Young Bond author Charlie Higson credits fatherhood

 
Comic actor Charlie Higson has admitted that without having sons, penning a series of James Bond books for kids would have been an impossible task.

Higson, who has just released his fourth teen zombie novel, The Sacrifice, says being a father has been his inspiration in writing the series of Young Bond novels.

Talking to The Big Issue, as the James Bond film series marks its 50th anniversary, Higson said: “I couldn’t write my books for kids if I hadn’t had my own. I wouldn’t know how they talk and what they’re in to.

“When my sons were younger and I was writing the Young Bond books I’d read each chapter to them and get their response. That’s why the books are so violent.”

Higson has, to date, written six Young Bond novels. The first, Silverfin was released in 2005 much to the apprehension of diehard Bond fans.

The series, however, has become a hit with youngsters, in the same way as the original Ian Fleming novels and subsequent film releases have captured the imagination of adult readers for the last half century.

The 23rd Bond film Skyfall, starring Daniel Craig, is due for release later this month. Last week singer Adele premiered her single of the same name – the official theme song to the upcoming 007 film.

To read more of Charlie Higson's interview, buy this week's Big Issue, on sale until October 14