Alexander Armstrong discusses new children’s book
Television presenter and comedian Alexander Armstrong has launched his latest children’s book, Evenfall: The Tempest Stone, expanding on his foray into literary fantasy. The story centers on a young boy named Sam, who discovers that his late mother was part of a secret order tasked with safeguarding the world from evil. This pivotal revelation unveils Sam’s inherited supernatural abilities. As the narrative unfolds, he and his friends must recover stolen talismans and rescue his uncle from a perilous journey back to the Middle Ages, reports BritPanorama.
Armstrong, who also hosts a mid-morning show on Classic FM, is well-known for his engaging presence on various panel shows and his role as a voice actor in children’s programming. The new book is aimed at children aged nine to twelve but has elements that resonate with adult readers, reminiscent of the popular Harry Potter series. His four sons, ranging from ages 11 to 18, had sparked his creativity, leading to storytelling sessions that ignited his desire to write.
In a competitive market of comedians transitioning to children’s literature, Armstrong aims to carve a niche by crafting a narrative that veers closer to a thriller rather than straightforward comedy. He expresses pride in the book’s depth and personal significance, stating, “I hope it’s obvious when people read it that I’ve really put my back into it.”
The backdrop of his novel is grounded in the north-east of England, where Armstrong grew up. His childhood experiences in a small community imbued him with an appreciation for storytelling, something he channels into his writing today. While walking his dogs often sparked inspiration during the writing process, he acknowledged the challenges of adhering to the fictional universe established in his first book.
Armstrong’s acknowledgment of the genre’s common themes—particularly the prevalence of deceased parents—highlights the poignant void such losses create in storytelling. He has plans to continue the Evenfall series, as long as ideas continue to flow, and envisions a future work that explores his relationship with classical music, a long-standing passion of his.
Having navigated a successful career across various entertainment mediums, Armstrong reflects on the evolution of the industry, commenting on both historical and present-day diversity within comedy. He feels fortunate to pursue projects he genuinely enjoys today, a departure from earlier times when financial necessity dictated his choices.
Evenfall: The Tempest Stone is published by HarperCollins.
