Kanawha County Library Celebrates Children's Book Set in Charleston

Local authors and illustrators showcase new book highlighting the city's top attractions.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:04pm

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The Kanawha County Library in Charleston, West Virginia hosted a party to celebrate the release of a new children's book called 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt.' The book, written by native Charleston authors Andy Richardson and Emma Carpenter, takes readers on a journey to explore the city's must-see attractions. The book's illustrations were created by local artist Marisa Jackson, who received help from her son Luca on some of the drawings.

Why it matters

The book promotes Charleston and its landmarks to a younger audience, helping to instill local pride and encourage children to explore their hometown. It also showcases the creative talents of West Virginia natives, highlighting the state's artistic community.

The details

During the party, Kanawha County Commissioner Natalie Tennent read the book aloud to the children in attendance, followed by a book signing. Illustrator Marisa Jackson, a Marshall University graduate, revealed that her son Luca helped create some of the drawings, including a sketch of the Capitol Market and an illustration on page 21 featuring FestivAll.

  • The party was held on Saturday morning to celebrate the book's release.

The players

Andy Richardson

One of the authors of 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt,' a native of Charleston, West Virginia.

Emma Carpenter

One of the authors of 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt,' a native of Charleston, West Virginia.

Marisa Jackson

The illustrator of 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt,' a graduate of Marshall University.

Luca Jackson

The son of illustrator Marisa Jackson, who helped create some of the illustrations in the book.

Natalie Tennent

The Kanawha County Commissioner who read the book aloud during the party.

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What they’re saying

“My mom illustrated this book, called 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt.' She did a great job illustrating this book, but I actually illustrated some of the pictures too. As you take a look at the Capitol Market, I made this sketch for it, and on page 21, I illustrated this picture of FestivAll.”

— Luca Jackson, Son of Illustrator

What’s next

The book 'Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt' is now available for checkout at the Kanawha County Library.

The takeaway

This children's book celebrates the city of Charleston and its landmarks, showcasing the creative talents of local West Virginia authors and illustrators. It aims to instill a sense of local pride and encourage young readers to explore their hometown.