NEWS FROM 2009 (IS IT MARCH ALREADY?)
I don’t know about you, but for me, the year has been disappearing faster than the finger food at a cannibal’s picnic. I mention cannibals because I’ve just finished editing my new series of horror stories…but we’ll get to that in a minute.
First of all, I’ve been all over the planet since January, starting with the last days of my holiday in Kenya…which is where, by coincidence, Alex Rider is also heading.
I started on the wonderful island of Lamu (no cars, just donkeys and amazing beaches, turtles, beautiful old dows and much too much to drink). Then I went on two safaris. The first was brilliant. I saw cheetahs stalking their prey, herds of elephants, giraffes…and I got so close to crocodiles that I could have taken the cover photograph for my new book. The second safari was less good. I saw lots of flies. Anyway, I wrote all about it for the Mail on Sunday. Some of you may have seen the piece.
I hadn’t been home for a week before I was off to Cairo for a book fair organised by the British Council. My recent photo competition showed me standing in front of the famous pyramids on what was an unforgettable visit. I arrived at first light, half an hour before they opened – but for some reason I was still allowed in. For the next forty minutes I was there almost entirely on my own. Just me, my guide - and the pyramids! He showed me into some tombs far underground. I saw statues and paintings thousands of years old…an entire boat that had once sailed before Christ was even born. If I had hairs on the back of my neck, they would certainly have risen. Actually, maybe I do have hairs on the back of my neck. I’ve never looked.
After Egypt, a couple of weeks at home, then off skiing in Switzerland. (By the way, if you’re thinking that I don’t seem to have been doing much work, my notebooks and computer come with me everywhere). I’m not a great skier but this year the conditions were perfect. Fresh snow, loads of sunshine and even though it was half term, not too many crowds. You may have noticed that I’ve opened an account with TWITTER – it’s shorter than these blogs and more immediate. I filed quite a few reports from the slopes.
Two days after Switzerland, it was another book fair, this time in Dubai – which will feature strongly in the fifth volume of the POWER OF FIVE series. It’s a bizarre place, a major city which doesn’t seem to have any sensible reason to exist, certainly not in its desert setting. The oil has run out. The tourists are running away. The whole place could all too soon be run down. I’ve got great ideas for a nightmare sequence to be set there.
That said, the festival was a lot of fun. The writers were all treated like royalty and I liked hanging out with so many famous authors, some of them (including an incredibly foul-mouthed but much loved children’s writer) were nothing like I’d imagined them. Notice how discreet I’m being. No names. “What goes on tour, stays on my tour,” as my son put it.
Five days in Dubai, then straight back to Orford, in Suffolk – which is where I’m writing this now. I may have mentioned this before, but Orford is quite simply the most beautiful place in the world. There’s a great expanse of silver water, the River Alde, right outside my window. A scattering of boats. Gulls and cormorants wheeling overhead. It’s a miracle really I get any work down at all. I could just stare out of the window all day.
But I have been hard at work.
This week I visited the John Innes Centre in Norwich which is one of the main centres for the study of genetically modified crops. I got shown round the whole place, given lunch (including their own Norwich Bio Centre Blend coffee…modified for a better taste?) and, best of all, I was able to tell them the plot of CROCODILE TEARS and it works!!! It’s really important to me that the Alex Rider books should be based on scientific fact. I wonder if my readers know anything about GM crops? Well, they will soon…
After that, it was off to the nuclear power plant, Sizewell B, which is just up the coast from Orford. The people there really were incredibly kind, particularly as I’d told them that I planned to blow up a power station in the new book. They kitted me out in safety helmet and goggles and showed me round…not everywhere of course. But I did see the vast turbines in the turbine hall, and the very deadly, spent fuel sitting in a bright blue swimming pool in the storage chamber. They wouldn’t let me anywhere near the reactor though.
And it turns out that it’s much harder to blow up a power station that I had originally thought. There are so many safety measures that you can’t even walk down a staircase unless you’re holding the rail. The reactor is contained in a building with concrete, steel-reinforced walls 1.3 metres thick. And just to be on the safe side, that building is in another building so even if there was an explosion nobody would really notice.
This is all extremely annoying. My idea – a cleaner with a floor polisher packed with high explosive – has gone out of the window. Of course, there are no windows at Sizewell B. I’ll have to think again.
Which brings me back to where I began.
I’m five chapters in to CROCODILE TEARS and so far I think it’s going well. At least, I’m enjoying writing it which is always a good sign. I’ve finished the entire Scottish sequence (set around Loch Lochy) and now I’m back in London.
At the same time, I’ve completely finished my next book, out on Halloween and now named: MORE BLOODY HOROWITZ. I hope you like the title. It was dreamed up by my eighteen-year-old son, Cass. Walker Books showed me the cover last week and I think it looks great. Expect cannibals, a deadly game show, a robotic nanny that goes out of control, a haunted Sat Nav system…and more.
Now I’m off to Aldeburgh with Dreary (the dog). The best fish and chips in England.
Suffolk – March 6th 2009
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Dear Mr. Horowitz,
I really enjoyed meeting you in Cairo, and I really appreciate all the advice you gave me. Since I got back home I’ve been hard at work on my book, and I always have your comments tacked on my bulletin board for inspiration. By the way, you will be the first person mentioned in the acknowledgments, hope that’s okay.
I loved reading your blog. It was so detailed it maid me terribly excited to read your upcoming Alex Rider book.
As a present from my sister for passing exams I got necropolis, and it was EXCELLENT! With every book you prove to your fans across the globe, that you are an amazing writer, and an inspiration to all.
Have you ever thought of visiting Bahrain? It’s just as nice as Dubai.
Best Wishes From
Shereen Rafea, Your #1 Fan.
I can’t wait to read the next Alex book!!!!!!!! They just keep getting better and better! My two faves in the series are Scorpia and Snakehead.
I hope I get to travel as much as you when I get published (actually, I also just hope I get published).
I listened to Nightrise yesterday, last night and this morning, narrated by Simon Prebble. So transported was I that when the CD came to the end it was actually a shock to find myself home again. The combination of your story and his narration are like buying a ticket for a plane ride to a different dimention in which only your characters exist. I am not a child or youth but 60yo. and am filled with delight at the prospect of listening to your books in the future.
