We had the good fortune of connecting with R. Alan Brooks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi R. Alan Brooks, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
One of my favorite books is “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis. On its face, it’s a collection of letters between two demons, where they discuss how to destroy a person’s life. But as you read it, you begin to discover that it’s really about how we sabotage ourselves. Reading the book was the beginning of my journey towards understanding how fiction can provide a context for helping people reflect upon their choices and beliefs. And that understanding has shined throughout all that I’ve done as a professional author. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a graphic novel writer, and I teach this kind of writing in the MFA program at Regis University, as well as at Lighthouse Writers Workshop. And, no, it wasn’t easy. I had to decide that making art was important enough for me to quit my job, reduce my expenses, and work very hard at creating and promoting my work. It’s been a serious process, and one thing has led to another. I’ve worked hard, and I feel thankful for the results of that. Now, I’m able to make a living creating art that means something to me – art that reflects upon life and society.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank Regis University, Lighthouse Writers Workshop, and The Colorado Sun!

Website: ralanwrites.com
Instagram: @theburningmetronome
Twitter: @R_alan_writes

Image Credits
Photo credits are in the title of the jpeg file

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDenver is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.