Picture a British storyteller who swapped radio waves for page-turning adventures—meet Simon Mayo! Known for his velvety voice on BBC Radio, Mayo has spun his broadcasting charm into a writing career, crafting mystery and young adult novels that pulse with energy. His debut series, Itch, hooks readers with a science-loving teen and explosive escapades, proving Mayo’s knack for blending education with entertainment.
From hosting chart-topping radio shows to penning eighteen published works, Mayo’s journey is a masterclass in versatility. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling plots or quirky protagonists, his stories offer something for everyone. Let’s dive into the world of this radio legend turned literary star!
The Making of Simon Mayo
Born on September 21, 1958, in Southgate, London, Simon Andrew Hicks Mayo grew up with a love for storytelling, sparked by his mother’s part-time radio gigs. A frequency deficiency in his left ear dashed his dreams of becoming a studio manager, but it steered him toward presenting. Starting at Southlands Hospital Radio, Mayo honed his skills before landing a role at BBC Radio Nottingham. By 1986, he was a household name on BBC Radio 1, later dazzling listeners on Radio 2’s Drivetime and co-hosting Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review. His radio success, crowned with a 2008 Broadcaster of the Year award, set the stage for his literary leap.
Simon Mayo’s Unforgettable Stories
Mayo’s writing career kicked off with Itch (2012), a young adult thriller about Itchingham Lofte, a 14-year-old obsessed with collecting periodic table elements. When Itch stumbles upon a new, radioactive element, he’s thrust into a high-stakes chase involving sinister corporations and government agents. Praised by Anthony Horowitz for its gripping pace, Itch spawned two sequels, Itch Rocks (2013) and Itchcraft (2014), and was adapted into a 2020 CBBC TV series. The trilogy’s blend of real science and heart-pounding action makes chemistry cool, even for non-geeks.
Beyond the Itch series, Mayo explored young adult fiction with Blame (2016), a Carnegie-nominated tale tackling social justice, and ventured into adult fiction with Mad Blood Stirring (2018), a historical novel set in Dartmoor Prison. His 2022 thriller Tick Tock weaves a mysterious global illness into a pulse-racing plot. Mayo’s style—packed with vivid characters, clever twists, and a dash of humor—reflects his radio roots, making complex ideas accessible and fun.
Why Simon Mayo Matters
Mayo’s impact stretches beyond entertainment. His Itch series has inspired young readers to embrace science, with fans reportedly memorizing the periodic table after reading it. By visiting over 10,000 schoolchildren and speaking at literary festivals, Mayo has championed literacy and curiosity. His seamless shift from radio to writing showcases how passion can fuel reinvention, inspiring aspiring authors to take bold leaps. In 2021, he was awarded an MBE for services to broadcasting and charity, cementing his cultural significance.
- Born: September 21, 1958, in London, England
- Key Works: Itch, Blame, Mad Blood Stirring, Tick Tock
- Awards: 2008 Radio Broadcaster of the Year, 2021 MBE
- Fun Fact: His Itch series inspired a CBBC TV adaptation!
About Simon Mayo
Ready for a thrilling read? Snag Itch and dive into Simon Mayo’s explosive world of science and suspense!