Where to Start Reading CHERUB
For the absolute best reading experience, we recommend starting with The Recruit, the very first book published in the series. This introduces you to the campus, the rules of the organization, and the original protagonist, James Adams. While the prequel series Henderson's Boys takes place chronologically earlier, it is far more satisfying to read it after you have already fallen in love with the modern CHERUB universe.
CHERUB Series 1 (James Adams Era) in Order
The first series follows James Adams (formerly James Choke) from his grueling basic training to his final missions as a senior agent. In the United States, the second book, Class A, was published under the title The Dealer.
- The Recruit (2004)
- Class A / The Dealer (2004)
- Maximum Security (2005)
- The Killing (2005)
- Divine Madness (2006)
- Man vs. Beast (2006)
- The Fall (2007)
- Mad Dogs (2007)
- Dark Sun (2008) – Novella: Chronologically set between Mad Dogs and The Sleepwalker.
- The Sleepwalker (2008)
- The General (2008)
- Brigands M.C. (2009)
- Shadow Wave (2010)
CHERUB Series 2 (Aramov / Ryan Sharma Era) in Order
This sequel series shifts focus to a new generation of CHERUB agents, primarily featuring Ryan Sharma, while also incorporating appearances from classic characters from the first series.
- People's Republic (2011)
- Guardian Angel (2012)
- Black Friday (2013)
- Lone Wolf (2014)
- New Guard (2016)
The Origins: Henderson's Boys (Prequel Series)
Set during World War II, this seven-book prequel series details the origins of CHERUB, showing how British agent Charles Henderson first began training children to perform espionage missions behind enemy lines in occupied France.
- The Escape (2009)
- Eagle Day (2009)
- Secret Army (2010)
- Grey Wolves (2011)
- The Prisoner (2012)
- One Shot Kill (2012)
- Scorched Earth (2013)
Graphic Novels and Bonus Stories
If you want to experience the stories visually, The Recruit (2012) and Class A have official English graphic novel adaptations. Additionally, Robert Muchamore has published various free bonus short stories and alternative future stories on his official website, including "Kerry's First Mission" and "CHERUB Jr."