Created by beloved writer Maurice Gee, The Fire-Raiser pits small-town kids against a balaclava-clad figure with fire on the brain. This telemovie version shaves the original five episodes back to 102 minutes, while keeping the adventure and intrigue that helped the show score multiple awards. The four heroes find support from their quirky teacher — and danger — as they track the arsonist terrorising their town. In the backgrounders, director Peter Sharp explores the challenges of making The Fire-Raiser, and Maurice Gee reveals what inspired it — and why he set it in 1915. The show won GOFTA Awards for writing, directing, children's programme and overall drama. Gee’s novel has had multiple reprints.