Thank you for visiting Meet Robert Stanek! A new destination site for books by Robert Stanek. Meet Robert Stanek is part of the WRS Network. A prolific author, Robert Stanek has written many books for young people and adults. Renowned for creating beautiful, vibrant scenes full of wonderful color, Robert Stanek has been called a living legend and national treasure, his words and illustrations have captivated the hearts and minds of millions over the past thirty years.

As a combat veteran who is partially disabled and father of a daughter with Down Syndrome, he is a vocal champion of veterans and the disabled. He also is a champion of books and libraries, frequently donating his time and resources to support related causes.

Robert Stanek is the creator of After the Machines, Bugville Critters, Magic Lands, and Ruin Mist. On Facebook, he posts regularly to his author page. You'll find him on Twitter @robertstanek.

Some people wear one hat or two, Robert has always worn many. His hundreds of written works as William Stanek (primarily nonfiction) and Robert Stanek (primarily fiction) are well known, less well known are the thousands of iconic photographs and hundreds of canvas paintings he created for World Galleries over the past 30 years. With the permanent closing of the physical galleries in spring 2021 due to the worldwide pandemic, Robert and his wife stepped out from behind the scenes to support the online initiatives for 360 Studios, @24 Studios, 1North Studios and Studio 2. You'll find three decades of their creative work at:

Robert Stanek at the county park

Insights into Robert Stanek's Life and Works

From Combat Zones to Legacy | The Imagined Worlds | Championing Inclusion | Beyond the Books | The Heart of Heroism | Mastering Genres | Celebrating Storytelling

Insights into Robert Stanek's Creative Worlds

Ruin Mist | Magic Lands | After the Machines | Scott Evers Thrillers | Guardians of the Dragon Realms | Air War

Robert Stanek - The Lights of Paris William Stanek: The Resilient Leader Embracing Resilience for Success

Explore the Imagined Worlds of Robert Stanek

Robert Stanek has captivated readers of all ages with his vivid storytelling and expansive worlds. Among his most popular imagined lands are the epic realm of Ruin Mist and the delightfully whimsical Bugville. These settings are not just backdrops for his stories but fully realized worlds that have become beloved by millions.

Ruin Mist is an ancient realm filled with magic, mystery, and adventure. It’s a place where the lines between good and evil blur, and where heroes rise from the most unexpected places. In 2005, Robert Stanek brought the world of Ruin Mist to life in audio format, and the series instantly resonated with listeners. The books shot to #1 on Audible for an astounding fourteen consecutive weeks and continued to captivate audiences, remaining in the Kids & YA Top 10 for three years. This success solidified Stanek's place as a master storyteller in the realm of fantasy, with his works praised for their depth, character development, and engaging plots.

Bugville, on the other hand, is a BIG little place that brings to life the adventures of Buster Bee and his friends. Through Bugville, Stanek tackles real-life issues in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers, blending educational elements with fun and adventure. These stories are perfect for children learning about the world around them, offering lessons on family, friendship, and the wonders of nature.

Stanek's books have not only entertained but also earned the endorsement of educators and critics alike. His works have been written about and recommended by respected publications and organizations such as the YA librarian staff at VOYA, Publisher's Weekly, Parenting Magazine, the Journal of Electronic Defense, The Children's Bookshelf, Children's Writer, and the renowned guide, Popular Series Fiction for Middle School and Teen Readers: A Reading and Selection Guide. These accolades speak to the broad appeal and literary quality of Stanek's storytelling.

Where to Start: The Best of Robert Stanek

For those new to Robert Stanek's works or looking to explore his most acclaimed titles, here’s a curated list from OverDrive's "ContentWire for Libraries" of "The Best of Robert Stanek":

  1. The Pieces of the Puzzle
    A riveting thriller that weaves together complex mysteries and international intrigue, showcasing Stanek’s prowess in creating gripping, page-turning narratives.

  2. Bugville Collection #1: Visit Mom and Dad At Work, Go to School, Have a Sleepover, Visit Garden Box Farms
    A delightful collection of stories from Bugville, perfect for young readers who enjoy tales that teach life lessons in a fun and relatable way.

  3. The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches
    An essential read for fantasy lovers, this series explores the richly detailed world of Ruin Mist and its complex tapestry of kingdoms, elves, and ancient prophecies.

  4. In the Service of Dragons
    Continuing the adventures in Ruin Mist, this series delves deeper into the conflicts that shape the realm and the destinies of its heroes.