I am grateful to my little Timberland Library in Naselle, WA. for placing your books in the adult section labelled YA. You fufill an incredicle need for YA. You instruct but don’t beat or pontificate, instead plant the seeds of awareness. You take (kids) out of their own heads (difficult in the extreme) and empower them. It is almost as though you get to do your childhood over and live it in the now. Thank you, I am everlastingly grateful to you and to your family though you probably drive them crazy.
hey Anthony,
i was lucky enough to meet you in dubai at the festival and get my books signed.i cant wait for the 5th power of 5 book,but i’m kind of sad that its the last one.lastly,my name is pretty awesome,any chance it could be used in one of your forthcoming books?
from Aakash
Yes! It is always nice to be reassured that I did indeed guess right on the hidden title. I still like it… Very creative and intriguing. Good luck with all of your work, I am eagerly anticipating your newest book!
hey anthony
when will the 5th power of five book come out. I just can’t wait. Also why don’t you make other power of five books? They just rock so much i don’t see why you shouldn’t! Alex Rider books are really cool too. I’m up to Skeleton Key.
from Hunter
Dear Mr Horowitz,
I love reading young adult books and I have read all of your sires both the Alex Rider and Power of Five I have also read your other books as well. I havent been able to get my hands on the new power of five book though which is driving me crazy because I really want to know what happens. Would you happen to know when it will be realeased in the States yet, because I really want to read it. Otherwise I really love all of your books and I own all of the Alex rider and Power of Five books and I have also the Alex movie which I thought was okay. Otherwise keep on writing because I really cant wait for your new book.
I’m so excited!!!!
I LOVE the Alex Rider series, it’s awesome! I am a complete fan of it!
I tried to get one of my best friends to read it, but she said Skeleton Key was gruesome.
I love the action and mystery, it’s amazing. I tried to copy your style of writing(always writing about true stuff), I couldn’t find a lot of information and ended up failing. =P Well, I guess I’d have to travel like you do to find out information. I learnt a lot from the Alex Rider books. They are just SO awesome.
As for the Power of Five, you really scare me with your writing. I’m not a brave sort of girl and everytime I read a few pages into the Power of Five, I always look behind me to make sure I’m still in reality and no one is watching me behind my back. I love that series! You probably know by now, Nightrise has been chosen for one of the Western Australian Young Readers Book Awards 2009! I’m so excited when I saw it was listed, I voted for it. =D (I’m going to vote Snakehead for next year’s! Or your other new books.)
I haven’t read Necropolis, though. My library doesn’t have it. Has it come out in Australia yet?
I love your writing!
Good luck with it!!
I just started reading your Alex Rider books for a project in English Class. The project was supposed to last two weeks, and over that period of time we were supposed to read a book. I didn’t know about your books, so I just randomely pick Point Blank off of the shelf. I started reading it that afternoon for the project, and became so hooked on it that I finished it the next day. I just finished Skeleton Key (totaly shocked by the ending) and I am glad that your writing another Alex Rider book. I was worried I might finish them all! Anyway, Africa seems great. Good luck with your book.
P.S. My grammer may seem a little bit weird because I live in the US.
Hey! Well it must be really cool to visit all those places! The only place that holds some excitement is California which I will be spending my summer time there! Any where is better then the cold NJ winter! Any way I love your books! On average it would take me around two days to finish a 200 page+ book, but I can read an Alex Rider novel in around three hours! (I’m not kidding. My friend richie can read them in one hour!) I’m know doing your type of research for my stories (which one day i hope to publish.) like going to London and finding all about the mystery lore and history. To paris and finding flaws in the security at the lourve. Swimming in caves in mexico. exploring the woods and history of NJ, Florida, NC, and of course my love of under ground tunnels in NYC! Not bad for a 14 year old! Can’t wait for the next AR! Bye!
P.S. Yes i was right about the title of the new AR!!!!
Dear Anthony,
It’s always a real pleasure to read a new post from you, and I must say I’m really looking forward to reading the new Alex Rider book !
Bye,
Laëtitia
PS: I’m French, so you were not so far away from us when you were skiing in Switzerland ! ^^
The Alex Rider books are my favorite books of all time. I can’t wait for Crocodile Tears to come out. Two of my friends, who I introduced AR to, love the series as well. They can’t wait for Crocodile Tears to come out also (even though I’m more enthusiastic about it). Do you have any idea of a release or completion date for it? Somewere, I thought I saw April in the UK and June in the US, but that dosen’t seem right based on your progress above. Not that I know how fast you write. I loved the way that you hid the title in your message. That was innovative, and a good method of concealment. You should do that with some other books.
For my birthday, I recieved the first three Power of Five books. Even though I haven’t been able to preorder the US version of Necropolis yet, I cant wait for it to be released here (April 15… I believe).
I have heard rumors that AR 9 will be called Yassen. I have also heard that it will, basicly, be a documentary of Yassen’s life (like a diary that he has kept). Somewhere else, i heard that you will probably write ten AR books (w/o counting Yassen). Are any of these rumors true? Are there any more clues that you can give to the plot of Crocodile Tears (things that will keep us in suspense, unable to physically wait for the whole story to be released?
Good luck with your future writing!
Patrick
Dear Mr Horowitz:
i am delighted you enjoyed your visit to Egypt! It’s a pity there was no blog before you went, i would have been on the lookout ^^ But it’s certainly made me look forward to the fifth Power of Five book all the more!
As for the next Alex Rider, hard to wait for that as well! Wish authors could write at the speed of light, it would certainly make life much easier. Although hopefully the constant updates with Twitter should help the time go by ^^ Crocodile Tears sounds brilliant! (dang it how catchy all the AR titles are!)
Oh, and just as an added comment, i read your book, ”Myths & Legends”, and i’d just like to say i found it extraordinarily captivating. It’s amazing how you described them all! i’d known most of them from before but you definitely made them much more interesting!
Thank you for being an absolutely first class author!
deena xx
Mr. Horowitz,
Yeah! Another Alex book…
I have been waiting for more updates about it. By the time I started reading Alex Rider, Snakehead was the only book I had to wait for, so this wait is killing me.
