When Chris Colfer writes science fiction, he researches real UFO encounters. The Golden Globe-winning actor turned bestselling author reveals that 90 percent of his latest space adventure stems from documented reports.
“I would say 10 percent is Colfer imagination but 90 percent of the book is inspired by real-life events and eyewitness accounts,” Colfer explained. “I took liberty with the names and personalities, but almost every spaceship and alien I describe comes from a real report.”
That approach produced “Roswell Johnson Saves the Galaxy!”—the second installment in Colfer’s middle-grade series hitting shelves Sept. 16. The No. 1 New York Times bestselling author will discuss and sign the 352-page sequel at Vroman’s Bookstore at 695 East Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena on Friday, Sept. 19, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
This ticketed event, priced at $23.13, includes admission and a copy of the new book. Following “Roswell Johnson Saves the World!” the latest adventure—described as “Guardians of the Galaxy meets ‘The Land of Stories’”—finds the young protagonist investigating mysterious galactic disappearances.
For Colfer, who won his Golden Globe in 2011 for “Glee” and was named to Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People list, the series represents a creative departure.
“I have never had so much fun writing something!” Colfer shared. “Surprisingly, everything felt very natural and organic as I wrote.”
Founded in 1894, Vroman’s Bookstore is Southern California’s oldest independent bookstore, hosting more than 400 annual events and welcoming literary luminaries including Presidents Clinton and Carter.
Kirkus Reviews called the series opener “A page-turning adventure that’s truly out of this world.”
Chris Colfer discusses & signs Roswell Johnson Saves the Galaxy! will run on Friday, Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 449-5320 or visit https://vromansbookstore.com/event/2025-09-19/ticketed-chris-colfer-discusses-signs-roswell-johnson-saves-galaxy. Ticket prices: $23.13
