Local teacher releases his debut novel

Local English teacher and writer Alfred Cedeno celebrates his debut novel, "The Resurrection of Rey Pescador," at a book release party from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15, at River City Roasters, 114 N. Main St., Wheaton.

The novel, set primarily in Chicago, is available at amazon.com and local bookstores.

In "The Resurrection of Rey Pescador," David Rosario, Rey's cousin and best friend, composes a series of tall tales and love letters that both chronicle Rey Pescador's tenure as the world's most famous man and finally confess his love to the mysterious Rebecca. David's one-sided feud with Rey humorously catapults this adventure throughout the city of Chicago as well as across continents, as Rey Pescador seeks an artistic escape from an undying, scientific world.

Beloved by America as the "Bard from the Bario," Rey's performances transcend reality. But in the wake of an unexpected decline in popularity, Rey's manager promises fame beyond his imagination but at the greatest price.

When not writing or blogging, Cedeno teaches literature and writing to students at Schaumburg High School, volunteers at Church of the Resurrection in Wheaton, and spends time with his two young daughters and wife in Winfield. He is a native of Elgin.

Cedeno encourages students and adults to write and read literature that speaks of beauty and truth.

"If you believe you have some truth to share in the midst of this metal world - to borrow an idea from David Rosario, the narrator in my upcoming novel - then write," he says.

For information, visit AlfredCedeno.com.