I am comforted to find out power stations are difficult to blow up. But I’m sure you will find a convincing way. One of the things I love about the AR books is their “plausibility”.
Any chance that you will be in California in the future?
I met you at a small place a bit over a year ago and dumped all of by books on the table. I now have six more, so I’ll just have to see you again.
I’m glad you are enjoying writing the next Alex book.
Hope to see you soon. Bye!
Hannah
P.S. How is Foyle’s War coming along?
Hi Mr. Horowitz,
I hope you’re able to get this book written soon and that the ninth and tenth will be just as cool!
It’s so interesting to be able to read about life in England and other places Alex visits (I live in the US, so I’ve never been to any of those places). Your books are so awesome! But I have to warn you of some competition between yourself and some other American/European authors (cough, cough, Rick Riordan and Eoin Colfer, cough!)
Courtney
Hi Mr. Horowitz
I’m a big fan of yours. I love all of your books from Alex Rider to The Power of the Five series.Your books has transformed me from a athlete to a total nerd. I have just started reading the diamond brothers and I have also got hooked up.
I wonder when will your next Diamond Brothers book be released?
OMIGAWD.
(sorry, would be more polite, but A NEW ALEX RIDER BOOK? Major freak out.)
Snakehead was amazing; Crocodile Tears sounds enticing too! We’re on break here in America now, but I’m sure when I tell my friends and your fans they’ll all be so excited!
Power of Five series equals nonstop gossip at our school.
“Did you read Raven’s Gate? It’s so gore! I love it!”
“Really? What happens?”
“A woman falls into a vat of toxic waste!!”
“Coool.”
Haha. Your books are getting everyone hyped about reading. It’s nice to see not only the smart people *coughMEcough* reading.
Happiness and cookies! (But not like in Eagle Strike, haha.)
Your number 2 fan (only because #1 is cliche), Sydney
Dear Mr Horowitz
It has been many years since I have read my first Alex Rider book but it is the first time I let a mail on your blog -shame on me!
At this time, I really appreciated your novels even though I read them in French and now I’m able to read them in original version, I find them far more better! (Translators sometimes have difficulties to recreate the right atmosphere of a foreign book^^).
I’m so glad there will be a 8th book to Alex series. They are very well-documented. With few words, you perfectly describe a place, a scene and it is an excellent point, i’ve read so many authors who just put words one after another and that’s it. No magic.
And I am also waiting for the next Power of Five which is entirely new -I have read the previous series, with Martin Hopkins but i don’t think there is a fifth book… It will be a whole surprise!
I hope I will meet you one day so you can sign my books (8 Alex + 4 Power of Five + some others I have). And you may be give some piece of advice about writing, I would like to become a writer but it is more a dream than a real possibility…
PS: Please, excuse me for my bad English, i have some difficulties with Shakespeare’s language^^
First off – ‘More Bloody Horowitz’??!!??!! INSPIRED. That made me burst out laughing. Honestly, it’s brilliance.
I just wanted to say when you announced you were writing Yassen, a friend and I almost spontaneously combusted. We were so incredibly excited – and then absolutely appalled when you said you weren’t going to write it yet because people didn’t seem that into it!! We’re firmly convinced it’s going to be The Best Book Ever. Just so you know
I have this theory about how it ends, too – but I don’t want to say, in case I’m right!
I’ve been… I want to euphemise, but to be honest, obsessed – with AR since… I don’t know how long, it feels like forever – and Po5 since you’ve been writing it. I’m now 19 and – well, I inhale books, I must have read thousands, and my ‘favourites’ list contains four; and two of them are by you. Enough said, I guess
I’m currently writing a novel myself (I bet you get that so often you actually roll your eyes now) and I honestly have no idea how you do what you do. Travel, research, writing – short stories, novels, TV, plays – visiting schools – I’ve been working on my one measly novel for more than a year (full time) and I’m not done yet. What you do just seems superhuman!
I can’t wait for Crocodile Tears, I think I’ll implode when I walk into a bookstore and actually see it on the shelf!! It sounds like it’s going to be fantastic.
Ruth J (New Zealand)
To Mr. Anthony Horowitz
Just wanted you to know how much my whole family enjoys your books. For some strange reason, maybe because of where we live (an island in the middle of the pacific ocean) but we have only recently found your books. My 12 year old son was looking for a new book and now the whole family is hooked on the ALEX RIDER series. My 14 yr daughter and I have read the whole series and are looking forward to the next book. 3 of my other kids are on various books and my husband just finished SKELETON KEY and loved it by the way. We have talked to several other people over here and now they are reading them as well. Even my “hates to read” 16 yr old daughter is on SCORPIA and can’t put the books down. These are the first books in a long time that the whole family sits around and talks about. Talk about great family time too. Sooo…..thanks for what you do. Loved the first movie to, no swearing was GREAT especially with today’s low standards. Keep up the great work and if you ever feel the need to research volcano’s for a ALEX book come to the Big Island. We would love to have you and you could meet your fans over here.
I’m the 14 year old from Janet’s comment. I love your ALEX RIDER series, they are so awsome.I do have a question about ARK ANGEL. In ARK ANGEL when Alex is talking to Joe Brynne they mention SKELETON KEY. In SKELETON KEY they say that Alex worked with a CIA agent named Glen Carver. In ARK ANGEL they say that Alex worked with someone named Tom Turner. Belinda Troy’s name is the same in both books,but not Carver’s. I was just wondering why it is different. The movie was great, we watch it all the time. I hope you make more movies.
Hi Mr Horowitz.
I’m the 16 year old “Hates to Read”, from Janets letter. I just wanted to thank you for writing such great books. I really do hate to read, but when my brother got the first three books for Christmas this past year and my mom was reading STORMBREAKER to us kids I just had to see what it was about. I have a lot of fun with these books because I always try to guess what the problem is before I finish them. My mom, who reads them all before me, tries to throw me off but I am so darn smart I get them right anyways, okay so I had 1 or 2 at the most wrong guesses. either way I really LOVE these books because they don’t have swearing and they are books that don’t have bad influences on children, oh yeah they’re really funny too! I really enjoyed the movie and hope you make more because they’re really good. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series and Crocodile Tears, and then watch the next movies that I”m so anxiously waiting and hoping for.
