Hello! I’m author Gregory G. Allen, but you can call me Greg because if you’ve found this page…I consider us friends.
Here you will find a little about how my imagination has run wild as I'm inspired by so many different things creating stories for children: my godson with autism, fear of going to the doctor, a squirrel loose in a theatre, or someone feeling they don't fit in.
I’ve been a storyteller all my life. As a kid I would fill notebooks full of stories and plays, sometimes directing the neighborhood kids in backyard shows.
Once in high school, a local children’s theatre produced the first musical I ever wrote. I went on to write three more musicals for this theatre company before I graduated high school.
In 2012, my first children’s book was published by MeeGenius Publishing when it won the People’s Choice Grand Prize. This book (about a superhero with autism) and its sequel were acquired by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and still thrive today.
In 2016 I created my third picture book about the little squirrel who doesn't want to do chores; just wants to perform.
I've spent a decade speaking to thousands of students, reminding them to follow their passions, and enjoying every second of it!
Take a look around here to learn a little more about what I do, what others have said about my books, or to learn how to bring me to YOUR school!
I've written my FIRST chapter book!
My latest story felt too large to tell as a picture book, so I’ve worked hard this past year creating a longer story about the little fellow.
The Monsters of Marymount Mansion, beautifully illustrated by Shelby Goodwin, is coming out October of 2023. (Loosely based on that first musical I wrote back in high school.)
Click on the book cover for more info!!
"This is a great book and it tells children (and young squirrels!) that you can fulfill your dreams if you aim high! I loved the drawings and the story. If you like theatre, singing and squirrels, this is a perfect book for you!"
-Actor on Young Sheldon
"This will be a great resource for kids with autism who want to feel better about themselves, to unleash their inner greatness, and for parents and teachers who want to promote a positive view of autism to their offspring and students."
-Autism Society of Michigan
"This book is great for kids who want to pursue the arts or want to pursue something that may seem unattainable. Many of us on Broadway started out thinking we could never do. Therefore, it's always inspiring to read about an underdog (undersquirrel?) who gets the chance to prove he can do it. Because if Irving the squirrel can, we all can!"
-SiriusXM Radio Broadway Host/Author
"Who doesn't love a story in which a child is nice to an animal and have that animal return the favor? For years we've heard that Gus the Theatre Cat 'acted with Irving.' We assumed he meant Henry Irving, the great 19th century actor, but now we have to wonder if he meant Irving the Squirrel, who gets his start as a performer in this endearing book."
-Author of Let's Put on a Musical
My book Irving the Theater Nut! was turned into a short film during the pandemic with some amazing kids...utilizing zoom & social distancing. Enjoy!
Copyright © 2023 Gregory G. Allen - All Rights Reserved.
* Single Illustrations by Morgan Swafford
* Monster Illustrations by Shelby Goodwin