New Writer in Residence Taran Matharu bridges gap between video games and reading

Published on: 04 September 2017

Taran Matharu, the New York Times bestselling children's writer and Wattpad sensation, well known for the Summoner series, has been appointed our new online Writer in Residence.

Taran, who takes over from Sarah McIntyre, starts his six-month residency with a vlog introducing his exciting plans for the forthcoming months, which will explore the benefits of reading and writing online, being a young writer, and the intersections between books and gaming.

The BookTrust Writer in Residence project has been running since March 2009, and encourages each writer or illustrator to explore topics that they are passionate about.

Watch Taran's introductory vlog

Inspiring young writers

Taran Matharu says about his residency at BookTrust:

‘I am so incredibly grateful to BookTrust for giving me the opportunity to pursue a cause that is very close to my heart – bringing the joy of reading to kids and teens across the country.

'It’s also my hope that I will be able to inspire young writers, both by my own example and highlighting the successes of other young authors. I can't wait to share my thoughts with you all!’

Highlights of Taran’s residency will include his inspiration for the Summoner series and a series of features looking at the relationship between video games and reading: two hobbies Taran believes need not be mutually exclusive.

Get children turning pages

Diana Gerald, our CEO, says:

‘We are delighted to welcome Taran as the next BookTrust Writer in Residence. The project gives visitors to the BookTrust website a unique insight into the minds of acclaimed writers.

'We fully support Taran’s mission to bridge the gap between video games and reading because to help get children turning pages, they need to be offered books that excite them.

‘Taran’s thrilling books certainly fit that bill, especially for some of the more reluctant readers.’ 

Download the press release

Find out more about our new Writer in Residence