Paul Elwork

Sat., June 28, 2 p.m., free, Port Richmond Books, 3037 Richmond St., 215-425-3385.

by Gary M. Kramer

reading/signing

(CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VERSION)

Necromancy, history and romantic triangles intertwine in Paul Elwork's spellbinding novel, The Tea House (Casperian Books), set in 1925 Philadelphia. Based loosely on the story of the Fox sisters, who were influential in the Spiritualism religious movement, this short but elegantly written book concerns Emily and Michael — 13-year-old twins who secretly perform "spirit-knocking" (think séances) for local children and old ladies. It may be all a game to the twins, but enough people take it seriously that there are some dire consequences. Furthermore, the kids also learn a few secrets they might not have wanted to — especially regarding their late father.

Elwork introduces tarot cards, folklore (a goose walking over your grave) and a magician who wants to harness Emily and Michael's power for his own use in this compelling tale of people coping with loss, and vulnerable to suggestion.

One wouldn't want to predict, but perhaps at his event at Port Richmond Books, Elwork will engage in his own spirit-knocking? We do know that there will be a tarot reader on hand for those mystically inclined, and artwork from a local photographer and artist.

Sat., June 28, 2 p.m., free, Port Richmond Books, 3037 Richmond St., 215-425-3385.