Jonathan Stroud

Jonathan Stroud is a British author of fantasy fiction for children and young adults whose novels combine wit, invention, and genuinely thrilling storytelling. He is best known for the Bartimaeus trilogy, one of the most acclaimed and entertaining fantasy series of the early twenty-first century. Born in Bedford in 1970, Stroud studied English Literature at the University of York and worked as an editor at Walker Books before becoming a full-time writer. The Amulet of Samarkand (2003) was the first book in the Bartimaeus trilogy, introducing Nathaniel, a young magician's apprentice in an alternate London ruled by magicians, and Bartimaeus, a five-thousand-year-old djinni whom Nathaniel summons and who narrates much of the story in irreverent, sardonic footnotes. The Golem's Eye (2004) and Ptolemy's Gate (2005) completed the trilogy, with The Ring of Solomon (2010) serving as a prequel. The Bartimaeus books are distinguished by their wit, their inventive magic system, their sharp political satire, and the brilliant narrative voice of Bartimaeus himself — cynical, funny, ancient, and oddly sympathetic. The trilogy works as both a rollicking fantasy adventure and a pointed commentary on power, class, and the abuse of authority. Stroud has also written the Lockwood & Co. series, about a ghost-hunting agency run by teenagers in a haunted London, which was adapted into a Netflix series. He writes with intelligence, pace, and a refusal to underestimate his young readers. The audiobook editions of Stroud's novels are superb — the wit and energy of his storytelling translate perfectly to audio. His books and audiobooks are essential for young readers and adults alike who love fantasy that is smart, funny, and thrillingly inventive.