About the Author

Alan Bissett is a novelist, playwright and performer from Falkirk, in Scotland. Formerly a secondary school teacher, bookshop assistant and university lecturer, Alan has been working as a full-time writer since 2007. His first novel, Boyracers (2001) followed the formative years of four Falkirk teenagers and his second novel, The Incredible Adam Spark (2005), told the story of Scotland's first superhero. His most recent books, Death of a Ladies' Man (2009) and Pack Men (2011) were both shortlisted for the Scottish Arts Council Fiction of the Year awards.He was Glenfiddich 'Spirit of Scotland' Writer of the Year in 2012, and in 2016 was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Stirling University for his Outstanding Contribution to Scottish Culture.Since 2011, Alan's focus has been on playwriting, and he has twice been shortlisted for Best New Play at the Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland. In 2022, he was one of the writers of the Police Scotland video 'Don't Be That Guy', which focused on toxic male behaviours towards women and which went viral, garnering much praise and winning a PRCA Dare Award (for UK-wide PR campaigns) in the 'Public Sector' category.

Reviews

The antithesis of Andrew Tate
*Guardian*

An honest, insightful and funny read ... this book is the mate that backs you up and gives you the confidence to speak up for what's right, building the foundations for healthy, respectful relationships
*The Scotsman*

It is not unusual for teenage boys to not know what is acceptable and what isn't, rather than rely on the internet they now have a book to turn to...it's most definitely a vital book for teen boys, helping to create a culture of positive change
*Armadillo Magazine*

Topical, timely and like nothing published before for this young male market, Lads is a much-needed non-fiction guide for teenage boys, exploring consent, respect, bullying and navigating relationships ... this is a vital handbook
*The Lancashire Post*

Encourage your teen to read it; leave it lying around. If you don't have teens yourself, buy more copies and gift them to friends who do. Let's keep believing in our young people and their potential to be excellent.
*For the Love of Books Blog*