Being a world-class animal biologist and a human medical scientist, Clifford Warwick wrote more than 150 scientific articles and books about species conservation, animal welfare and human health. However, The Worms was his first attempt to children’s genre writing. Clifford chose to explicate worms to young readers using humour.

The Worms is available to buy online at 30% off now. We hope you will enjoy reading our remarkable author interview.

1. What inspired you to write the children’s book, The Worms?

Thirty years ago, I handmade a cardboard mobile of worms for a friend’s birthday, but seeing them lazily hanging around doing nothing irritated me, so I’ve put them to work.

2. Why worms?

I wanted the characters to be life-size, and I’d narrowed it down to whales or worms - worms made more sense.

3. What do you hope to teach young children through your book?

That parasites and humans have been friends for a long time, and that we shouldn’t judge creatures by their appearance. Also, to help a struggling worm off a pavement if they can.

4. Where do you get your ideas for your written pieces?

I suspect an undiagnosed mental disease. The ideas just come to me - like someone who eats sushi and gets a gnathostome.

5. Were there any challenges you encountered whilst writing a children’s book? If yes, how did you overcome them?

Yes, getting the character dialogue to flow on the page. And ensuring I brought my sense of humour up to child level.

6. Since how long have you been working as an animal biologist?

About 40 years - which is good for a man who looks like he’s in his late 20s.

 7. What kind of animals do you enjoy working with?

I’ll say reptiles because I’m familiar with them. I guess I’m drawn to animals that get bad press.

8. What books do you enjoy reading?

Anything with big print, but especially books on astronomy and physics - that way no one asks to borrow them.

9. Do you have any favourite authors?

 Just one, Douglas Adams - but you’ve probably never heard of him.

10. What advice would you give to the aspiring authors?

Well, I’ve been lucky enough to buy a chateau in the south of France on the proceeds from The Worms, but many are not that fortunate. So, don’t write for the money - or fame, or respect, or artistic recognition, or career. Rather, write because you want to, and settle for self-satisfaction. The fame, fortune and respect may come in time. Like I said, just settle for self-satisfaction.