AUBURN — On Wednesday, Oct. 9, the Auburn Public Library will welcome Maine author Maria Padian who will be discussing her book, “Out of Nowhere.”

The story takes place in Enniston, Maine, a fictional city which has recently become home to Somali refugees. The main character in the book is Tom Bouchard, a high school senior who is popular, smart and a star on his soccer team. Within this group of Somalis, one in particular – Saaed – impacts Tom’s life.

Because Maria’s primary research for this book was done in Lewiston, she is committed to getting the book into the hands of as many local students as possible.

Toward that end, and with a generous donation from an Auburn Public Library donor, the library was able to purchase 30 copies. Twenty of these books will be given out prior to the event, with the other 10 being given as door prizes on Oct. 9.

Teens interested in getting a free copy before Oct. 9 should stop by the Reference Desk (second floor) of the Auburn Public Library.

Padian is a freelance writer, essayist and author of young adult novels. Her books include “Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress” (selected by the American Library Association as one of the Best Books for Young Adults 2009, and winner of the 2009 Maine Literary Award for Children’s Literature from the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance as well as a Lupine Honor Award from the Maine Library Association); “Jersey Tomatoes Are the Best” and “Out of Nowhere.”

Padian lives with her family in Brunswick, where she is currently at work on a new novel. Her website is www.mariapadian.com.

For more information, contact the Reference Desk at 207-333-6640, ext. 4.