Howay the Lads! A People's History of Newcastle United by Dan Jackson is a landmark account of one of English football’s most unique clubs. Jackson, a respected historian and author, crafts a compelling people’s history of Newcastle United, capturing the enduring Geordie passion that fills St James’ Park week after week. Through meticulous research and evocative storytelling, Jackson explores the origins of Newcastle United in the late nineteenth century, weaving in the rich tapestry of North East England’s cultural identity, its deep sense of solidarity, and the distinctive traditions that have shaped the club’s character.
Drawing on his expertise as a founding member of the Northumbria WW1 Commemoration Project and his acclaimed writing for the New Statesman, Dan Jackson situates Newcastle United in the broader context of working-class history. He demonstrates how the athleticism and teamwork forged in the region’s coalfields and shipyards found a natural home on the football pitch. Jackson highlights how Newcastle’s passionate fan base, proud of their roots and unbowed by decades without a league title, have remained among the most loyal in world football. The Toon Army’s unwavering support, even in lean years, is a testament to the club’s enduring significance in the life of the city.
Howay the Lads! is more than just a chronicle of football results; it is a celebration of Geordie identity and resilience. Dan Jackson brings to life legendary figures such as Colin Veitch, Jackie Milburn, and Alan Shearer, whose exploits have become the stuff of local folklore. The book examines how Newcastle United’s greatest heroes embodied the values of hard work, pride, and a certain irrepressible hedonism—traits that mirror the spirit of the city itself. Jackson’s sensitive portrayal of the club’s highs and lows makes for a gripping read, whether recounting the glory years or the heartbreak of near-misses.
For anyone seeking an authoritative, engaging, and deeply human history of Newcastle United, Dan Jackson’s Howay the Lads! is essential reading. With its insightful analysis and heartfelt admiration for both club and city, Jackson’s work stands as a definitive tribute to Newcastle United’s place in football history. This is a book for football fans, students of social history, and anyone captivated by the enduring magic of the beautiful game in the North East. ```
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Publisher: Fascinating Selection of Books – A Must See!
Published: September 3, 2026
Price: £24.99
Hardback: 400 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0349146768
Dimensions: 24 x15 cm
