Local author and Associate Professor of English Steve Parlato celebrated the publication of his latest young adult novel, The Precious Dreadful Tuesday night with a meet and greet and book signing at the Barnes and Noble located at 235 Union Street in Waterbury. Parlato’s sophomore novel follows teen protagonist Teddi Alder and unveils the romantic and dramatic consequences that unfold as a result of her decision to join a library literary group, “SUMMERTEENS.” The writing that Adler produces for the group prompts some haunting memories of a childhood friend and these memories become inescapable as the summer goes on. Parlato will be doing a second local reading and book signing at Wesleyan’s RJ Julia bookstore in Middletown on February 22 at 7:00 p.m. which will serve as the official launch event.

Later this month, Parlato will be part of the annual Teen Bookfest by the Bay, a day-long event formed by a group of Corpus Christi Bay-area librarians that brings writers, illustrators, readers, and educators together to spend a day focused on discussing writing and publishing.

“I am bursting with pride and gratitude as I consider Steve's talent, his generosity of spirit, and the mentoring he provides to so many of our students. He is a fine role model for his students and for all of us,” said NVCC President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.