Chris Bradford

Chris Bradford is the award-winning author of the Young Samurai series.

Recipient of 15 book awards and nominations (including winner of the Northern Ireland Book Awards 2011 and the Red House Book Awards 2009 shortlist), the first book The Way of the Warrior is deemed one of Puffin's 70 Best Ever Books, alongside Treasure Island and Robin Hood.

Chris was a featured World Book Day 2010 author and involved in the Read To A Million Kids campaign. His unique book performances and readings have garnered numerous accolades and he has appeared before more than 80,000 school children in more than 250 schools, 16 book festivals and 12 countries.

Chris also practises what he writes about, having earned his black belt in Zen Kyu Shin Taijutsu, the secret fighting art of the ninja. He is also trained in judo, karate, kickboxing and samurai swordsmanship.

Before becoming a full-time author, he was a professional musician and songwriter (who once performed for HRH Queen Elizabeth II). His first five books were about the music industry and included the critically acclaimed, Heart & Soul: Revealing the Craft of Songwriting.

He is a keen supporter of teachers and librarians in their quest to improve literacy skills and provides free Teachers' Guide to his books at www.youngsamurai.com.

He lives in England with his wife, son and two cats.

Website: www.chrisbradford.co.uk