Hey Internet!
I’m Chris Morphew. Sometime I write books.
As a kid, I was obsessed with dinosaurs and spaceships, so most of my stories featured either one or both of these things. More recently, I’ve written a bunch of books for the best-selling Zac Power series, as well as my own six-book YA series, The Phoenix Files.
Currently, I’m working on The Gateway, a sci-fi/adventure series for primary school kids that I’m co-writing with Rowan McAuley and David Harding. I’m also hard at work plotting out my next YA thing. (A trilogy, maybe? I’ll keep you posted!)
I live in Sydney, where I split my time between writing, teaching, and involvement with my local church. I also enjoy coffee, Mario Kart, young adult fiction, and heavily-serialised TV shows about mysterious islands.
I have a sporadically-updated YouTube channel and some less-sporadically-updated Facebook and Twitter and Instagram and Tumblr accounts, because apparently author websites are old news and social media is the way of the future.
Anyway, welcome to my website! Please enjoy this thank you gift.
Grace and peace,
Chris
Chris Morphew 
Awesome! I like this blog better than the previous one!
Hey Chris,
First of all, I LOVE Phoenix files, and I am just about to start reading doomsday (I finished Fallout 10 minutes ago)
Secondly, YOU’VE READ ALL THE BOOKS I’VE READ!!! I have also read Narnia, Harry Potter and the Animorphs series. Do you REALLY own all 54 Animorphs books? I own 7 (including ones on my kindle).
And finally, I want to be an authur but I’m having trouble coming up with an idea that I don’t think is stupid
Anyway, your and awesome writer, so keep writing books like the Phoenix files,
Bye
P.S. I knew Jordan reminded me of someone else I had read about (Rachel from Animorphs)
P.P.S seriously? Tobias?
Thanks Elaine!
Huh, that’s interesting – neither Rachel nor Tobias were conscious inspirations for The Phoenix FIles, although the Animorphs series as a whole was definitely a big influence!
Chris
On Fri, Aug 2, 2013 at 3:24 PM, Chris Morphew
Thank you for coming to Wellington my school. It was fun to learn about how you became an writer.
P.S. I am really exited to read your new books the Phoenix files
It was great meeting you all!
On Sun, Jan 19, 2014 at 4:09 AM, Chris Morphew
thanx for coming to wellington seen you too
Are you making a movie of the Phoenix files.
Are you making another Phoenix files book after doomsday . And if you are what is it called.
Not sure about a movie. No plans yet, but I’ll let you all know if I hear anything!
No plans for a 7th Phoenix Files book either – working on a couple of other projects, though!
Chris
On Sun, Jan 19, 2014 at 7:41 AM, Chris Morphew
hey bro
hi
Hi Chris I love your books there amazing how did u come up with the story line
Hi Chris I love your books and im flying thru them they are sooooo awesome!!!!!!
please make a movie of the Phoenix Files!!!
hi:)
i love your books my dad is a pastor and i’m going to get him to read them he’ll love them i can’t wait for the new one
Thanks – hope you enjoy the last book!
i will definitely enjoy it
care
You should totally make a 7th Phoenix files book!!!! I looovvvvveeeeee them!!!! I want to be a writer but I don’t have any ideas. Hope I find some!!!
Hey Chris will there ever be a movie of the Phoenix Files? That would be really cool.
No idea! I’ll definitely let you know if I ever hear anything…
On Sat, Apr 27, 2013 at 3:08 PM, Chris Morphew
Hey Chris, will you ever wright a series on the different ways shakleton would have wiped out the human race? Because calvin said there were more ways that he would have destroyed the human race!
if you do could you do it with different characters?
Hmm… That’s an interesting idea, but I don’t think I’ll ever write anything like that – of all the plans Shackleton could have made, I think the Phoenix one was probably the most interesting to read about!
Chris
On Thu, Sep 26, 2013 at 9:19 AM, Chris Morphew
Ok thanks
Excellent post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m impressed! Very helpful info specifically the last part 🙂 I care for such information much. I was seeking this certain info for a very long time. Thank you and best of luck.
What date will the new one be out . specifically
Should be June 1st
Hello! The main reason I am here is to say thank you writing these books and inspiring me to start writing myself! Along with Joanne Rowling and Suzanne Collins, you have really brought light into my life even when times are most dark. And you’re australian! So am I! So you’re awesome. I’ve already written to Lionsgate Films, Paramount Pictures and Warner Brothers, asking them desperately to create a movie out of your amazing series. I waited for about one year for Fallout to be released, and I can’t even tell you how excited I am for the final chapter in the series, doomsday! It will be here so soon! I’m so happy! Anyway, I gotta sum it up here, but I just thought it would be cool to tell you how awesome your writing skills are!
Thank you so much! Can’t wait to hear what you think of Doomsday!
On Sat, May 11, 2013 at 9:19 PM, Chris Morphew
Thank you so much for replying! You must be loyal to your fans!;) I’m sure I’ll be AMAZED at the pure awesomeness of Doomsday! I’m so excited to here about tobias and can’t wait to see how the trio manage to stop Shackleton!
Arrgghhhhh…… Can’t find fallout or doomsady
Ive read the rest though and I love them!!!!!
Plz Plz Plz make a 7th book on phoniex Files!!!!
Plz Plz Plz Plz
Hey, what country are you in? In Australia and NZ, Fallout and Doomsday have just been re-released in a 2-in-1 edition called Life in the Flames. In the US, you should be able to find the books here: http://new.myubam.com/p/2095/phoenix-files-book-5-fallout
Hi Chris
I really love the books!!
You are my favourite author and I love mutation so much I read it in 24 hours and 2 seconds!!
Keep writing the fab books Chris
Joseph 🙂
Hi Chris! I can’t believe how amazing your books are! They’re SERIOUSLY as good as the Hunger Games, even better! I simply CANNOT wait for Doomsday! Please don’t keep me in suspense! I really want them to become a movie. I would go to the midnight premiering or something! Thank you so much for writing these life-changing books.
~Klaire
Thanks so much, Klaire!
Chris
Hi
What is peter’s last name?
What are your hobbies Chris????
I have far less free time than I’d like these days, but I always enjoy a game of Mario Kart when I get the chance!
On Sun, May 19, 2013 at 2:18 AM, Chris Morphew
Thanx
🙂
Hey Chris,
Can’t wait ’till doomsday!
Anyway i was wondering: What is your next series (or book) after Phoenix Files is released?
Cheers.
Oops, ignore this post. I must’ve accidently posted this before i re-read it -.-
Hey Chris,
Can’t wait ’till doomsday!
Anyway i was wondering: What will your next series (or book) be like after Phoenix Files is released?
Thanks, Luke.
Hi Chris,
What is ur exact release date of doomsday?
Im soo obsessed with ur books!
I cant believe I didnt know about ur book signing event at leichardt! !!!
I should go dig a hole and die
Anyways is it possible to get a copy if ur book like now?
Plzzzz I really wanna read itt!
Tanks 🙂
THANKS SO MUCH FOR A HAPPY LAST FOUR YEARS. TODAY I ARRIVED AT THE BOOKSTORE BEFORE IT EVEN OPENED SO I COULD READ DOOMSDAY. I FINISHED IT ABOIT AN HOUR AGAO… AND… AND.. SPEECHLESS. MIND=BLOWN. THANKS YOU. YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW EXCITED I AM. I CANT EVEN… I…. JUST…. WOAH. AWESOME. Aw now I’m all sad because there will be nno more phoenix files :*( NOOOO PLEASE IT CANT BE OVER NOOOOO ASDFGHJKL THANK YOU SO MUCH! Wait, no. it will never be over. It is infinite. I cant even say what felling right now. I can’t tell you how grateful I am towards you. these books have helped me get through the difficult parts of my life. I don’t know what I wouldn’t give to meet you. you are my hero, and…. sorry I know I have to end it here. but I want you to know that you are awesome. For the billionth time, thanks you for the last four years of my life.
From Henry
(11)
🙂
Thanks so much! So good to hear you enjoyed the ending!
Chris
On Sat, Jun 1, 2013 at 8:13 PM, Chris Morphew
OH MY MORPHEW! THE KING JUST REPLIED TO ME!
And I just realised how many typos were in that comment of mine! I’m so sorry!
Trust me. I did enjoy it. It was awesome. Speechless. Merlin’s beard.
