Picture a Scottish storyteller who conjures worlds where darkness dances with humor—meet Martin Stewart! A former English teacher turned acclaimed young adult fantasy author, Stewart burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel Riverkeep in 2016. Known for weaving fear and laughter into vivid narratives, he’s captured readers’ imaginations while sipping Old Fashioneds and running along Scotland’s windswept beaches with his dog.
The Making of Martin Stewart
Born in Glasgow, Martin Stewart’s love for storytelling sparked early. At eight, he crafted his first book using Post-It notes, a sign of the creative spark that would define his career. A native of Scotland’s vibrant urban hub, he pursued a B.A. in English and a master’s in Literary Studies, later teaching Creative Writing at the University of Strathclyde and English at Kyle Academy. His years in the classroom, coupled with eclectic jobs like barman and golf caddy, shaped his knack for connecting with young readers and infusing his stories with relatable depth.
Martin Stewart’s Unforgettable Stories
Stewart’s debut, Riverkeep (2016), is a haunting yet humorous tale of Wulliam, a young riverkeeper on a perilous quest to save his possessed father. Praised as a blend of Patrick Ness and Neil Gaiman, it earned a spot on Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books of 2016 and nominations for the YA Book Prize. His follow-up, The Sacrifice Box (2018), channels 1980s nostalgia with a horror-infused story of five friends bound by a cursed box, earning comparisons to Stranger Things. For younger readers, the Bridget Vanderpuff series (2023–2025) offers madcap adventures of a whipsmart inventor-sleuth, while his adult crime novel Double Proof (2024) showcases his genre versatility, earning a Bloody Scotland Debut Prize shortlist. Stewart’s style—rich world-building, complex characters, and a balance of light and shadow—makes each work a gripping escape.
His narratives often explore themes of friendship, bravery, and the supernatural, reflecting his fascination with fairy tales, folklore, and the human condition. Whether it’s the treacherous Danék River in Riverkeep or the eerie woods of The Sacrifice Box, Stewart’s settings pulse with life, drawing readers into worlds where magic and mystery collide.
Why Martin Stewart Matters
Martin Stewart’s impact lies in his ability to bridge genres and age groups, from young adult fantasy to middle-grade adventures and adult crime fiction. His work, translated into nine languages, resonates globally, offering readers stories that are both thrilling and heartfelt. Through workshops, he empowers young writers, drawing on his teaching roots to inspire creativity. Stewart’s unique voice—equal parts witty and profound—continues to shape the landscape of contemporary Scottish literature, proving that even the darkest tales can spark hope.
- Birthplace: Glasgow, Scotland
- Key Works: Riverkeep, The Sacrifice Box, Bridget Vanderpuff series, Double Proof
- Awards: Shortlisted for YA Book Prize, Branford Boase Award, Bloody Scotland Debut Prize
Ready to dive into a world where fear meets laughter? Snag Riverkeep or Bridget Vanderpuff and discover Martin Stewart’s spellbinding storytelling!