About Simon Cheshire

Award-winning Children's Author & Storyteller

Born on June 1, 1964, in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England, Simon Cheshire has captivated young readers worldwide with his imaginative storytelling and engaging characters. With over 70 published works spanning multiple genres, from thrilling mysteries to thought-provoking science fiction, he has established himself as a cornerstone of contemporary children's literature.

70+ Published Works

25+ Years of Writing

3 Major Series

Early Life and Education

Cheshire's early life in Warwickshire was marked by a deep love for reading and storytelling. He was often the quiet child at the back of the class, lost in his thoughts and the worlds crafted within the pages of his favorite books. This early passion for literature laid the foundation for his future career as an author.

He pursued higher education at the University of Hull, where he earned a degree in Philosophy and Psychology. This academic background provided him with a unique perspective on human behavior and cognition, elements that subtly influence the depth and relatability of his characters.

Career Beginnings

Before fully immersing himself in writing, Cheshire spent over a decade working in the book trade, primarily within marketing departments. This experience offered him valuable insights into the publishing industry, from understanding market trends to recognizing the nuances of reader engagement.

In 1997, Cheshire made his literary debut with "Jeremy Brown of the Secret Service," introducing readers to a schoolboy secretly working as an MI7 agent alongside his fierce sidekick, Patsy Spudd. This novel marked the beginning of the "Jeremy Brown" series and set the stage for his future success in children's literature.

Literary Impact

Inspiring Young Readers

Through his diverse range of works, from the detective brilliance of Saxby Smart to the sci-fi adventures of SWARM, Cheshire has inspired countless young readers to discover the joy of reading and unleash their imagination.

Educational Influence

His non-fiction works, including "How to Write a Story" and "How to Be a Snappy Speller," have helped young writers develop their creative skills and master essential literacy fundamentals.

Genre Innovation

By seamlessly blending genres and incorporating interactive elements in his stories, Cheshire has helped evolve children's literature, making it more engaging and participatory.

Writing Style and Themes

Engaging Storytelling

His narratives are crafted to captivate readers, often incorporating elements of mystery and adventure.

Relatable Characters

Whether it's a schoolboy detective or intelligent robotic insects, his characters resonate with readers, making the stories immersive.

Interactive Elements

Particularly in the "Saxby Smart" series, Cheshire encourages readers to engage actively with the plot, fostering critical thinking.

Humor and Wit

His use of humor makes his books enjoyable for both children and adults.

Personal Life & Interests

Simon Cheshire currently resides in Warwick with his family. When not writing, he enjoys giving talks and workshops in schools, sharing his passion for storytelling with young audiences. His love for literature extends beyond writing, as he maintains an extensive personal library and continues to be an avid reader.

In 2020, Cheshire embarked on a new creative journey, writing historical and horror novels under the pen name Richard Gadz, demonstrating his versatility as an author and his ability to adapt to different genres and audiences.

Interests & Activities

School visits and writing workshops
Reading and book collecting
Historical research
Creative writing education