Picture a British storyteller who traded guitar riffs and game design for time-traveling adventures—meet Alex Scarrow! Known for his gripping young adult science fiction series TimeRiders, Scarrow blends historical twists with futuristic flair, captivating readers worldwide. From rock stages to bestselling pages, his journey is as thrilling as his novels.
Born on February 14, 1966, in Hertford, England, Scarrow’s eclectic career path has shaped his unique storytelling voice. His ability to weave action-packed narratives with thought-provoking themes has made him a beloved figure in young adult fiction.
The Making of Alex Scarrow
Alex Scarrow’s early life was anything but ordinary. After college, he spent a decade as a rock guitarist, chasing fame in smoky venues. When stardom didn’t materialize, he pivoted to graphic arts and then to computer game design, working on titles like Waterworld and The Thing. These experiences honed his knack for world-building, a skill that would later define his novels. Frustrated by the screenplay industry, Scarrow transformed one of his scripts into his debut novel, A Thousand Suns, in 2006, launching his writing career with a bang.
Alex Scarrow’s Unforgettable Stories
Scarrow’s breakout hit, the TimeRiders series, debuted in 2010 and follows a trio of teens tasked with protecting history from time-traveling villains. With nine books, including titles like Day of the Predator and The Infinity Cage, the series mixes historical settings—like ancient Rome and medieval England—with sci-fi thrills, earning awards like the Red House Children’s Book Award. His adult thriller Last Light explores a world crippled by an oil crisis, showcasing his knack for high-stakes drama. The Plague Land series, a dystopian horror tale, dives into a world ravaged by a deadly virus, praised for its intense, fast-paced narrative. Scarrow’s style—action-packed, imaginative, and rich with historical and futuristic elements—keeps readers hooked.
His recent DCI Boyd crime series, starting with Silent Tide, marks a return to adult fiction. Set in Hastings, England, it features a compassionate detective unraveling gritty mysteries. Scarrow’s ability to jump genres while maintaining his signature intensity is a testament to his versatility.
Why Alex Scarrow Matters
Alex Scarrow’s impact lies in his ability to make history and science fiction accessible and exciting, especially for young readers. TimeRiders has inspired a generation to explore historical events through a sci-fi lens, blending education with entertainment. His work in game design and screenwriting adds depth to his storytelling, creating immersive worlds that resonate across age groups. With novels optioned for film and TV, including Last Light, Scarrow’s influence extends beyond books, promising to reach even wider audiences.
His nomadic lifestyle and varied career also inspire aspiring writers, showing that creativity can thrive in unexpected ways. Living in Norwich with his wife, Debbie, and rescue spaniel, Ozzie, Scarrow continues to craft stories that spark imagination.
- Born: February 14, 1966, Hertford, England
- Key Works: TimeRiders, Last Light, Plague Land, Silent Tide
- Awards: Red House Children’s Book Award, Catalyst Award, Hampshire Book Award
- Fun Fact: Scarrow once wrote a drama performed live in Minecraft!
Snag TimeRiders and dive into Alex Scarrow’s thrilling world of time travel and adventure!