About this Event
Join us for a special book signing and author talk with Arriel Vinson, author of the award-winning novel-in-verse Under the Neon Lights, at Woodson Regional Library (9525 S. Halsted St).
Monday, March 23rd | 4:00–6:00 PM
đź“Ť Woodson Regional Library
🎯 Perfect for teenagers and adults
Arriel Vinson is a Midwesterner who writes about being young, Black, and in search of freedom. Her debut YA novel-in-verse, Under the Neon Lights, is a 2026 Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award winner, a Reese’s Book Club LitUp selection, and a Junior Library Guild Gold Selection. She earned her MFA in Fiction from Sarah Lawrence College and is a Tin House YA Scholar, a Highlights Foundation scholarship recipient, and a Walter Grant recipient. Her sophomore novel, If This World Were Mine, is forthcoming in spring 2027.
About the Book
Under the Neon Lights is a sparkling and heartfelt coming-of-age story about first love, self-worth, and the power of community—perfect for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo and Joya Goffney.
Sixteen-year-old Jaelyn Coleman lives for Saturdays at WestSide Roll, her neighborhood roller rink where music, nachos, and skating create a space for Black teens to fully be themselves. One magical night, she collides—literally—with Trey, the cutest boy she’s ever seen, and sparks begin to fly. But just as Jae imagines her summer changing for the better, she learns that WestSide Roll is shutting down. Gentrification is closing in on her Indianapolis neighborhood and threatening the place that feels most like home.
Told in lyrical verse, Arriel Vinson’s debut novel explores young Black love, friendship, family tension, and the fight to hold onto joy in a changing world. It introduces an exciting new voice in young adult literature while honoring the spaces where community and freedom are found.
This event will include an author talk, audience Q&A, and book signing. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from Arriel about her writing journey and the inspiration behind Under the Neon Lights.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Woodson Regional Library, Chicago Public Library, 9525 South Halsted Street, Chicago, United States
USD 0.00 to USD 21.98
