Andre Dubus III will be the guest speaker at the Women of NECC Membership Tea in October.

Just in time for the release of his first book in a decade, author Andre Dubus III will be the guest speaker at the Women of NECC membership tea on Wednesday, Oct. 24, at noon at Northern Essex Community College’s Hartleb Technology Center on the Haverhill campus, 100 Elliott St.

The Newbury resident will return to NECC to discuss his newest novel “Gone So Long,” which explores how the wounds of the past afflict the people we become and probes the limits of recovery and absolution.

His presentation will be followed by a question and answer session along with a book signing. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $50 each. To reserve tickets or tables call Lori Smerdon in NECC’s Office of Institutional Advancement at 978-556-3789 or email her at lsmerdon@necc.mass.edu

Dubus is also the author of “Dirty Love,” “Townie,” “The Garden of Last Days,” and “House of Sand and Fog,” (an Oprah Book Club pick and a finalist for the National Book Award). Additional information on Dubus can be found at his website.

Funds raised from this event will be used toward student scholarships and special projects funded by the Women of NECC. Since its inception, the volunteer organization has raised more than $518,000 – providing $330,000 in scholarships.

For additional information or to purchase tickets, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 978-556-3789.