Welcome!
A long time ago, cowering in a moldy shower somewhere in the backwaters of Myanmar, no less, I discovered that stories - written experiences, thoughts and emotions, captured moments in the endless tapestry of human history - were far more than just a pastime.
From the first moment I put pen to paper, they became a survival mechanism, not just for the tragedies I witnessed as part of my job, but for my own life and all the challenges and trauma it would throw my way in future years. Stories do a lot of different things for different people, but above all, they teach us and nudge us about what it means to be human; about the value of "simply" being alive, what some of our personal takeaways might be from this great mystery, and the luxury we are afforded by being able to reflect on it.
Some of my stories come straight out of years spent working in tough humanitarian settings around the world; others stem from pure imagination and my undying fascination with popular culture and its themes. But every single one is fueled by a deep love for storytelling, by an obsessive-compulsive infatuation with the human condition, and its inexorable spirit to keep going, no matter what.
With over twenty years working in crisis settings, my perspectives may be different. Whether delving into fiction or non-fiction, my themes tend to center on conflict, survival, resilience, history, and what makes people tick – do what they do, sometimes against prudence and at other times, even despite themselves. Real experience blends with heartfelt storytelling. On top of writing books, I create scripts for film and TV— just one of many attempts to adapt stories for all kinds of formats and connect with and to different audiences wherever they are.
Think of this site as your entry point. Here you’ll find novels, non-fiction titles, scripts, news, behind-the-scenes notes, and previews of what’s coming next. And if you can’t find something, remember: Ask! My email is right at the bottom of this welcome blurb.
Thanks so much for visiting. Don’t forget to leave a comment or sign up for news and updates on upcoming releases or my (admittedly poorly edited) blog.
As a kindred spirit, I am sure you won’t be disappointed.
R.B. Landeck
rblandeck@gmail.com