  5. Journey Beyond the Beyond
    An imaginative tale that takes readers on an adventure beyond the known world, exploring themes of courage, friendship, and the unknown.

  6. Air War
    A gripping story that combines Stanek’s talent for technical writing with his flair for action-packed narratives, making it a must-read for fans of military and aviation stories.

  7. Bugville Critters: Every Number Counts
    A charming and educational story from Bugville that helps children understand numbers and counting in an engaging and memorable way.

  8. Absolutes & Other Stories
    A collection that showcases Stanek's versatility as a writer, featuring a mix of short stories that span various genres and themes.

  9. Exploring Ruin Mist: Special Edition for "The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches" and "In the Service of Dragons"
    A special edition that offers deeper insights into the world of Ruin Mist, perfect for fans looking to explore the lore and history of this beloved series.

Whether you're diving into the epic battles and intricate politics of Ruin Mist, or exploring the charming adventures in Bugville, Robert Stanek’s works promise to transport you to worlds of wonder, where imagination reigns supreme. Each book offers a new journey, inviting readers to discover why Stanek remains a cherished author across generations.

New to Ruin Mist?
Pick a path and go! Whether you start with a numbered book or a named path, each journey is complete on its own yet interwoven with the larger epic. This approach lets you immerse yourself in the stories that call to you most, while still discovering the broader world that Robert Stanek has lovingly crafted.

What’s Your Adventure Style?

With Robert’s unique storytelling style, there’s no wrong way to explore Ruin Mist. Whether you're following the numbers or choosing a name that intrigues you, the adventure is yours to shape. So, go ahead—pick a path and let the journey begin!

Why Readers Love Robert Stanek's Works

A Master of Imagination: Robert Stanek’s works have captivated readers of all ages with their vivid storytelling and richly developed worlds. From the mystical lands of Ruin Mist to the everyday yet magical town of Bugville, his stories transport readers to places where imagination knows no bounds. Fans love how Robert blends adventure, fantasy, and life lessons in ways that resonate deeply, making his books not just enjoyable reads but unforgettable experiences.

Diverse Stories for Every Reader: Whether it’s epic fantasy, educational tales for children, or gripping thrillers, Robert Stanek offers a wide array of genres that cater to various interests and age groups. His ability to create relatable characters and engaging narratives ensures that there’s a Robert Stanek book for everyone. From the youngest readers exploring Bugville to adults diving into the complex political landscapes of Ruin Mist, his stories provide a sense of wonder and discovery at every turn.

Authenticity and Heart: What sets Robert Stanek apart is his authenticity. Drawing from his own life experiences, including his military service and role as a father, Robert’s stories are infused with real emotions, challenges, and triumphs. Readers appreciate the genuine nature of his storytelling, which often reflects the resilience and perseverance he embodies. This connection to real-life struggles and victories makes his characters feel like companions on a shared journey, not just fictional creations.

Beyond the Books: Robert Stanek’s creativity extends far beyond his written works. As a talented photographer and artist, he brings the worlds he imagines to life through stunning visuals. Explore his art collections at 360 Studios and see how his passion for storytelling transcends mediums, creating a multi-sensory experience for his audience.

Support for Veterans and the Disabled: Robert Stanek is more than an author; he’s an advocate for veterans and individuals with disabilities. Through his books, public speaking, and charitable work, he supports causes close to his heart.

A Legacy of Creativity and Service: Robert Stanek’s journey is one of perseverance, creativity, and dedication. From his early days writing in a small corner of his dorm room in the military to becoming a celebrated author and artist, Robert’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of hard work.

Robert Stanek’s enduring legacy as a storyteller and advocate is felt through every word he writes and every initiative he supports. His works continue to inspire, educate, and entertain millions, proving that stories are not just for escape—they are tools for understanding the world and ourselves. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the incredible journey of Robert Stanek. Dive into his books, explore his art, and let your imagination take flight!

Awards & Accolades

Robert Stanek’s remarkable 11-year military career is marked by extraordinary service and dedication, earning him 29 commendations, including prestigious honors such as the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. Beyond his military achievements, Robert has distinguished himself as a writer, photographer, and artist, sharing his insights in college classrooms, engaging with world leaders, and inspiring audiences worldwide. His diverse accomplishments and commitment to excellence have left an indelible impact on all who have encountered his work and service.

DFC Memorial tribute to Robert Stanek

Robert’s legacy of service runs deep, with forefathers who have fought valiantly in every major conflict the United States has faced—from the French & Indian Wars and the Revolutionary War that laid the foundation of the nation, to the epic battles of World War I and World War II. This heritage of sacrifice and patriotism is a source of immense pride for Robert, and it inspired his own commitment to serve. Through his military service, he learned profound lessons about duty, sacrifice, and honor—values he continues to embody in his personal and professional life.

