It’s a familiar phrase thrown back by harangued mothers and bolstering best friends: “You’ll like it when you get there”. Whether it’s a teenage trip of a lifetime or a career-lifting TV turn, it’s a phrase James has heard a lot as an introverted scaredy cat. He’s come clean, and the light frankness is endearing – with the structure and pace of written stand up, so it’s funny too. He’s owning the shuffling of his shoes and floor-gazing to avoid the eye of new people, and in a world frequently people by show offs and pick me’s it’s refreshing and enjoyably honest. He’s a brave boy every day and it’s alright to be a shy grown up.
Combining light autobiography with a bit of personal philosophy, ‘You’ll Lie It…’ is an easy and engaging read with a contemporary feel as he softly pokes holes in the sacred cows of life goals – marriage and children – whilst wearing his heart on his sleeve when his partner or family feature in stories. James enjoys sharp shooting about the male perspective on chosen childlessness, championing uncle-hood. And his tone is deeply rooted in growing up as a ‘digital native’ in an instantly recognisable British society of Fitness First and pub culture. Plus plenty of insight for straight stand-up fans, as he plays about with the form of his comedy origin story in a ‘based on a true story’ faux biopic treatment.
He has an immediate touch (James admits he might change his mind in the future) and a writing style that mirrors his fast-patter stand up delivery, with pithy punchlines and enjoyable metaphors that get his many points across and illustrate them nicely. He’s stepped up to the job of writing a book and done it well. In fact, it’s the perfect way to spread his comedy and ideas without having to do any pesky leaving of the house. Clever fellow.
