Alex Scarrow used to be a rock guitarist, then he became a graphic artist, then he decided to be a computer games designer. Finally, he grew up and became an author. He has written a number of successful thrillers and several screenplays, but it's YA fiction that has allowed him to really have fun with the ideas and concepts he was playing around with when designing games.

He lives in Norwich with his son, Jacob, his wife, Frances, and two very fat rats.

Place of birth and birthday?

Hertford, 14th February 1966.

What is your favourite book?

On The Beach - Nevil Shute.

What is your favourite song?

Church of Me - EssZed.

What is your favourite film?

It varies from day to day. Today it is - The Fifth Element.

What is your favourite food?

Anything edible. Oh...all right, Humus and pitta bread.

What is your favourite memory?

The birth of my son.

What is your most treasured possession?

I have tartan patterned stuff dog called 'Jonny', which I've had since the age of four.

When did you start writing?

I've always enjoyed writing stories, since primary school in fact.

What is your favourite place in the world and why?

Last year I stood at the very top of Mont Blanc in Tignes, France. I went arou...

Place of birth and birthday?

Hertford, 14th February 1966.

What is your favourite book?

On The Beach - Nevil Shute.

What is your favourite song?

Church of Me - EssZed.

What is your favourite film?

It varies from day to day. Today it is - The Fifth Element.

What is your favourite food?

Anything edible. Oh...all right, Humus and pitta bread.

What is your favourite memory?

The birth of my son.

What is your most treasured possession?

I have tartan patterned stuff dog called 'Jonny', which I've had since the age of four.

When did you start writing?

I've always enjoyed writing stories, since primary school in fact.

What is your favourite place in the world and why?

Last year I stood at the very top of Mont Blanc in Tignes, France. I went around the 'back' of the peak, and in that moment, there was no sign of mankind at all. In that moment I could easily have been the last human on earth. So, that spot.

What is your favourite way to spend a day?

I have a swing that dangles from the oak tree in our garden. It's a swing long enough to lie along. So, I spend my time there, staring up through the branches and leaves at the sky. Love doing that.

What makes a perfect summer?

My swing, endless sunny days and a good book.