This critically-acclaimed biography, written and researched with John Watterson, was included in the Daily Telegraph's list of the best music books of 2022. 'Beware of the Bull'  reveals that Jake's life was as extraordinary as his writing: the hard childhood in the terraces of Leeds, strict Catholic education and formative experiences in France and war-torn Algeria; the first career as an inspirational, unorthodox, highly creative teacher; the meteoric development as a writer and performer, and discovery by the BBC; the Abbey Road recordings and impact on The Beatles; the friendship with Georges Brassens; the fame and fortune brought by a remarkable television career… and Jake’s rejection of it. It is the story of a complex, charismatic, self-effacing man whom many loved, but few understood. The book was written with the full support of Jake’s family. With exclusive access to his personal papers, it includes a wealth of previously unpublished letters, poetry and lyrics, and is illustrated with rare photographs and memorabilia. Through it all, Jake’s voice is heard afresh, and his life and work better understood. The book was first published in August 2022 in hardback. The reception from readers was overwhelming and two print runs quickly sold out. A paperback edition followed in February 2023, containing some additional material, including a new foreword by comedian Jon Richardson, an interview with Neil Gaiman, the recollections of Sir William Southgate, who worked with Jake as a musician and arranger, and new material which only came to light after the publication of the hardback. Beware of the Bull is available in paperback and on Kindle, and also as an audiobook on Audible and iTunes, narrated by me. Here is what they say about the book: ‘Beware of the Bull is a wonderful book — painstakingly researched, loaded with anecdote, and cluttered with photographs, memorabilia and lyrics. And perfectly subtitled, too.’ Goldmine magazine ‘It is, quite simply, one of the best biographies I have ever read...' Nigel Schofield, Tykes' Stirrings ‘If you’re not a Jake Thackray fan when you start reading this book, you certainly will be by the end of it...’ Andy Miller, Backlisted podcast ‘A timely paean to a velvet larynxed, storytelling wonderman.’ Cerys Matthews ‘The labour and the love seep from every page. For Old Molly Metcalfe, for Leopold Alcocks, for Sister Josephine, but mostly for yourself, if your hands aren't too encumbered, gather a book or two for Jake.’ Jon Richardson ‘Jake Thackray should be remembered and revived. If he is, it may be largely due to this thorough yet readable, affectionate yet critical and altogether absorbing biography.’ The Oldie