Ben Dylan Aaronovitch, born 22 February 1964, embarked on an eclectic and fascinating journey that led him to become a renowned English author and screenwriter. With a childhood filled with the ordinary—siblings, a dog named after a Russian cosmonaut, and the kind of dull experiences that nudge one towards creativity—Aaronovitch discovered in his early twenties that his true talent lay in storytelling.

He achieved overnight success in screenwriting, contributing to iconic shows such as Doctor Who and Casualty, as well as the world's most budget-friendly science fiction soap opera, Jupiter Moon. His journey through the literary world included a stint with Virgin's New Adventures, which, despite the eventual pulping of his books, did not deter his spirit.

A period of professional challenges led him to find solace and inspiration while working as a bookseller at Waterstones. It was amidst the aisles of literature that the idea of writing his own books solidified, culminating in the creation of the critically acclaimed Rivers of London series (known as Midnight Riot in the Americas). This series not only marked a significant turning point in his career but also allowed him to fully embrace his passion for prose.

Personal milestones interweaved with his professional journey, notably becoming a father to his son, whom he affectionately calls ‘The Evil Monster Boy’. Residing in London, Aaronovitch's deep connection to his city is palpable, asserting that only the cold grip of death could sever his bond with the metropolis that both inspires and nurtures his creativity.