The Phoenix Files > other factors of my life 😉
For the billion and first time, thank you!
Henry
JUST FINISHED DOOMSDAY!!! YAY!!! Thanks for the awesome series Chris can’t wait till your next book (or book series) Great ending, btw.
Thanks!
On Sun, Jun 2, 2013 at 3:11 PM, Chris Morphew
Hello Chris I’m 12 I love your books (mainly the phoenxe files) I try to read all of them; they really are mi escapism. When I get older I want to be a writer like you, at the moment I’m writing a book about a two boys and a girl that join a new school, but it turns out that the staff are trying to take over the world by himitising all the parents, just wondering any advice
Hey um sorry just telling you I really would give up an thhhhiiinnnggg (thing) to meet you I love your characters. ( I think I fell it lOve with luke Peter and Soren don’t laugh just kidding you can)
Soren?? Really?! But he’s such a horrible creep!
Chris
On Tue, Jun 4, 2013 at 7:46 PM, Chris Morphew
Ow yar I how Soren but I don’t know he’s kider cool any way thanks, I’m in the car and Im only holding bake the screming that I’m doing inside bye
Your story sounds interesting so far! Have you seen the Writing Tips I put up? http://www.chrismorphew.com/writing-tips/
On Tue, Jun 4, 2013 at 7:38 PM, Chris Morphew
WOW! I am reading doomsday now and i am about half way through and I can’t put the book down!! Super good book so far.
Thanks Alex!
On Thu, Jun 6, 2013 at 7:49 PM, Chris Morphew
Hey christ please come to cairns and visit my school I go to trinity bay high school the weather is great plllleeaaassseee I am begging you
Hi Chris,
I am a Year 6 teacher in Melbourne. I came across your series by default, in an attempt to connect with a ‘distant’ student. Worked a charm, I initially began reading for her, but very quickly became absorbed in your fantastic series myself. I have had Doomsday on pre order, and now my student emailed me to say she has the book already! So much for organisation. I guess I will have to beg, borrow or steal it from her.
Thank you for inspiring young readers,
Ilana Baker
Hey chris, I think i found something: on the australian book covers for the phoenix files, the ground that luke jordan and peter are standing on is shifting height is this because in underground kara says that the ground phoenix is built on is shifting? if it is then please tell me. PS it would be cool if you came to buranda state school
That wasn’t deliberate, but it’s a cool idea!
Hi chris I LOVE your books so much I have FINISHED the phoenix files and now I have no idea what to read I real bad want there to be a movie about it is there Any books that are going to be simalair please tell me.My friends love your books too i think that my friends and me would both agree that the phoenix files would probably be the best book I have read and I am 10yrs old wait before I go one more thing could you PLEASE come to my school thankyou bye😜
P.s my school is Picton Public School thanks😉
When is the axact date that doomsday will be out in the uk im realy hooked and cant wait to get it.
July 1st, I think!
Your the most awesomest writer in the world I still haven’t found a book as good as the phoenix files my friends still love you and I do too hope you right more great books just like it 😜
thanks
how did kara and soren know about jordan if only luke and peter were ther?
Kara only ever saw Luke and Peter, but she heard about all three of them.
Hey chris I was wondering what is your favorite character that is in the pheonix files series and the one that is the most worked on and is the most expanded on throughout the series
~Nick NSW
Hmm… probably Jordan.
Why do you think Jordan? Just wondering
~Nick
Jordan’s brave, fiercely protective of her family, and has a strong desire to think deeply and discover the truth about things. I think she’d be a pretty terrifying friend to have in real life, but there’s a lot to admire about her!
Hi Chris~
I just finished reading Doomsday, and wow. What an ending XD I won’t say any spoilers, but it was really surprising. I really enjoyed the whole series and I can’t wait to see more of your stuff in the future! ❤
P.S. A movie for this would be absolutely fantabulous. :3
Thanks Zoe!
Hi Chris,
I’m partway through doomsday and I’m really enjoying it!!
I think that a movie should definitley be made from this in Australia!!
If they did I would want to audition for one of the girl characters except Jordan (because I don’t look anything like her) 😀
Anyway, I think u write really really well and have recommended this series to ALL my friends!
Sorry it’s a really long comment but lasty have u written any other books? I would love to read them!
Hey Ellie,
Thanks heaps! Glad you’re enjoying Doomsday!
The Phoenix Files are the only books I’ve written under my own name, but I also used to write books for the Zac Power series under the name “H.I. Larry” – my favourite ones of those are probably the Mega Missions.
Chris
On Sat, Jun 29, 2013 at 7:02 PM, Chris Morphew
you said in other comments that you have more book ideas after the poenix files, have any of them have names if so what
Not telling just yet!
on the front cover of doomsday who is
who
I have read the Phoenix files it is an amazing series could u please acnolouge of writing Phoenix files 2
I love the Phoenix Files my school gave me arrival for Christmas and i have brought every one please do a book about after Phoenix about when they are back in the outside world and stuff called something like Afterlife it would be awesome.
Hi Chris Morphew!
I’ve just finished reading “the pheonix files” book series. I LOVED IT!!! But as much as i wanted to know how it ended, i also didn’t want it to finish. 😦
But i still loved reading the books.
Will you make a sort of prequal series about what happens after this and maybe a new adventure?
I don’t have any plans to write more Phoenix Files stories at the moment, but I’m definitely planning on writing SOMETHING new in the very near future!
On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 8:20 AM, Chris Morphew
hey Chris mophew! I love your books but in the phoenix files I still don’t get how peter turned out that way (trying not to spoil anything for new readers) do youmind telling me?
When you say at the moment does that mean you might still write more Phoenix files stroies
I don’t think so… but I won’t rule out the possibility altogether!
On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 6:27 PM, Chris Morphew
Hey! I’m not sure if you remember me (I doubt that you do, seeing as you have so many fans, haha) but I’ve commented on a few of your posts before, and my friend Aleisha got you to write me a not for my birthday. Anyway, I just finished reading Doomsday (literally about 2 minutes ago) and I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!!! I can’t wait until the next book that your planning to write! Are you planning to make it a sci-fi-ish book like the Phoenix Files? If so, could you maybe name a character after me? I’m a really really REALLY big fan of your books, and so are my friends. You, along with Veronica Roth, Joanne Rowling and Rick Riordan, have inspired me to become an author. Your writing is so detailed (unlike mine) and complicated (in a good way, also unlike mine) I’m working on these things, but when I’m reading I can’t help but marvel at your great way of writing. Wow, this is longer than I planned. Please answer everything I wrote! (Even if its no to me being a character haha) Thanks! From Karina
Thanks Karina!
Yeah, the new book will be sci-fi-ish – but also quite different from The Phoenix Files!
I don’t really do character naming by request – but you never know, a Karina might show up sooner or later!
Chris
On Tue, Jul 16, 2013 at 8:03 PM, Chris Morphew
Hi
I am , about to buy doomsday/fallout from bookshop. So excited!! 🙂
J can’t wait to see how it all ends up and thank you LOADS for writing the Phoenix Files.
Hope you enjoy the ending!
On Wed, Jul 17, 2013 at 6:49 PM, Chris Morphew
Chris
Here is the basic layout of my story:
So Oscar , and Jane go to Montana(town)
Meet Tom Higham
Together they become friends.
Discover K.David’s is trying to take over the world by cloning all people in Montanna.
Try to stop him.
End of bk 1
Well what do you think?
Sounds interesting so far!
On Thu, Jul 18, 2013 at 7:42 PM, Chris Morphew
By the way, I would love there to be a film made from the ‘pheonix files’.
Please let me know if there will be one.
I would like to play Luke in it.
OMG CHRIS I HAVE SO MUCH TO SAY AND I’M SURE THAT THE VOCABULARY OF ALL THE AUTHORS IN THE WORLD WOULD NOT BE BIG ENOUGH TO USE WORDS TO EVEN START DESCRIBING YOU AND YOUR AWESOME WORK. I LOVE THE PHOENIX FILES SO MUCH!!! THEY ARE SERIOUSLY THE BEST BOOKS IN THE WORLD AND I AM A REALLY BIG READER. YOUR BOOKS REALLY LIGHT UP MY DAY AS I’M SURE THEY HAVE DONE FOR EVERYONE ELSE AROUND THE WORLD. THANKS SO MUCH FOR BEING SO LEGENDARY AND I JUST WANT TO SAY THAT I AM GRATEFUL THAT YOU REPLY TO YOUR FANS MESSAGES EVEN IF THAT DOESN’T IMPLY WITH MY MESSAGE BUT THE FACT THAT YOU MAKE SOME TIME TO ANSWER YOUR FANS MESSAGES REALLY JUST PROVES HOW WONDERFUL YOU ARE. THANKS A MILLION!!!
