by Lyndal Simpson

Frank Gaimari, a Seattle-based writer, has made a striking debut in the literary scene with his novel, Circus Animals. The book is a heartfelt and imaginative tale that blends adventure, emotion, and social commentary. Set against the vibrant and mysterious backdrop of New Orleans, the story follows a group of circus animals on a brave quest to free a lioness and her cub from the clutches of ruthless carnival workers. The richly developed characters—from the courageous elephant to the flamboyant mouse—each bring charm and complexity to the narrative. At its core, Circus Animals explores friendship, unity, and resilience while shedding light on the darker realities of animal mistreatment. Gaimari’s vivid storytelling and emotional depth create an enchanting yet thought-provoking experience that has captivated readers of all ages.

Conceived initially as a screenplay, Gaimari’s story has evolved into a richly crafted novel, earning widespread praise from critics for its depth and compelling narrative.

However, the novel is more than just a thrilling adventure. Through a vivid exploration of life under the big top, Gaimari reveals the reality behind the glamorous facade. “The circus symbolizes so much,” he shares. “While it dazzles with lights and performances, there’s often underlying struggle, control, and exploitation.”

Gaimari’s path to turning Circus Animals into a novel was anything but traditional. His screenplay received praise on the festival circuit for its rich narrative and dialogue, yet Gaimari felt there was more to explore than a script could allow. “Screenplays put tight constraints on storytelling,” he reflects. “I wanted to dive deeper into the characters, the world, and the emotions driving this group of animals.”

The following are questions I had the opportunity to ask the author.

Lyndal Simpson: Circus Animals started as a screenplay. What inspired you to turn it into a novel?

Frank Gaimari: Circus Animals is one of my many screenplays. While it received high praise, the chances of selling it were slim. Therefore, I changed it into a novel, allowing more readers to discover the story. This transition felt right and marked the next step in my creative journey.

LS: The story follows an unusual group of circus animals on a daring adventure. What sparked the idea for this narrative?

FG: I based the main characters on my cherished pets. Some have passed away, while others are still alive. Through this story, I ensure their memories will live on forever. This book stands as a tribute to them.

LS: The novel tackles animal mistreatment and exploitation. Why was it necessary to explore these issues?

FG: Too many animals face mistreatment today, so I wanted to raise awareness through my story.

LS: What challenges did you face when transitioning from the structured format of a screenplay to a novel?

FG: Transitioning from screenwriting to novel writing has been a transformative experience. In screenplays, precision is key. Every word needs to serve a specific purpose. However, novels provide the freedom to explore settings, characters, and emotions in greater depth. My biggest challenge was retraining my mind to embrace this newfound freedom and letting go of the instinct to be overly restrained.

LS: The characters feel vivid and relatable. How did you bring them to life and give each one a distinct personality?

FG: I find great joy in creating captivating characters. Take Morton the mouse, for example—he’s dramatic, flamboyant, and impossible to ignore. His personality truly brings the story to life. Then there’s the narcissistic ringmaster, whose authoritative behavior creates havoc in the narrative. Each character I create is a vital part of the story, and their unique traits weave a memorable element into the plot.

LS: Why did you choose New Orleans as the setting for your book?

FG: I’m captivated by its charm. The music, cuisine, and history always fascinate me. The city has a unique depth. Its centuries-old roots and cultural richness create an ideal setting for a novel.

LS: Would you describe Circus Animals as a gay book?

FG: Without giving away any spoilers, one central character has strong feelings for his best friend, while another is shy and vulnerable but undergoes a remarkable transformation. The novel thoughtfully incorporates LGBTQ+ themes throughout its narrative.

LS: One last question—who is the intended audience for this book?

FG: The book targets young adult readers but appeals to all ages. Knowing that my book brings happiness to everyone fills me with joy.

Gaimari captivates readers in Circus Animals with well-developed characters and intricately woven plots. If you’re looking for an escape, this book is for you. It’s available online and at local bookstores everywhere, including Amazon.

Lyndal Simpson is a multi-award-winning screenwriter with two movies currently in development. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband and two teenage sons.