Picture two British storytellers who turned a passion for the underground into a global phenomenon—meet Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams! This dynamic duo co-authored the thrilling Tunnels series, a young adult saga blending suspense, mystery, and subterranean adventure. Their tales of hidden worlds beneath our feet have captivated readers across 40 countries, proving that even the darkest depths can spark epic stories.
The Making of Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams
Roderick Gordon, born in November 1960 in Highgate, North London, was a shy child who found solace in drawing and writing. His fascination with geology—sparked by his ancestor William Buckland, a pioneer who lectured on dinosaurs in 1824—shaped his love for 'what lies beneath.' After studying biology at University College London, he met Brian Williams, an artist at the Slade School of Fine Art. Brian, born in Liverpool and raised in Zambia, brought a creative flair from his work in painting, filmmaking, and writing. Their friendship, forged in 1980, blossomed into a collaboration when Roderick, made redundant from corporate finance in 2001, reunited with Brian to chase their storytelling dreams.
Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams’s Unforgettable Stories
The Tunnels series, their crowning achievement, began with Tunnels (2007), originally self-published as The Highfield Mole in 2005. This gripping tale follows 14-year-old Will Burrows, an archaeologist’s son, who uncovers a sinister subterranean society called The Colony after his father vanishes. With rich world-building and a dark, claustrophobic vibe, the novel set the stage for a six-book saga. Deeper (2008) plunges Will further underground, unraveling the Styx’s plot to poison the surface world. Freefall (2009) and Closer (2010) escalate the stakes with zero-gravity realms and shocking betrayals, while Spiral (2011) and Terminal (2013) wrap up the chaos with epic battles. Their style—vivid, suspenseful, and laced with social commentary on oppression—appeals to teens and adults alike, earning spots on The New York Times Bestseller List.
Their writing process is a blend of Roderick’s structured plotting and Brian’s artistic spontaneity, creating a roller-coaster narrative that feels both meticulously crafted and wildly adventurous. Themes of rebellion, family, and uncovering hidden truths resonate, making their work a standout in young adult fiction.
Why Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams Matter
Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams redefined subterranean fiction, drawing inspiration from classics like Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth while crafting a modern, gritty twist. Their series, with over a million copies sold worldwide, has inspired readers to question what lies beneath—both literally and metaphorically. By tackling themes of tyranny and resistance, they’ve empowered young readers to challenge injustice, leaving a lasting mark on the genre. Their journey from self-publishing to global success also inspires aspiring authors to take risks.
- Born: Roderick (1960, London), Brian (Liverpool, raised in Zambia)
- Key Works: Tunnels, Deeper, Freefall, Closer, Spiral, Terminal
- Notable: Tunnels was a finalist on Channel 4’s Richard & Judy’s Best Kids’ Books Ever (11+)
About Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams
Ready to explore the depths? Snag Tunnels and dive into Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams’s thrilling subterranean world!