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Lafayette Author Series Presents: Connecticut Cryptids In-Person
The Jim Lafayette Memorial Series of Writers of Science Fiction and Fantasy, hosted by Otis Library, continues its 18th year with a special presentation featuring author Patrick Scalisi and artist Valerie Ruby-Omen in the library’s Community Room. Together, they will discuss their book, Connecticut Cryptids: A Field Guide to the Weird and Wonderful Creatures of the Nutmeg State.
Connecticut has no shortage of cryptid tales. Chances are good that you’ve heard of the Black Dog of the Hanging Hills in Meriden or the Winsted Wildman of Winchester and Barkhamsted, but these are only a few of the mythical creatures said to inhabit the Nutmeg State. Written in a voice that evokes the best campfire stories and accompanied by striking black-and-white illustrations, Connecticut Cryptids explores both well-known legends and lesser-known tales gathered from local historical societies throughout the state. Copies of Connecticut Cryptids will be available for sale and signing following the program.
This is a free program; registration is requested.
Otis Library was designed to accommodate people of all abilities. To request an accommodation, please contact Kari Wall at kwall@otislibrarynorwich.org.
- Date:
- Wednesday, July 1, 2026
- Time:
- 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Community Room
- Audience:
- Adult Tweens & Teens
About the Series: Now in its 18th year, the Jim Lafayette Memorial Series of Writers of Science Fiction and Fantasy honors the memory of local science fiction and fantasy fan and writer Jim Lafayette by bringing authors of the genre to the community. Norwich native Faye Ringel, Ph.D., retired Professor of Humanities at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and a dedicated Otis Library volunteer, has been the driving force behind the series. Each year, she plays a key role in organizing and promoting these engaging programs.
About our Presenters: Patrick Scalisi is a writer, editor, journalist, and communications professional from Naugatuck. 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.
Valerie Ruby-Omen is a Naugatuck-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 partnered with Armada Brewing in New Haven to design the label artwork for Queer Occult, a 2023 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.