ATHENS, Ohio -- Get to know "October Sky" author Homer Hickam 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 7, when Ohio University will host "An Evening with Homer Hickman" at the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium as part of the Kennedy Lecture Series. The event is free and open to the public. A book signing and reception will follow the talk.

"October Sky" is the first novel in a series that includes "The Coalwood Way" and "Sky of Stone," a collection of memoirs about Hickam's childhood adventures in the mining town of Coalwood, W.Va.

A U.S. Army veteran, Hickam once served as an engineer with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, but broke into the world of writing with the publication of his first novel "Torpedo Junction" in 1989. His second book "October Sky" was driven to the top of best sellers lists and was made into a motion picture in 1999.

The Kennedy Lecture Series brings nationally recognized individuals to the university to discuss public issues and cultural affairs. It was established in 1962 by a contribution from Edwin L. and Ruth Kennedy to the John C. Baker Fund.

For more information visit: www.ohiou.edu/apaa/kennedy