Only part way through but thought it worth a review already.
This is such a thought provoking book and I can imagine it will only get better and better.
It's a very long book and is the ideal style where you can pick up, read a few chapters (years), put down and pick up again at another time.
Overall it's been a really good book so far.

**★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)**

*Tank-Topped Bum Boy* by Denis Bond is an unconventional and provocative read that blends humour with social observation, delivering a story that is as bold as its title suggests. Bond leans into shock value at times, but beneath the surface there’s a sincere attempt to explore identity, belonging, and the complexities of modern life.

The novel’s greatest strength is its distinct voice. Bond writes with confidence and a sharp, often irreverent sense of humour that gives the narrative an edge. The protagonist is vividly drawn—flawed, outspoken, and at times difficult to sympathise with, yet undeniably compelling. This complexity adds depth, even if it occasionally makes the character’s journey harder to fully connect with.

The book touches on meaningful themes, particularly around self-acceptance and societal expectations. There are moments where Bond captures these ideas with insight and emotional honesty, offering glimpses of a more layered and reflective story beneath the brash exterior. However, the tone can sometimes feel uneven, shifting quickly between satire, drama, and introspection without always finding a smooth balance.

Pacing is another mixed element. Some sections move briskly and keep the reader engaged, while others linger or feel repetitive, diluting the overall impact. Similarly, a few supporting characters are introduced with promise but aren’t explored deeply enough to leave a lasting impression.

Despite its flaws, *Tank-Topped Bum Boy* remains an interesting and memorable read. It won’t appeal to everyone—particularly those who prefer more subtle storytelling—but readers open to something edgy and character-driven may find it worthwhile. Ultimately, it’s a novel with strong ideas and a distinctive style that occasionally outpaces its execution, earning it a solid three-star rating.

Denis Bond's 'TANK-TOPPED BUM BOY' is an amazing piece of history. It's a collection of diary entries from 1962 to 2022. The diary ends when Boris Johnson leaves office and two days later, Queen Elizabeth II dies. Johnson is responsible for the title, as his homophobic remark about Peter Mandelson enraged Bond.

We learn about Bond's life, career, and the history of the UK. Bond comments on the diary entries to give them context. These notes are so important to provide context about his life and personality. I found his remarks an integral part of the book.

Bond's diary serves as an invaluable resource for gay history. In the diary, Bond covers the Thatcher years, and at one point he covers some of Thatcher's homophobic rhetoric, and then questions how some of his gay friends could have voted for her. It's depressing how little things change especially when you read about the entries regarding Johnson and his behaviour. It's only gotten worse, and more depressing as LGBT rights are repeatedly stripped away.

'TANK-TOPPED BUM BOY' is such an important document and highly recommended.