Category Archives: Blog

Thanks to everyone who dressed up as characters from my books for World Book Day. Here are Biskit from Pet Defenders, Captain Clockheart from Steampunk Pirates and Lorelli from The Thornthwaite Inheritance. MASSIVE THANKS to everyone who took the time … Continue reading →

I have always enjoyed mystery stories. My first published book in 2007 was about a detective (The Dragon Detective Agency: The Case of the Missing Cats). I went on to write three more books in the series. Over the past … Continue reading →

I am excited and delighted to announce that Blue Peter have asked me to host this year’s online mystery, kicking off on Thursday 28th February and culminating on Thursday 7th March, World Book Day. Last year this was hosted by … Continue reading →

My son is in Year 4 and currently has one of those teachers you remember for the rest of your life. Ms. Knight is clever, kind and inspiring. My wife and I have been especially impressed with how she has … Continue reading →

I would like to thank everyone who has contacted me in support of this piece but, in truth, I did not enjoy writing it. I like writing children’s fiction. That’s my job. However, many children’s authors now find themselves in a peculiar situation of … Continue reading →

I have just completed a mini #JokeBookShopTour to publicise The Daily Joker (co-written with Rachel Delahaye & illustrated by Nigel Parkinson). The tour, which I set up myself, took in three excellent Children’s Bookshops. There really is something glorious about Children’s Bookshops. There are so … Continue reading →

I have a school visit coming up in a couple of weeks and I have been informed that some of the parents have concerns over the content of The Thornthwaite series and The Considine Curse. (Weirdly, Death or Ice Cream? has … Continue reading →

Last weekend I stood on a stage with my friend (and illustrator of my picture books, Garry Parsons.) Garry drew amazing pictures while I messed about with my new loop pedal & played my trumpet. It was part of On Blackheath, which … Continue reading →

This is a selection of some of my favourite aliens created as part of my alien making workshop in the library of KidZania. It was a really fun afternoon so thank you to everyone who came along and thanks to … Continue reading →

This summer’s appearances have included Latitude Festival, Hertfordshire LitFest, RHS Malvern Festival, Wychwood Festival, Blythe Hill Festival,  Camp Bestival and Greenman Festival. These have been a mix of solo performances and ensemble shows, exploiting the multitudinous talents of Steve May (illustrator),  Gemma Hastilow (illustrator), James McGowen (bass), Matthew Downing, (guitar & melodica), Daniel & Oliver Downing (acting & … Continue reading →