Hit the books.

LISTEN
Michael Cunningham
What: The Hours author reads from his new novel, By Nightfall, a rumination on a well-heeled Soho art couple; their grown, Boston-based daughter; and the younger wayward sib who unhinges their lives.
Why: Summer = mindless debauchery; fall = intellectual reawakening.
When: Wed., 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Boston Public Library’s Abbey Room, 700 Boylston St., Back Bay (617-536-5400). Event is free.

CHOW
Eat Local, Drink Local
What: Chef Manny Sifnugel whips up a four-course farm spread (wild mushroom tart, grilled lamb with white bean cassoulet) to be served alongside wine and Blue Hills Brewery selections for $45.
Why: A portion of proceeds benefits West Roxbury Main Streets and its efforts to beautify the hood.
When: Tues., 7 p.m.
Where: Masona Grill, 4 Corey St., West Roxbury. Reservations to 617-323-3331.

SHOP
Lauren Merkin and Sauce Sale
What: Tokyo-rocker tops and leggings from Sauce pair perfectly with red-carpet-worthy clutches from Lauren Merkin, especially when both are up to 55 percent off on Swirl.
Why: Everyone likes to be the center of attention.
When: Now.
Where: Online at swirl.com.

PRIMP
Powder Room
What: Prep for the long week ahead with a candlelit eve of complimentary açai cocktails, dos from the Trephin folks, and cosmetic consults by NYC Fashion Week makeup artist Miss Michelle.
Why: Free up your beauty routine.
When: Mon., 6-10 p.m.
Where: Good Life, 28 Kingston St., Downtown (617-451-2622).

TRY
The Abbey
What: Josh Sherman and Damian Dowling’s two-week-old cozy neighborhood bistro surprises with outside-the-box fare (bison Bolognese, deviled eggs and bacon), Dogfish on tap, and entree prices that barely scrape $20.
Why: A kitchen open until 1:30 a.m. makes for a respectful end-of-night landing pad.
When: Daily, 11 a.m.-2 a.m.
Where: 1657 Beacon St., Washington Square (617-730-8040).

SCRUB
Wet ’n’ Wild Wednesdays at Bark Place
What: Join fellow canine owners on the first Hump Day of the month for free wine and vittles for the two- and four-legged varietals while treating Big Puppi to a DIY sudsing ($20).
Why: It ain’t alfresco dog-washing weather no more.
When: Wed., 5-8 p.m.
Where: 1721 Washington St., South End (857-362-7494).

Photos: Richard Phibbls