No, but I did read Stephen King’s book On Writing. This is a brilliant guide to the art of writing and I recommend it to any aspiring author.

What are the best and worst aspects of writing for a living?

The hardest part is always starting – the fear of the blank white page and the knowledge that I have to write 70,000 words or more by a deadline. But, once I get going, the writing flows. The most enjoyable part of the process is discovering where the characters will take the story. I may be the author, but they are writing it – and they often surprise me!

Who would win in a fight, a samurai or a ninja?

That very question is answered in Book 3: The Way of the Dragon. The result of the fight may surprise you!

What’s the best writing advice you have been given?

Simple: write the book you would want to read.

If you weren’t a writer, what would you be?

I would love to be an explorer like my friend Steve Backshall. It’s great visiting different countries and cultures. The amazing thing is that as an author I can go exploring as research for my next book series.

If someone were to enter a bookshop, how would you persuade them to try your new novel over someone else’s?

I’d stand right next to them with my samurai sword and gently persuade them that their life depended upon it!

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Young Samurai: The Return of the Warrior is a work of fiction, and while based on real historical figures, events and locations, the book does not profess to be accurate in this regard. Young Samurai: The Return of the Warrior is more an echo of the times than a re-enactment of history.

Warning: Do not attempt any of the techniques described within this book without the supervision of a qualified martial arts instructor. These can be highly dangerous moves and result in fatal injuries. The author and publisher take no responsibility for any injuries resulting from attempting these techniques.

THE BEGINNING

Wait – you didn’t think that was it, did you?

Puffin has LOADS more stories for you to discover.

Find your next adventure at puffin.co.uk, along with:

• Quizzes, games and apps starring your favourite characters

• Videos, podcasts and audiobook extracts

• The chance to check out brand-new books before anybody else!

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