Publishers argued that Parsons was better off writing a nonfiction book, but he disagreed because he did not want readers to perceive his book as a semi-autobiographical piece of literature even though it was inspired by his relationship with his son. Initially, publishers dismissed the manuscript because it tackled father/son relationships. The author has also praised the publisher for the work they did in giving the novel a decent cover and sufficient publicity. The book stood out because it tackled themes about ordinary life that appeal to most people, including death, family dynamics, and filial relationships. He also published ‘Man and Boy,’ his most successful novel, that same year. And despite the absence of a formal agreement between them, Parsons chose to share the proceeds from the book with George.īy the time the two men fell out (1999), Parsons was a regular panelist for a BBC show. Parsons spent the next few years writing about music and covering artists like ‘Talking Heads’ and ‘David Bowie.’ But even with his freelance gigs, Parsons couldn’t make ends meet as a writer. When a musical magazine (NME) asked new writers to make submissions, the author did not expect to land a staff writer job at the publication.īut that is precisely what happened. At the time, Parsons had developed a gin allergy, and he hoped that publishing ‘The Kids’ would give him the financial freedom he needed to leave the distillery.īut the seven hundred pounds he earned were not enough to make writing a viable career. The author was working at Gordon’s gin distillery when he wrote his first novel. Interestingly enough, his time at the insurance company benefited his publishing career because he used his free time to enhance his writing abilities.

His life finally took a turn for the better when he became a computer operator for National Mutual Life. A former student at Barstable Grammar School (Basildon), the author did several menial jobs after leaving school at the age of 16. The man did various jobs once his time in the military came to an end, including driving lorries and working as a greengrocer. His father was a WWII vet (Royal Naval Commando) that received a Distinguished Service Medal.

Catching the Sun by Tony Parsons