Oh gosh… the 8TH Alex Rider Book… It’s SO AWESOME!!! If there is a so called Top-listed-author, you’ll be on top for sure!
I’m from malaysia and it’s always so hard to get your books here. It’s always a out-of-stock and i have to make reservations. I remember i had to wait for about half a year to get my Snakehead, which is worth waiting(as usual)… and i finished it in one night. I stayed up late and finish it. Cant blame you though, it’s too exciting.. i cant let go of the book till i finish reading it…
The Power of 5… a masterpiece. I bought all of it together last week and managed to finish it. And again, awesome. How do you get all these ideas anyway?
Cant wait for Crocodile Tears!!
And is the next movie coming? Scorpia or point Blanc? I hope it goes in series… It’ll be cool.
P.S. and i really hope Alex Pettyfer is going to star in those movies again… (though he’s way to ‘old’ by now…)
Anyway, keep up the good work and you’ll always be my favourite writer.. (:
You rock.
Dear Mr Horowitz,
I greatly respect you. I’m a teenage reader of your books and I admireamount of research you put into each Alex Rider book! Those are books I read over and over again, and enjoy every time!
You may be surprised to know that you have quite a few readers in India! At least in the national capital, New Delhi, where I live. Would you ever consider writing an Alex Rider adventure in India? A place like India does really have a huge scope for an Alex Rider adventure…
I can’t wait for Crocodile tears!
Hey Anthony!!
)
I just finished Ark Angel and I want to know if you will make another book after that for the Alex Rider series. I read the whole series in 1 week (not kidding) My friends are reading it also. This is just a comment among millions to encourage you to keep on writing the series!!
Thanks!
Your Faithful Reader,
Zelic (not my real name
After years away from the UK we are now heading to London to start a new life back in Hampstead. So I’m trying this route to get back in touch: the least I can do is give you dinner at the Garrick.
Congratulations again on your entirely deserved and (to me anyway) totally expected successes – all the best, SC
Hello im Reggie i remember meeting you at the fiestaval of literature I really liked te speech anyway thanks for putting dubai in the fifth book of the power of five series
Sincerely
Reggie
Anthony,
I just bought my son your new book- and his reaction was priceless! It was like I handed him a treasure chest of gold! We want you to come to SoCal for a signing at our Barnes and Noble. Please let me know if you are touring here… and if your publicist would consider a trip to beautiful Oceanside this time. The fish and chips at the Oceanside pier are to die for… and our weather at the moment is around 78* and sunny.
I met you about a year ago in San Diego, CA with my son Tommy. I am the teacher that was willing [and still is] to help change your mind about middle school education!
I’m sure you could find something creepy for your books… the coastal fog in the early morning is as thick as pea soup. Plus- we are 45 minutes from Mexico, so you could hop the boarder and switch settings with no problem.
Your biggest teacher fan,
Beth Duncan
PS- After hearing you talk I purchased all of the Alex Rider series and I cannot keep them on my shelf!
Dear Mr. Horowitz
I love your Alex Rider series. I am from Egypt but I live in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. i really wish I was in Egypt when you went to the book fair. I wish you could come to PA to sign books or something. I read each of your books at least 5 times. Also I made my book reports all about your series and my friends got interested and read the series too. Your book is very common in the Eagle View middle school. I even read the Alex Rider gadgets book.
P.S. Is there any chance of my name being in your next book. It would be a honor if you did that
Sincerely, Alley Soliman
Your biggest fan
We just finished watching “Stormbreaker” for the umpteenth time, and I went searching for news about a sequel; but I couldn’t find any. Please tell me that it’s coming?! Here in the states, publicity was nonexistant, and very few theaters were showing it. I hope that didn’t kill the chances for “Point Break”. Looking forward to “necropolis” and the next Alex. Sincerely, Dawn Barrow
Dear Mr Horowitz,
I originally bought your books for my sons, now 19 / 17 / 15 and now I buy them for myself. We love the Alex Rider series but I am a huge fan of The Power of Five series. I hope one day to hear you are doing a talk or a book signing in Sydney, I would love to hear you talk about your story ideas. Sydney, and all of Australia, is such a beautiful place you’d NEVER get any work done!
Warmest regards
Jane, 49 and mum of 3 teenaged fans
Dear Mr Horowitz.
I love your writing! My friend started Piont Blank and i read it and LOVED it. I have every Alex Rider book. I absolutly love the series!One thing i love about the series is how Alex travels the world.Im really excited for your next Alex Rider book. I also love your horror atories. after reading More Horowitz Horror I could not sleep that night. I actually want to be a writer and you helped me come to that desision. So thanks for that. I really hope that you come to Minnesota some day (the coldest place in the United states).
sincerly
Qahir Lakha a kid who cant put your books down.
Mr. Horowitz,
First of all I think your books are awesome. Also my school is having a literacy fair to be in our school’s 20th birthday celebration on April 25 and I am doing a project on your book Nightrise:Book three of the gatekeepers. my friends,and teacher, think I’m kind of weird when I told them about the book and things I found out about you here on your website. It’s going very well and many people are fascinated by the book, and the rest of the series. thanks for making a great series.
P.S.
My mind got very alert because I am reading the Gatekeepers series out of order. I started with book two,then three, then four, then one since the fifth book isn’t out where I live.
Mr Horowitz:
I was just wandering which were the third and fourth book of the gatekeepers. You see I live in Mexico and we dont normally get series in english unless they have been translated. However I was luccky enoough to get the first two books out of a scholastic catalog that my middle school used to run. However now I dont get this catalog and have been waiting anxiously to finish this books, however I only seem to find the thrid book but not a fourth.
