‘Big Cactus’ author Wilkinson to read, sign books

The Friends of the CU Libraries will host Sylvia Wilkinson reading from and discussing her new engaging novel, “Big Cactus,” at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 27 in Norlin Library, fifth floor, on the CU-Boulder campus.

“Big Cactus” (Owl Canyon Press) is a rollicking yet poignant account of plucky teenage Benny and his mission to take his headstrong 84-year-old Aunt Lucy on a road trip from North Carolina to see the giant saguaro cactus in Arizona. Along the way, they rescue a stranded runaway, and the three venture forth in Benny’s 1965 GMC pickup, accompanied by Benny’s dog Polar.

Wilkinson has written a number of books ranging from novels for adults, nonfiction works and juvenile titles with automotive themes. She is a recipient of many grants, including National Endowment for the Arts and Guggenheim fellowships, has held teaching positions at the University of North Carolina, William and Mary, Hollins, Sweet Briar, Washington University and the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, and is a teaching scholar with the National Faculty.

This event is free and open to the public. A light catered reception will precede the program. Pay parking is available in the Euclid AutoPark.