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Bobby: A Life Worth Living
“Variety is the spice of life, they say, but to me, variety was the life of my vice.”
Robert Charles Thompson was many things in his life. Among them, he was a teenage sex worker, a gunner in the Royal Navy, and head housekeeper at a prestigious London hotel. He was also gay, and his story gives us a fresh insight into a well-trodden path of British social history.
This is the story of one gay man, born in 1919 in Tooting. There are, no doubt, many others, but maybe not many led such a diverse life. Bobby’s colourful life crossed paths with King George VI, Sir Winston Churchill, the Dalai Lama, Shirley Bassey, David Bowie, Quentin Crisp, Ruth Ellis, and numerous other crowned heads, politicians, entertainers and leaders of society.
However, he came from the underclass of the homeless, drag queens, and illegal lovers. There at pivotal moments of the gay 20th century, this previously unknown gay man’s richly fascinating career has previously slipped under the radar but is now getting the limelight it deserves.
Jackson Marsh has published over 30 novels, including the gay, Victorian series, The Clearwater Mysteries, The Larkspur Mysteries, and The Delamere Files.
Robert Charles Thompson was many things in his life. Among them, he was a teenage sex worker, a gunner in the Royal Navy, and head housekeeper at a prestigious London hotel. He was also gay, and his story gives us a fresh insight into a well-trodden path of British social history.
This is the story of one gay man, born in 1919 in Tooting. There are, no doubt, many others, but maybe not many led such a diverse life. Bobby’s colourful life crossed paths with King George VI, Sir Winston Churchill, the Dalai Lama, Shirley Bassey, David Bowie, Quentin Crisp, Ruth Ellis, and numerous other crowned heads, politicians, entertainers and leaders of society.
However, he came from the underclass of the homeless, drag queens, and illegal lovers. There at pivotal moments of the gay 20th century, this previously unknown gay man’s richly fascinating career has previously slipped under the radar but is now getting the limelight it deserves.
Jackson Marsh has published over 30 novels, including the gay, Victorian series, The Clearwater Mysteries, The Larkspur Mysteries, and The Delamere Files.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2024
31 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Jackson Marsh
43 books84 followersJackson Marsh is a British born author of novels and screenplays. He has won awards for his gay erotic writing and currently writes for several adult websites. In 2007, Jackson won an EGPA for his writing and in 2017 won awards for his screenplay writing. He is married and lives in Greece.
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 5, 2024
Truly amazing
Last night I curled up on the couch to begin reading Jackson Marsh’s biography of Bobby, A Life Worth Living. It’s the story of Marsh’s godfather, Bobby Thomson, beginning with his birth in 1919 until his death in 2007.
I found it hard to put the book down and so I read to the end. I am stumped for words because I was left in awe of a man I never knew, but now find that I know him intimately through his story.
The author had recorded Bobby’s recollections when he was alive, and in honoring Bobby’s wish that it be published, he took some years to complete this incredible person’s life story and it is finally finished.
I’m sure there are a lot of people like myself who know of or have personally gone through some of the things that Bobby did so many years ago.
At 14 years old to become a rent boy, and somehow not be sucked down into the poverty that he could have succumb to and have the wherewithal to realize he had something special and to take those talents and live a life as a gay man against all odds is astounding.
I have the upmost respect for this man and of course anyone who has the courage enough to be themselves and to rise above the hate and discrimination that was so prominent during Bobby’s lifetime and still is today to some extent.
I can identify with Bobby’s story and somewhat Bobby himself as I am a gay man who grew up in a time before we were recognized and given the rights we so deserve.
It was not shocking to discover that Bobby sold himself to men at the age of 14. Being a fan of Jackson Marsh and have read all of his series related to the Clearwater mysteries, the Lockspur mysteries, and the Delamere mysteries, I am familiar with rent boys and their need for survival.
Jackson Marsh has honored Bobby by publishing his story and giving the world a precious gift from a man I would have been honored and more than happy to have known.
There is so much I would like to to say here regarding this story, but it is best that you read it for yourselves and let Bobby’s words take you on that journey.
I highly recommend taking the time to read Bobby’s story, it will make you laugh, make you cry , and most importantly, leave you with a full heart and wonderful memories of this unique gay man.
