Richard R. Becker Inspires Readers With Compelling Stories That Explore the Human Experience
From Short Stories to Novels A Path to Literary Excellence
Richard R. Becker, award-winning author of Third Wheel and 50 States, shares his creative journey, influences from journalism and marketing, and invaluable advice for aspiring writers on balancing passion with profession.
Richard R. Becker, award-winning author of Third Wheel and 50 States, shares his creative journey, influences from journalism and marketing, and invaluable advice for aspiring writers on balancing passion with profession.
Richard R. Becker discusses his award-winning works Third Wheel and 50 States, his creative process, life influences, and shares invaluable advice for aspiring authors balancing passion and profession.
Richard R. Becker is a literary force to be reckoned with—an author whose works not only showcase his remarkable talent but also offer readers unparalleled insight into the human experience. His debut coming-of-age thriller, Third Wheel, and his groundbreaking short story collection, 50 States, have both cemented his place as an exceptional storyteller, earning multiple accolades and the admiration of readers and critics alike.
What makes Becker’s work truly special is his ability to create rich, layered narratives that resonate emotionally while keeping readers at the edge of their seats. From the suburban shadows of 1982 Las Vegas in Third Wheel to the diverse and vivid landscapes of the United States brought to life in 50 States, Becker demonstrates a mastery of theme, character, and pacing that is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s no wonder Third Wheel claimed Literary Thriller of the Year and won seven literary awards, while 50 States was lauded as an innovative triumph of short-form storytelling.
A big part of Becker’s success lies in his profound life experiences, which inform every page he writes. Whether drawing from his time as a journalist, communication strategist, professor, or public servant, Becker lends authenticity and depth to his characters, often inspired by the diverse socio-economic and political worlds he’s inhabited. He has the rare ability to explore the intricacies of the human condition through fiction in a way that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable.
Richard R. Becker captivates readers with masterful storytelling, authentic characters, and profound insights that explore the depths of human nature.
From Short Stories to Full-Length Novels
Becker’s journey as an author began with short stories, leading to the creation of 50 States, a collection born from a disciplined writing challenge—one short story per week for 50 weeks. This project, inspired by creative challenges from fellow artists, became a masterclass in storytelling discipline and execution. His dedication to the craft led him to expand a short story into a full-length novel, Third Wheel, which delves into the turbulent adolescence of Brady Wilks amidst the changing landscape of 1982 Las Vegas.
“The transition was surprisingly seamless because I adopted a similar approach to the one I used to write 50 States,” Becker shares. “I set out to write one chapter a week until I finished. In some ways, I looked at every chapter inside Third Wheel as a short story, even if these stories didn’t necessarily have to stand on their own.”
The Influence of Journalism and Marketing
With a background in journalism, advertising, and communication strategy, Becker’s writing is shaped by the principles of clarity, conciseness, and human connection. “Working as a journalist and advertising copywriter influenced me to ensure my work is clear, concise, accurate, human, and conspicuous,” he explains.
Additionally, his professional experiences have provided him with a deep understanding of diverse socio-economic backgrounds, allowing him to create authentic, multi-dimensional characters. This depth is evident in both Third Wheel and 50 States, where themes of identity, adversity, and resilience are explored with nuance and realism.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Becker’s advice to aspiring writers is rooted in discipline and dedication. “Most aspiring authors never finish a book because they treat writing as a hobby and not a profession,” he says.
“They have to turn that thinking on its head by choosing a plot they can be passionate about and giving it the priority it deserves.” – Richard R. Becker
For those struggling to commit to writing, Becker suggests setting manageable goals. “If one short story a week is too much, commit to one every two weeks or month. Whatever it takes!”
Balancing Multiple Roles
In addition to writing, Becker juggles roles as a coach, teacher, actor, public speaker, and community servant. His ability to manage these commitments comes from a mindset shift. “There’s an old saying that if you want something done, ask a busy person,” he notes. “It’s taken some time, but I’ve learned how to prioritize not just my schedule but my life.”
Rather than seeing his many roles as separate tasks, Becker approaches them as fulfilling different aspects of his personal and professional mission. “I just look at it as another way to fulfill my goals—to serve people, make the world a better place, and advance humankind.”
The Future of Richard R. Becker’s Writing
Though Third Wheel has been met with widespread acclaim, Becker plans to explore new stories before revisiting Brady Wilks’ journey. His commitment to literary excellence ensures that whatever he writes next will continue to challenge, engage, and inspire readers.
Becker’s work serves as a reminder that great storytelling is not just about crafting compelling plots—it’s about capturing the essence of human experience in a way that resonates with readers across generations. His books are not just stories; they are explorations of life, identity, and resilience.
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
