The story behind the stories

Hi, I’m Russell.

A husband, father of five, and the storyteller behind The Grand Adventures.

Author Russell Bodeen smiling beside his young child outdoors.

It began with reading together.

Some of my favorite moments as a dad happen with a book open between us. Reading to my children made me want to create adventures of my own: stories full of imaginative worlds, engaging artwork, and characters they would care about.

I wanted to give families something to talk about, too. How do we help a friend who is afraid? What does it mean to keep a promise? How can a small act of kindness make a difference? Those questions became part of the adventures.

The moment that stayed with me

“One more chapter.”

When we reached a chapter break, I asked my son whether we should stop for the night. He wanted to keep going. He had to find out what happened next.

That moment meant so much to me. He cared about the story—and he wanted to keep reading.

Big adventures. Room to pause.

My stories bring together colorful illustrations, magical journeys, and lessons about courage, kindness, responsibility, and the world around us. I hope they introduce young readers to new words and ideas while giving them a reason to turn the page.

Chapter breaks make space for a question, a conversation, or tomorrow night’s storytime. Families can enjoy one chapter together or follow that irresistible feeling of wanting to know what happens next.

A love of books, close to home.

Our family’s library visits are part of that love of reading. We also built a Little Free Library on our sidewalk—a small place where neighbors can find a story, share a book, and pass that joy along.

Away from writing, I enjoy photography, DIY projects, time with my family, and helping at school. Curiosity has a way of turning everyday moments into the beginning of another adventure.

Welcome to our reading world.

Whether you are choosing a bedtime story, encouraging a new reader, or looking for a longer fantasy journey, I’m glad you’re here. Kathryn and I also share a writing credit on Caius and Claire’s Atlantis adventure, a story about listening, honesty, and caring for the waters that connect us.

Choose your next chapter

The original adventures

The Grand Adventures

Illustrated adventures for shared storytime, curious young readers, and conversations that continue after the chapter ends.

Little readers, big wonder

The Mini Adventures

Releasing soon. Shorter retellings with simpler words for younger readers, drawn from The Grand Adventures series.

For a longer journey

The Novel Adventures

Releasing soon. Expanded stories with deeper character development, richer dialogue, and more room to explore. See each title for its intended readership.