Thanks so much! So glad you like The Phoenix Files! I’m just starting work on a new project that I hope you’ll enjoy just as much!
Really? What’s it’s name? If you can’t say/don’t know yet, when will you tell us?
Hey Chris!
I am obsessed with your books, to the point where it just can’t be healthy. My friend leant by the first book in your Phoenix Files series about to weeks ago, and I finished it in a day… BIG mistake! I’m bored as now. What’s more? I have to wait until the I receive Contact in the post, it’s killing me! I’m so excited to finish the rest of the series.
Thank you!
–Maddie
Hope you enjoy Contact!
On Sun, Jul 28, 2013 at 3:49 PM, Chris Morphew
Hello Chris!
About 3 weeks I somehow got whooping cough, and was admitted to hospital for a bit, some may see this as a horrible occurrence to a young person. But for me? It meant a relaxing 2 weeks off school to read and re-read the whole Phoenix Files series… I love them! They’re amazing!
Thank you for entertaining me for two straight weeks- it takes someone really talented to do that… just ask my Mum.
–Alaska
Haha thanks Alaska!
On Sun, Jul 28, 2013 at 3:53 PM, Chris Morphew
Hi Chris i love the Phoenix files series it’s AMAZING.
Thanks!
On Mon, Jul 29, 2013 at 4:25 PM, Chris Morphew
Chris,
you are one of my favourite authors and I would just like to say thanks for writing such an awesome book series, The Phoenix Files. Each book ended in an awesome cliff-hanger, making me crave for more and more. I was so thrilled to start reading the last book, Doomsday, but also disappointed since it was the last one. I hope you start writing another series similar to The Phoenix Files. I hope to start reading Zac Power soon. 😀
Also, I seriously hope the Phoenix Files becomes a movie, that would just be amazing, and to also be shot in Australia~
Hey Samantha,
Thanks so much! I’m already hard at work on a couple of new writing projects – hopefully it won’t be too long before I can give you something else to read!
Chris
On Fri, Aug 9, 2013 at 10:29 AM, Chris Morphew
Hey Chris!
I love the Phoenix Files. So much. It’s just like, wow. Haha anyways, you MUST tell us if the Phoenix Files becomes a movie and when auditions are (could you do that for us?!) All of your fans can unlock their inner actor. Who knows, maybe I’ll be Jordan on the big screen!
Thank you for being an incredible and hilarious writer!
-Alexis
Hey Alexis,
Thanks so much! If the Phoenix Files ever gets adapted for TV/movies, I’ll be sure to keep you guys informed!
Chris
On Fri, Aug 9, 2013 at 5:34 PM, Chris Morphew
Hey Chris it’s me again.I’ve been looking for fallout and I can’t seem to get it from bookshops.Do you know why?
Hey Connor,
If your local bookstore doesn’t have Fallout in stock, I’m sure they’d be happy to order it in for you if you ask!
Chris
Hi Chris it’s me again.
I just wanted to let you know I am on pg 116 of fallout- and im loving all of it!!
And by the way I gave nearly finished my book so I’ll link it to a comment A.S.A.P!!!
=)
J.D.
=)
Chris, you’ve out-done yourself, seriously.
What started as what looked like avsoppy love story suggested by a friend, turned out to be the best series of books ive ever read, and I mean that, ive given these books to all my friends, and we frieked out when Doomday came out.
I have to say this however, page 392, near the bottom, it says widow instead of window, just so you know.
Thanks for being such an amazing writer, cant wait to see more!
Thanks! (And thanks also for pointing out the typo – something to change for the second printing!)
Chris
On Thu, Aug 22, 2013 at 6:45 AM, Chris Morphew
Hey Chris,
I have read your series and it has amazed me.
thank you so much for writing it.
Matt
Thanks for reading it!
On Thu, Aug 22, 2013 at 5:15 PM, Chris Morphew
chris I am from turkey but phoenix files contact dont come in turkey DO you know anything
I’m not sure when the Turkish edition of Contact is due out, sorry.
On Fri, Aug 23, 2013 at 1:07 AM, Chris Morphew
Hey Chris,
I am from turkey but phoenix files contact dont come in turkey DO you know anything
Thank you
Hey Chris!
I just FINALLY finished Doomsday after rereading the series again before reading it so I was up with the plot. IT IS THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER AND WILL EVER READ!!!
Just wondering, did you ever do a map of Phoenix, because in my stories I have done lots of stuff like that but if I ever became a proper author I doubt I’d publish them.
Anyway, thank you for being such an inspiring author.
-Katie
By the way I’m Christian too, and was intrigued to hear that you are so similar to me not only in taste (bookwise, at least) but also in faith 🙂
That’s awesome, Katie!
Here’s a map of Phoenix I drew a while ago: http://chrismorphew.com/2010/09/14/phoenix-town-map/
On Sun, Sep 1, 2013 at 2:19 PM, Chris Morphew
Hi Chris,
I loved your series and I can’t wait until I get Doomsday, so far the series is amazing so I hope it has just as good of an ending as a beginning!
Thanks,
Matt
Thanks Matt! Hope you enjoy Doomsday!
Hi
I have finally finished fallout and it was awesome!
I especially love the ending when it says:
“Calvin’s back!he knows where we are! They’re coming!” Or something like that. I just really want doomsday and am waiting for my birthday (16th October) so I can ask for the whole series!
And for the 6 millionth time thank you for writing the Phoenix Files.
J.D.Morris
Thanks!
Thank you so much Chris!
Hi Chris
So far I’m nearly up to reading the third series of the Phoenix Files and so far am really enjoying it. Also for one of my high school assignments, we had to research about the author of the book that you were reading. So that is why I chose YOU for the assignment as you’re a really good author and also an interesting person. I have to answers questions like…
Before you read these, you do not have to answer these if you don’t want too.
*What is your FULL name?
*When was the author’s FULL date of birth and where?
*What are the names of author’s spouse, children, and/or pets?
*What are the author’s parents’ names?
*What are the author’s favorite books/authors?
*What are the author’s hobbies and talents?
*What is this author’s favorite subject in school?
*What made this author unique as a child?
*Where did this author grow up?
*Where did this author attend college?
*What other professions has this author worked in?
*Where does the author live now?
*What else has this author written?
I do not know if I have sent this email properly but hopefully you might able to respond. I really look up to you as an author and a nice person. Keep writing awesome books!
Thank you for coming to Wellington my school. It was fun to learn about how you became an writer.
P.S. I am really exited to read your new books the Phoenix files
I finished the Phoenix Files yesterday and I would just like to say…
I endeavor to write a book that makes people feel the way I did after I read yours! You capture the integrity of each character and weave everything together so brilliantly! I’ve always wanted to be an author but I’m not sure if I could do what you can. And I have a few questions…
Did you do a degree or a course on creative writing? If so where?
And what subject do you teach?
Well thanks for listening,
From Shay!
P.s. you are handsdown my favourite author
Hi!
At the moment i’m reading The Phoenix Files and I CAN’T PUT THEM DOWN! They are SO amazing! My old favorite series was Percy Jackson, and I thought that they would be hard to beat. But, you certainty have beaten them! I absolutely LOVE The Phoenix Files and they are now by far my favorite series.
I just finished the 4th book today, and I started it yesterday. I began reading the series last Sunday! Now I’m really bored because I don’t have any Phoenix Files books to read! At school, I’m in a writers club, which I really enjoy. When I grow up, I really want to be an author and school teacher, just like you!
Thank you for providing me with such enjoyment over the school holidays.
From,
Josie 🙂
Thanks Josie! Writing and teaching are my two favourite jobs in the world – I definitely recommend them!
Hi!
It’s Josie (again)!
Sorry if I’m interrupting you, but I REALLY need to know something!
Do you think that The Phoenix Files will become a movie? I really want them to!