Sofia Ortiz
hi mr horowitz,
i am a great fan of your power of the five books they are so interesting. i just finished nightrise and i cant wait to get necropolis. thanks so much for writing such great books
elisa
Hi Anthony, I think the plot for “Crocodile Tears” is great, but I thought i’d point out that the best fish and chips in england are from my town, south shields,Tyne and Wear. at colmans on ocean road! my town is very historical, with over 15 ghosts, 44 shipwrecks to every mile of coastline, the worlds first Alternating current powered lighthouse, the home of John Simpson Kirkpatrick, william wouldhave.(the man that made the first lifeboat)
Underneath the town’s oldest church, St.Hilda’s. There are remains of a monastery, founded by st aiden in 647AD.
but anyway enough about where i live, good luck with all of your books including yassen and the latest power of five book. I thionk that you have a brilliant technical imagination, and that you are one of this countries greatest assets. From Jordan Maughan – Age 11 – South Shields England
Hi Mr Horowitz,
I’m the BIGGEST fan of the Power of Five series!! I really liked your character development on Matt as you only described his physical features but i could feel his personality throughout all the four books i read. I can’t wait to get my hands on the fifth book that, hopefully, is coming out soon. Its just so cool that Scarlett is the name of the fifth gatekeeper cause i’m “a Scarlett” too! I wish to become an author too and I’m sure its obvious that your books have inspired me most,for now I’ve just penned some,lets say, short fantasy stories.
Hope that one day there’ll be some book signing in Singapore,a place that you briefly mentioned in Necropolis as a route into HongKong for Matt and Jamie,because i happen to move here two years ago.
Your NO.1 FAN,
Scarlett.
Hey Anthony!!!
. Power of 5 is so mystic sometimes i have to check that im not being watched!when will crocodile tears be published?i can’t wait!(i know ive said that twice but that proves it)
I absolutely LOOOOOOVE your alex rider and the power of 5 books!i can’t wait until crocodile tears comes out! even my little brother (7(!!)) reads them.i’ve read every one about 3 times over and their even more brill each time! its cool that crocodile tears has a bit set near loch lochy cause i live just 45mins away (Dingwall, Highlands). Is there gonna be another movie? me + friends hope so
from your no.2 fan ( i haven’t read Nightrise)
fiona
P.s i’m a bit miffed that my name is (almost) the same as Fiona Friend in point blanc!
Dear Mr.Horowitz,
I´m a big fan of you and especially of your amazing books!Here in Germany I have to wait a bit longer until your new books are published. But I have never been disappointed reading a book of yours. What I like most in nearly all of your books are the fantastic places all over the world. You describe the people, the buildings and everything else so well that it is very easy to imagine that I´m really there and taking up one of Alex`s challenges. But honestly I like “The Power of Five” even more than the Alex Rider stories because it has supernatural elements in it (but never loses the connection to our real world). So I´m looking forward to your coming books and hope you will always keep travelling around the globe for those great places of action.
Your faithful reader
Chris from Munich
P.S. Will there be another Alex Rider movie?
(I liked “Stormbreaker” but the great number of changes in the plot didn´t make the film as good as the book)
Hello Mr. Horowitz! A friend of mine at school at I have been fighting over your Alex Rider books in our library! They are very very interesting books! All I have left to read is Snakehead and to finish up Scorpia! I can’t wait to read Crocodile Tears also. I am 11 years old and I live in Indiana U.S.A. Soo…not much entertaining things going on here. If you need any ideas at all for your books..(Which I’m pretty sure you won’t with how much you travel!) email me!
Bye! -Taylor Yoder
Hi, Mr. Horowitz! I’m a big fan of Your Power of Five series as well as Alex Rider. So many people love your books. It must be an honor! A friend of mine introduced me to Alex Rider and I loved it! I couldn’t put either one of the books down. I can’t wait for your next Alex book! Hey, I could even be a character since you were thinking about it being in Africa and I’m African! Ironic, huh? There’s are two websites that have some pretty good Alex Rider fan fics: Quizilla and Fanfiction. You might get some ideas.
New MI6 Teen Spy,
Cityana
Hi Anthony!
I am such a big fan of the Alex Rider series and can’t wait for the next book to come out! I also loved the Stormbreaker movie!Is there any chance there will be movies for the other books too? I really admired the great work you did on the screenplay! My friend and I started reading the series at the same time, and it became sort of an Alex Rider competition to see who can read the books and get 100% on the quizzes in this reading program at our school called Accelerated Reader. So far I am ahead by one book, and I have 100% correct. Anyway, please keep writing more amazing Alex Rider books! Bye!
Hi!
I’m 14 and I am so looking forward to this new book. I wondered where Alex would stop. Will there be any more books after this next one? (and another movie would be good). There is one problem, I keep getting confused with all these super-rich, middle aged businessmen trying to take over the world. Aside from that, please keep writing! Thanks,
Liam.
Hi,,
I’m amazed at how you have thought of Dubai to be in the Fifth book. I Canno wait untill it comes out. I have my own theories but I can’t be sure that they are right. I have read The Power Of Five series over and over and have completely fallen in love with Matts Character. I would love to know what happens to Scarlett in the fifth book it seems cruel that she had only been in it for a few weeks and had to be the one who seems most likely to be the first out of it. But i dont reakin that will happen.
I love your work. It has truly inspired me, and also its very realistic. I had nightmares after I read Necropolis:P. I have to thank you for being so inventive. Also Me and many others I know think it would be fantastic if you got film rights for these books.
You are a fantastic writer.
From Rachel
Dear Mr. Horowitz,
I must tell you that you are the by far best author I have ever come across. Your novels in the Alex Rider series and the Power of 5 series have been great, I have read them all cover to cover.
Your last book Necropolis was truely an outstanding book that really leaves you on the edge for #5 to come out.
I am also really looking forward to the next Alex Rider novel. It has come to be my other favorite series and offers details that make it a lot better then any other similar sto ry type novels. Definately jealous you get to travel to world researching these novels.
Your just a fantastic writer and one of my idols.
