Meet the authors: Patrick Scalisi & Valerie Ruby-Omen

Tuesday, October 28 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM
In-Person and on Zoom. Registration required for In-Person.

Don’t miss this spooky, magical, and delightful lecture about the weird and wonderful creatures of Connecticut!

For over three years, Patrick Scalisi and Valerie Ruby-Omen did extensive research on creature folklore throughout the state to compile a definitive survey of Connecticut “cryptids” – that is, creatures that are believed to exist (like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster) but never proven to exist. In doing so, they learned that cryptids have been part of Connecticut culture and history from as far back as the 1600s to as recently as the 2020s.

Join us as they introduce us to the concepts of “cryptids” and “cryptozoology” and talk about its history. Then, they will engage in storytelling that will focus on a creature of interest from our area.

Patrick Scalisi is a writer, editor, journalist, and communications professional from Connecticut. He has published short fiction in a number of magazines and anthologies, and served as the editor of the bestselling steampunk collection The Ghost Is the Machine. Pat’s debut novel, The Key to the Universe, was released by Owl Hollow Press in 2019. In addition to his fiction work, Pat is also an award-winning journalist with a particular interest in pop culture and storytelling. He lives in Connecticut with his partner, Crystal, and their cadre of cats. Learn more at patrickscalisi.com.

Valerie Ruby-Omen is a Connecticut-based freelance illustrator. Connecticut Cryptids is her second published work, preceded by the children’s book Tennille and the Tale of Princess Penelope. She also recently partnered with Armada Brewing in New Haven to design the label artwork for Queer Occult, a Pride Month beer collaboration with local retailer Strange Ways. When Val is not creating art, she is an event coordinator and organizer in Connecticut queer artist communities. She lives blissfully in Connecticut with her partner, Dee, and their tiny black cat named Ashiok.
The program lasts about an hour and is for all ages, though we recommend parental guidance for discussion of monsters.

Copies of their book, Connecticut Cryptids, will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Oliver Wolcott Library
160 South Street
Litchfield, CT 06759
https://www.owlibrary.org/adult-events.aspx