From,
Josie:)
Maybe one day! I’ll be sure to let you guys know if I hear anything!
hi!
I just have one more question:
At the end of Underground, Kara and Soren show Jordan and Luke the video of Peter stabbing Luke, like, from 20 years ago. i’m just really confused how he’s still alive, and stuff.
Thank you SO much!
From,
Josie 🙂
Haha keep reading! It’ll all make sense in the end (well, hopefully…)
Hey Chris,
I cant seem to find the map you drew of phoenix anywhere! could you plz tell me where it is?
Here you go: http://chrismorphew.com/2010/09/14/phoenix-town-map/
Hi again, I think you should really think about making a movie out of the phoenix files because as you can see, all your fans want one! Including me! and could you tell us if you are making a movie?! if you are also tell us when your auditioning!
p.s I love your books!
thanks so much!
I’ll definitely let you all know if it ever happens!
Hi Chris, Just wondering if you were planning to write The Phoenix Files origins or what happened after Doomsday? I really like your books. I have read them all. Thanks for writing them 🙂 See ya, Matt Walton
(ps. my Mum is a teacher too that is why all the caps are correct and stuff.)
(pps. I am using my Mum’s computer that is why the photo is of a girl 🙂 I don’t really like purple shiny tops!
I don’t have any plans for more Phoenix Files books at the moment, but who knows? Maybe one day! I’ve got some other things I’m working on in the meantime, though!
Chris
Best books ever! life and apples:)
I just finish the series!!!! They really good. I couldn’t stop reading them. I somehow finished fallout and doomsday in 4 days!!!:) I really wish I could make the movie one day!!!!!
Thanks Katie!
On Tue, Oct 1, 2013 at 10:38 AM, Chris Morphew
How old did you imagine Soren to be??
Well, Kara was pregnant with Soren at the time of the video at the end of Underground – so about twenty.
On Sun, Oct 6, 2013 at 8:47 PM, Chris Morphew
Thanks
Hello Chris
After extensive research I have completed all my questions except for three, which I would really love you to answer.
Are you married with children, do you have any pets and what are your parent’s name?
P.P.S 🙂
i love u chris
(Not in that way!)
Hi Chris,
I have started reading the Phoenix Files, and I am completely HOOKED. I’ve nearly finished ‘Contact’ and am enjoying it IMMENSELY ( or however you spell it ). I used to read Zac Power when I was in year 3/4 and now that I realise you wrote some of them, I am even more of a fan. I love to read. I read all sorts of things, from Skulduggery Pleasant to Harry Potter and The Phoenix Files is the best so far. There’s one thing I would like to ask. Of all things, why did they name the virus, plague or whatever, Tabitha? Anyway, nice seeing your blog. Bye now,
Haha the honest answer about Tabitha: I work at a girls’ school and wanted to make sure I picked a name that no one in the whole school had!
On Sat, Oct 19, 2013 at 9:53 PM, Chris Morphew
lol good to know xD. ‘Cause it’s a violent disease so I was confused at the time.
Hi Chris 🙂 (Sorry if this message is long- I just love to write, and I love your books so much)
So, I’m half fangirling about your books right now 😛 They first came to my school at our book fair last year and I read the back. I put the book down cause I didn’t want to waste my money (no offense, just what I thought at first). Then, my friend, who is totally obsessed with the Hunger Games, started reading the books and said that they were so much better than THG 🙂 So I decided to check them out.
I read Arrival the first night I checked out the book– I’ve only read till five in the morning before, and that was for the Hunger Games. After I finished the book at 5 AM the next day, I almost died from suspense, and checked out Contact. (Which is my favorite book of the series and left me breathless after Reeve’s supposed murder).
Anyway, I read the other books until I finished Fallout, leaving me to wait a WHOLE THREE MONTHS for Doomsday to come out (I know it’s not that long, but since I live in the U.S., I didn’t know when it being published, since you said in your videos that you didn’t know when it was coming out here.) And then my friend gave it to me and I almost cried (that’s how “fangirls” react :P.) After I finished Doomsday, I shut the book and sat in my room for three hours, not knowing what to do.
I’ve started writing a story/book, that I actually continued [all my other ideas have ended at the third or fourth chapter]), thanks to you, my favorite author.
So, that’s how your books have impacted my life. Speaking of life, I think I already told you my life story, so I’ll TRY stop here. 🙂
P.S. I’d give anything to meet you and for you to respond, and anything for movies to be made based on your books. Let’s hope they don’t screw them up like they did for the Percy Jackson series (which I’ve been meaning to read 🙂 )
P.P.S. Sorry for writing a whole novel in this message– I’m just so excited to find this blog thingamajig =)
Hey Klaire,
Thanks so much! I’m actually coming to the US in January on tour. My itinerary is a bit random (I think I’m doing Ohio/Seattle/Alabama or something) but I’m definitely looking forward to meeting as many of you guys as I can!
Chris
On Sun, Nov 3, 2013 at 5:35 AM, Chris Morphew
YAY! I live in one of those states 🙂 Thanks for replying
Will you publish a new series? If so what is the title of the book ( or the series name)
Yes – I’ve got a couple of new projects in the works! More details soon!
On Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 7:55 PM, Chris Morphew
Hi Chris, my 10 year old son is a huge fan of yours and tells everyone how much he loves your books. Every time I turn around he’s reading which is just fantastic! Do you have any plans to visit the UK on a book tour in the future? It would make his year to meet you. Many thanks for being his inspiration!
I would LOVE to visit the UK sometime! I’ll be sure to let you guys know if I do!
On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 1:28 AM, Chris Morphew
Mr. Morphew, I was wondering if you are coming to Chicago for the January tour. I would love to see you because you are definitely my favorite author.
Hey Gus,
Unfortunately the closest to Chicago I’ll be coming is Columbus/Cleveland. Hopefully I’ll make it There some other time!
hi chris
im from your school
croydon public
Goats. Really now?
Ahhh! Desperately trying to get Fallout for my daughter but not having any luck! Is it out of print? 😦 I can get Doomsday but not Fallout?? She is going to be so sad! 😦
Try here! http://myubam.com/p/2095/phoenix-files-book-5-fallout
Hi chris-
Just wondering if you still taught at school?
If I ever get clash of the tribes published I would like it if you would read it and after i’ve edited could I link it to a comment so you could give me some tips please?
Thanks a billion for being so insparational
J.D
P.S.
I think its a great idea letting your fans write to you and that you spend time replying to us.
Hey J.D.,
Yeah, I’m still teaching and loving it! I can’t guarantee I’ll have time to read your story (I get quite a few requests like this these days), but I’ll do my best!
Chris
On Mon, Dec 9, 2013 at 1:34 AM, Chris Morphew
Thanks
And one more thing- please can you make another video because I’ve read all the books and seen all the videos so I’m kinda bored.
J.D.
Hi, it’s Klaire again!
So today on the afternoon announcements our librarian said that you were coming to our school! I was freaking out! I can’t wait 🙂 It’s in Canton, Ohio and I forget the date. Do you remember? If so, could you tell me? Thanks!
I can’t wait 🙂
I’m not sure, sorry – sometime in early January though! Looking forward to it!
I just found out– January 8th 🙂
Hello Chris
I know now it’s 2014 but I really want to ask a question that has been on my mind forever (and I just found this website today) anyways on the front cover of the Australian cover, I am not to sure which silhouette belongs to Peter or Luke please tell me!
PS. I am super happy that this story is Australian thank you!!
PPS. At first I thought Tabitha was an actual person xD
Hey Angelica,
Peter is the one who moves further away.
Chris
And Jordan is my absolute FAVOURITE I love her she is so awesome! Thank you for making a character like her, once again thank you for this awesome series!!!!!!!!
Hi Chris! I just wanted to tell you that you were amazing today! I got you intire series! ILYSM!
Thanks Lauren!
My son got to attend your visit today at Jackson Middle School and you made a great impression on him. I want to thank you for coming to the US for your visits and inspiring the children to read and write if that’s what they like to do.
My son is a big reader as am I and he’ll often tell me to read a book he really enjoys and I love having that experience with him. I ordered the autographed series for him and we both are excited to read your books.
I’m sorry your visit to us had to come during the coldest weather we’ve experienced in decades lol. I swear that Ohio is a great place to visit on a warm, sunny day!
