Welcome to Greg's Imagination
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!
New Book
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 who just wants to explore. The book is loosely based on the first musical I ever wrote way back in high school.
“A fanciful and compassionate approach to being ‘different’…young readers will root for the courageous Toby…message of empathy is delivered with quirky charm.” - Kirkus Reviews
The Monsters of Marymount Mansion, beautifully illustrated by Shelby Goodwin, is out now!
Click below for more info such as events, reviews, and how to order!
Praise for Greg's Books
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
"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
Anne Carpenter
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
"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
Seth Rudetsky
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
Peter Filichia
"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
Peter Filichia
Iain Armitage (at 8 years old)
Peter Filichia
"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