Marc Thomas Eckel, an author residing in Claypool, will be signing copies of his book Leperd in Warsaw on Jan. 31.

Leperd is a biblical novel based on several verses from Luke chapter five where Jesus heals an unnamed man with leprosy. While the biblical account is rather short, Eckel constructs a historically accurate fictional tale imagining the life of this poor soul, whom he named Tychicus.

Plot synopsis: Tychicus never imagined how life would change just inside the city gates of Tiberias, off the coast of the Sea of Galilee. In a moment his life would veer down an unwanted detour that would lead him toward total desolation, heartache and exile as a cursed man— a leper. After losing everything, he finds all he needs down a road that leads to restoration at the feet of Jesus.

The book signing will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at at The Next Chapter on Buffalo Street. Eckel is also the author and illustrator of Stan the Snowman’s Plan for a Summer Tan, which was released just last month.