Hi, you came and talked to my school (Hewitt trussville) and I have a question. I write a lot and have wrote one book and published through an online self publishing thingy. How do you come up with ideas for your books and where do you write them down?
I usually write my ideas down in either a notebook or the notes app on my phone. For me, the best way to start generating ideas is to just pay attention to the world around you and see what weird/interesting/funny/unusual things you notice – you never know what might spark an idea. From there, I just ask myself lots of “What if…?” and “Why…?” type questions, and that usually helps get my from initial ideas to something I can make a story out of.
On Sun, Jan 26, 2014 at 1:39 PM, Chris Morphew
Ok. Thanks. That helps a lot.
hi Chris, I was just wondering if you have any recommendations for books like the phoenix files. I usually hate reading but my brother introduced me to the Phoenix files and I couldn’t put the books down. but unfortunately I have almost finished doomsday and don’t have any other books to read. Please help!!!!
P.S r u writing any other books like the phoenix files any time soon
thanks 🙂
The Sky So Heavy by Claire Zorn is a great book by an Australian author. I also really like the Chaos Walking trilogy by Patrick Ness and The Tomorrow Code by Brian Falkner. And I definitely recommend Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia if you haven’t tried them already!
Hello Mr. Morphew, Just a note to say a thank you again for stopping by Northwestern Middle School in West Salem, Ohio. It was a rare opportunity for our students to meet and hear others from another country, let alone an author. Your visual presentation was engaging and your willingness to entertain off the wall questions and topics was fabulous. Thank you again!
Mrs. C. Sykes
6th Grade Teacher
Thanks so much for having me!
Hi Chris
Just a quick question;
Are you going ahead with the “zombaliens” idea?
Cheers,
J.D.
Yep! Although it probably won’t be called that…
Hi Chris–
First off, which of the phoenix files did you enjoy writing the most and second, which are you most pleased with??
J.D.
P.S.
Sorry about the icon colour; this is from a different device to normal=)
I think Mutation was probably the book that came together the easiest, but Doomsday is the one I’m most please with.
Sorry its the same isn’t it!!
(The icon colour, i mean.)
Have you got any costume suggestions for Luke and Shackleton???
J.D.
For Luke, I’d go Phoenix High uniform – white shirt with Phoenix crest stuck on, red tie, grey pants. For Shackleton… I guess a grey business suit and tie, with maybe some flour or something to turn your hair grey!
Hey Chris!
I just finished doomsday and it was extremely brilliant!
you are great! i am waiting for anything to drop!! you rock!
Thanks, man! Working hard on some new stuff now – hoping to release a couple of things next year!
Hey Chris
The phoenix files are my favourite series of books and I was just wondering if there would ever be a movie for them because that would be so good. Also it would be so awesome if you made a seventh book (like what happen after they left phoenix). I really want to read more of the phoenix files but I have read them all :(.
Are your books scholastic or what? Just wondering to know what i should order series from. Read first 2 books so far and they were great.
Thanks! The books are published by Hardie Grant Egmont in Australia/NZ, Kane Miller in the US, and Scholastic in the UK (although they’ve just got out of print in the UK…)
where did you come up with the names for all of the people in the phoenix files?
And by the way your books are amazing!!! I recommend them to all of my friends who like to read:)
and what new books are you coming out with?:)
Hey Simon,
I’ve written a bit about this here: http://chrismorphew.com/faq/
Chris
And thanks for the whole series Chris they are really amazing! But you should make a 7th one explaining what happened after they left
No plans for a Book #7 right now… but anything’s possible!
Hi Chris i love your books i’m up to number 4 mutation and i cant get enough i’m on the edge of my seat every time. Please do make a movie because it will be my favourite movie ever. I reckon it will get more people liking it than harry potter over time. Amazing work good job!
peri :3
Thanks Peri!
Hi Chris I’ve got a book project and I’m doing it on Phoenix files I need to do an interview with author NEED HELP!!!!
BTW I absolutely love Phoenix files. Told my friends about it and they are so far LOVING IT!!!
I recently finished doomsday and WOW! What an ending
Thanks Mackenzie pls reply
BTW I am a HUGE!!!! Fan I have read all of your books!!!
Make sure the facts are in depth and not just where u r born please!!!!😄
Last but not least I look exactly like Jordan and we are the same we love our family, we are fearce, and the book described Jordan exactly like me
Even those such as HEROES which remains focused on comics,
manages to have a number of other aspects and should be able to keep
the whole family amused for the weekend. nothing whatsoever
to interfere with their clean, harsh, rectilinear
design. Science fiction promises that our imaginations are prolific creators that can give us the means to make life be as we
want it to be.
I know that there is not a movie coming out for phoenix files but i just want to say how AWESOME it would be if one was released. I recon it would be pretty successful mate. Good work with the phoenix files books by the way and i loved how creative everything was!
Hey I’m Cilla I just got your book for school reading I’m really exited to read it! It looks great from what I’ve heard and I was just wondering how many books are in the series thanks
-Cilla
Hi Cilla here again I was also wondering what the order was for the Phoenix files was thanks.
-Cilla
Hey Cilla, there are six books in the series and the order is: Arrival, Contact, Mutation, Underground, Fallout, Doomsday. Hope you enjoy them!
Ok thanks 🙂
Hey Chris—
Just to let you know I’m going to try and send you chapter 1 of my new story in a few weeks.
If you can read it that would be great (baring in mind i’m only 10) and tell me what you think. I know I’ve said it a million times before but once more you and your books are really insparational and your books are fantastic examples of amazing sci-fi novels.
Thanks,
J.D. 🙂
Hey Chris-
I am doing a speech on you and your series phoenix files at school is there any interesting information I can put in it?
Thanks
Aurora.
Sup dude I’ve read the sires 8 times and they always amaz me!!!!!!!!!!
I love your books! The Phoenix files and their opened endings made me want read ’em all. I see you like Mario kart,
And AMERICAN CEREAL PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!
im a FAN of your books :-p
Could u recommend a couple of books for me to read (YA/Teen sci fi type stuff (not the hunger games or Harry Potter though! )
The “Chaos Walking” trilogy by Patrick Ness is excellent, as is “The Sky So Heavy” by Claire Zorn.
What is one of the new projects that you’re working on going to be about?
Hey Nathan,
I talk a bit about my new projects here:
http://chrismorphew.com/faq/
Hi, i feel that i saw you visited my website thus i got here to return the desire?.I’m attempting to find things to improve my site!I assume its good enough
to use a few of your concepts!!
Hi chris—
Im in italia.
At the moment im by the pool reading doomsday-2nd time and still great beyond words.
Thx x1, 000, 000, 000, 000, 000 for being such a great writer and being so big an inspiration
this is really long but I cant think upany other way to say what I think
J.D.
Thanks J.D.!
Thnx
for coming to the voices festival
It was great to be there!
please can you make the phoenix files a movie I just finished fallout and am waiting 4 my BFF 2 return doomsday so I can read it hopefully she returns it tomorrow
P.S best most gripping series ever
P.P.S have u read LoTR (lord of the rings + The Hobbit = awesome)
I’m actually reading Lord of the Rings right now! It’s taken a little while to get going, but I’m really enjoying it!!
Have you finished lord of the rings yet
Oh and I forgot to ask have you read the divergent series including the prequel Four I suggest you read veronica roth is an equally incredible author and the series I found related to the phoenix files in the way the world is falling apaert and how there are constant escalating problems it is also dystpian if u havnt read it you need to
I’m almost done with LotR and about halfway through Divergent. (A bit behind, I know!)
Hey Chris, I’ve written here a few times and you’ve responded, which I still to this day think is AMAZING. I’d just like to know, do you know George R.R Martin? Have you read any of his books, such as “A Song Of Ice And Fire”. They’re amazing. Have you seen the “Game of Thrones” TV show?
Sorry for the irrelevance of these questions, I am just curious. Your work as authors, you and George, are completely different of course but I love them both. I just wanted to know if you liked/disliked these at all.
By the way, I still haven’t gotten the very last book of yours and its killing me! I completely got out of the loop with everything and I seen all my old books as I was cleaning my room and I reread the last book (not the entire thing as I was suppose to be cleaning) and it all came back to me and now I MUST READ THE LAST BOOK!
