Monsters, Myths, & Legends of Connecticut

Join author Patrick Scalisi and artist Valerie Ruby-Omen for a talk about their book, Connecticut Cryptids. Pat and Val did extensive research on creature folklore from throughout the state. They'll explain the concepts of "cryptozoology" and "cryptids," followed by a live storytelling session. 

About the Book

Connecticut has no shortage of cryptid tales. Chances are good that you’ve heard about 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 that call Connecticut home.

These stories and many, many more are documented in Connecticut Cryptids. The fruit of more than three years of research, this definitive and fully illustrated field guide presents not only the stories about these creatures, but also explores the folklore from which the original tales sprung. In fact, it’s no exaggeration to say that cryptid stories have been part of Connecticut culture from as early as the 1600s to as recently as the 2020s.

About the Author & Illustrator 

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.