Blackadder for kids (without the rude bits) Pirates - irresistable Very funny, fast moving, irreverent adventure stories are played out against the backdrop of great and gruesome history Follows one family - the disastrously unlucky Warts - through the centuries as they attempt to survive piracy, Romans, witches etc Brilliantly observed and completely hilarious, with Fantastic characters Series of four - Books 3 & 4 to publish five months later

After studying English and Drama, Alan started working life in a travelling theatre company, visiting schools all over the country and writing much of their material. He says it was a useful apprenticeship - if the audience didn't like the play, they talked through it or threw bits of paper at the actors. He very quickly learned what children liked. In addition to writing and directing plays, Alan trained as a drama teacher. He has written stories and dramas for the BBC (both television and radio), as well as many children's books.