Brainchild by Ivor Baddiel & Jonny Zucker
A powerful final collaboration – published by Purple Mash Publishing
Brainchild is the sixth and final collaboration between much-loved children’s authors Ivor Baddiel and the late Jonny Zucker.
The story behind the book is as remarkable as the book itself. While the vision and storyline had been agreed, the manuscript remained unfinished following Jonny’s passing in 2016. Eight years later, with the blessing of Jonny’s family, Ivor has completed the work – ensuring Jonny’s creative legacy continues to inspire a new generation of readers.
About the book
A fast-paced thrilling adventure, Brainchild sparks conversations about good and evil, the limits and ethics of medicine and introduces children to the brain and neuroscience.
Meet Carl and Isobel, two brilliant 14-year-olds who are guardians of a secret like no other. The brain’s two hemispheres are developing separately – one entirely good, the other pure evil. When the evil half is stolen and unleashed in the body of a teenager, Carl and Isobel must face terrifying consequences in a race against time.
A gripping new take on the eternal battle between good and evil, Brainchild is a rollercoaster of tension, science, and imagination.
Frankenstein’s monster for a new generation. I devoured every page.
Dermot O'Leary
Gripped me from the very start. Much to chew over and fascinate.
Robin Ince
About the authors
Jonny Zucker was born in 1966 and grew up in North London where he would later raise his own family. He wrote over 70 books and novels for children and teenagers. His best-known series are Monster Swap, Stunt Girl and Striker Boy. He also wrote the popular James King of England which was illustrated by Dennis the Menace artist – Barrie Appleby. In 2016, he sadly passed away.
Ivor Baddiel is a scriptwriter and author. He wrote four books with Jonny and was collaborating with him on Brainchild when sadly Jonny passed away. Ivor subsequently finished it off and very much hopes that Jonny would have approved of what he has done. Ivor has also written for numerous television shows including The X Factor, The Baftas, The Oliviers, The Voice, The National Television Awards and The Coronation Concert. Brainchild is his 26th book.
Brainchild in the news
Read the latest reviews, features, and coverage of Brainchild
Brainchild featured by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups
The Federation of Children’s Book Groups has published a feature on Brainchild, the final collaboration between Ivor Baddiel and the late Jonny Zucker. In the article, Ivor shares the story behind completing the book, its powerful themes, and how it continues Jonny’s legacy of inspiring young readers. Read the full piece on the FCBG website.
Ivor Baddiel Reflects on Completing Brainchild in The Jewish Chronicle
In a recent feature for The Jewish Chronicle, Ivor Baddiel shares the poignant journey of finishing Brainchild, the sci-fi thriller he co-authored with the late Jonny Zucker. Baddiel discusses the emotional process of revisiting the manuscript, the themes of good versus evil explored in the novel, and the lasting impact of their creative partnership. The article provides an intimate look at the collaboration and the legacy of their work together.
Deep Dive with BuxFantasy
In their June 2025 post, BuxFantasy offers a thoughtful look at Brainchild, praising its strong sibling protagonists and the way the story blends adventure with darker ethical questions. The review notes clever twists, a growing mystery, and particularly commends the stakes and seriousness of the conflict.
NetGalley Member Reviews
Readers praised Brainchild for its gripping plot, strong twin protagonists, and mix of science and thriller elements. Some noted the science stretches believability, and its darker themes make it best suited to older middle-grade readers.
Supporting literacy for all
Purple Mash Publishing is proud that Brainchild supports the work of the Children’s Book Project, a charity aiming to combat book poverty by providing free books to children from under-resourced communities, promoting literacy and educational equity.
If you'd like to donate your unwanted books visit their website to find your nearest drop off.
Buy your copy
Available from:
Amazon
Waterstones
The 2Simple Shop
All good bookshops
Formats:
Paperback – £8.99
E-book – £6.99
Audiobook – £9.00