In this coming-of-age, becoming-who-you are novel,

a bullying incident catapults a young girl into a fantastical new world…

Fourteen and a half-year-old Georgie Ray Jones rockets beyond the tattered remnants of her self-confidence to save her siblings from an innuendo-charged family life and the stepdad she’s dubbed Jackass.

Now living in Mystic Creek, Oregon with her dad, Georgie discovers her life as she once knew it will change forever. After her friend Shawn is pummeled by a dodgeball thrown by a bully, Georgie intervenes, only to send the bully flying across the schoolyard.

Reeling with shock and worry, but fueled by a wildfire of inner metamorphosis, she searches for answers, yet it is family friend Luther Andersen—lighthouse keeper, mystic, and professor—who explains she is meta-normal.
This is the day Luther’s been waiting for.

Welcome to the world of Andersen Light and Mystic Creek!

Andersen Light Final Cover Black & White.jpg

Awards

2025 Pencraft Award Fiction Adventure Summer 2025

Pencraft Awards for Literary Excellence, Fiction Adventure Category

Pinnacle Book Achievement Award, New Age Category

International Book Awards, Award Finalist, Fiction, Young Adult Category

American Fiction Awards, Award Finalist, Coming of Age Category

Literary Titan Gold Book Award, Fiction Category

Firebird Book Awards Visionary Fiction Category

Endorsements and Reviews

“Tanya Dawson introduces readers to a diverse, empowering cast of characters in this sparkling debut. Andersen Light is a brand new talent in the YA scene. — USA Today Bestselling Author, S.E. Babin

“Richly imagined and vividly written, Andersen Light transports readers into a world where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. Discovering who we are and becoming who we were meant to be is life’s greatest adventure—and even more if you are a “meta.” Georgie and her friends inspire us to seek the inner meta in each of us and remind us that the greatest superpowers of all are love and friendship. Can’t wait to read the next installment in Tanya Dawson’s Mystic Creek series! ” – Steven Byers, Amazon Reviewer

“Through thrilling adventures filled with suspense, danger, and moments of profound growth, Georgie begins to understand the complexities of her powers and her role in the world. Along the way, she forges deep connections with both adults and peers, discovering that love, friendship, and trust are the greatest forces of all. These relationships teach her that anything is possible when people come together, united by hope and a shared purpose. Georgie’s journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and finding her place in a world she is destined to protect, even if it means remaining unseen.

With themes of bullying, inappropriate behavior, and the importance of allies, Andersen Light blends elements of real life and fantasy in this compelling coming-of-age young adult novel. The story dives into the challenges and growth of its characters, offering readers a heartfelt journey that resonates on a deeply personal level. Author Dawson masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers hooked, providing a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion. However, the story doesn’t end there–Dawson leaves readers eagerly awaiting the sequel, [Winter Soulstice: A Meta-Normal Novel], promising more adventures and deeper exploration of the characters and their world.” – Stacie, AuthorsReading.com

“The opening chapter of Andersen Light: A Meta-Normal Novel is captivating, pulling me immediately into the vivid tapestry of Georgie Rae’s life. Her world is a striking blend of raw honesty and alluring mystery, where the stark realities of her experiences juxtapose beautifully with an enchanting atmosphere that beckons the reader to explore further.

The narrative captures the quiet desperation of a young girl trying to protect her siblings from an abusive stepfather, all while navigating the suffocating atmosphere of Starkton. The sensory details—the thudding footsteps, the weight of silence, the chilling dreams—make her experience painfully tangible. And yet, through that, you give us a flicker of hope: her protective force field, her flaming sword, and her unshakable determination.

The character Luther Andersen, along with the supporting cast and the lighthouse itself, added unique dimensions to the book’s world. Each element contributed to a rich and immersive experience, making me feel as if I were experiencing the events firsthand.

As the tale unfolds and Georgie transitions to Mystic Creek, the shift in tone mirrors her inner transformation. The introduction of meta-normal abilities is not just intriguing; it’s a thrilling leap into a world full of possibilities!

As I reflect on Georgie’s life, I realize that the journey of self-discovery and becoming our destined selves is what life is all about – a meaningful message for your young adult and teen audience. You’ve built a world brimming with imagination, turning the mundane into the magical, courageously confronting trauma, and finding light in darkness. This is a story about healing, identity, and the immense strength that can be found in friendship and love.

I am inspired by Georgie’s resilience and the depth of heart that is woven through your storytelling. I eagerly await the next installment in the [Meta-Normal] series.”
— Penelope Samson-Dillard, Dear Author Book Reviews/Speak Up Talk Radio

“Tanya D. Dawson expertly blends fantasy with genuine emotional truths in Andersen Light: A Meta-Normal Novel. Georgie’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, where she confronts profound trauma with honesty and a lack of embellishment. Dawson’s prose immerses readers in Georgie’s thoughts, skillfully balancing the intensity of her experiences with the solace found in her father and Luther, who provide stability during chaos. The narrative artfully connects the fantastical aspects of Georgie’s awakening to her emotional recovery, intertwining themes of hope, bravery, and transformation. The storyline is both sincere and unique, catering to readers who appreciate emotional depth in their narratives. It will resonate with anyone who has overcome hardships and enjoys tales of young individuals discovering their inner strength.

Quill says: A moving and magical tale of resilience, healing, and self-discovery, Andersen Light: A Meta-Normal Novel shines with both emotional honesty and fantastical wonder—a story that lingers in the heart.” — Feathered Quill

“What a fantastic read for young adults and the young at heart! Tanya Dawson weaves a rich tapestry of characters, food, music and mystic powers. Through highs and lows, this novel offers uplifting guidance to the characters as well as to readers.

I am hoping the next book is finished soon to reveal even more of the unfolding capabilities of Georgie Jones, the lightworkers and their allies.” — Ray A. Green, Amazon Reviewer

“Andersen Light is heartfelt and different. It’s for readers who like emotional depth in their YA, especially those who appreciate a blend of real-life grit with cosmic wonder. If you’re someone who’s survived something or loves stories about kids finding their strength, this will resonate with you. I’d recommend it to teens and adults alike, especially those who believe that healing can be both practical and mystical.” — Literary Titan

“I enjoyed very much reading your book. I want to read it again. It was action packed and kept me intrigued with what would happen next. I hope you can continue to write about more of Georgie’s adventures.” – Susan F. Mitchell, defense and intelligence contractor executive, retired; former executive board member, National Classification Management Society; spoiler of grandchildren

“Reading this book transported me into their world, where anything is possible, and girls not only have power, but also learn to use their power for good. Young Adults and adults alike will find themselves absorbed in this read. In addition, it is the first book I have read where the foods the characters ate sounded both yummy and healthy, and where adults and teens worked and played together to bring about a better world. Give yourself the gift of reading, or listening to this book!” — Bonnie L. Smith, Amazon Reviewer

Book 2:

WINTER SOULSTICE: A META-NORMAL NOVEL (Working Title)

is being written even as you read this – like right now!

Winter Soulstice picks up from Andersen Light on the following Monday, a new month and a whole lot more!

You’ll see all the familiar names, get to know them even better, and meet some new characters along the way.

Here are a few sneak peek questions: Is Mystic Creek High School really planning another dance after what happened at homecoming? Attend Meta-Normal 101 in the Andersen Lighthouse classroom. On whose team is James Gray playing? How does Shawn surprise Georgie and Josefina? Will Georgie meet Arthur IRL? Learn what it takes to prepare for a meta-normal lightworker mission.