"Bernard Ashley's great gift is to turn what seems to be low-key realism into something much stronger and more resonant. It has something to do with empathy, compassion, an undimmed thirst for decency and justice." - Phillip Pullman

Bernard Ashley is a former head teacher who is now writing full-time. He lives in South London where he was born. Bernard's impressive list of titles reflects 35 years of writing realistic fiction, from picture books right up to teenage novels. Several of Bernard's books have been successfully televised and he has frequently appeared on prize lists, his Little Soldier was short-listed for the Guardian Prize in 2000. In addition to his other activities Bernard Ashley also advises internationally on matters concerned with literacy. He is also a very popular visitor to schools.