Picture a London-born storyteller who spun clockwork magic into children’s literature—meet Peter Bunzl! With his steampunk-inspired tales of adventure and heart, Bunzl has captivated young readers worldwide. Best known for The Cogheart Adventures, his stories blend Victorian charm with mechanical marvels, proving that imagination can turn gears and spark hope.
Bunzl’s journey from a creative childhood to a bestselling author is as enchanting as his books. His unique blend of history, fantasy, and emotional depth has earned him a devoted readership and critical acclaim, making him a standout in children’s fiction.
The Making of Peter Bunzl
Growing up in a rambling Victorian house in South London, Peter Bunzl was surrounded by creativity. His antique-dealer father and artist mother, a costume designer for films like James Bond and Postman Pat, fueled his storytelling passion. As a child, Bunzl crafted comics and visited TV sets, soaking in the magic of narrative. After studying animation at the National Film & Television School, he worked as an animator on BAFTA-winning shows like Yoko! Jakamoko! Toto! and The Secret Show, and directed acclaimed short films. This visual storytelling background laid the foundation for his vivid, cinematic writing style.
Peter Bunzl’s Unforgettable Stories
Bunzl’s debut, Cogheart (2016), introduced readers to a steampunk Victorian world where airships soar and mechanical foxes talk. The story follows Lily, a fiery inventor’s daughter, and Robert, a clockmaker’s apprentice, as they unravel a mystery with their mechanimal friend, Malkin. Nominated for the Carnegie Medal and Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, it set the stage for The Cogheart Adventures series. Moonlocket dives into a detective-driven plot with escaped convict Jack Door, while Skycircus explores Lily’s hybrid identity in a dazzling traveling circus. Shadowsea, the series finale, takes the trio to New York for a thrilling underwater adventure.
Bunzl’s standalone novel, Glassborn (2023), weaves fairy curses and grief into a magical 1826 England, showcasing his ability to tackle complex emotions. His steampunk style, rich with clockwork automatons and historical nods, blends action with themes of family, identity, and resilience. Translated into 16 languages and selling nearly half a million copies, Bunzl’s stories resonate globally for their heart and adventure.
Why Peter Bunzl Matters
Peter Bunzl’s impact lies in his ability to craft stories that balance thrilling plots with emotional depth. His steampunk worlds invite young readers to explore identity and courage, while his focus on grief and healing, as seen in Glassborn, offers comfort and hope. Nominated for prestigious awards like the Branford Boase and Books Are My Bag Readers Award, Bunzl has carved a niche in children’s literature. His transition from animation to writing inspires aspiring creators, showing that persistence can turn childhood dreams into global stories.
- Birthplace: South London, UK
- Key Works: Cogheart, Moonlocket, Skycircus, Shadowsea, Glassborn
- Awards: Awesome Book Award, Dudley Teen Book Award, Sefton Super Reads
- Fun Fact: Bunzl once rode a mechanical elephant in France for Cogheart research!
Snag Cogheart and dive into Peter Bunzl’s steampunk adventures—where clockwork hearts beat with courage and magic!