Ashley Thorpe author page

Ashley Thorpe biography

Ashley Thorpe is a children’s author and editor based in Manchester. He writes middle grade fantasy inspired by West African and Caribbean mythology. His books are aimed at readers aged 8 to 13.

Thorpe’s debut novel, The Boy to Beat the Gods, was published by Usborne in 2024. The story follows Kayode, a boy who gains powers from the Orishas and must rescue his sister while standing up against injustice. His second novel, Spirit Warriors, is scheduled for release in August 2025.

Before publishing his fiction, Thorpe worked in publishing and broadcast journalism. He also leads school workshops and gives talks for pupils in Key Stages 2 and 3. His writing reflects a wish to bring forward mythologies and cultures he felt were underrepresented in the books he read as a child.

In addition to his writing, Thorpe makes music under the name Breezewax, plays video games, watches anime and spends time outdoors.