Amy Carlson Book Launch

An evil dragon, a brother who is a bully and Chinese mythology are a few of the components that weave together the story line of the freshly published novel, “Brother Beast”. Leavenworth resident, Amy Carlson, is the author. Carlson paired up with the Leavenworth Public Library to host a book launch for her new novel Thursday, August 9. 

“It's always great when people meet the author,” Joanne Gembe, senior librarian, said.  "It can be exciting and nerve-racking." 

The hour long, free event was an opportunity for Carlson to do a reading, answer readers’ questions and the book was available for sale. 

With a mythological world as the backdrop, the novel centers around main character, Teague, as he attempts to rescue his brother. Fueled by action, fantasy and mythical elements, the story propels a young boy into an adventure where myth and two real kids intersect. 

Surface level, the tale’s format is in a mythical context. The fantasy driven plot unfolds to reveal Teague’s adventure of saving his brother mirrors a journey of self reflection and grasping the meaning of compassion. 

“It’s a middle grade fantasy. The 11 year old protagonist enters a Chinese mythological world to free his brother and also himself,” Carlson said. “It’s about recognizing the beast within yourself and the little guy is learning about compassion throughout the book.” 

“Brother Beast” hit bookshelves this summer and is Carlson’s first fictional work. However, the novel isn’t her debut into the literary world and she isn't a stranger to the Leavenworth arts community. Also known as her nickname, Dr. Fu, the local author has done Avra Kedavra Kamp, Bear Run Antics, and a professor at Wenatchee Valley College. She has also published other non-fiction travel books. 

“She is a great inspiration for young authors and she really supports the arts in this community,” Gembe said.