Keegan Allen bringing new book to Naperville

So many have a Hollywood dream: the romance, the glamour, the fame, the sparkle.

For Hollywood native Keegan Allen, that screen dream came true. As one of the stars of TV's "Pretty Little Liars," Allen made a name for himself.

His Hollywood dream materialized. He's a celebrity. Legions of fans follow him on social media.

But his talent is not limited to the stage or screen. Allen is also the author of photography books, including 2015's best-seller "life.love.beauty."

In April, he's returning to Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville with his newest offering - his own personal view of Hollywood - through his accomplished eye as a photographer.

The result is "Hollywood," Allen's book that will be the focus of a session at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 26, at Anderson's, 123 W. Jefferson Ave. in downtown. Tickets for the signing line only event are available exclusively at KeeganAllenAndersons.brownpapertickets.com.

Allen is a Hollywood native who grew up in a world that millions visit and many more imagine.

With an avid fan base that follows him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and a busy career that includes seven years on "Pretty Little Liars," as well as films directed by James Franco and Gia Coppola, he also is a lifelong photographer whose first book was a national best-seller.

Now Keegan turns his eye and camera to the place he knows best. "Hollywood" captures the beauty and glamour of the place itself with unusual angles of the famous sign, the glint of sidewalk stars stamped into the entrance of the Grauman's TCL Chinese Theater in the rain, the Chateau Marmont at twilight, secret local hideaways, red carpets and more.

But he also reflects the darker side of dreams unrealized in the faces, hands, eyes and footsteps of those who live on the fringe of celebrity.

Allen's photos are enhanced by revealing, intimate captions, lyrics and other writing, as well as hand-drawn illustrations, parodies and iconic emulations.