Richard Paul Evans

Richard Paul Evans – Life, Career, and Notable Reflections

Discover the life, works, and philosophy of Richard Paul Evans (born October 11, 1962), the American author behind The Christmas Box, The Walk series, Michael Vey, and more. Explore his background, writing journey, values, and memorable quotes.

Introduction

Richard Paul Evans (born October 11, 1962) is an American novelist, essayist, and storyteller whose works often emphasize hope, redemption, relationships, faith, and the human spirit. He rose to fame with The Christmas Box, a novella written initially for his children, and over time expanded his repertoire to include inspirational fiction, young adult adventure (the Michael Vey series), and personal narratives. Evans’s voice is known for being heartfelt, accessible, and resonant with readers seeking meaning and encouragement.

Early Life and Education

• Birthplace: Evans was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.

• Education: He graduated from Cottonwood High School in Murray, Utah. He went on to earn a B.A. from the University of Utah in 1984.

Before becoming a full-time author, Evans worked as an advertising executive.

Writing Career & Major Works

The Christmas Box & Breakthrough

• In 1993, Evans wrote The Christmas Box (a Christmas story) for his children. Unable to find a publisher, he self-published the novella locally.

• The book became a regional success and was later picked up by a traditional publisher. It became a bestseller and is often considered his signature work.

Inspirational Fiction & The Walk Series

Evans expanded into inspirational and spiritual fiction, producing works such as The Walk series (which includes The Walk, Miles to Go, Road to Grace, Step of Faith, Walking on Water)

Young Adult & Thriller — Michael Vey Series

Evans also ventured into the young adult and sci-fi genre with his Michael Vey series. This series brings together elements of heroism, science, and moral choice, giving a broader reach to younger audiences.

Other Works & Themes

Evans has written many more novels, essays, and stories—over 25 New York Times bestsellers by some accounts

Style, Themes & Influence

Style

• Evans’s prose is clear, earnest, and emotionally direct. He aims to communicate rather than obscure.

• His narrative voice often blends storytelling with moral or spiritual reflection.

• He tends to write in a tone of encouragement and affirmation, inviting readers toward hope.

Themes

Some recurrent themes in his works include:

• Hope & Redemption — Many stories explore how brokenness or pain can lead to growth.

• Faith & Spirituality — His Christian beliefs inform many of his narratives, though he sometimes frames them broadly in human terms.

• Relationships & Forgiveness — Family, love, reconciliation, and letting go are central motifs.

• Adversity & Growth — Evans often presents trials as opportunities for deeper character and perspective.

His books have resonated with readers who seek uplift, meaning, and second chances.

Notable Quotes

Here are some meaningful quotes by Richard Paul Evans that reflect his worldview:

• “Everyone has some inner power that awaits discovery.”

• “People are looking for inspiration, and my books are sometimes the vehicles of what people are looking for.”

• “Don’t try to write what other people are writing — write what is true to you.”

• “Usually life’s greatest gifts come wrapped in adversity.”

• “We can spend our days bemoaning our losses, or we can grow from them. Ultimately the choice is ours. We can be victims of circumstance or masters of our own fate, but make no mistake, we cannot be both.”

• “Everyone who got to where they are had to begin where they were.”

Lessons from Richard Paul Evans

1. Start from where you are
   His journey—from self-publishing The Christmas Box to becoming a bestselling author—shows that beginnings matter less than persistence.

2. Write what you believe
   His encouragement to “write what is true to you” suggests that authenticity connects more deeply than chasing trends.

3. Adversity can fuel art
   Many of his stories turn suffering, loss, or hardship into catalysts for insight and hope.

4. Genre boundaries can be crossed
   Evans successfully moved between inspirational fiction and YA sci-fi, showing versatility in reaching different audiences.

5. Hope is a sustaining force
   His body of work consistently suggests that hope, meaning, and faith can persist even in difficult circumstances.