Welcome to the official website of author Simon Higgins
Simon Higgins is the writer of critically acclaimed historical adventures set in Asia, where he has trained and competed in the 500 year old art of Iaido: duelling as practiced by Edo Period Japanese warriors. His Moonshadow and Tomodachi books reveal the exciting, magical world of the shinobi (ninja), and the honour code of the medieval samurai. Simon spent years in law enforcement, as a police officer, prosecutor and finally, a licensed private investigator, working on murder cases.
Since 1998 he has seen a dozen novels published, including 2 bestsellers (Thunderfish & Moonshadow: Eye of the Beast), 2 Children’s Book Council of Australia Notable Books of the Year, and short-listings for the Ned Kelly Crime Fiction and Aurealis Fantasy Awards.
In 2007 he won the Fellowship of Australian Writers National Literary Award for an unpublished novel set in medieval Asia. In 2008 Simon came fifth in Iaido’s World Titles in Kyoto, Japan before His Imperial Highness Prince Munenori Kaya, and co-hosted the Aurealis Awards in Australia before an audience including Her Excellency the governor of Queensland. Simon holds a black belt in Iaido, awarded by masters from the All Japan Iaido Federation, but regards himself as ‘merely an earnest beginner’. He speaks a little Japanese and is a student of the Eastern approach to living known as Zen.
He teaches creative writing, demonstrates both of the hypnotic and graceful martial arts he trains in, and promotes literacy in schools throughout Australia. He has been a guest lecturer in several Australian universities, and taught creative writing in international schools in Asia.
Simon’s novels have been chosen for study by many Australian schools as Asian history and culture curriculum texts. His Moonshadow ninja series is published in Australia by Random House, and in several other countries including the US with Little, Brown, the publishers of the Twilight series.
In 2010 Simon was made an Ambassador for Asia Literacy by the Australian government’s Asia Education Foundation. He has spent time in China, is a big fan of Feng Shui and traditional Chinese medicine, and studies Mandarin and Kung Fu.
For more information, cool videos, research images, book covers and artwork…please explore the site!
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Simon’s ‘Quick Slice’ of Advice to Aspiring Writers 
‘Ours is a wide, fascinating world, with volumes to teach anyone who’s open. So delve into the myths, legends, history, and energy of your own and other people’s cultures; there you’ll find rich and varied settings, viewpoints, story-lines, and endless quirky inspirations. Observe life closely, mining gems for characterization from among your friends, family, and the many souls who cross your path.’
His favourite quote for 2012
I have never had to use martial arts skills in a real-life fight, and do not wish to, either. The greatest weapon is a smile and the largest power is love. Wushu Champion & Movie Star Jet Li
The Moonshadow Ninja Series
…for Readers in Australia & New Zealand
‘Lightning-fast action and gripping intrigue. Higgins’s grasp of Japanese sword skills and spy craft is masterful!’
John Flanagan, Author of Ranger’s Apprentice
‘…thrilling and engaging…will excite young fantasy readers.’
Viewpoint Magazine, Spring 2008
‘…delivers the thrilling, stylish fight sequences that today’s young anime-literate readers demand…its foundation in authentic Japanese mythology, history and culture…Moonshadow is a terrific hero…a perfect formula for boys and girls aged 12 plus, mixing the best elements of anime, fantasy, spy thrillers and medieval action.’
Australian Bookseller + Publisher
Click Here to Order Moonshadow: Eye of the Beast
Click Here to Order Moonshadow: The Wrath of Silver Wolf
Click Here to Order Moonshadow: The Twilight War
…for Readers in the USA & Canada
Moonshadow: Rise of the Ninja
‘Combining details about Japan’s early Tokugawa era and its warrior culture with action-packed, fantastical storytelling, Higgins crafts a thrilling tale of honor and friendship…move over, Alex Rider.’ Kirkus
‘…exhilarating opening sequence…nonstop action…the pacing is so intense…once drawn in by the opening words, “for glory or destruction,” readers will be satisfied by the length and polished writing and will look forward to forthcoming sequels.’ Booklist
‘Though action is at the core of this tale, Higgins also brings to it history, brains and heart.’
Publishers Weekly
‘This adventure is part spy novel, part magic, and all fun.’ School Library Journal
Moonshadow: The Nightmare Ninja
‘…surprisingly good… as their mission began to unfold it was almost non-stop fighting…if you have any interest in ninjas, whatsoever, this book is definitely worth checking out…’ Well-Read Spartans
‘…an exciting adventure…a disgruntled gangster, a human battering ram, and a gifted dandy who can attack within the victim’s dreams…Higgins’s passion for medieval Japan comes across in his writing…action and mysticism combine to make a fun read…’ goodreads
Click Here for Ordering Options for Moonshadow: Rise of the Ninja
Click Here for Ordering Options for Moonshadow: The Nightmare Ninja
…for Readers in Germany & Indonesia
Click Here to Order Moonshadow: Das Schwert Des Grauen Lichts
Click Here to Order The Young Ninja in Bahasa Indonesian
Cover of the Gold Coast Bulletin’s Paradise Magazine, 2007
Appearing on Saturday Disney in 2008