Grandson pens debut novel based on his well-known South Yorkshire grandfather

It is said that we all have at least one book in us, while artist Andy Warhol famously said ‘we all get 15 minutes of fame.’

John Smith has fully taken these two phrases by the horns with his first foray into the world of literature.

The 67-year-old has written the first of a trilogy of fictional books based on the life of his grandfather, Jack Prendergast, in the steel industry in the 1900s.

John’s grandfather, Jack Prendergast, was a trade union official, Labour councillor and former mayor who lived in the Parkgate and Rawmarsh areas of Rotherham.

John said he held views which could be characterised as communist.

"He was a bit of a character,” said John.

The book, called Principles and Passions, is set in a town in South Yorkshire in the period 1896 to 1893.

Readers will recognise some of the areas mentioned in the book and possibly some of the characters.

The story starts following eighteen-year-old Jack Prendergast as he takes his place in the brutal steel mills and finds comfort in the fatherly mentorship of Arthur Davies, trade union leader.

As the unions grow and strengthen, young Jack rises through the ranks. Shaking off the poverty and deprivation of his past, he takes his place as a leader. He is volatile and principled and will risk everything to fight for what he believes in.

When Jack meets Florence Davies, Arthur’s niece, he is captivated by her. She is brave and resolute and dreams of a career in nursing. But Florence is fleeing a terrible secret.

She and Jack are on the verge of beginning a life together when Florence’s brother Thomas is drawn into a disastrous plot which threatens to shatter everything they have.

The trilogy of books follows the challenges and triumphs of Jack, Florence and their families through the early 20th Century.

John, who was born in Wakefield and lived in Barnsley from the age of five until he was 33, was inspired to write his first novel during lockdown.

Thanks to the encouragement of a friend he sat down and wrote the book, something he had wanted to do for many years and had continually put off.

The book is already receiving great reviews.

“Gripping tale of the struggle in the steel works for safer working conditions and family life in the late 1800 early 1900, death and love intertwine, can’t wait for next chapter in this northern town,” said Pauline Greenwood.

Another reader said: “What a great read.. seriously couldn't put it down. Love reading about times gone by and this book did not let me down. Can't wait for the follow up book.”

John, a retired HR consultant who now lives in Staffordshire Moorlands, is now writing the second book which he hopes will be released later this year.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.