Book Signing Event
Join fantasy author and illustrator Naomi VanDoren at Eureka Books for a special book signing event featuring her illustrated novels “Anira and the Spirit of Magic” and “Naiya and the Foxdragon”.
These beautifully crafted stories are set in a rich, magical world inspired by tropical landscapes and deep-rooted folklore.
Naomi will also have a selection of her vibrant art prints available for purchase—perfect for fans of fantasy, illustration, and immersive storytelling.
Stop by to say hello, get your books signed, and explore a world of adventure through art and story.
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Eureka Books, 426 2nd St, Eureka, CA 95501
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An Illustrated Fantasy Novel
Magic is dying, and two teen girls must act to save their worlds.
Filled with over 48+ full color illustrations
Step into their world with lush, full-color illustrations in each chapter.
Anira & Naiya: Two teens from different worlds, bound by fate.
Foxdragons, moon owls, and mystical spirit guardians—magic is alive in this world.
A fading magic. A hidden truth. A journey that will change them forever.
A land of ancient ruins, lush jungles, and hidden secrets...
Anira & Naiya: Two teens from different worlds, bound by fate.
Foxdragons, moon owls, and mystical spirit guardians—magic is alive in this world.
A fading magic. A hidden truth. A journey that will change them forever.
A land of ancient ruins, lush jungles, and hidden secrets...
Anira & Naiya: Two teens from different worlds, bound by fate.
Foxdragons, moon owls, and mystical spirit guardians—magic is alive in this world.
A fading magic. A hidden truth. A journey that will change them forever.
A land of ancient ruins, lush jungles, and hidden secrets...
Anira & Naiya: Two teens from different worlds, bound by fate.
Foxdragons, moon owls, and mystical spirit guardians—magic is alive in this world.
A fading magic. A hidden truth. A journey that will change them forever.
A land of ancient ruins, lush jungles, and hidden secrets...
Anira’s people have lived hidden behind a magical boundary for generations.
When a mysterious woman breaches their sanctuary, spirits begin to speak to her and beasts attack under the failing border.
Guided by ancient tales, Anira sets off on a perilous quest across enchanted islands with her loyal feathered companion to restore the magic that protects her people.
Meanwhile, in the distant city of Ora, Naiya grapples with vanishing magic and devastating earthquakes threaten her city.
Entrusted with an ancient orb believed to restore balance, Naiya embarks on a journey with her eclectic found family—a clever historian, his artistic daughter, and their mischievous foxdragon friend.
Their mission becomes even more dangerous when a cunning mercenary captures Naiya and her foxdragon, forcing her to rely on her wit and resilience to continue their quest.
When Anira and Naiya’s paths intertwine, they must overcome their differences, outsmart relentless foes, and uncover the threat that could destroy their island home.
Together, they discover that the true power to save their worlds lies in their friendship and unity.
ANIRA AND THE SPIRIT OF MAGIC is a captivating Young Adult (upper Middle-Grade) fantasy filled with vibrant illustrations and inspired by rich Indonesian settings.
Join Anira and Naiya on their extraordinary adventure to restore the fading magic and protect the worlds they hold dear.
What is an illustrated novel? Is this a graphic novel? Are the illustrations full-color?
An illustrated novel is a full-length chapter book that includes full-color illustrations throughout, but it is not a graphic novel.
Unlike graphic novels, which use comic-book-style panels to tell the story visually, an illustrated novel presents the story primarily through text, with accompanying artwork that enhances the world and characters.
Anira and the Spirit of Magic features over 48 original illustrations woven into the storytelling experience.
What age group is the book suitable for?
Anira and the Spirit of Magic is aimed at readers aged 10 and up.
The two main characters, Anira and Naiya, are both 14.
It features rich storytelling, engaging characters, and a fully realized magical world that will appeal to fans of all ages!
This book is categorized for readers of upper middle-grade and young adult fantasy.
Does this book have "spice?" Any content warnings?
No spice—this is an older middle-grade / young adult fantasy novel that focuses on adventure, friendship, and self-discovery.
The story follows Anira and Naiya as they navigate their relationships with family, friends, and spirit-like beings. That said, there are a few moments of tension:
- Anira has a brief encounter with a woman who dies (though no graphic details are shown).
- Naiya witnesses what appears to be a murder by magic (again, without graphic detail).
- Naiya is captured, tied up, and placed in a cage to be transported elsewhere.
While these moments add stakes to the story, they are handled with care and remain appropriate for middle-grade readers.
Is "Anira and the Spirit of Magic" the first book in a series?
Anira and the Spirit of Magic is the first in a two-part series.
My first illustrated novel, Naiya and the Foxdragon, serves as a sort of prequel—a teaser into this larger world of stories. While both books share some locations and characters, Anira and the Spirit of Magic introduces a new main character, fresh locations, and deeper layers of magic.
So whether you’re returning to my world or discovering it for the first time, this is the perfect place to start!
Is this an award-winning novel?
Yes! It was named a Book Excellence Award Winner, recognizing its storytelling, illustration, and independent publication.
Who is the author, and what inspires their work?
I’m Naomi VanDoren, an author and artist based in Northern California.
My work is deeply inspired by my experiences in Indonesia, Japan, and the US, and I love exploring diverse cultures and weaving them into fantastical, inclusive worlds that celebrate courage, identity, and community.
Is there an ebook of the novel?
At this time, I’m focusing solely on the full-color print editions for this project. While I haven’t ruled out an ebook version in the future, I currently have no plans to release one.
Will there be any author events or book signings?
Yes! I enjoy connecting with readers through virtual readings, interviews, and in-person appearances whenever possible.
Check the “Events” section on the website for upcoming dates and details. You can also subscribe to my newsletter for regular updates on events and announcements.
Why was this a Kickstarter?
Creating an illustrated novel is a massive undertaking with many moving parts. After years of writing, illustrating, and refining Anira and the Spirit of Magic, the next step is bringing this book to life in full-color print. Kickstarter allows me to do exactly that—print high-quality editions while ensuring the book reaches readers who are just as excited about it as I am.
By backing this project, you’re not just pre-ordering a book; you’re directly supporting independent publishing. Kickstarter enables me to produce a premium, beautifully illustrated edition without compromising on quality. It also allows me to gauge demand, print efficiently, and offer exclusive rewards that won’t be available anywhere else.
Publishing independently gives me full creative control over the artwork, design, and production process. With your support, I can bring this vision to life and make Anira and the Spirit of Magic something truly special.
Thank you for being part of this journey!