Sincerly,
Scott
hi mr horowitz’
im Kelly and because of your book i kinda failed both geography and maths .but that’s OK
i am always caught reading in class.
im from Australia, Woolongong to be exact.i started reading your book when i saw them at my local library but i didn’t read them in order
though i usually get them from my school library, i usually read them in 2 days but now in our holidays i read them in only hours.
i absolutely love your alaex rider series and the power of five series also.
i havent read the 4th power of five book yet because of my unreliable library.
well i just want to say all your books are wonderful and they all make a movie in my head.
from one of your many fans
kelly
I am a huge fan of the Alex Rider books (I just today finished Snakehead), and I can’t wait until Crocodile Tears comes out. I had to check out books 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 out from the library (I’d recieved Stormbreaker as a Christmas present back in 2007, and I hadn’t read it until this year). But all in all, I’m well satisfied with the results. The action is great, the villains are exceptional, and the plot has so many twists that I sometimes lost all sense of what was going on (though I quickly recovered)! Quite possibly the best moment in any of Alex’s books so far was when he went up into space to destroy Ark Angel. The way it was written was incredibly detailed, so much so that I felt I was Alex (I also thought it was funny how he dumped the bomb into a toilet). Nice job, Anthony. Keep on writing!
dear anthony,
i really enjoy reading your books.i really like the twist cottage one.it really drives me crazy.i’m doing a speech about the author of the twist cottage which is you,and i really need some details and advice from you.
Dear Mr. Horowitz,
I am sooooooo bored right now because I don’t have any more Alex Rider books to read. I miss all the peril and suspense of his adventures (though I’m sure Alex doesn’t). I sure wish Crocodile Tears would come out this month, though of course that’s impossible because you are, like, 7 chapters into it.
While I was reading them, your books became a small part of my life. I read them on the bus to (and from) school each day, in class (I go to a montessori school, so we get to have free time in our classroom), at home, on the way to baseball games, and pretty much during any time I could spend on whatever. That’s how much I like them.
When Crocodile Tears does come out, I will rush to the closest bookstore, run and grab the book, throw the money on the counter and run back out. I won’t waste any time in cracking the cover open and begin reading. I can’t wait!
Your Loyal Reader,
Ray K. (Ohio, U.S.)
Mr. Horowitz,
My younger brother and I have enjoyed reading many i=of your books. Most people are surprised when I tell them that my favorite book (that you have written) is the Killing Joke: it was humorous and had a great plot!
Also, I live in Switzerland and I agree that the skiing season this year was wonderful? Would you mind telling me where you skied?
I am hoping for a reply, even though I realize you are very busy, and have better things to do. Still it would be awesome for me to have correspondence with an idol author of mine.
Looking forward to hearing from you and reading further bestsellers!
Regards,
A.M
I love the Alex Rider Series. As many other I can not wait for the 9th book to come out. A.T.M. i am reading a different series but will start Po5 ASAP.
Unlike most others…I do not buy your books, simply because the the fact i can not afford them, my money is squandered away on Gas for my car and Bills…and considering the economy now-a-days i doubt i will be able to. So I am going to stick to the local Library for my reading joy.
Your Devoted Reader (and probably #1,000,000th Fan),
Chad S. (S.C., U.S.)
first of all…it was amazing to meet you in dubai..
second i must say your power of five series rocks…
i really wana get to the fifth one..when is it coming out??
i got the first two alex rider books,but haven’t read them yet!
all i can say sir anthony,you are awesome and your ideas are amazing,but we only need some updates…
I’m your biggest fan of the power of five series.I finished Necropolis and i can’t wait for the fifth book. Snakehead was fantastic. And i love the stormbreaker movie.I read your books in one day or less than that.
When is the fifth book of the power of five series going to be published?
Your my fave Author and all my friends are reading the alex rider books. Can’t wait for crocodile Tears and the fifth book!!!!
zaynab ( Leicester,England)
i just love your alex rider books. i was just in my school libry a d we have yrca books evey year. your ark angle book was nomnated and i wanted to read on so i just ended up reading your book becase the others were boring. i’m just almost finished reading your scopia book. the last book i need to read left right now is snakehead. when will you ever come to edmonton alberta canada .PLEESSSSSSSSS. I RELY LOVE YOU BOOKS. NEVER HAD A ATHER SIGHN A BOOK BEFOR. THE BOOKS ARE THE BEST EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!~~ ever!!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~~~~~~!!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~~~~~!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~~~~~~!~!~!~!~!~~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~~!~!~!~!your #1 for books. your books are adecing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Anthony,
Just thought i’d write to say that im a big fan of your books, especially the alex rider series. You’ve done a really good job with writing them. Im an aspiring author and is working on a story at the moment. In the future if im half as good as you i’ll be happy. Good look with your books and i’ll look forward to reading the next installment.
From Stu
Hello Mr. Horowitz me and a couple of friends started a book club on the power of five and we think the fourth book is really good and we would love it if you could try to make a movie of the books like stormbreaker but see people would pay good money in springfield illinois to see you and meet you have inspiring author to make me read i read all the books the first book i ever read from your books is eagle strike but found out it was a series so i read all of them even the power of five and Anthony keep up the good work you are doing really good
Dear Mr Horowitz,
I love your books! Especially the Alex Rider series. You are my number 1 favourite author! Do write more books even after you finish the fifth book of the Power of Five and Crocodile Tears.(That is your choice. I’m just encouraging you to write more.) Your books are awsome! Especially Necropolis and Snakehead. If you can, please come to Singapore! My other classmates who are also your fans would all love to meet you!(If you are, please send a letter about your answer to my email a.s.a.p!)
Hi Anthony
I’ve just got to say I’m a a big reader and your the only author whose books i’ve enjoyed so much I’ve had to tell you what an inspiration they’ve been.
I’ve loved The Switch (thought that would make a great film!) the Groosham Granges, the Alex Rider books and most of all the Power of Five books which I’ve just read and loved most (Evil Stary-omg best one!):P
PS: We did about Stormbreaker in English last year and there was no one in the class (of about thirty people) who hadn’t read it
Also I tried to get Necropois from by local library in my small middle-of-nowhere village and I was TWENTY SEVENTH on the list! Took me ages to get it but it was worth it- thought u should know
Dear Mr Horowitz
First of all i just want to say how much i appreciate your books they are absolutely brilliant!! They are like modern day classics.My favourite book so far is Necropolis. I kinda thought that you needed to broaden your writting so you could write a book with a female lead and you didn’t disappoint.
I like to write too but just in a different genre and thank you very much for inspiring me to write because in my writting i can incorporate action into romance and i have found it easier as i have gradually read more of your books.I can’t wait for the fifth book to come out.This may sound a bit irrelevant but have you ever met Malorie Blackman ??.It might just be me but i think u remind me of her because u r both very consistent in you writting although you have very different writting styles.Also how did you become an author? because that is like my dream even though iam only fourteen is there an age limit? this is turning into a bit of an essay now but you ROCK!!!
