SOLVED. British Child Abuse True Story - He then finds it difficult to hold down a job, he's screwed over by his legitimate employment so he turns to a life of low level crime. He's used as muscle. [s]

[Bob]

I'm looking for a book that is set the 80's or 90s in England.

The book is about a boy that is abused primarily by his mother (who you learn has severe mental illness) and partially by his timid father that suffers from epilepsy.

He has two other brothers I believe that don't get it as bad as him.

He grows up poor and is subjected to terrible things. He eventually gets taken into care. The family mentors him a little but he has to leave when he's older.

He then finds it difficult to hold down a job, he's screwed over by his legitimate employment so he turns to a life of low level crime. He's used as muscle. He's used to do backyard fighting for money. He's eventually set up to take a fall in a fight. This takes place within a ring of cars.

He later finds love in his girlfriend but his abuse makes his mannerisms unusual and he has to explain all this to her.

It is a true story about him growing up I believe. If you know the title of this book and can link me it, I would be extremely grateful. It is similar to a boy called it.

[arratavy]

The Kid by Kevin Lewis?

[Bob]

That is exactly the one! Ah I'm so happy. You have no idea how long I've been trying to find it again. Thank you so much. It means a massive amount.