Will Ricker, Author, photo courtesy of Will Ricker
By Zermi Jenkins, Contributor
TAMPA BAY – Millennial creative writer William Ricker was born and raised in Tampa, Florida — with a passion for storytelling that resonates across generations. A University of South Florida grad with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a concentration in Creative Writing, Ricker balances his job as a supply chain tech at a hospital alongside his blooming writing career.
His personal story has given him the desire to also work within and impact his community. “I was adopted at the age of seven, and that experience has shaped much of who I am and continues to inspire my creative work,” Ricker shared.
He said this personal story also inspired his latest graphic book series, which is written for both teenagers and adults.
The ReShift Pulsers Saga – Origins is the first installment in a graphic book series that blends science fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, and African heritage.
The story follows childhood friends Kivon Kingsley and Vincenza Eghosa, whose lives are forever changed when they discover a mystical African oak tree that serves as a portal to Aveklanu—a hidden world where Earth’s energy, time, and space are fiercely guarded.
Ricker set his story against the rich backdrops of 1920s Benin and 1930s Atlanta, which takes readers on an epic journey across Africa, Atlanta, Spain, and beyond as Kivon and Vincenza face off against a sinister force determined to reshape reality itself.
The saga explores themes of unity, courage, and destiny while weaving African mythology, pulse-charged technology, and historical resistance movements into a thrilling narrative.
“Through the experiences of Kivon and Vincenza, readers explore the complexities of family dynamics, the power of relationships, and the importance of dreaming beyond limitations,” Ricker noted.
His saga also delves into “the sacrifices required to protect what matters most—whether it’s loved ones, cultural legacies, or the very fabric of reality. At its core, the book encourages readers to embrace their history, face adversity with courage, and recognize that even the smallest actions can ripple across time and space, shaping the future.”
Ricker said The ReShift Pulsers Saga – Origins is deeply personal to him. “Being adopted at the age of seven, I’ve always been drawn to questions of identity, belonging, and legacy—how our past shapes who we become. That journey of self-discovery inspired me to create characters like Kivon and Vincenza, who wrestle with their own destinies while navigating powerful cultural ties and global challenges.”
Ricker adds that he’s long been fascinated by African history, mythology, and the resilience of Black communities throughout time. “I wanted to craft a world where those stories take center stage, blending real historical movements—like the Black-owned businesses and resistance networks of 1930s Atlanta—with elements of science fiction and fantasy.”
The author said that building Aveklanu, with its mystical factions and pulse-charged technology, allowed him to reimagine history while honoring cultural roots.
“Ultimately, this series is a fusion of my personal journey and my love for worldbuilding—a space where readers can explore the intersections of heritage, courage, and the fight for a better future,” he offered.
He added that he hopes readers ultimately feel empowered to embrace their identity, heritage, and the strength that comes from unity. “One of the core messages is that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the willingness to face it, to stand for something greater than yourself, even when the odds seem insurmountable,” shared Ricker.
Additionally his writing highlights the importance of community and relationships, showing how collaboration across differences can lead to powerful change – and “dreaming big—pushing past limitations, whether they’re societal or personal, and daring to imagine a future that honors the past while building something new.”
Ricker added that the sacrifices made by the characters reflect the real-world truth that progress often comes with a cost, but it’s a cost worth bearing for the sake of legacy, love, and justice.
Ricker is kicking off his book signing this Saturday, May 24, at Big John’s Alabama BBQ, 5707 N 40th St, Tampa, FL 33610 and he will be appearing at coming events including the Tampa Bay Comic Convention. Follow his journey on social media:
- Instagram: @ricker.will
- Facebook: William Ricker
- YouTube: William Ricker The Author
- LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/wricker92
- Facebook website: The ReShift Pulsers Saga