The book world is in mourning following the unexpected death of award-winning author Marcus Sedgwick aged 54.
The unexpected death of popular children’s author Marcus Sedgwick was announced by the RCW agency on Thursday, November 17.
A statement read: “It is with deep regret that RCW announces the unexpected death of author Marcus Sedgwick.
“Marcus Sedgwick was a prizewinning and beloved author of over 40 extraordinary books for adults and young adults, of novels for younger people, of non-fiction and academic essays.”
It added: “His books were shortlisted for over thirty awards, including the Carnegie Medal (five times), the Edgar Allan Poe Award (twice) and the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize (four times).
“He is also the most noted author in the history of the Printz Award, with one win and two honour books.
“He won the Branford Boase award for his debut novel, Floodland, and the Booktrust Teenage Prize for My Swordhand is Singing.”
Marcus was born and raised in a small village in East Kent in the southeast of England and lived most recently in the south of France.
“His family and close friends request privacy at this very sad and difficult time.”
Marcus Sedgwick, a prizewinning and beloved author of over 40 extraordinary books for adults, young adults and children, has sadly passed away aged 54.
His family and close friends request privacy at this very sad and difficult time.
Rest in peace. https://t.co/XFe6zNl4pI pic.twitter.com/MZVXwbU5bW
— RCW Literary Agency (@rcwlitagency) November 17, 2022
The unexpected death of Kent-born Sedgwick “is an immense loss” noted Claire Wilson at RCW.
She wrote on Twitter: “Marcus was at the start of everything for me – his work reminded me of what children’s books can do and why they matter.
“I will always be grateful for the honour of getting to represent him, and finding such a kind, wise and funny person behind the writing.
“It is an immense loss.”
Five Top Tweets:
Devastated to hear the terrible news about the tragically premature death of Marcus Sedgwick. He was a superb writer, and did things that no one else was doing in YA. I only met him a couple of times, but could see why he was so loved by his family and friends. Such a loss.
— Anthony McGowan (@anthony_mcgowan) November 17, 2022
Marcus Sedgwick & I did our final Raven Mystery together in the early summer. This is the very final image of the Otherhand Family.
It was a wonderful world to be invited into
Thank you Marcus
Rest now pic.twitter.com/xsFNB5OxCR
— Pete Williamson 🇺🇦 (@PeteCWilliamson) November 17, 2022
I’m so sad to hear of the death of Marcus Sedgwick. A gentle and helpful friend and a fearless writer.
— David Almond (@davidjalmond) November 17, 2022
Very sad to hear of the passing of Marcus Sedgwick today. Was lucky enough to have him speak to pupils a number of years ago and they were enthralled and inspired by his approach to writing. Current Year 5s are hooked on Floodland as their class novel. One of the greats.
— David Williams (@DWPrimary) November 17, 2022
So sad to hear of Marcus Sedgwick’s death. I had the immense good fortune to be part of a writing retreat that he ran last summer at his home in France, and he was the most wonderful host, kind and welcoming, and so generous with ideas and encouragement. The loss is immeasurable.
— Geoffrey Mamdani (@GMamdani) November 17, 2022
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