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 gripping debut' Observer

'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 remarkably accomplished debut with wonderful dialogue' Irish Times

'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