The Other Jack

‘It’s like being in the company of a beloved friend who’s had a bit too much to drink (maybe) and wants to share a lot of nonsense which, perhaps, is not so nonsensical as it seems ... This is a gem.’ – John Sandoe Bookshop

‘Whatever a novel is, I feel this is what I want a novel now to be.’ – Jane Feaver

‘This book is straightforward about its subject: “it’s a book about what we talk about when we talk about books”. Like chats about books, it’s not going to change the world – unless your world is made of books, in which case this is your material.’ – Anna Aslanyan, Review 31 Books of the Year

‘A book that deserves coffee shops of readers.’ – Richard Clegg, Bookmunch

‘The book presents as a wash of short, wide-ranging passages on books, writing, publishing and reading, lightly written and deeply thoughtful, with a wonderful index of literary concerns.’ – Thomas Koed, Volume

‘Now living in London, this straight, white man is searingly aware of the tribe he fits into – supposedly well-educated Guardian readers who like to grumble when their views are not more widely agreed with. And yet, this book proves that Boyle thinks more deeply and possesses an understanding of alternative views ... A book about books by a writer who writes with elan and repartee. A joy of a read for readers who enjoy not just stories but what is behind them.' – Jackie Law, neverimitate

‘A wry and mischievous collection of Charles Boyle’s musings on books, reading, writing and publishing.’ – Rónán Hession, Books of the Year, Lunate