Gyles Daubeney Brandreth is a British author, known for his works in fiction, non-fiction, memoirs & biographies, and children's books. He was born in Germany and grew up in Britain, where he excelled academically and became an Oxford Scholar and President of the Oxford Union. His career has been multifaceted, including being a Whip and Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government, a broadcaster, an acclaimed interviewer, a novelist, and a children’s author.
Brandreth began his writing career during the 1970s, starting with puzzles, jokes, and words for children and adults. He then moved on to write John Gielgud's authorized biography and Shakespeare's lipogrammic reworks. He gained fame for his works in various genres, including the Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries series, Slippers series, Bruno Bruin series, No. 13 series, and Tales of the Mouse Village series. His writing is known for its wit, intelligence, and engaging storytelling.
In addition to his writing career, Brandreth has also had a successful career in broadcasting and performing. He has starred in his own award-winning musical revue in London’s West End and has been seen most recently in ZIPP! ONE HUNDRED MUSICALS FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF ONE at the Duchess Theatre and on tour throughout the UK. He is also one of Britain’s busiest after-dinner speakers and award ceremony hosts, having won and been nominated for awards in various fields.
Brandreth is married to writer and publisher Michèle Brown, with whom he co-curated the exhibition of twentieth century children’s authors at the National Portrait Gallery and founded the award-winning Teddy Bear Museum now based at the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon. He is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, and a former chairman and now vice-president of the National Playing Fields Association. His forebears include George R. Sims, Jeremiah Brandreth, and Benjamin Brandreth, who were known for their contributions to journalism, politics, and advertising. Today, Brandreth has family living in various parts of the United States, and his books have been published in the United States, including the New York Times best-seller, The Joy of Lex.