Join us for an engaging conversation with local author Alyssa Burns on Wednesday, July 15 at 11 a.m. at the Coronado Public Library. Burns will discuss their debut novel, The Last Special Thing, a story about first love, self-discovery, privilege, and the difficult choices that shape our future. Perfect for fans of contemporary young adult fiction that tackles real-life issues with honesty and heart, the program is recommended for high school-aged teens and adults, and readers of all ages are welcome to attend. Visit cplevents.org for more information.
About The Last Special Thing
Amelia Cox has lived a charmed life of open credit cards, little parental oversight, and the perfect future mapped out for her. That is, until she gets unexpectedly dumped by her high school sweetheart right before they graduate. Now, with her plans in disarray, she’s determined to have an unforgettable summer before she begins college at UCLA.
When Amelia meets Art Anderson, a charming chaos junkie whose bedroom has only a drum set and an air mattress, she believes she’s found the right person to provide her with some adventure. Her relationship with Art is intoxicating, and between late nights, personalized playlists, and effortless connection, Amelia knows their connection is something special.
Art tests every boundary Amelia has set for herself, and as they embark on a summer doing drugs and breaking laws, the line between adventure and destruction becomes razor thin. Amelia must choose between the privileged life she had planned and the guy who makes her heart race, for better or for worse.
About Alyssa Burns
Alyssa K. Burns is a journalist and author. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from California State University, East Bay, and her Master of Business Administration from California State University, San Marcos. An elder emo, iced coffee enthusiast, and wife and mother, Alyssa enjoys dancing in the kitchen and creating messy fiction for young adults.
VOL. 116, NO. 28 – July 15, 2026