Picture a British storyteller who weaves humor, crime, and speculative futures with a gardener’s touch—meet Mat Coward! Born in 1960, this versatile writer has charmed readers with his witty crime fiction, imaginative science fiction, and delightful children’s tales. From Edgar-nominated short stories to his quirky gardening column in the Morning Star, Coward’s work is a treasure trove of clever narratives and sharp social commentary.
What makes Coward stand out? His ability to blend humor with serious themes, whether poking fun at societal quirks in a murder mystery or imagining a post-capitalist world. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this under-the-radar literary gem.
The Making of Mat Coward
Born in 1960, Mat Coward grew up with a knack for storytelling that would later define his freelance writing career. Little is known about his early years, but his move to Britain’s West Country sparked a creative journey that spanned genres. Starting with humorous press cuttings in his 1995 debut, Cannibal Victims Speak Out, Coward quickly established himself as a writer with a sharp eye for the absurd. His work as a researcher for BBC’s QI and a gardening columnist for the socialist Morning Star reflects his eclectic interests, blending wit, curiosity, and a touch of rebellion.
Mat Coward’s Unforgettable Stories
Coward’s bibliography is a vibrant mix of crime, science fiction, and children’s literature, all infused with his signature humor. His crime series featuring Detective Inspector Don Packham and Detective Constable Frank Mitchell, starting with Up and Down (2000), is a fan favorite. These novels, like Over and Under, mix traditional whodunits with laugh-out-loud dialogue and eccentric characters, earning praise from Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine as some of the funniest in the genre.
In science fiction, So Far, So Near (2007) showcases Coward’s knack for blending speculative ideas with human quirks. This collection of short stories explores time travel and alien encounters with a humorous twist, making complex ideas accessible and fun. For younger readers, Neighbours From Hell (2011) delivers suburban comedy-horror, perfect for kids aged 11–13, with its tale of a spooky new family moving in. Then there’s Acts of Destruction (2009), a crime novel set in a decentralized, post-capitalist Britain, where Coward’s socialist leanings shine through in a witty yet thought-provoking narrative.
His writing style—breezy, accessible, and packed with one-liners—makes every story a joy. Whether it’s a murder in a London pub or a monster strike in a fantasy world, Coward’s tales are grounded in sharp observations of human nature, often with a nod to political or social issues.
Why Mat Coward Matters
Mat Coward’s impact lies in his ability to make readers laugh while tackling big ideas. His crime fiction has been nominated for the Edgar Allan Poe Award and shortlisted for the CWA Dagger, proving his stories resonate far beyond Britain. Translated into multiple languages and broadcast on BBC Radio, his work bridges genres and generations. Coward’s lesser-known status only adds to his charm—he’s a hidden gem for readers who love discovering unique voices.
His gardening column and QI contributions show a writer deeply engaged with the world, from organic vegetable patches to quirky trivia. By blending humor with social commentary, Coward invites readers to think critically while enjoying a good story, making him a quiet but vital voice in contemporary literature.
- Born: 1960
- Key Works: Up and Down, So Far, So Near, Acts of Destruction, Neighbours From Hell
- Awards: Edgar nomination (2001), CWA Dagger shortlist
- Fun Fact: He’s a gardening columnist for the Morning Star!
Snag So Far, So Near or Up and Down and dive into Mat Coward’s witty, genre-bending world!