinks (including the adult variety). And, snag your own blankets, towels or  chairs for comfy seating.

Thurber House Summer Literary Picnic Schedule

• Karen Harper, The It Girls - June 27
• Scott Woods, Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance - July 11
• Jessica Strawser, Not That I Could Tell - July 25
• Dan Gearino, Comic Shop: The Retail Mavericks Who Gave Us a New Geek Culture - August 8
• Michael Henson and Kari Gunter-Seymour, An Evening in Appalachia - August 22