Tom Benn

Tom Benn is an award-winning Associate Professor in Crime Writing at the University of East Anglia's School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing. He is affiliated with the Creative Writing Research Group. Benn holds a BA (First) and MA (Distinction) in Creative Writing from UEA, alongside a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Practice.

His research focuses on crime writing, particularly noir and pulp fiction, hybrid narratives, and working-class perspectives. He explores genre subversion, regional storytelling, and transgressive literature. Notable works include Oxblood (2022), winner of the Sunday Times Charlotte Aitken Award, and The Doll Princess (2012), a Dylan Thomas Prize finalist.

Benn’s publications span novels, short stories, and screenwriting. His films include Real Gods Require Blood, which premiered at Cannes. He frequently participates in literary festivals, workshops, and mentorship programs. Benn’s awards include the BFI iWrite scheme win and multiple genre prizes.

His creative work often critiques marginalized communities and urban decay, blending horror, noir, and social commentary. Benn’s media engagements include interviews on United by Pop and the Writing Life podcast, discussing themes like representation and Manchester’s cultural identity.