Robert speaks openly about his combat experiences, using his platform to connect with fellow veterans and others who, like him, carry the scars of the battlefield into their everyday lives. By sharing his story, he hopes to offer hope and solidarity to those who struggle silently. "As wounded warriors, we suffer, but we need not suffer in silence," Robert emphasizes. He believes that by embracing their pain and channeling it into purposeful action, wounded warriors can continue to contribute significantly to society and find healing through their efforts.

Notable Achievements & Inspirations

As an accomplished writer, photographer, and artist, Robert Stanek has traveled a diverse path—teaching in colleges, engaging with influential leaders, and speaking to audiences across the globe. Among his many remarkable experiences, one stands out vividly: meeting Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush in the early 1990s. Both former presidents served as trustees of the National Awards program at the Freedoms Foundation, and it was during this time that Robert had recently been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor in wartime service, as well as the George Washington Honor Medal.

Reflecting on the encounter, Robert says, “It was an honor to have those great men shake my hand and genuinely congratulate me for my achievements.” This meeting was a pivotal moment for Robert—a recognition that, while he had accomplished much, his journey was just beginning. Fueled by the encouragement of these iconic leaders, Robert set his sights on making a meaningful impact on the world.

Decades later, Robert’s determination and drive have led him to achieve far more than he could have imagined at the time. From the pages of his critically acclaimed books to his evocative photographs and heartfelt artwork, Robert has not only made his mark on the world but has also inspired countless others to pursue their own paths of service, creativity, and resilience. Through his work and his legacy, Robert Stanek exemplifies the enduring spirit of service and the profound impact that one person can make through dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

For decades, Robert rarely spoke about the people he knew in the industry, but recently he shared stories about Oprah, JK Rowling, and others, including his long-time friendships with Brian Jacques, Beverly Cleary, and Walter Dean Myers.

Find Books by Robert Stanek

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Select Praise for This Mortal Coil

Robert Stanek's Guide to Publishing & Being an Author:

Traveling the Writer's Road | Taking Your Work From Print to Film | Selling Rights to Your Books | Viewpoints on Rejection Letters | Understanding Bestseller Lists | Finding Success as a Writer | How Far Indies Have Come in so Few Years | Understanding Book Sales Data | Understanding Publishing Today | From 4th Grade Musings to Published Pro | Don't Quit Your Day Job Just Yet | Tours of Duty - Write What You Know | Using Twitter Effectively | Now Appearing... Places Books Have Been | How I Made This Crazy Thing Called Writing a 20-year Career | The Road To Success is Paved with Potholes | Climbing Mountains | Understanding Long-tail Publishing and Hybrid Authors | What It's Like to be Wildly Successful as an Author | Shopping, Dragons, Independents, Oh My! | Protecting Your Books from Pirates | Printing Your Own books | Amazon's Rotten Core | Supporting Veteran Authors Who Support Veterans

Awards & Military Commendations

Robert Stanek served in support of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Provide Comfort, and other conflicts. His distinguished accomplishments during his 11-year military career earned him 29 commendations, including the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

The military honors and medals of Robert Stanek

“Duty, honor, and country mean a lot to me, and these themes resonate in my many books,” Robert says. He speaks openly about his combat service to help those who, like him, have taken the battlefield home with them, to give them hope, and to let them know they can use their pain to accomplish many things.

Robert Stanek and his wife Robert Stanek and his daughters Halloween fun with Robert Stanek's family Robert Stanek and his wife Robert Stanek with his wife and children Robert Stanek and his children Robert Stanek and his daughters dressed as princesses Robert Stanek and his daughters Robert Stanek and his kids Robert Stanek and his family on the coast Robert Stanek and his daughter being silly Robert Stanek and his family at Christmas

Close Up: Celebrating Robert Stanek's Heritage & Successes

Robert Stanek has always been known for working against the grain, much like his forefathers. Over his decades-long career as a writer, photographer, and artist, Robert has continuously made a significant impact, not just through his creative works but also through his unique approach to his craft and life.

Robert grew up with a hard-scrabble childhood, moving often and experiencing the worst of poverty. Despite these challenges, he learned early that perseverance was key—never complain, keep a stiff upper lip, and never abandon anything you start. These life lessons deeply influenced his writing, creating works that resonate with resilience and the spirit of overcoming adversity.

