If you’re reading this: congratulations! Not only have you survived the Mayan apocalypse, but you’ve lived through one more Valentine’s Day, and won’t have to endure the sore sight of roses and hearts galore for another year. To help place it all behind you, we’ve put together a list of literary events to put the spring back in your step.

Curious about economics, but hesitant about picking up the For Dummies version? Have no fear, Charles Wheelan is here! His new bestseller, Naked Economics: Undressing the Dismal Science unravels the jargon of fiances and makes it accessible and easy-to-understand for the everyday layperson. Plus, not a bad book to read with tax season dawning upon us. Pick up a signed copy! Tuesday, February 19 at 12 pm, University Club of Chicago, 76 E. Monroe

Many of us would love to bask in the limelight of fame and fortune – but what would it be like, really? Christine Sneed gives us a glimpse of this sought-after lifestyle in her debut novel Little Known Facts, about two grown children of a star who struggle with forging identities away from the dazzling fame of their father. Hear her read on Thursday, Feb 21, 7:30 pm at Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St.

We’d all travel the world…if only we had the money. But maybe we don’t need the big bucks after all! Matt Kepnes’s book How To Travel the World on $50 a Day: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Smarter is an excellent resource for post-college grads looking for the ultimate backpacking experience. Lucky for us, he’ll be landing in Chicago for a reading on Thursday, February 21, 7:30 pm at The Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave.

Literature isn’t all studious thought and dusty libraries. Funny Ha-Ha: The Triumphant Return! will be having a reading, and it’s sure to be a riot. 21+ only, $5 at the door, and proceeds benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. See you there Friday, February 22, 6:30 pm at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave.

Have a great week and hang in there, Chicago: just a few more weeks until spring!

-Genevieve