In his breakthrough children’s novel, Adventures of the Elements, Richard James derives his motivation from his educational experiences and his desire to create an entertaining and fun learning atmosphere. Richard achieves his goal of creating educational material by masquerading science and education as entertaining children's novels, trading card games, and supporting materials. The card game has been used in every type of setting, from public schools as part of the science curriculum to children's birthday parties. Children love the challenge of defeating their opponents, and barely realize they are learning science concepts and sharpening their math skills in order to do so. The oldest of five, one brother and three sisters, Richard dedicates the adventures to his family especially his siblings who were inspirational in character development.

An Eagle Scout from Troop 85 and valedictorian of his high school class at Central High School in Beaumont, Texas, Richard James has always held himself to high standards. Richard received a degree in biomedical engineering from Louisiana Tech University and interned at the VA Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana. He co-founded the nonprofit organization, Sports Society for American Health, with Ray Solis, which hosts sporting events for charitable organizations. During the time he was writing his books and developing the game, Richard taught school where he was able to use Adventures of the Elements in the classroom.

Actively involved in community service throughout his life, Richard continues to receive attention not only for his literary talent, but also for his contributions to the local community and beyond. For instance, he was awarded the Key to the city of Beaumont, the Rotary Club’s Service above Self Award, the Coca-Cola Scholarship Foundation Award, and the Beaumont Hometown Hero Award for three consecutive years (2001 - 2003). In 2004, he received the National Catholic School Education (NSCE) Distinguished Graduate Award as the St. Anne's Catholic School Alumni of the Year. In December 2001, Richard represented the United States in carrying the Olympic Torch for the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.

True to his character, Richard views the children’s novel as an opportunity to give to the community in thanks for all he has received. He wishes to personally thank educators for the guidance and devotion they provide for all youth, the earth’s future. Recalling how tedious, intimidating and boring traditional textbook based education can be, Richard set out to show science, and for that matter all education, can be taught against a backdrop of adventure. The adventures cast science in a thrilling and suspenseful light through the fictional (but scientifically sound) personification of the elements.

Richard James hopes young people will read his book for entertainment as they would any other fiction piece rather than as a forced education assignment. He wishes for the children to be exposed to the basic scientific terminology, facts, and processes in the books, trading card game, and other AoE materials in a casual yet educational environment. When coming across the science material in more depth in the traditional format, students become excited when they recognize concepts used in the books and game, and look forward to learning about them in more detail.

Having penned several works of poetry, music lyrics, and the movie script, SLICK; Richard James is currently working on the fourth novel in the Adventures of the Elements series, the first 13 television episodes, an online/ internet version of the game, and a feature movie. Richard is still actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of America. In his spare time, Richard James participates in triathlons, runs, speed skating and cycling. He also enjoys martial arts, bodybuilding, skiing and most sports. Other favorite endeavors for Richard include reading, writing, traveling, and computers/ technology. Born in Columbus, Mississippi, he grew up in Beaumont, Texas, which he continues to call home.