From the high seas to sci-fi

Join the Willamette Writers Coast Chapter for a reading and presentation from Brian Tissot at Newport Public Library this Saturday, Nov. 15.

Tissot will read from his new book, “Fires of Hina” and talk about his journey from marine biologist to science fiction author. Discover how real-world oceans inspired the “Songs of the Universe” trilogy and get a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process and path to indie publishing.

An open mic will follow the program. Writers will have five minutes to read a work of their choice.

Tissot is a marine ecologist and surfer who channels his passion for the ocean into futuristic science fiction, weaving stories of environmental philosophy, resource conflicts and cutting-edge research.

Professor Emeritus at Cal Poly Humboldt and a lifelong explorer of waves and oceans, he has led pioneering research on coral reefs, kelp forests and the deep sea, publishing widely in scientific journals and appearing in films and popular media.

The Willamette Writers Coast Chapter hosts a mix of in-person and virtual events from September through June. Willamette Writers, the parent organization, is the largest writers association in Oregon and one of the largest in the nation.

Saturday’s program begins at 2 pm at Newport Public Library, located at 35 NW Nye Street. For more information, go to willamettewriters.org.