The book can only be described as a literary ‘mongrel’ as it doesn’t really fall into any specific genre or category. It’s a sort of synergy between an auto-biography, a memoir and a self-help book which seamlessly manages to blend humour with failure, wisdom and an insight into the author’s vulnerability (and sometimes warped perspective on life).

One thing’s for sure, it’s a real bastard of a book that will have a greater impact on the reader as a whole than the sum of it’s parts. It may not be up there with ‘The Art Of War’, ‘Meditations’ or even ’50 Shades Of Grey’ but it will certainly find it’s place in the great library, even if it is just propping up a reading desk with a wonky leg.

The book charts Juan’s (a simple man’s) journey through life – from his early years which comprised of a traumatic childhood, ill health, failed education and sexless teenage epoch through a car crash of a career, failed marriage, financial hardship and several meltdowns – to where he is today… facing bankruptcy, divorce, homelessness and complete and utter ruination.

Unlike many self-help and personal development books, most of which are written by Lambo driving, sanctimonious assholes, One Shade Of Brown takes you down a very different path. In fact, it’s more like a dog shit strewn ginnel, yet it still manages to impart some important life lessons along the way. In stark contrast to the teachings of other so-called positivity guru’s, whom themselves have manifested the ‘perfect life’ and are hell bent on you being able to levitate by the time you reach the final chapter, Juan manages to keep your feet well and truly on the ground. After all, as Emperor Hirohito famously once said “We all shit out of the same hole”.

So, if you too are feeling that you’re one of life’s underdogs or your existence is somewhat torturous, just read this book – not for the advice or guidance therein, but to revel in somebody else’s complete and utter carnage. One thing’s for certain… it’ll sure as hell make you feel better about your own situation.