Throughout his career, Robert avoided succumbing to fleeting trends in publishing. He wrote what he wanted, regardless of the prevailing themes of the day, often paying a price for being out of step with the literary establishment. Despite early criticisms, Robert's commitment to his voice and style won out. His work was eventually published and distributed by nearly every major American publisher, and when they wouldn't bend enough, he boldly chose the independent route.

Robert is credited with transforming the computer writing industry with his plain language style, a style that even Microsoft adopted for its training courses. His influence extends across millions of training sessions, making complex concepts accessible and easy to understand. This contribution has made him a respected figure not just in literary circles but also in the tech industry.

Robert’s works often explore themes of conservation and the environment, reflecting his deep connection to the natural world. From his Bugville Critters books to his many other series, he weaves these elements into stories that captivate and educate readers of all ages.

Robert signed his first contract and broke into publishing on his own in 1995. Since then, he has published hundreds of original works, which have been translated into 57 languages. His philosophy on writing has always been clear: the craft is about the writing itself, not the accolades. Professional writing is work, and writers write to pay the bills. Robert has stayed true to this throughout his career, preferring the simple life and the quiet comfort of putting words to paper over fame and celebrity.

Over the past 35 years, Robert Stanek has achieved remarkable success, not just in the sales of his books, which number in the millions, but in the impact he's had on his readers. He values his connection with his audience above all, seeing his works as a means to inspire, teach, and entertain.

Reflecting on his journey, Robert often recalls the irony of misconceptions about the American West—an area he and his works often touch upon. To Robert, the West is not just about rugged, self-reliant individuals but about communities coming together to accomplish more than they could alone. This spirit of collaboration and unity is a theme that runs deeply through his writing and his life.

Awards & Accolades for William Robert Stanek's Books

Awards & Accolades for Technical Books

Awards & Accolades for Ruin Mist / Kingdoms & the Elves / Service of Dragons

Awards & Accolades for The Pieces of the Puzzle

Awards & Accolades for Bugville Critters

Awards & Accolades for Stormjammers

Other Awards & Accolades

Robert Stanek's Impact: Beyond the Pages

Inspiring Future Generations: Robert Stanek’s stories don’t just entertain—they empower readers of all ages to dream bigger, think deeper, and believe in their own potential. Through characters who face their fears, overcome challenges, and embrace their uniqueness, Robert’s books provide a roadmap for resilience and personal growth. For young readers, his works offer valuable lessons in kindness, perseverance, and the power of imagination. For adults, they serve as a reminder that no matter how complex life becomes, there’s always room for wonder and adventure.

A Champion for Learning and Growth: Robert Stanek’s commitment to education extends beyond traditional learning. His books, particularly the Bugville series, are tools for fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and lifelong curiosity. Whether it's helping a child grasp early literacy skills or encouraging a reader to explore new perspectives, Robert’s works are designed to inspire a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Teachers and parents alike turn to his stories as trusted resources that not only engage young minds but also enrich them with valuable life lessons.

Connecting Through Storytelling: Robert believes in the transformative power of storytelling—that a good story can bring people together, bridge divides, and create lasting connections. This belief is at the heart of every book he writes. His tales of courage, friendship, and adventure resonate on a universal level, inviting readers to not only explore new worlds but also to reflect on their own. Through his works, Robert builds a community of readers who are united by their shared love of stories that matter.

A Legacy That Lives On: As Robert Stanek continues to write, create, and advocate, his legacy grows ever richer. His influence can be seen in classrooms, libraries, and homes around the world, where his books have become cherished staples. Beyond the accolades and the bestseller lists, Robert’s true success lies in the impact he has made on individual lives. His works remind us that every story has the power to inspire change, and that every reader can find a piece of themselves in the pages of a great book.

A Call to Action: Explore, Create, and Dream: Robert Stanek’s journey is a powerful call to action—not just to read, but to explore, create, and dream. His works encourage us to look beyond the ordinary, to embrace our own stories, and to share them with the world. As Robert himself often says, “The greatest adventure is the one you create for yourself.” Whether through reading his books, exploring his art, or finding your own creative voice, the invitation is open to join Robert on this incredible journey.

Discover Your Next Adventure: The worlds Robert Stanek has created are filled with possibilities, waiting for you to dive in. Whether it’s embarking on an epic quest in Ruin Mist, laughing along with Buster Bee in Bugville, or discovering a new favorite in his wide-ranging catalog, your next adventure is just a page away. Explore the realms of Robert Stanek, and let your imagination soar.