Getting it for my birthday, which is the 15th. Anyway, I hate to drag this on, thanks in advance for your time Chris:) You seem like a great guy. Also, if you are familiar with George’s work with the song of ice and fire books or the TV show based on them, game of thrones, could you list reasons why you do or don’t like them?
That’s if you’re familiar with them though. This all just out of curiosity, I’m not going to counter you if you say you don’t like them. I’d just like to know your opinions on these if you have any. You’re both great authors. Anyway, before I rant again, cya!
(I’m suppose to be doing an assignment)
P.s Also as I check this everyday for a reply I realized your name, if I’m pronouncing it correctly, is somewhat of an oxymoron. Morphew, more few. More few!? There’s few, but there’s more?
Hey Michael,
I’ve got mixed feelings about Game of Thrones. There’s a lot to love: expansive fantasy world, sprawling cast of interesting characters, great dialogue, interesting storytelling…
BUT there’s a lot about GoT that I find really frustrating too.
I realise that the extremely graphic nature of the show is a big part of the appeal for a lot of people – but for me, it so often feels gratuitous. There’s a big difference between “shocking” and “clever” and I think GoT too often settles for the former… which is a shame, because they’ve proven themselves more than capable of being clever too, when they want to be.
I also don’t get the sense that the story is going anywhere. Increasingly, it just feels like a soap opera rather than an epic.
But in the end, probably my biggest complaint is that the show really doesn’t seem to have all that much to say. I mean, yeah, it does a great job of illustrating the darkness and twistedness and brokenness of people – but in the end, that’s not exactly an insightful observation. And if all the show is trying to say is, “The world is dark and people are horrible,” then for me, that’s kind of a letdown…
For me, the greatest stories are the ones that do take a good, long, unflinching look at the brokenness of the world, but that then go on to speak into that darkness and grapple with the questions of how we’re supposed to deal with that. And if the best answer GoT has to offer is, “Just suck it up, because everything is horrible all the way down,” then I can’t help feeling a little bit underwhelmed…
Hey Chris 🙂
Thank you for your long answer and honest opinion, I really appreciate it. It’s exactly what I asked for yet more than I expected.
I see a little bit more to it than that but I defiantly agree with you on some of those points. I see the story going somewhere for the Westeros story line with all those characters, but not with Daenerys and her story. Daenerys is a great character but her story feels like it is dragging out far too much. But I don’t know how much of the show you have seen/ when you last watched it and if you know what I’m talking about or not so I will leave it at that.
I’d recommend you the books if you haven’t read them, at least the first one, if you get free time and want to read more fantasy. You obviously know it’s a bit more mature than LOTR. By this I mean the content being of a higher rating, I’m not talking down on Tolkein. Just clarification XD
Thanks again for your detailed and honest answer, it means a lot. Also, I lent the first Phoenix Files book to one of my friends and she wasn’t extremely hooked at the start but kept reading because of her curiosity on what was going on in the story, now she loves it. Thank you for giving us another thing to talk about PLUS that’s easy Christmas presents I can give now.
Thank you for your time.
Hi Mr. Morphew, Your phoenix files books are amazing. I am a Christian too and I’m also Australian. My favourite book was Fallout. The thing with Luke and Peter going into the past etc. was AMAZING. My friend was up to maybe fallout when I started reading and it was so awesome that I finished it before her. I didn’t really like the hunger games THAT much, but doomsday was every bit as exciting as Mockingjay. I LOVE Georgia and I even named a character after her. I was going to name her “Jordan” But it really doesn’t suit pale skin and jet black hair if you know what I mean. Also you have some really funny jokes (“We had an action-packed half hour of house watching. Highlights included a bike going past and Ketterley’s neighbour taking his rubbish out” not exactly word for word, but I hope you know what I mean) that are as funny as the ones in Artemis Fowl (By the way if anyone hasn’t read it, you REALLY should. It was my favourite series before I heard of P. F.)
Thanks Eve! Great to hear you enjoyed the books!
wow, you reply really fast, thanks a lot
This is Eve again, I wonder how many people have asked for a movie? 1000000000? and you’ve replied to every one! I grew up on Narnia, I’m 12 now and my 5-year-old sister listens to Narnia audiobooks at night. I’m not allowed to read Harry Potter. Have you watched L.o.t.R? If so, what was your favourite movie? Mine was return of the king. (Sorry, this is EXTREMELY irrelevant) And do you like listening to music? What are your favourite bands? Mine are Skillet and Relient K.
Sorry to bother you, Eve
Yeah, I’ve seen Lord of the Rings – but too long ago to remember which one was my favourite! I’m actually reading the books at the moment, so I’m sure I’ll go back and watch the movies again once I’ve finished that!
As for music, I like Relient K quite a bit, but I thought their latest album was a bit disappointing. Favourite bands are Switchfoot, Five Iron Frenzy… also really liking Andy Mineo’s new EP at the moment. And the second Mumford and Sons album… and a lot of random hip-hop.
I have only heard a couple of songs, but I like be my escape and who I am hates who I’ve been. Actually Eve is a pen-name. My actual name is Maeve
only heard a couple of songs from Relient K. I’ve read the hobbit thrice, return of the king, but I couldn’t be bothered to read return of the king, and just watched the movie
oooops, please ignore my sloppiness. I mean I read Two Towers, but didn’t read Return of the King. My apologies
Hi Chris
My name is Chase and i am 13. I was wondering if i could interview you and something for a school talk.
My Skype user is Chase4012
My Instagram is SlimePrime
From your fan Chase
Hello Chris,
My name is Milo, and we’re having a book parade where we dress up as a book character. I chose Luke and I was wondering what the Phoenix High emblem looked like. BTW ur books r AMZINGZEZ!!!!
Milo (10)
Hey Milo,
Awesome! The Phoenix High emblem is a red Phoenix with its wings curved up into a circle.
Thanks 4 that Chris. + do u remember Shearers on Norton Street with the book club? I remember when you came 2 speak to the book club a few times, my brother, Zac, (don’t know if u remember him) was among them.
We miss Shearers after it closed down. ;”(
Yeah, I was so sad when Shearers shut down! Such a shame…
Hi Chris I was wondering if I could interview you for a school talk
PS love your books
Hi
I luv ur books. They’re the best books in the world. My fav series in the world is The Phoenix Files and I LOVE reading so that’s saying something. Ask anyone in my class who I am and they’ll say”she’s the one who’s reading during recess, lunch, and every lesson in our home group. She’s the book fan”. I can’t include the class and school for privacy reasons but yeah. I love books. Can you please make a movie?and write more books in The Phoenix Files? Also, can you please send me photos of every character in the book and the Phoenix emblem if you have photos? I’m trying to make a trailer but I don’t have any photos and I’m thinking I might make a movie on my iPad. Like, a real movie. But I need to know how the people look. I’m not good at stuff like that. Please?thanks.
Hi Dhanvi, I don’t actually have any pictures of the characters or the Phoenix emblem, unfortunately! Not sure about a movie or more PF books – but I’ll definitely let you guys know if either sounds like they’re going to happen!
Thanks
P.S. My name’s Dhanvi
love the phoenix files i wont to arks how you got in to writing.
p.s like the blog
Hey James, I talk a bit about this here: http://chrismorphew.com/faq
are you going to make anymore phoenix files books.
i hope you do.
I don’t have any plans to write more Phoenix Files books at the moment – but maybe one day!
do you write on a computer or note pad or something
Usually on a computer!
So, I recently finished reading the Phoenix files. And I was hoping at the start that I would get the same book from a different perspective. Then we could’ve known all the characters back stories. I was ex
Expecting all the books to based around Luke. Also. As much as I want a movie, would it not be hard to depict characters with no images or anything.
I heard you liked mario kart… well I do too… HMAJDGGKBF we like have so much in common.
Also, would you mind checking out my wattpad where I write books?
Clockwork music by teazgames
Sorry about the whole typing thing 😀
I’m reading the 4 book i finish 3 last night ya ya ya
Chris do you like the gone series? The author (Michael Grant) commented on your books. I am halfway through writing my new book called Apocalypse (its a 7or8 book one) and hopefully I can add it to a comment. If mot for u I woukdnt even be writing at all and you arejust so inspirational,
Thanks, J.D
Yeah, I enjoyed the Gone series. I met Michael when he came out to Sydney a few years ago. Really nice guy!
hi just wondering if you were planning on making a movie cause that would be awesome
Hi I have been reading the Phoenix files I am now up to the 5th one fallout. I was wondering will it ever become a movie? I love the books and I am so desperate to finish them but I also don’t want to so I am enjoy them longer. The Phoenix files series is my favourite series and books I have read so far and would like to see how they will turn out as a movie.
