Everybody's favorite author, Wally Lamb, comes to Mystic Tuesday to chat about his latest release - which should be particularly interesting, since this book is something different for him.

Lamb, of course, became a bestselling phenom with a trio of serious novels, "She's Come Undone," "I Know This Much Is True" and "The Hour I First Believed."

His newest work, though, leans more toward humor and warmth. It's a Christmas novella titled "Wishin' and Hopin': A Christmas Story." Set in the fictional Three Rivers in 1964, the tale centers on fifth grader Felix Funicello, who goes to school at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parochial School and hangs out at his parents' lunch counter at the bus station. He is just navigating his way through his young life amidst his fair share of colorful characters.

Lamb, a Norwich native, will talk about and sign "Wishin' and Hopin'" Tuesday at Mystic Art Center, in a program sponsored by the center and Bank Square Books.

Wally Lamb, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Mystic Art Center, 9 Water St., Mystic; reception 5:30-6:30 p.m., talk and signing 6:30-8 p.m.; suggested donation of $5 for the Homeless Hospitality Center, New London's overnight shelter; (860) 536-7601; (860) 536-3795.