✦ Stories, Poetry & Reflections ✦
About Jim
James R. Van Laan · Landrum, SC
Meet Jim
James R. Van Laan lives in a remote area at the foot of the Blue Ridge Moutains in the western Carolinas. Known as Dark Corner with a long history of moonshining, the area has cast its shade on Jim, giving rise to his poems of loss, survival, hope, redemption, and love. After the loss of his wife, Nan, to vicious cancers, Jim is emerging from the darkest corner of his life and pursuing his recurrent dream of fifty years: writing. His collection of poetry (The Whole Shebang) and his novel Rosa’s Cantina (to be released in 2027), the first book in his Chisum and McDaniel series, are the first manifestations of his dream.
While continuing to lurk in the corners of his mind, Jim’s dream of writing was unrealized as he pursued a career in advertising and public relations and then as a consulting computer programmer and systems analyst. He nurtured his dream of writing as he taught creative writing in public schools as a visiting writer and poet and gave poetry readings at several colleges in North Carolina. Now retired, Jim is an old man, not only dreaming dreams, but finally fulfilling his dream of writing.
Some dreams don't fade
they just wait. "
James R. Van Laan
A Glimpse of Jim
Reviews & Media
Praise for the Collection
The Whole Shebang is a really wonderful and varied compilation… incredibly thoughtful and thought-provoking.
Jamie Michele
The Whole Shebang is an anthology that is unfettered, and each poem is an echo of the heart’s deepest yearnings.
Paul Zietsman
If you are looking for poetry that offers comfort, reflection, and inspiration, this book is worth your time.