Picture a Kansas-born storyteller who rockets readers to distant galaxies with a grin and a wink—meet Alan Black! This American science fiction author has carved a niche with his thrilling, humor-packed novels that blend action, heart, and expansive universes. From the asteroid belts of the Metal Boxes series to standalone adventures, Black’s stories are a joyous escape for sci-fi fans.
Now settled in Arizona, Black’s journey from childhood dreamer to award-winning author is as captivating as his tales. With a knack for making readers laugh on one page and tear up on the next, he’s a master of emotional rollercoasters, promising more interstellar adventures to come.
The Making of Alan Black
Born in Kansas, Alan Black knew he wanted to be a writer by second grade, dreaming up stories while monsters lurked in his closet. Life took him through eclectic paths—Air Force veteran, used car salesman, bill collector—each job adding flavor to his storytelling. Writing remained his passion, and by 1996, he began crafting novels, fueled by a love for genres as varied as his resume. His wife, an Air Force survival expert, became his muse and biggest supporter, grounding his cosmic tales in human grit.
Black’s shift from hobbyist to professional came when his paychecks covered bills, a milestone that marked writing as his vocation. His diverse experiences shaped his voice, blending humor, resilience, and a touch of the absurd into his science fiction.
Alan Black’s Unforgettable Stories
Black’s bibliography is a treasure trove of sci-fi adventure, with the Metal Boxes series as his crown jewel. The first book, Metal Boxes (2013), follows Blackmon Perry Stone, a 15-year-old navigating a deadly coming-of-age in the Empire’s navy. Its mix of action, wit, and heart hit #1 on Amazon’s sci-fi adventure charts. Sequels like Trapped Outside and Rusty Hinges expand Stone’s saga, weaving corporate conspiracies and alien battles with intelligent piglet allies.
His standalone novel Chasing Harlie (2009) showcases his lighter side, following Chastity Snowden Whyte, a space miner tangled in piracy and politics. Black’s style is story-driven, prioritizing character and emotion over hard science. His worlds feel alive, filled with quirky details and moral dilemmas, making readers root for underdogs. Humor threads through his work, balancing intense action with moments of levity, while his themes of loyalty and survival resonate deeply.
Other works, like The Friendship Stones, dip into historical fiction, proving Black’s versatility. Yet, his sci-fi remains his hallmark, offering a respite from reality with fast-paced narratives and vivid world-building.
Why Alan Black Matters
Alan Black’s impact lies in his ability to make sci-fi accessible and human. His stories don’t require a PhD in physics—just a love for adventure and a sense of humor. By centering relatable characters in vast universes, he bridges the gap between niche sci-fi and mainstream readers. His #1 Amazon bestsellers have earned a loyal fanbase, with reviewers praising his knack for keeping them up all night.
Black’s indie spirit and eclectic background inspire aspiring authors, showing that diverse life experiences can fuel unique storytelling. As he plans more Metal Boxes installments, his legacy grows, proving that heart and humor can shine in the vastness of space.
- Born: Kansas, USA
- Key Works: Metal Boxes, Chasing Harlie, The Friendship Stones
- Awards: Three #1 Amazon bestselling sci-fi novels
- Resides: Arizona, USA
Ready to blast off? Snag Metal Boxes and dive into Alan Black’s thrilling sci-fi universe!