Yande xx
p.s it’s not unusual to find me asleep at 8 oclock in the morning with one of your books and my mum gently persuading me ( insert sarcastic laughter) to get up for school, but it is all worth it xx.
Dear Mr. Horowitz
I’m one of your biggest fan from Sweden. I have just read the first book in the serie about Alex Rider,Stormbreaker and I really loved it. It was quite hard to read it in a different language but I think it is a good way to improve my english. Right now I am reading Point Blanc and I think it is really good. I love the caracters and in the end of Stormbreaker I couldn’t stop reading. I want to read all your books about Alex Rider and I am really looking forward to see what are going to happen with Alex.
I hope that you will understand me even if my english isn’t perfect.
#13
Dear Mr.Horowitz,
I am a big fan. Ravens Gate was the first book I read and actualy liked. I liked it so much I bought Evil Star and Nightrise but when they finished I bought stormbreaker by accident and it turned out that it was a book you wrote. I finished reading stormbreaker all the way through Snakehead and I found myself wanting to read more and more. That was a few years ago…
But when I heard that you came out with Necropolis I put every other book on hold till I could buy it. Unfortunatly I couldn’t find it in the Borders(book store) near me. I called to check if they had any in stock but they said they don’t sell it in Puerto Rico… Oh well. I enjoyed reading all of your books and hope that one day I’ll be able to Travel the world like you.
From Hector Troy
Mr Horowitz,
I was wondering if you are making a power of 5 movie? I love the series and was wondering if so when and where auditions will be. I hope there is because i would really like to audition and hope that you do not wait too long or I will be too old! Please post any info! Just finished necropolis and it was amazing, really well written, an absolute page turner.
Thank you
Lydia Markwick
I randomly picked Point Blanc of the shelf at my school library last week. Now I am waiting for Ark Angel (I went back and finished Stormbreaker), your books are full of action and addicting. Haven’t really enjoyed reading this year but now I plan to read all your books. In the last book I read Scorpia I thought that he was dead then I learned from my friend that there were actually two more books and more to come! I am waiting for the book now. Keep up the good work.
Hello, you’re books are inspirational. I love the way your descriptions aren’t forced upon the reader and can transport us stright into the character’s world. I love the Alex Rider series, but WISH XXXXXXX did not have to die as he was such a great, mysterious character. I am seriously envious of your career, you get to go to so many wonderful, exotic places! I LOVE the Diamond Brothers books and do not believe they get the credit they are due. Nick and TIM are THE most hilarious double act to be found in books.
Bella, London
Edited for Spoilers!!!
I just wanted to say, I’m not a bookworm, but I’ve read a lot of books, and no matter how many I read, the plots may be good, the setting interesting, no book has flowed nearly as well as yours.
The Alex Rider books are great – The best book ever made was definitely Eagle Strike.
And keep writing! If it wasn’t for Point Blanc’s shiny cover (great publishing there) I never would’ve started a.c.t.u.a.l.l.y reading (not forced at school).
I’m so excited and sad though, because The Power Of Five will have to end, as all good things do, but I’m excited because I can’t guess exactly how it’ll end.
ALEX RIDER!
POWER OF FIVE!
hey anthony
im a 14 year old australian, and i really love your books.i was one of the kids who use to think books were for gigs(no offence), that waz until 2 months ago when i waz introduced to your book (Ravens gate)..that when i got addicted..the weird thing is that i only read your books and i dont seem 2 lik any otha bookz. when eva i open ur book itz lik opening a book in anotha world..i hope 2 be lik u one day..jst 2 let u noe..ur my role model , my great inspiration..and wen will the next book com out..
yours sincerly adam
Hi my name is Sean and I love your books! The Alex Rider series is amazing! Now that I’ve bought every Alex Rider book, and after reading each one dozens of times, I am starting to read Power Of Five. It is a great series and I wish it was reality. I can’t wait until Crocodile Tears comes out and the new Power Of Five book comes out!
Hey Anthony
I’m 10 years old and live in new zealand and absolutely in love with your books. When i found out the name of you’re 8th book i couldn’t help wondering what was the plot about for crocodile tears. I looked up alex rider on google images and saw a book as one of the images with the words printed on the cover ‘Alex Rider,Crocodile Tears’ i clicked on it and it came up on this book website. I felt so annoyed when it did not have the blog below the cover. I’m also looking forward to the fifth book of the power of five book. I was reading the last sentence of the book necropolis and then couldn’t what till the fifth power of five book comes out so i can read about Matt,Pedro,Scott,Jamie and Scarlets last battle against the old ones. You are one of the only authors i read. I go to the library and i look at the books and then go straight to you’re section you are my role model and hope to be like you when i am older.
yours sincerely william
Sir, you are an amazing author. When I first began reading your books I was completely taken by their ability to completely hypnotize me into forgetting reality, well actually they did not make me forget reality rather they brought me into the new “reality” of your books. I hope you can follow that
. At first I would just read the books for enjoyment, now I realize I have been reading the books and thinking about you writing it at the same time, do get what I’m saying? (I know it can sound confusing) I would love to become an author one day (when I have time), my success will all depend on authors like you. Thank you so much for creating these books, never stop like J.K Rowling did (because it broke my heart, I actually cried when the Harry Potter series finished) continue on and remember me! (Just think of “my ham” to remember my name- maham -even though it is pronounced mahaam).
Wish you all the best,
Maham from Ontario, Canada
or
“My Ham”
I live in Dubai! I can’t believe I missed the chance to meet you!
dear MR. Horowitz I am a big fan of your power of 5 books and I have resently finished reading your new one NECROPOLIS it only took me 6 days and now I whant more and I was wondering when your last power of 5 book is comming out you mentend it was the biggest book yet I need to read it …
I’m a futur writer and I cant stop thinking what happens next (thats what I do when ever I dont finish some thing I just keep macking up endings and the wierd part is they mostley tern out rite! ) so I have to read the last one to see if I’m rite !
