FIVE BIOGRAPHIES YOU NEED TO OWN

Nowadays, a smidgeon of limelight warrants a biography deal. Bookshelves are groaning under a hotchpotch of forever changing mug shots. At The Gentleman’s Journal, however, we are drawn to depth and substance, a gripping page-turner we find hard to let out of our sight until the final word has been read. Here’s our pick of the best biographies that you simply have to read.

GUY MARTIN – MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY, , This is the epic story of lorry mechanic and road-racing maverick Guy Martin, whose life revolves around unadulterated speed – specifically the Isle of Man TT. A hugely colourful character, controversy is never too far from this speed-junkie, and this book details the exhilaration and serious dangers of flying around the small island at speeds hovering close to 200mph.

STEVE JOBS – THE EXCLUSIVE BIOGRAPHY, , Based on more than 40 interviews conducted with Jobs – as well as with 100 family members, friends, adversaries, competitors and colleagues. Although Jobs co-operated, he asked for no control over what was written, affording the author total lyrical freedom. Walter Isaacson delves deep into his roller coaster life and the intense personality of the creative entrepreneur, whose ferocious drive for perfection revolutionised six industries.

NELSON MANDELA – LONG WALK TO FREEDOM, , A world icon in need of no introduction, these are the riveting memoirs of the outstanding moral and political leader of our time. Emotive, compelling and uplifting, Long Walk To Freedom is the remarkable story of an epic life; of hardship, resilience and ultimate triumph told with the clarity and eloquence of a born leader.

RANULPH FIENNES – MAD, BAD AND DANGEROUS TO KNOW, , A gent of the first order, Ranulph Fiennes has dedicated large chunks of his life to travelling to the most dangerous and inaccessible places on earth. In the process he has nearly died on several occasions, lost several of his fingers to frostbite and raised millions for charity. In his book, Fiennes describes the grit, pain and intensity of his phenomenal achievements.

JONNY WILKINSON – MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY, , With the rugby legend bowing out of the sport last weekend in Cardiff – a sport in which he has been such a monolithic driving force and inspiration – what better time to dust off the cobwebs from Jonny Wilkinson’s autobiography and relive his greatest moments. Carrying the accolade of being brutally honest, Wilkinson tells of a glittering career, spanning across three decades and four World Cups – and, of course, that drop goal.

By Patrick Tillard