Imaginary Worlds, Real Emotions

From Ancient Greek catharsis to Tik-Tok book therapy, there is a storied tradition of processing dark feelings through fiction. How does fantasy, often considered an escapist genre, fit into this tradition? Join us for an author panel about how fantasy can be a powerful tool for exploring mental health issues and help readers regulate difficult emotions of their own. Debut authors Marley Rose-Teter, Mia V. Moss, and Zara Marielle will be in conversation with moderator Lila Mizzi, who runs The Fireside Fellowship fantasy book club. From epic sagas to cozier reads, from adult fiction to young adult fiction, their books feature grief, betrayal, and guilt alongside rescue missions into the faerie realm, last attempts to save kingdoms from doom, and new jobs at magical coffee shops. We encourage you to check out the authors’ books ahead of time! They’ll be available for purchase at Fireside Books & More leading up to and during the event, and we’ll set some time aside after the panel for signing. The Bone Brides by Marley Rose-Teter The Heresy of Thieves by Mia V. Moss The Cafe of Infinite Doors by Zara Marielle