Les Dawson Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

A British institution within his time almost, the comedian Les Dawson left behind a legacy that is still revered to this very day, as scores of young up-and-coming comedians attempt to follow within his footsteps, creating not only a career on-stage for themselves, but off as well, just like he did before he passed away, as his career continues to live on within the media industry as well. Not only that, but he was a master of light entertainment too, as he managed to draw massive ratings during his time too, with scores of viewers from across the United Kingdom tuning in to watch his many performances and routines. A television host and performer, he knew exactly what it was that the audiences were looking for, as he would provide them with that and more, with his appeal being broad. A resolutely British comedian as well, he was very much of his time and generation, along with being a product of his background, having grown up within and around the British working-class comedy scene, as he would tour the many clubs and pubs tirelessly bringing the crowds mirth and laughter every night. He was also known for writing poetry, something which he would keep quiet during his early years, as this was seen as somewhat at odds with his working-class background, but would later come to shape much of his career and his work. Turning to writing as well, he would also show his clear talent for the written form, as he had a way with words that extended beyond humor, engaging readers with his witty style and compelling format of storytelling at great length. Able to draw the audiences in he would regale them with stories that would also draw from his own life and experiences, all delivered in his uniquely deadpan style. This is something that he would build upon throughout his career, as he would leave a legacy that is still recognized by many to this very day.

Early and Personal Life

Born in 1931 on the 2nd of February, he was born and raised in the vicinity of Collyhurst in Manchester in the UK, where he would grow up with a clear passion for comedy. Whilst someone with his background wasn’t expected to have literary ambitions, he would continue to nurture them in secret, harboring his passion for the written word in private. Over the years this would develop, as he expanded upon his love of poetry, harnessing it and refining it, creating what was to be his voice in the years to come.

With a love of English literature, specifically that of Charles Lamb, he would take a range of inspirations and feed them back into his own florid style. Working as an entertainer in a Parisian brothel for some time as well, he would gain an insight into a whole range of different styles and outlooks, all of which would come to influence his own over the years. Finally passing away in 1993 on the 10th of June, he would, at the age of 62, leave behind a strong and illustrious legacy that many still attempt to imitate to this very day.

Writing Career

Bringing out his first full book in 1974 he came out with his semi-autobiographical novel ‘A Card For Clubs’, a title which was loosely inspired by his own life. Whilst he didn’t create any series as such, he would largely write about subjects that were close to home for him, allowing his on-stage wit and persona to slip into his work. Writing with wit and charm, he would be able to deftly write a turn-of-phrase that was both subtle and refined, as the reader would soak them in through his fun and engaging style.

Starring on television over the years, many would come to find his work due to his on-screen persona, as his work would compliment this. Creating a style that was all of his very own, he would engage the reader just as he did the viewer, as he would use the skills learned within the television industry on his writing. As many still regard him as one of the chief masters of his craft to this day, this is a style that will live on, as many still turn to him for a source of inspiration, something that shall continue for many years to come.

A Card For Clubs

Initially brought out in 1974, this was first released through the ‘W.H. Allen and Co. Limited’ publishing outlet, as it was also later re-released in 1977. This would mark the first attempt at fiction, as well as the first book, from Les Dawson as a writer, as it would see him embarking on a long and successful literary career. Whilst many of his other books would be non-fiction, this would clearly display his talent for storytelling for the first time, whilst also offering a small window into his own life as well.

Following Pete Warde as a stand-up comedian, it sees him attempting to make the most of his career and his material. Seeing him make it to the London Palladium, it takes a look into the world of British stand-up comedy at the time. Aiming to update his material, he hopes to make a success of himself at the age of thirty-two, having toured for quite some time. Will he make it? Can he change his material? What will become of a card for clubs?

Come Back With The Wind

Originally brought out through the ‘Robson Books Limited’ publishing label, this would provide a later attempt at fiction by the author Les Dawson. Released in 1990 on the 1st of September, it would see him writing later in his career, as it offers a clear line of development from that of his first debut novel. Telling a story from his own unique perspective and worldview, it would provide the reader with a level of insight into his own background once again too.

Examining the comedic tensions between the North and the South of the United Kingdom, this sees the outlook of Dawson writ large. Looking to put an embargo on the sale of whiskey to the South, the North then plunges the UK into a civil war. It may then turn out that there could possibly be a split between the two of them. Will they come together? Can they overcome their differences? Who will come back with the wind?