John Flanagan grew up in Sydney, Australia, hoping to be a writer. After writing advertising copy for two decades, he helped an old friend develop a television sitcom (Hey Dad!), which aired for eight years.

John began writing the bestselling Ranger's Apprentice adventure series to encourage his twelve-year old son to enjoy reading. His son is now in his mid-twenties, and the series has grown to 9 books, including the recently released Halt's Peril.