Picture a British storyteller with roots in Beirut, weaving tales of talking cats and cosmic adventures—meet S.F. Said! This award-winning author of fantasy and science fiction for children and young adults has captivated readers with his imaginative worlds and heartfelt narratives. From the gritty streets of Varjak Paw to the starlit saga of Phoenix, Said’s stories blend multicultural depth with universal themes, making him a beloved voice in modern literature.
Born in Lebanon and raised in London’s vibrant Iraqi diasporic community, Said’s unique perspective infuses his work with a rich tapestry of cultures and ideas. His journey from speechwriting for royalty to crafting stories for young readers is as fascinating as the worlds he creates.
The Making of S.F. Said
S.F. Said was born in Beirut in 1967 and moved to London at age two, growing up in a close-knit Iraqi community. After studying at the University of Cambridge, he took an unexpected turn, working as a speechwriter and press attaché for the Crown Prince of Jordan for over five years. This role honed his ability to craft compelling narratives, a skill he later channeled into writing. His passion for storytelling led him to film journalism and arts programming, but it was his debut novel that truly launched his literary career.
S.F. Said’s Unforgettable Stories
Said’s debut, Varjak Paw (2003), introduced readers to a Mesopotamian Blue cat with martial arts skills, navigating a dangerous city. Illustrated by Dave McKean, this gripping tale won the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize and Blue Peter Book of the Year, celebrated for its vivid characters and accessible prose. Its sequel, The Outlaw Varjak Paw (2005), continued Varjak’s adventures, earning the BBC’s Blue Peter Book of the Year and a Carnegie Medal nomination. Both books are staples in UK classrooms, praised for their action-packed plots and themes of courage.
In 2013, Said ventured into science fiction with Phoenix, a sprawling epic about a boy with cosmic powers racing through a war-torn galaxy. Shortlisted for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize, it’s recommended for ages 10 and up, blending thrilling action with profound questions about identity and destiny. His latest work, Tyger (2022), set in an alternate London under a lingering British Empire, won the 2023 British Book Award for Children’s Fiction. Written from a Muslim boy’s perspective, it reflects Said’s Middle Eastern heritage and explores themes of freedom and resilience.
Said’s style is marked by cinematic pacing, vivid imagery, and a knack for weaving multicultural perspectives into universal stories. His collaboration with illustrator Dave McKean adds a graphic novel-like edge, making his books visually and emotionally immersive.
Why S.F. Said Matters
S.F. Said’s impact lies in his ability to craft stories that resonate across ages and cultures. His works, translated into 14 languages, inspire young readers to embrace their identities and face challenges with bravery. By drawing on his Iraqi heritage and experiences in the diaspora, Said brings diverse voices to children’s literature, fostering empathy and imagination. His books are not just stories—they’re gateways to understanding the world through a lens of wonder and inclusivity.
About S.F. Said
- Born: May 1967, Beirut, Lebanon
- Key Works: Varjak Paw, The Outlaw Varjak Paw, Phoenix, Tyger
- Awards: Nestlé Smarties Book Prize (2003), Blue Peter Book of the Year (2007), British Book Award (2023)
- Notable Role: Former speechwriter for the Crown Prince of Jordan
Ready to explore a world of talking cats and cosmic quests? Grab Varjak Paw or Phoenix and dive into S.F. Said’s thrilling, heartfelt universe!