About This Boy

Part autobiography and part guide-to-life, Leon “Locksmith” Rolle of the British drum and bass band Rudimental writes about being a teenager, growing up and facing challenges. Looking at his own experiences and teenage years, Leon presents lots of positive advice to readers on how to achieve their dreams and be their best selves.

Leon’s journey to adulthood was far from smooth or easy. Each themed chapter begins with a story from his life, then explores what he learnt and how anyone can apply those things to their own life. He’s candid about the fact that he made mistakes, but looks at these as having been ultimately positive because they contributed to the person he is now, acknowledging that mistakes are a part of life just as much as successes are.

An inspiring and encouraging book, it includes chapters on how Leon uses his emotions to provide strength, the importance of self-belief, ways to manage things that go wrong, and how to take pride in your positive actions. At only 150 pages it also feels really accessible to those who aren’t big readers, while Leon’s writing is open, honest and relatable.