Delve into the harsh yet vibrant streets of early 1900s South Shields with The Pit Boy, a powerful and deeply human story of childhood, survival, and working-class life. Told through the eyes of young Teddy Orton, this fictional biography captures the reality of poverty, hardship, and uncertainty faced by families of pit men, shipyard workers, and sailors in the era.

• Fictional biography based on the life of author John Orton's grandfather, Teddy Orton.
• Chronicles Teddy's early life, from scavenging for coals during freezing winters to the noise and conflict of crowded homes.
• Details Teddy's entry into the pit in 1903 at age thirteen, exploring the toil, darkness, and danger of mining life.
• Highlights the bonds formed with workmates ('marras') and moments of humor found amidst hardship.
• Rich in historical detail, capturing a forgotten world with compassion and honesty.

The narrative is set against the backdrop of Tyneside at the turn of the 19th and early 20th century, illustrating a world of brutal poverty and hard labor, balanced by courage and resilience. The story focuses on the struggles and endurance required to rise above the realities of life in South Shields.

• Author: John Orton
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Print Length: 331 pages
• Publication Date: June 16, 2026
• Publisher: UK Book Publishing
• ISBN-10: 1918077851
• ISBN-13: 978-1918077858
• Dimensions: 148 x 19 x 210mm (Approx. 5.83 x 0.75 x 8.27 inches)
• Weight: 395 g

Experience the vivid artistry and rigorous research that brings the inspiring story of Teddy Orton and working-class Tyneside vividly to life.