Connecticut Cryptids

Author Patrick Scalisi and artist Valerie Ruby-Omen share creature folklore based on extensive research for their book, Connecticut Cryptids: A Field Guide to the Weird & Wonderful Creatures of the Nutmeg State. Hear about the concept of "cryptozoology" and enjoy a live storytelling session featuring local tales of the Granby Killer Cat and the Winsted Wildman. Signed books and prints from the creators available. Registration required.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

About the presenters:

Patrick Scalisi is a writer, editor, journalist, and communications professional. 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 freelance illustrator. Connecticut Cryptids is her second published work, preceded by the children's book Tennille and the Tale of Princess Penelope. In 2023, she 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.