Hey Sophie,
Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoy the end of the series! Not sure about a movie – no plans at this stage, but I’ll definitely let you guys know if I hear anything!
Chris
Hi Chris, I live in the U.S and I just found your series the Phoenix Files, and boy is it amazing! I’m in the 8th grade and I’ve read well over 500 books, I love reading, and I have to say that this is my favorite series ever! I’m on the fourth book right now, and almost finished. Thanks and keep up the good work!
P.S. I was kinda wondering who was who on the front covers of your books. I know which one’s Jordan but I’m confused as to who Luke and Peter are. Thanks again!
Hi Kaden – glad to hear you’ve been enjoying the books! On the covers, Peter is the one who moves further away from the others as the series goes on.
I love the Phoenix files books!
They are so gripping! I have read the whole series and I loved how the ending of the book just made you wanna read more! As I said before I have read the whole series but I am still hungry for more! I know everyone has asked/commented that you should make it into a TV series or movie but you 100% should! You are an amazing book writer so keep writing these thrilling books!!
Love N.G
Thanks!!
Hey Chris,
I’ve always wanted to know what Luke looks like (facial feature wise.) Whenever i search Phoenix Files Luke all i get his his silhouette figure thingy.
Hey Emma, I’ve always pictured Luke as being very middle-of-the-road in his appearance – not remarkably ugly or remarkably good looking, average height and weight (although presumably he gets fitter as the series progresses), shortish brown hair… I like the idea that it’s not his appearance that sets him apart in any way. He’s a total Everyman, who gets thrown into this completely ridiculous life in Phoenix.
When I was reading the Phoenix files series and I progressed in the books I felt sorry for peter and how he loves Jordan but how he’s crazy at the same time! I always cringe at the bits when Peter goes super crazy. I really want to read a new series of books but I don’t know what books to read, do you have any recommendations?
Love N.G
Yeah, I felt pretty sorry for Peter too – but one of the most interesting parts for me about writing his character was that blurry line of how much of Peter’s behaviour was Peter’s fault and how much was the fallout messing with his head.
As for other books… Have you read the Chaos Walking trilogy by Patrick Ness?
I loved Phoenix Files.
One question:
Animals get harmed by Tabitha, right?
So what was Shackleton going to do if there weren’t any animals… And where did they get fresh meat?
Did Shackleton have yet another secret warehouse filled with animals… or what?
And what’s Tank’s actual name?
Annika
Hey Annika,
The final version of Tabitha harms humans but not animals (although this was a tricky part of the process to sort out – hence the gory pictures Peter discovered in Contact, which depicted the results of an early incarnation of Tabitha).
I don’t think I ever mentioned Tank’s real name in the series – but in my notes, he’s Martin.
Chris
Thanks. One more thing… Did you know there’s a real Peter Weir?
Annika
Yep! Although that’s not who the Peter in the books is named after.
Are you Mr morphews Son. He teaches at My school I go to newington college
Yep! That’s my Dad!
Hi I’ve finished the Phoenix files and I love it but iwas wondering if you are going to write more to the Phoenix files I gotten all of my friend to read it and just finished watching the the American serial’s YouTube videos and I hope you make a movie thank you for listing.
Hey James, don’t think I’ll write any more Phoenix Files, but I do have a new novel in the pipeline which I hope Phoenix Files readers will really like!
Hi:) I’m Bell and I live in Australia like you!!! I’m currently re-reading the Phoenix Files and am just as obsessed this time as I was my first. I was running around work all day saying we have 65 days left! And we have 58 days! and right now we have (picks up underground and checked place in book) 47 days left to live!!! I have been watching your YouTube clip and I laugh so much! And I also write fan fiction! I am actually pretty good at it even if I do say so myself 🙂 I write vampire Academy fan fiction (don’t judge the books are better than the movies!!!) and out of over 7000 fics mine was rated 12 th!!!!!!
My house mate is laughing at me right now but I just had to ask, if you are ever in Kingaroy (it’s a smallish town about two hours outside of Brisbane) then you should come to my church! I’m a Sunday school teacher and I go to The highway Christian Church. I’m also considering becoming your stalker……but that sounds like it would take a lot of effort….so I think I’ll just follow you on YouTube instead:) would love to hear back from you!!! Thank you for writing such amazing books
Hey Bell!
Yeah, I think your YouTube stalking plan is much better than the real-life stalking option. Easier for you, and less creepy for me. Everyone’s a winner! But I’m glad to hear you’ve been enjoying The Phoenix Files (again!)
Chris
Ok then I’ll keep at it lol. Anyway I was reading Fallout when I noticed something. In chapter two it clearly said that Mike hand was baldy injured and that “His left thumb and forefinger ended up getting left behind on the operating table.”
But later in chapter four it said ” eyes dropping to Mike’s right hand, takin in his missing fingers.”
So I’m just wondering if I’ve misunderstood it or if this is a typo 🙂 Also I have been reading some of the comments on this page and I think that I am the only person that doesn’t want the Phoenix files to be made into a movie or TV series. I worry that it would just mess everything up and that it could never be as good as your books! In face I can’t think of any movie that came close to being as good as the books. Like I said about Vampire Academy the movie killed it but the books were great. Anyway I had better get back to reading Doomsday!:)
Yeah, that finger thing is a mistake! Thanks for pointing it out – I’ll pass this on to my editor so it can get fixed for the new edition of the book!
On the movie thing… I go back and forth on this because, I agree, most movie adaptations (Harry Potter, Narnia…) miss the mark for me… but then there are others (Lord of the Rings, Hunger Games…) that I think do a really good job! That said, I haven’t heard anything about a Phoenix Files TV show/movie for AGES, so I’m assuming it’s probably not going to happen anytime soon!
Hello again! Sorry in I’m probably getting annoying by now, but I’m almost finished with the last book so hopefully you won’t have to put up with my fan girling anymore;) So this email- review – thing has three parts so bare with me!
Part one. I was just hunting down all of your “American breakfast party” YouTube clips and Wow! I can’t believe it! I just can’t believe that anyone could eat that stuff for the most important meal of the day!!! Even when I was a kid I wasn’t allowed to have soft drink before 12:00 on the school holidays!
Anyway now for the important part !!!! I just thought of something that I didn’t have time to think about the first time that I read Doomsday because my brain was to busy shouting “Oh my gosh Peter turned in to Luke and killed himself!!!!!!!” But if my math is correct then Bill/Peter would of been 35 when all of this started. I understand what he did with the injection and making himself look like Luke. But that was only his face, right? So my question is this. If Bill was still technically 35 when he went to go and see Jordan, disguised as Luke, then his 35 year old body would have been much bigger then Luke’s 15 year old one, wouldn’t it? So how come Jordan ( Even though she was emotional and upset) didn’t notice how much bigger “Luke” was when she hugged and kissed him?
And now part three. I only just realised this when your cousin was saying that it wasn’t a big strong hero that saves the day at the end of this book it’s a tiny little newborn baby. And that’s when it finally hit me that that was a perfect metaphor for Jesus! How he was born to save all our lives he came to us as a baby to save us. True he was a grown man when he died on the cross for our sins but the fact that he save the day by being born and how Tobias saved the day also! Even though it was through drinking Tabitha and all. But I still think it’s a really cool metaphor so thank you.:)
PS you should come to Easterfest next year!!! I think your books would be a hit for a Christian teen:)
Hey Bell,
So it’s been a few years since I wrote/read Doomsday, but from memory, I decided that there was enough darkness/emotion/being in a hurry to explain away any differences in “Luke’s” appearance. But, yeah, I agree it’s a bit of a grey area.
And yeah, there’s actually quite a bit of gospel imagery in The Phoenix Files. To me, the whole series is about the search for meaning and purpose in a broken world (which is also kind of what life is about.) I never sat down and tried to write a “Christian” book, but my faith is such a vital part of the way I see the world that it’s bound to come through in the stories I write.
