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 the Skulduggery Pleasant series:

'A writer at the height of his powers ... Whatever your age, read them and enjoy the ride' Irish Independent

'Fast and funny' The Times

'Skulduggery Pleasant serves up a thoroughly satisfying blend of humour, magic and adventure' Rick Riordan

'Landy's witty style will win him fans of all ages' Irish Mail on Sunday

'Hugely enjoyable - a thrill-a-minute adventure' Jonathan Stroud

'A fast evolving plot and a great mix of scariness and humour' Sunday Express

'Exciting, pacy, nicely handled and fun' Philip Ardagh, Guardian

'Gripping' Observer

'A remarkably accomplished debut with wonderful dialogue' Irish Times

'A rip-roaring adventure' Irish Sunday Independent