Chris Bradford 

Quickfire interview: Chris Bradford

The author of the Young Samurai and BODYGUARD series takes on the Guardian children's books quickfire interview
  
  

Chris Bradford
Chris Bradford: 'Learn to laugh at yourself a little more' Photograph: Danny Fitzpatrick Photograph: Danny Fitzpatrick/PR

Why should we read your current book?

It's a white-knuckle thrill ride about a young boy protecting the US president's daughter from terrorists. Think teenage Jason Bourne as a bodyguard.
Who was your childhood hero?

Karate Kid. I really liked the way martial arts empowered him to stand up to bullies. That film kickstarted my passion for martial arts.
What was your favourite book when you were younger?

The Fighting Fantasy series. I literally devoured them. I loved the fact that 'I was the hero'. Perhaps that's why I became an author.
Did you read a lot as a child and do you still read children's books now?

I always had a book in my hand as a child. Stories were my constant companion. And I still read children's books now, especially I have two sons to keep entertained!
What was the last book you had recommended to you and what book would you recommend to us?

Sanctus by Simon Toyne. For adults, I'd recommend Wool by Hugh Howey. For kids, I'd suggest Tarzan: The Greystoke Legacy by Andy Briggs.

What advice would you give to your 10-year-old self?

Learn to laugh at yourself a little more. Being an emotional soul, I took everything to heart too much.
What would you be if you hadn't been a writer?

A rock star! (well, that's what I was attempting to become before I came up with the Young Samurai idea)
If you could travel in time, where would you go first?

16th Century Japan to meet a real samurai warrior (I'd make sure I bowed low so I didn't get my head chopped off!)
What is the weirdest thing a fan has ever said and/or given to you?

I was asked 'Have you learnt knife defence as a bodyguard?' I nodded and the fan produced a sharpened pencil to attack me with. Luckily my reactions were faster than his!

What is your next book going to be about?

Somalian Pirates. Connor, the hero of my BODYGUARD series, has to protect twin daughters aboard a luxury yacht in the Indian ocean, when they get attacked and held for ransom.
Chris Bradford is the author of over 20 books, including the best-selling Young Samurai and Bodyguard series. His latest book is Bodyguard: Hostage.

 

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