Picture a British storyteller who conjured a world of heroic rabbits and epic quests—meet Kieran Larwood! This former primary school teacher turned award-winning children’s author has enchanted young readers with his thrilling Five Realms series, starting with The Legend of Podkin One-Ear. With a knack for weaving adventure, bravery, and heart, Larwood has become a beloved name in children’s fantasy, inspiring kids to dream big and face their fears.
Born in Kenya and raised in the UK, Larwood’s tales are as vibrant as his journey. His stories, packed with courage and camaraderie, reflect a lifelong love for fantasy sparked by classics like The Hobbit. Let’s dive into the life and works of this master storyteller whose rabbit heroes have hopped into hearts worldwide!
The Making of Kieran Larwood
Kieran Larwood was born in 1975 in Kenya, moving to the UK at age two. Growing up in Wiltshire and later settling on the Isle of Wight, he was a voracious reader, devouring fantasy and adventure tales. His passion for storytelling bloomed early, fueled by The Hobbit’s magical maps and epic quests. After studying English Literature at Southampton University, Larwood spent fifteen years teaching reception class, where he honed his ability to captivate young imaginations. His transition to full-time writing came after winning the 2011 Times Children’s Fiction Competition with his debut novel, Freaks, setting the stage for his fantasy-filled future.
Kieran Larwood’s Unforgettable Stories
Larwood’s Five Realms series, also known as Longburrow in the US, is his crowning achievement. Kicking off with The Legend of Podkin One-Ear in 2016, this saga follows Podkin, a young rabbit who transforms from a lazy dreamer into a courageous warrior battling the evil Gorm—iron-clad rabbits twisted by greed. The series, now spanning seven books, including The Gift of Dark Hollow and Uki and the Outcasts, blends fast-paced action with rich world-building, earning the 2017 Blue Peter Book Award and a Prix Sorcières in 2019.
Beyond Five Realms, Larwood’s The Treekeepers showcases his environmental passion, weaving a fantasy adventure with a green message. His Carnival series, like Carnival of the Spider, dives into darker, thrilling tales. Larwood’s style—vivid, accessible, and laced with humor—draws comparisons to Watership Down and The Hobbit. His stories emphasize bravery, family, and nature, resonating with middle-grade readers and adults alike.
Illustrated by David Wyatt, Larwood’s books come alive with stunning visuals, from rabbit warrens to enchanted forests. His knack for crafting relatable characters, like the feisty Liska in The Treekeepers or the outcast Uki, ensures every tale feels personal and epic, inviting readers to root for the underdog.
Why Kieran Larwood Matters
Kieran Larwood’s impact lies in his ability to spark imagination while tackling big themes. His stories teach kids about courage, teamwork, and environmental stewardship, all wrapped in thrilling adventures. The Five Realms series, optioned for television, has inspired countless young readers, with fans as young as nine devouring his books. Larwood’s shift from classroom to bestseller shows that storytelling can change lives, proving even the smallest rabbit—or person—can be a hero.
His work also bridges generations, with parents enjoying the nostalgic nod to classic fantasy. By championing nature and resilience, Larwood encourages kids to connect with the world around them, making his stories both timeless and timely.
- Birth: 1975, Kenya
- Key Works: The Legend of Podkin One-Ear, The Treekeepers, Carnival of the Spider
- Awards: Blue Peter Book Award 2017, Prix Sorcières 2019
- Hobbies: Exploring rockpools, climbing trees, drawing
Snag The Legend of Podkin One-Ear and dive into Kieran Larwood’s thrilling fantasy world—your next adventure awaits!