Kathryn Magendie, an author from Haywood County, will be at City Lights book store in Sylva to read from her new novel Sweetie at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 22.

Sweetie is a wild girl — rough, almost feral, yet brave and endlessly honest. When Melissa, a shy, town girl who speaks with a stutter, befriends her, the two quickly enrich each other’s lonely lives. Indeed, for Melissa, Sweetie is a symbol of pride and strength. But to many townspeople, Sweetie is an outcast, a sinister force, or worse. Magendie calls her work “a Southern novel in the classic tradition.”

Magendie’s acclaimed 2009 novel, Tender Graces, received praise from regional and national reviewers alike. It was a popular staff pick at City Lights.

Magendie will read from Sweetie and take questions and comments from the audience. 828.586.9499.