What We're Reading: Grill Master

With warm weather and long days beckoning you outdoors, summer is the season for grilling. And grilling guru Fred Thompson is the man to teach you the essentials.

In his new cookbook Grill Master, Thompson delves into the secrets of the perfect burger, juiciest steak and fall-off-the-bone, Carolina-style pulled pork. His recipes rely on basic, foolproof techniques he details throughout the book, from starting a fire and choosing the best meat to smoking foods and creating a pizza “oven” out of your grill.

Thompson features more than 100 grilled meat, poultry, seafood and vegetable recipes throughout the book, in addition to favorite side dishes like creamy coleslaw and mac and cheese. His sauces, marinades and rubs add bold spices and finger-licking flavor to every meal. Be sure to read Thompson’s “Game Plan” before you take on a recipe; he’ll tell you exactly how to plan and execute the grilling, including which steps you can do ahead. Light a fire, grab your tongs and head outside to release your own inner grill master.