Actor Henry Winkler to discuss new book in Naperville Oct. 4

New York Times bestselling author, actor, producer and director Henry Winkler will be in Naperville next month to discuss his new "Alien Superstar" middle-grade series of books.

Winkler and his writing partner, Lin Oliver, will sign copies of the book at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at Naperville's Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Lane.

The appearance is sponsored by Anderson's Bookshop in downtown Naperville. For tickets, visit AlienSuperstarAndersons.brownpapertickets.com.

Winkler, who first gained fame as the Fonz in TV's "Happy Days," added author to his list of achievements in 2003 as he co-authored his critically-acclaimed Hank Zipzer series of children's books.

Inspired by his own experiences, Winkler, whose undiagnosed dyslexia made him a classic childhood underachiever, shared his tales of a high-spirited and funny boy with learning differences. He paired with author and TV and film writer Oliver to launch that popular series for middle grade readers.

Now the team hopes to replicate their children's literature success with their new "Alien Superstar" series.

Winkler last visited an Anderson's Bookshop event in 2014 when the writing duo was featured at Anderson's Annual Young Adult Conference.

In their new book, no one is shocked by the six-eyed alien strolling around the Universal back lot. The tourists think he's part of the show.

It doesn't take long for Buddy to land a role on a popular TV show, playing (of course) an alien. He becomes an overnight heartthrob and is suddenly faced with legions of adoring fans, rides in glamorous limos, and appearances at "all-the-shrimp-you-can-eat" red carpet parties. But can Buddy maintain his secret identity while in the spotlight?

Winkler is an Emmy award-winning actor, writer, director and producer who has created some of the most iconic TV roles, including Gene Cousineau in "Barry."

Oliver is currently the executive director of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.