Jonathan Evans grew up in the Nottinghamshire mining town of Kirkby in Ashfield in the 1950s and 1960s and this collection of short stories brilliantly describes the hopes, fears and mishaps of young lads coming of age against a bluff East Midlands backdrop.

 As well as unravelling the Mystery of Ernie Taylor’s Abdomen he tells of weird and wonderful dreams that somehow, marvellously, come true.

there are stories of betrayal involving love hearts, talesof revenge and curious insights into why Jonathan never eats sandwiches.

Jonathan displays a huge affection for his working class roots and the unusual characters who helped shape his whimsical world view. The combination of innocence, naivety and insatiable curiosity often result in hilarious and bizarre scenarios.

 Jonathan is a popular reader at the Let Me Tell You A Story Jack spoken word events in Bristol where the stories were described thus: ‘His accounts, set against the backdrop of a Midlands pit village, conjure up scenes of characters and young conspirators dogged by trouble and misadventure. Every tale is spun with wit, grit, warmth and a wry smile.

“Growing up in Kirkby was paradise with an adventure around every street corner.”

”Stories that are both comforting and humorous, this collection of tales will leave you feeling warm and nostalgic. such a joy and a pleasure to read.”

Adam Crowther, BBC Upload

“It made me laugh out loud.”

— Mike Manson, author of ‘Where’s my money’

Click on the link below for a sample.