Bestselling author James Patterson to speak at W.K. Kellogg Auditorium

James Patterson, the master storyteller with more bestselling books than any other author, is coming to Battle Creek. 

On the heels of the release of his highly anticipated memoir, the renowned author will share the stories of his life through "An Evening with James Patterson," a free event hosted by Willard Library at 7 pm. June 14 at W.K. Kellogg Auditorium.

“We are thrilled to bring James Patterson here,” Jade Woodridge, Willard reference librarian, said in a release. “Willard has hosted some big-name authors throughout the years, but James Patterson is without a doubt the biggest.”

On June 6, his autobiography, “James Patterson by James Patterson: The Stories of My Life,” will be released. Since 1976, the author has had more than 114 New York Times bestselling novels and holds the Guinness World Record for most New York Times No. 1 bestsellers by a single author with 67.

“He has released a slew of books across a wide variety of genres, as well as partnered with well-known writers and public figures for his nonfiction books," Woodridge said. "However, he has never written about himself. ‘James Patterson’ is the author's first autobiography and first personal work.”

The evening will focus on Patterson’s autobiography. The author will have a conversation with Michael “Mac” McCullough, Willard community engagement and local digital collection librarian. The 45-minute chat will be followed by a 15-minute question-and-answer session. Before the program, attendees may submit written questions.

After the program, Patterson will sign books until 9 p.m. The book signing will be limited to one book per person, and time does not allow for selfie photos. Lakeview Square Mall's Barnes & Noble will sell Patterson’s books in the auditorium lobby.

Admission to the ticketed event is free while supplies last. Beginning Thursday, Willard Library adult cardholders may visit the downtown library at 7 W. Van Buren St. to receive two tickets. In addition, tickets will be available from the Helen Warner Branch, 36 Minges Creek Place, before May 1 when it temporarily closes for remodeling. 

Anyone who lives in the Battle Creek, Harper Creek, Lakeview or Pennfield school districts is eligible for a library card. Later, if tickets are still available, anyone may stop by to get two tickets.

Patterson’s autobiography explores his rise from small-town Newburgh, New York, to becoming the world’s most successful writer. He once worked at a mental hospital and spent a long career in advertising, writing the jingle “I’m a Toys ’R’ Us Kid.”

Patterson has sold more than 375 million books worldwide. His fictional characters and series include Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, and Michael Bennett, and he also has written narrative nonfiction as “Walk in My Combat Boots” and co-authored books with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton.

For more information, visit willardlibrary.org or call 269-968-8166.

Contact reporter Nick Buckley at nbuckley@battlecreekenquirer.com or 269-966-0652. Follow him on Twitter:@NickJBuckley