Allen Levi initially did not plan to publish his novel, 'Theo of Golden.' However, after friends expressed interest in reading his finished manuscript, he decided to share it despite acknowledging some rough edges. Encouraged by their feedback, Levi, along with his niece, opted for self-publishing, hoping to sell a thousand copies.
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Unexpectedly, after a slow start, the book began to gain traction, leading to interest from literary agents and traditional publishers. Eventually, he partnered with Suzanne Gluck from William Morris Endeavor, resulting in a collaboration that greatly exceeded his expectations.
Levi's diverse career includes roles as a lawyer, musician, and judge. He graduated from law school in 1980 and practiced for ten years before pursuing a master's degree in Scottish fiction at the University of Edinburgh. After returning, he practiced law part-time while developing his music career. He dedicated approximately 20 years to music until he paused to care for his ailing brother.
His writing process involves rising early for prayers and coffee before retreating to a writing cabin in the woods, where he works without distractions. Writing longhand, he types up his notes while they are still legible.
In addressing his portrayal of Ellen, a character experiencing homelessness, Levi mentioned his frequent visits to coffee shops, which inspired many characters in the book. He aimed to depict a diverse array of people, reflecting various aspects of the community through the eyes of the protagonist, Theo.
Levi hopes readers will find a redemptive quality in the narrative, especially amid a turbulent society. He referenced Wendell Berry's essay 'Think Little,' which promotes the idea that small, collective actions can address larger societal issues. In this light, Theo serves as a model for engaging in meaningful, everyday acts of kindness—an aspiration Levi aims to embody himself.