Memoir
Author · Storyteller · Twain Impersonator
Robert (Rob)
M. Alvey
Bestselling author of humorous memoirs & the art of Daddyhood.
2 Books Published
Robert (Rob) M. Alvey is a native New Yorker, environmental geologist, and beloved professor. He has authored two books: Catching Twainitis Syndrome (2019) and The Rulebook for Perfect Daddyhood (2021). A Mark Twain look-alike, Rob has performed as Twain on Broadway and steamboats. He lives in Fort Lauderdale with his high school sweetheart.
As seen in The New York Times
Featured in Newsday
USEPA Superfund Honors
Broadway Performer
About
Meet Robert Alvey
Author, geologist, professor, father — and the world's most dedicated Mark Twain impersonator.
50+ Years Married
Robert (Rob) M. Alvey is a native New Yorker and environmental geologist who spent over 30 years with the US EPA Superfund Division, earning awards for innovative cleanups. He was also a beloved geology professor at York College (CUNY) in Queens.
Rob is a renowned Mark Twain impersonator — physically and mentally — having performed at the Friar's Club, on Broadway, and on steamboats. He appeared as Twain in the 2020 audio production Twain and Tesla.
Today he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his high school sweetheart. He is also hoping to finish and publish a sequel to his Daddyhood book — Becoming a Floridiot After Retiring — along with a collection of children's stories about fantasy frog civilizations.
Author of 2 books
3 daughters, 4 nephews
Married 50+ years
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Coffee addict
Twain performer
"To share the joy, chaos, and laughter of Daddyhood — and to keep Twain's spirit alive."
Library
Featured Books
Humorous memoirs from a lifetime of adventure, fatherhood, and Twainish mischief.
Humor
"Rob writes with Twain's wit and a father's warmth. A delightful read!"
Press & Events
Media & Speaking
For book clubs, interviews, and speaking engagements.
Book Club Resources
Download discussion questions for both The Rulebook for Perfect Daddyhood and Catching Twainitis Syndrome.
Speaking Topics
- The Art of Storytelling in Business
- Overcoming Creative Block
- Daddyhood: Lessons from the Trenches
- Mark Twain & Modern Humor
Featured In
- The New York Times
- Newsday (Mark Twain feature with photos)
- Friar's Club, NYC
- Twain and Tesla (Audio, 2020)
Past Performance Venues
- Broadway, NYC
- Mississippi Steamboats
- Lake Tahoe
- Friar's Club
- York College (CUNY)
- Fort Lauderdale
Watch
Performances & Interviews
From TV interviews to full Mark Twain performances — see Rob bring Twain's spirit to life.
TV Interview
Newsday Interview
Rob being interviewed by Newsday about his Mark Twain adventures and his life as a look-alike and performer.
Missouri Conference · Lecture
Twain on Becky Thatcher
A lecture Rob delivered in character as Mark Twain about Becky Thatcher, presented at a conference in Missouri.
Live Performance
Mark Twain Performance
Rob brings Mark Twain to life in this captivating live performance, full of wit, storytelling, and timeless humor.
Stay in Touch
Get in Touch
Have a question, a speaking invitation, or want a free chapter? Send me a message and I'll get back to you personally.
Or reach out directly at robalvey1@gmail.com