Author Joe Newcomer's Return to Erie

Sunday, Jun. 2

It only makes sense to return to your roots to promote a book swirling around ideas of time travel and where you fit into the world. That's exactly what Joe Newcomer, author of the new book Diminishing Return, is doing on Sunday, June 2nd at Artlore Studio.

In the past, Joe's creativity poured into many outlets. Locals may recognize him as the frontman of the original rock band Mas Nova. These days, he is a panel member of the Arizona-based, comic book-themed podcast Comic Playground, led by comedian Frank Caliendo.

He released his first book El Camino Blue on February 24, 2016 (currently for sale at Artlore).

Before writing Diminishing Return, his day-to-day life experienced a major shift. "I went from a job that was 90-hours a week to a 40-hour week position. That drastic change made every day feel like an eternity. I watched the sun slowly move through my office window daily and thought about what would happen if time stopped — that's what triggered the idea for the book."

Joe created a time-paused future wherein society has abandoned traditional life due to its obsession with nostalgia and the advent of time travel.

"Time has stopped, no one is around, and there is little to feel good about," Joe explains. "But despite this, the main character finds a way to trudge through. If he can make it in that dystopia, I hope that readers draw inspiration to keep going in our current society."

The event at Artlore Studio will not only provide the chance to get your copy of Diminishing Return signed (standard copies are also available for advance purchase on Amazon.com), but also entertain you with the sounds of Cult Classics, Bob Bearfield, and Jake Johns. In addition, the Atacolypse food truck will be on site and there are complimentary adult beverages for those who purchase a copy of the book. — Marie Turko

6 p.m. // Artlore Studios, 3406 W. Lake Rd. // josephdnewcomer.com