Welcome to The Lost and Drowned
the home of author Stuart Fryd (he actually lives in Billericay - it's just a turn of phrase!)
Above is one of the amazing photos taken by @joe_baylis who has finished the book trailer to be released before launch. Sophie, who plays Scarlett for the trailer, did an amazing job keeping the red hoodie on during our shoot on one of the hottest days of the year!
Scarlett in Knoware is finished and the first proof should be arriving next week!
I've been asked by a few people who have read the final draft why I wrote Scarlett as being of African heritage. My answer to them is simple - that was that was just how I pictured her. That's the image that was in my head - I couldn't picture her looking any different.
I also think it's tragic that only 1% of children's books released in the UK have black or ethnically diverse main characters. Isn't that sad? I work in a school where over 90% of children are not white British yet what they see on their bookshelves is 99% white protagonists.
I know Scarlett in Knoware won't greatly shift those percentages, but even if it means that one girl on world book day feels that there is a hero she can dress up as, or it's a book where they can picture themselves as the lead, then I will consider it a success.
We also have a final cover for the book which has been created by the amazing Nicki Virdee with photography by Joe Baylis.
If you weren't already excited for Scarlett in Knoware, then this drawing by my son, Oliver, should certainly get you there! He's also shown me his draft storyboard for the book trailer and, I have to say, I might steal some ideas.
Published work available in shops or online
The Lost and Drowned - Would you run to save yourself, or stay to fight for your sister?
The Village at the Edge of the World - What waits at the centre of the village? What is hiding in the fog?
Death on the Empress - A priceless jewel is stolen, a passenger plummets to his death and an ancient curse strikes the airship!
Buy here!
Watch the first chapter of The Lost and Drowned and The Village at the Edge of the World below!
My favourite part of being a writer is receiving letters from children telling me what they thought. so thank you to Maxine and her brother Dylan who wrote: "I really enjoyed The Village at the Edge of the World and thought that it appeals in particular to children and young adults."
thanks also to Alexa (aged 10ish) who wrote this after reading all three books: "I really liked them and they are my new favourite books."
Latest News
5 Star review from Readers' Favorite
The Lost and Drowned by Stuart Fryd brings to mind the atmosphere of a Dickens novel and sprinkles in magic and humor. The story is well written with vivid descriptions, dynamic characters, and realistic dialogue. I love the way Fryd creates a tale of hope with just a touch of creepiness to keep the spine tingling. The characters of Lydia and Sophie and their friends are so appealing that they bring a charm and freshness to what otherwise could fall into a typical story. This tale is filled with mystery, suspense, danger, and unexpected heroes. I can easily recommend this story to anyone who likes books from Dickens to Goosebumps, especially for Halloween. A great read.
Death on the Empress, the latest story by Stuart Fryd is available now at Greenwich Exchange or from all good book shops
August
Some great reviews from children who read the book:
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Jessica Cobbin, Age 11 - 'It's very scary and it makes you want to keep reading!'
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Emily Dickson, Age 14 - 'The Village At The End Of The World is a gripping read, perfect for those who love scary books, but aren’t old enough for adult thrillers. Ideal for 10-12 yrs.'
August
this winding atmospheric tale twists and turns in unexpected directions, with the crisp, creeping sense of fear inviting some comparison with Joseph Delaney’s Spooks series. It’s a spine-chilling yarn, compact, yet teeming with untold terrors in classic gothic tradition. - Joanne Owen for Lovereading4kids.co.uk
February
Nice review from Lovereading4kids.co.uk:
A chilling, ghostly, yet ultimately magical and hopeful tale for older children. Set in Regency London in an orphanage and woollen mill near to the Thames, girls are disappearing one by one. With mysterious and thoroughly enchanted assistance, Lydia battles to protect her sister Sophie and the other girls against an evil foe. Stuart Fryd enters the dark, and tells a beautifully simple yet rather scary tale. There is magic to be discovered, it feels old and wise, yet almost scampers across the pages, bringing flashes of light to the story. On occasion a cushion may be needed to hide behind, yet this captivating tale calls to be completed, to experience the kiss of Christmas, friendship and love, to ride the magic. I found Lost and Drowned to be an eerie, exciting and spellbinding tale, it may occasionally frighten, it also has the capacity to absolutely delight. ~ Liz Robinson
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