Stephen Kelman author page

Stephen Kelman biography

Stephen Kelman is a British author known for his work in contemporary fiction for both adults and younger readers. He studied at the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in a variety of roles, including in local government and as a warehouse operative, before turning to writing.

Kelman’s debut novel, Pigeon English, was published by Bloomsbury in 2011. The book follows the story of a young Ghanaian boy living on a London estate and explores themes of community, violence, and childhood. Pigeon English was shortlisted for the 2011 Man Booker Prize and the Guardian First Book Award, and it was also longlisted for the Desmond Elliott Prize and the CWA New Blood Dagger.

Following the success of his first novel, Kelman published Man on Fire with Bloomsbury in 2015. This novel is inspired by the true story of Bibhuti Bhushan Nayak, an Indian journalist and record-breaker, and explores themes of endurance and personal challenge.

Kelman’s work has been recognised for its distinctive voice and engagement with social issues. His novels are published by Bloomsbury. In 2011, Pigeon English was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize.