Face the World with Compassion

August E. Allen Author Interview

The Alpine Dragon Legends is a collection of stories that unveils fantastic dragons with unique lessons on empathy, kindness, friendship, compassion, respect, self-esteem & self-expression. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

As a lifelong lover of fantasy and storytelling, the inspiration to write a book for children about dragons came from a deep desire to weave timeless values into captivating tales. Growing up, I was enchanted by the mythical creatures that roamed the pages of my favorite books, yet I often wished for stories that not only thrilled but portrayed the dragon in a positive light, rather than the typical evil creature in need of slaying. 

What were some themes that were important for me to explore in this book:

Dragons, with their rich symbolism and varied portrayals, offer a perfect canvas to explore themes of kindness, empathy, respect, and compassion. These magnificent creatures can represent both fear and friendship, allowing young readers to engage with complex emotions in a safe and imaginative way. I wanted to create a world where dragons are not just fearsome beasts but also wise mentors and loyal friends, guiding children through their own journeys of understanding and connection.

In a time when empathy seems more crucial than ever, I felt compelled to craft narratives that encourage young readers to embrace these values. Through the adventures of brave protagonists who encounter dragons, I aim to show that kindness can conquer fear and that respect for others—whether human or dragon—leads to deeper friendships and understanding.

What was my favorite scene in this story, narrative or illustration:

This is a tough question! When spending such a very long time on a book as both illustrator and author one becomes attached to each character portrayed. I must say, however, that I love the illustration of the Sylvan Cathedral drawn as stained glass, and the portrait of Rhygar the best. The lessons learned in each story are an extremely important part of this book; my goal and passion is to inspire a new generation to face the world with compassion and an open heart, using the enchanting backdrop of dragons to spark their imaginations and nurture their moral growth.

What is the next book I will be offering:

My next book is the second in the series THAT CAT, to be published April 7th, and titled I Am NOT That Cat. The series boasts full-page artwork accompanied by humorous rhyming poems. I am also working on another title called Dragon Encounters. This book will not be published until the end of the year. The 3rd book in the THAT CAT series will become available in 2026.

Author Links: X | Facebook | Website

In a world where dragons soar through the skies, weave tales of enchantment, and inspire awe and wonder, there lies a collection of legendary creatures that have captivated imaginations for centuries. This title unveils the truth behind several of these myths, revealing that the legends of dragons are not mere fables but true accounts of remarkable beings that have forever etched themselves into the tapestry of human existence.

Included in The Alpine Dragon Legends are restored dragon portraits from the eighteenth century by explorer, dragon enthusiast and artist, Vincent Laurent.

The Alpine Dragon Legends invites readers to believe in the magic of the past, proving that sometimes legends are mere echoes of truths that refuse to fade away. Each legend unveils an extraordinary dragon, each deeply connected to the natural world and with a unique lesson to share: Empathy, kindness, the value of friendship, compassion, respect, self-esteem and self-expression are all celebrated in this title.

The Alpine Dragon Legends ignites the imagination and inspires a sense of wonder. With vibrant illustrations and heartwarming narratives, these stories will enchant young readers, nurturing their belief in the boundless possibilities of the world around them.



Posted on February 24, 2025, in Interviews and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.

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