I’ve won many awords for writing in iran and los angeles I’ve lived in both and youre my biggist insperation thanks for all the great books and hurry up and write the next one !!!
P.S: I hated HARRY POTTER !!
Dear Mr.Horowitz
I’ am eagerly waiting for arrival of the 8th Alex rider book, that is Crocodile Tears… since the date of the release is already mentioned for crocodile tears, could you happen to tell the date of release for the fifth power of five book…could you just guess and approximately tell when it will release?
your power of five and alex rider rox to the core…
my favorite power of five series is raven’s gate and necropolis.
my fav. alex rider book is scorpia, skelenton key and snakehead!!
Hiya,
I wanted to say how much i enjoy your books. I first read Stormbreaker in year 4 and went to see the film soo after. Only in year8 did i pick up Point Blanc and read the whole series which i must say are amazing! I have introduced many of my friends to your AR books and they also think they are amazing. Me and my friend were pleasantly surprised when you mentioned the town where we live in Ark Angel & Snakehead, and we are waiting for Crocodile Tears to come out in Nov.
I also got the 1st Power of Five book for my b-day which i read and am now going to go and buy the rest, hopefully soon! My fave AR books are Ark Angel and Eagle Strike.
- Eloise (i’m English despie my name being French)
Hey Anthony – wow – what can i say. My son devoured your books – best spent birthday money ever. He then kindly loaned his collection to my grade 4 and 5 students – predominently boys who didn’t want to read – they also loved reading them – often fighting over who got to read the next book. They have tried to imitate some of the scenes and come in with battle scars the next day or really tired from reading them all night. Best of all the girls are now reading them and most important is that they have inspired my class to want to write some awesome stories – I loved reading them too – are you writing a new Alex Ryder book – hope to see one soon so I can read it to the class. Thanks Liz (Perth, Australia). ps. if you ever got to Perth – gee it would be great if you had time to visit a school or library!
Hi Anthony! I have to admit i only started reading Alex Rider out of boredom. My brother was reading Stormbreaker, but he didn’t finish it so i read it. I fell in love with it!!! It was so descriptive and literally illustrated a perfect picture of a scene in my head. I have been reading all the book of Alex up to Snakehead which I’m reading now. Since i loved Alex Rider, when i saw Ravens Gate i though: Well i loved alex, so i should try this.
I loved it SO much! It was exactly my type! When i next went to my library i loaned Evil Star and stayed outside reading until after dark, with only the small heat of the dyer to warm me. I thought at the bit where Matt met Pedro: Hmmm, this MUST be another of the five.And i was right!! I finished it that night and was desperate for Night Rise. I finished Night Rise in a day as well, and i thought: Oh, i hope Scott doesn’t betray them! But my favourite has been Necropolis!!! Finally a girl was one of the main characters!!!! It was awesome! PLEASE KEEP THE GOOD WORK COMING!!!
Bye!
hi i think you are great i am doing a prodject in school about you
hey mr.horowitz
I LOVE your Alex rider books a guy recommended it to me and it was AMAZING im reading ARK ANGEL right now and i already bought snake head i cant wait though my b-day is on november 1st and ur book come out on the `12th an easy birhtday gift from my parents
in all
I LOVE UR BOOKS THERE AMAZING
sincerly,
samrha
p.s consider coming to Canada its a great place
hi,Mr Horowitz.
I just wanted to comment you and say how much i love the Alex Rider series.
my younger and older brothers suggested i read the series… but to be honest i thought i wouldnt like the book (stormbreaker).
but after i read it(which was in like a day!!)i thought it was really good!
it wasnt the type of book that i was used to reading but it was the best i had read in long time .
i have finished all the books and i am now waiting for crocadile tears!!!
my favrite book was eagle strike!!!
i cant wait for the next book in the series !!
i hope there will be more Alex Rider books!!
p.s have you ever thought of comming to ireland?? or writing a book with the backround set in ireland???
it would be really cool if you did!!!1
from
one of your biggest fans ever!!
AISLING!
dear Mr. Horowitz
i LOVE your gatekeepers series of books
i just cant get enough of them
i just finished reading necropolis and it was
TERRIFIC!! you have to make more of the power of the five series because they are EXCELLENT!
please write another one reeally soon
i cant stand waiting for what happens to matt,jamie,scott,pedro,an scar. ITS KILLING ME TO WAIT!!
-calvin(california)
P.S. PLEASE MAKE THE NEXT INSTALLMENT OF THE GATEKEEPERS BOOK PLEASE!!:)
I think you are a GREAT writer. I love the Alex Rider series and look forward to the next books my children and I can get our hands on. It’s amazing how well you describe things and keep the action going from page to page. I’m 55 but was introducted to your books by a 14-year-old in another state.
I have to chuckle at some of the British expressions that come out of American mouths in your books, such as when someone says, “I’m meant to go.” We would instead say “I’m supposed to go.” I would also order bread and jam at a restaurant…forget the jelly. Minor mistakes.
Nevertheless, I love your books and plan to buy many of them. Come to a Barnes & Noble store in western New York – we’ve got Indians, Amish, and Canadians, all nearby. Not to mention pizza and wings, beef on weck, and Niagara Falls. Think what you could come up with!
Thank you for sharing your talents with us…we very much appreciate the words you write, and hope to read many more.
Sincerely,
Denise Hoca
Um hello Mr.Horowitz you probaly won’t read this messege because your to busy writing which is understandable.Just in case you do read this I have a question… When is book 5 in The Gatekeepers series coming out and what is it going to be called… Please answer this question Mr.Horowitz… Thank you
dear Mr. Horowitz my question is when will book five of the gatekeepers coming out. i love that series so much i finished all 4 books in 10 days.mr horrowitz i am begging you to release the book sometime on 2010. thank you and ps. HUGE FAN
sincerely, Manvir Brar
wow I just read this book and its among my favorite books of all time . My favorite books being crocodile tears , ravens gate , and necropolis . And all the others are wicked as-well . I cant wait for the fifth power of five book , because there are so many alex rider ones. I first read ravens gate and loved It , and on the back I saw evil star , nightrise and necropolis . then I started on alex rider. Your books are the only ones I keep THANKS