SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Public Library is inviting the public to a special book launch event with fashion designer Rachel Roy and her daughter Ava Dash, who will celebrate the release of their debut young adult novel, “96 Words for Love,” with an in-conversation talk with National Book Award-winning author Robin Benway.

According to the city of Santa Monica website, the event will take place on Sunday, January 20, at 2:00 p.m. in the Main Library’s second floor Multipurpose Room located at 601 Santa Monica Blvd. The novel, “96 Words for Love,” reimagines a classic Indian legend that tells the story of Raya, a 17-year-old teenage girl, who spends her final summer before college at an ashram in India, where her recently-deceased grandmother met and fell in love with her grandfather.

Roy and Dash will talk about the novel, its origins and contemporary themes like gender equality and sex trafficking with National Book Award-winning young adult author Robin Benway (Far From the Tree). After their discussion, the authors will join fans for a book sale and signing. This program is free and open to all ages. Seating is limited and on a first come basis.  On-site book sales will be provided by Mysterious Galaxy.

The Santa Monica Public Library is wheelchair accessible. For disability-related accommodations, contact the Library Administration at (310) 458-8606 at least one week before the event. The Main Library is served by Big Blue Bus routes 1, R10 and 18. Ride your bike. Bicycle parking racks are available at the library.