I’d love to get back to Easterfest sometime! I went once, a few years ago, whichever year it was that Switchfoot played in that mental torrential rain! Such a great night!
Chris
Yeah I see what you mean. With Jordan being so sure that everything had a purpose and that none of this was happening just by accident. And Tobias dying for a while and then coming back to life. And with the “overseers” pretending to be gods or whatever, if you look it really can relate to the bible quit a bit:)
And your kidding! Switchfood was just playing this year!!! I saw them but I spent most of my Easterfest getting free hugs! I made a sign and dressed up in a minion onesie and storm trooper hoody; I’m a Star Wars geek 😉 and I got over 500 hugs!!!! I also think that I was on the news for a bit:)
But I’m worried. There is talk of us having no Easterfest next year! But I have a plan!!! (Mwahaha!) I have a whole speech prepared starting with “A wise man once said the only thing needed for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” My housemate thinks that I’m overdramatising (insert eye role).
But I think that I’m going to keep at it. I think that Easterfest not being on would be a huge disappointment. Anyway, I’m going to get my youth group and church and get all of my friends to get their churches and even put it up on Facebook! And together we’re going to start a sort of rally/web-campaign and ask for headline artists to either reduce their going price or donate their time to Easterfest next year. Two ideal acts (who are such giants in the field that Easterfest could even be put on for them alone) are Mr Toby Mac and Mr Michael W Smith.
What do you think?
Huh. I’m surprised to hear that about Easterfest. It really seemed to be thriving when I was there last. But also, those festivals must have absolutely massive expenses!
Exactly! It’s a Christian festival which means that it should be put on for the glory of God. So I don’t see why some of the artists couldn’t donate their time to make it possible. Also Easterfest and red frogs are the two highlights of my year!
Anyway on a Phoenix Files related note; I finished the last book today and I probably won’t re-read it again for at least another year. So now I’m sad because I don’t know what to read!!! But you mentioned the “Gone” series in one of your youtube clips. And even though the author “besmirched the name of a beloved Aussie icon (Vegemite)” I might give it a go.
Also, I just watched your Easter update (I’m late I know!) Anyway it was really good! Do you do any youth ministry or anything with the teens at your church?
The Gone series is pretty good! It’s VERY dark, though, just to warn you.
I don’t have much to do with youth stuff at my church, but I do work four days a week as a primary school Christian Studies teacher!
Thanks for the warning 🙂 Now, one last Phoenix files question. What was the deal with Victoria hiding her powers? Did she think that she would get experimented on too? I could understand that. But by hiding the knowledge of what the fall-out could do left the co-orporation vulnerable for Crazy Bill and the others that were affected, right?
I also saw the fund raiser that you were running to get people clean drinking watter. “Save a drink save a life”
GO team Admiral Rhinoceros!!!! If I had known about it sooner you bet I would have been in!!!
But it’s ok! Because one of my regular charity’s is “save the children” which focuses mainly on getting towns clean drinking water 🙂 Another thing I love is “Thank You Water.” Every bottle bought is a months water supply into a third world country.
Shackleton and Galton had a very complicated relationship… there was some trust there – but not enough for Victoria to feel comfortable sharing all her secrets. You’re right, though – if she’d been completely open, it would’ve saved Shackleton a whole mess of trouble!
Hi Chris.
I am a teacher at Lakes where you visited last year. I vaguely recall you saying that you had written some of the “Go Girl” series too. Was that my imagination? I have a daughter who is about ready for that level so I just wanted to check if I had remembered correctly. Which ones did you write?
Thank you,
Julie
Hey Julie,
I haven’t written any of the Go Girl! books, but I probably did mention that my friend Rowan McAuley wrote a bunch of them. She’s also one of my co-authors on the new Gateway series!
Chris
Dude your a legend! I love your writing style, your plots, your EVERYTHING about the The Phoenix Files. Would love to see a movie on it.
Hi
I loved the books… So I’ve got some questions…
Why did you give Shackleton the name of the explorer? Or did it have nothing to do with him? Did you name the town “Phoenix” because the bird phoenix has its egg burned then rises out of the ashes and the town Phoenix -as Shackleton hoped- would rise out of the ashes of Tabitha? Did you name Shackleton “Noah” because the Noah in the bible was one of the few surviving people of the Flood and Shackleton wanted to be one of the few survivors of Tabitha? I hope there’s a movie… but yet I don’t. I have seen three Harry Potter movies and they’re terrible compared to the books… The casting was fine, but you barely see anything of characters like Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil. Same with the Narnia ones, they were terrible. Ahh, exclamation marks, brackets and things aren’t working.
Anyway, that’s all now.
Alia
Hey Alia,
Shackleton isn’t specifically named after the explorer – I just liked the sound of the name!
He is named Noah after the biblical Noah, though. A central theme of the series is whether or not human beings have the right to determine morality for themselves. The story of Noah in the Bible is an account of God’s judgement on a humanity that’s turned evil and self-destructive. In The Phoenix Files, Shackleton sees the same self-destructive tendencies in humanity, but he takes it upon himself to enact judgement. He’s not really taking on the “Noah” role in the story, so much as the “God” role – a role which he is definitely not qualified to take on.
And yep, Phoenix is named after the mythical creature!
Chris
HI GUYS!!!
Hi, We are doing an author study at school and I chose you because your books are interesting and make me want to read more and more. The Phoenix Files is mysterious and you never know what’s going to happen next.
Here are some questions I would like you to answer.
How long does it take to write a Phoenix Files book?
Did you always want to be an author?
Where do you get your ideas from?
How do you make your writing so interesting?
I know you have already written to two of my classmates so I hope you can answer these questions.
Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Thanks for your message!
The first couple of Phoenix Files books took about 6 months each, because back then I was working as a writer full-time. The later books took more like a year, partly because they were more complex, and partly because by then I was also working part-time as a teacher.
I’ve always loved writing stories, but I never really expected that I’d get to be a published author. It’s such an exciting thing to be able to do, and I’m really grateful for it!
My ideas come from all over the place, from watching the news to walking down the street to random things that seem to drop into my head out of nowhere. But I’m a big believer in an idea I once heard from Patrick Ness: “Ideas stick to other ideas.” In other words, if you play with an idea in your head for long enough, and ask yourself enough questions, and just let your imagination run wild, that idea will expand and grow and link up with other ideas. That was certainly my experience with The Phoenix Files!
I’m glad you think my writing’s interesting! Thanks! I guess I just try to write the kind of stories that I would find interesting if I were the reader…
Anyway, hope that helps! All the best with your author study!
Chris
make a movie on phoenix files it would be the best
Love You Books
My Favorite Books
Thanks!
Hey, I love your book. At my school, im doing a mystery story, can you give me some ideas?
A couple of thoughts:
1) Always plan ahead – it’s particularly difficult to just wing it when you’re writing a mystery story.
2) Drop plenty of clues into the story along the way – but make sure only some of them are actual clues pointing to the solution of your mystery. The rest should be distractions and misdirections to keep your reader guessing.
Hi Chris!!!!!!
I absolutely love the Phoenix Files! It is honestly my favourite book series I have ever read! (Considering I have read Harry Potter and the Hunger Games). I’ve actually read the whole series a couple of times and it’s amazing!
I have chosen The Phoenix Files: Arrival for an English assignment that I will be presenting at the end of this week because I like to leave things to the last minute I still haven’t finished a part of I probably should have. I need to pick 2 themes for the book and I am not entirely sure what they could be. I have spent a lot of time on this but I can’t think of an answer.
I also have to do a main character analysis, (Luke) on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats/challenges.
A summary, which is not very hard.
And a setting. I have to pick a place (Phoenix itself) and do a Y chart on it but thats not hard because the book gives so much description on it that it makes it quite easy. (Thankyou 🙂 )
If you could help me with this, or give me any ideas on the other parts it would be appreciated!!!!!!!!!
Thanks!
From Amy 😉
Hey Amy,
A couple of thoughts on themes…
Family: Looking at Luke and Jordan’s different experiences of their parents/family situations.
Power/propaganda: Looking at all the ways in which the Shackleton Cooperative tries to hide the true nature of the town from the people. In particular I’m thinking of that bit in Arrival where Luke compares the Cooperative with his Mum – both showering him with gifts to make up for the deeper things that are wrong.
Hope that helps!
Chris
Thank you Chris!
That definitely did help me!