Robert Muchamore: Author on writing for kids, Robin Hood: Fury, Fire and Frost

Robert Muchamore is behind some of the best novels available to young readers.

His CHERUB series is credited with shaking up young adult literature, with realistic language, unconventionally sophisticated themes, and portrayals of heroes that challenge tradition.

His latest series tackles concepts like corruption, protection rackets, and late-stage capitalist failure, with a twist on the tale of Robin Hood. The ninth book in the series, Robin Hood: Fury, Fire and Frost, was released earlier this month.

Muchamore told Jack Tame he’s always been fascinated by the tale of Robin Hood – this very old story that has been passed on and reimagined over and over again.

“It’s this kind of legend that's been around for so long, and everyone gets to interpret it in their own way.”

His version of the story is a more modern take, set in a contemporary world with a 12/13-year-old Robin Hood that's very similar to most modern children.

That similarity can be something of a challenge though, as Muchamore explains that over his twenty years of writing for children, it’s becoming a bit harder to stay in touch with kids.

“You really do have to be humble and talk to kids, and listen to what they say.”

“Kids are quite ruthless,” Muchamore explained.

“They’re always quite ruthless if you get something wrong or you use a phrase that isn’t hip anymore or something like that.”

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