Derek Landy lives near Dublin. Before writing his children's story about a sharply dressed skeleton detective, he wrote the screenplays for a zombie movie and a murderous horror film. "I think my career-guidance teacher is spinning in her grave," he says, "or she would be if she were dead."

Praise for Skulduggery Pleasant:

'A thoroughly satisfying blend of humour, magic and adventure' Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson series

'Thrill-a-minute adventure' Jonathan Stroud, author of the Lockwood & Co. series

'It's exciting, pacy, nicely handled and fun' Philip Ardagh, Guardian

'Whatever your age, read and enjoy the ride' Irish Independent

'Landy's witty style will win him fans of all ages ... It's a good job Harry's [Potter] resigning before he's forcibly retired' Irish Mail on Sunday

'A rip-roaring adventure' Irish Sunday Independent

'Landy [has the] ability to craft an engaging story from start to finish' Inis

'Derek Landy has been something of a publishing phenomenon' Irish Post

'Landy's writing is highly cinematic ... [the plot] is delivered well and is nicely punctuated by punchy dialogue, culminating in an adrenaline-induced battle that will leave the reader gasping for breath' Inis

'You just can't help but love this dynamic duo of the skeleton detective and his sidekick' The Bookbag