My latest essay collection, Broken Biscuits and Other Male Failures, will be published by HarperNorth on February 27th, 2025. Here’s the blurb…
When it comes to the challenge of being a man, Adam Farrer always seems to find a way to fall short…
In his second collection of candid personal essays, he vividly recounts his struggles to live up to masculine expectations. From the calamity of his first serious relationship, an obsession with Prince that sees everyone questioning his sexuality, the repercussions of his adult circumcision and his doubts about his ability to survive the apocalypse to his morbid fear of physical combat and his brush with Satanic Panic in 1980s rural Suffolk, this is a book about growing up, trying to define yourself as a man but somehow always missing the mark.
Early reviews of the collection
‘Farrer’s distinctive voice is once again on display in this entertaining collection of autobiographical essays, which document his lifelong struggle to grow into societal expectations of manhood.’
Bookseller Editor’s Choice
'I love everything about these essays, from Adam’s willingness to be open about life, love, family and his nether regions, to his innate ability as a storyteller. Broken Biscuits made me laugh out loud and then properly cry in the space of a few paragraphs.'
Jennie Godfrey - author of The List of Suspicious Things
‘Writing with such intimacy and ease, Farrer has crafted a brilliant collection of essays, by turns tender, disarmingly honest and achingly funny. In Broken Biscuits’ exploration of contemporary masculinity, he is undoubtedly a singular voice.’
Tawseef Khan - author of Determination
‘It will make you cry with laughter.'
Miranda France - author of The Writing School
I honestly don’t think there’s another author who makes me laugh out loud so much and who can pull on the heart strings within a couple of sentences. Highly recommended read.’
Lucy Nichol/Roth - author of The 27 Club, Parklife and When Sally Killed Harry
‘He’s a lovely writer: supple, stylish and almost effortlessly witty…This is a splendid book, to be cherished by anyone with a funny bone. I loved it.’
Marcus Berkmann - Mail on Sunday
'These essays are brilliant, funny, occasionally wince-inducing, and incredibly moving. I loved Adam’s honesty and generosity.'
Sarah Brooks - author of The Cautious Traveller's Guide to the Wastelands
‘Adam’s eye for the absurd is a delight, his candour about his own struggles utterly endearing. Threaded with his customary blend of melancholy and self-deprecating humour, these essays are a deep and courageous dive into what it feels like to be a man.'
Karen Powell - author of Fifteen Wild Decembers
‘Adam writes like he knows me, the tiniest things he recalls uncover huge truths that resonate even now. I loved it.’
Justin Moorhouse - Comedian and Actor.
‘This brilliant collection made me snort with laughter, nod my head in recognition and left me with a lump in my throat. A heartfelt and hilarious recommended read.’
Ruth Brookes - Booka Bookshop