Jack Leslie Biography has launched!
Following Argyle’s promotion to the Championship at the end of last season during which Jack’s statue was unveiled, this season continues to be busy for the Campaign! Jack Leslie’s posthumous honorary cap has now been presented to PAFC by Jack’s family (see here) and we are engaged in numerous activities throughout October as part of Black History Month-read more here.
Now, finally, Matt’s biography of Jack, The Lion Who Never Roared, has been released by Pitch Publishing! (Published 23rd October)
It is also available to order (see link below)
On 6th November at St. Giles Crypt, Camberwell, London, Matt will talk about Jack, the campaign, and his book. Tickets £10 (£7 conc) include a free drink – available here
On 16 November, The Wanstead Tap, London E7, there is a talk about The Lion Who Never Roared in Jack’s old stomping ground of East London – tickets £8 available here
LINK TO ORDER MATT’S BOOK: THE LION WHO NEVER ROARED
And here’s what people who have had a sneak preview have said:
“Moving, sad and uplifting. Everyone should know the legend of Jack Leslie.”
Matt Barlow, Daily Mail
“Inspiring and important. An extraordinary life story.” Viv Anderson MBE
“A beautifully written and fitting tribute for an unfairly overlooked legend.” Josh Widdicombe
“An evocative and gripping portrait of a remarkable football pioneer.” Debbie Hewitt, Chair of the FA
Matt said, ”It has been a huge privilege to research Jack’s life and writing it has been a real labour of love over the last year. Jack lived a fascinating and important life and I hope people enjoy reading it, not only the chapters about what happened with the England selection but also his early life, achievements with Barking Town and Essex as well as those great years with Plymouth Argyle and all the incredible characters at the club in the 1920s and 30s. Those years in the boot room with West Ham United are covered too.
I can’t thank Jack’s granddaughters Lesley, Lyn and Gill enough for sharing their family stories with great honesty and integrity. So many other people have helped and there is a full list in the acknowledgments, but I must thank Greg, of course. None of this would have happened without him but also Richard Amofa, Bill Hern and John Eales who have made vital contributions and suggestions.
If you would like to find out more about the book or have any suggestions for events or people to contact to spread the word then do get in touch. There are events being lined up which I’ll share when I can, but if your local bookshop or workplace might be interested in a talk then do give me a shout.
Thanks so much for all your support throughout the campaign and I really hope you enjoy learning more about this wonderful player and remarkable man.‘
Keep in touch with us on social media and on here and wishing you all the best this season whoever you support!
All the best
Matt & Greg
The Jack Leslie Campaign