Alex McQuillan is the author and illustrator of the Karakol Diaries, a graphic novel about his first year spent in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. 

Alex works as an Elementary School teacher, breaking down barriers and making messes in classrooms. Alex lived in Kyrgyzstan for four years working as a teacher, and ski bum. Before moving to Central Asia, he lived and worked as a Middle School teacher in the Palestinian city of Nablus. His time spent in the West Bank and the experiences there will also play a role in the Karakol Diaries.

This is his first undertaking as an author and illustrator.

As a writer/illustrator/teacher, Alex's goal is to create moments of curiosity, empowerment and engagement. His focus has been on writing human focused travel stories, about adventure and exploration.

Alex have been able to move around the planet more than most, due to his privileged passport, the graciousness of friends, an international solidarity network of teachers, and his ability to sleep deeply on floors.

He gains inspiration from the mountains, and from his grandmas.