Last night I curled up on the couch to begin reading Jackson Marsh’s biography of Bobby, A Life Worth Living. It’s the story of Marsh’s godfather, Bobby Thomson, beginning with his birth in 1919 until his death in 2007.
I found it hard to put the book down and so I read to the end. I am stumped for words because I was left in awe of a man I never knew, but now find that I know him intimately through his story.
The author had recorded Bobby’s recollections when he was alive, and in honoring Bobby’s wish that it be published, he took some years to complete this incredible person’s life story and it is finally finished.
I’m sure there are a lot of people like myself who know of or have personally gone through some of the things that Bobby did so many years ago.
At 14 years old to become a rent boy, and somehow not be sucked down into the poverty that he could have succumb to and have the wherewithal to realize he had something special and to take those talents and live a life as a gay man against all odds is astounding.
I have the upmost respect for this man and of course anyone who has the courage enough to be themselves and to rise above the hate and discrimination that was so prominent during Bobby’s lifetime and still is today to some extent.
I can identify with Bobby’s story and somewhat Bobby himself as I am a gay man who grew up in a time before we were recognized and given the rights we so deserve.
It was not shocking to discover that Bobby sold himself to men at the age of 14. Being a fan of Jackson Marsh and have read all of his series related to the Clearwater mysteries, the Lockspur mysteries, and the Delamere mysteries, I am familiar with rent boys and their need for survival.
Jackson Marsh has honored Bobby by publishing his story and giving the world a precious gift from a man I would have been honored and more than happy to have known.
There is so much I would like to to say here regarding this story, but it is best that you read it for yourselves and let Bobby’s words take you on that journey.
I highly recommend taking the time to read Bobby’s story, it will make you laugh, make you cry , and most importantly, leave you with a full heart and wonderful memories of this unique gay man.
November 3, 2024
This book chronicles the remarkable journey of Robert Charles Thompson (Bobby, or Babs), a man who defied societal norms and carved out a vibrant gay existence amid the constraints of early and mid-20th-century Britain. I was genuinely surprised to discover just how rich and diverse gay life was in those days, particularly considering its illegal status at the time.
Bobby emerges as a wonderfully likable and charming character, making it easy to root for him as he navigates his colorful life. His unapologetic embrace of his past as a sex worker is both refreshing and empowering. It was also an eye-opening revelation to learn that one could be openly gay in the British Navy, engaging in relationships with "straight" marines without facing severe repercussions.
Bobby adeptly traversed the worlds of the homeless, drag queens, and the elite, doing so with grace and humor. The narrative pulls you in, showcasing not only his interactions with crowned heads, celebrities, and politicians but also his connections with everyday people from the streets.
I must also mention the cover choice—though the author mentioned considering using Bobby's handkerchief, I'm glad he opted for his picture instead. It captures the “gay” (as in joyful) spirit of the book perfectly, and let's be honest, Mr. Bobby was quite easy on the eye!
I enjoyed this book very much, and I would like to recommend it to anyone (gay or not) interested in learning more about LGBTQ+ history in a fun and uplifting manner.
Bobby emerges as a wonderfully likable and charming character, making it easy to root for him as he navigates his colorful life. His unapologetic embrace of his past as a sex worker is both refreshing and empowering. It was also an eye-opening revelation to learn that one could be openly gay in the British Navy, engaging in relationships with "straight" marines without facing severe repercussions.
Bobby adeptly traversed the worlds of the homeless, drag queens, and the elite, doing so with grace and humor. The narrative pulls you in, showcasing not only his interactions with crowned heads, celebrities, and politicians but also his connections with everyday people from the streets.
I must also mention the cover choice—though the author mentioned considering using Bobby's handkerchief, I'm glad he opted for his picture instead. It captures the “gay” (as in joyful) spirit of the book perfectly, and let's be honest, Mr. Bobby was quite easy on the eye!
I enjoyed this book very much, and I would like to recommend it to anyone (gay or not) interested in learning more about LGBTQ+ history in a fun and uplifting manner.
July 31, 2024
This wonderful biography/memoir deserves all the stars!
It's a wonderfully intimate journey into the life of Robert Thompson but also a fascinating overview of what it meant to be a gay man in the early to late twentieth century. Bob's stories have all the polish of a seasoned raconteur and I was rapt. I was a completely captive audience and almost felt like I was in the same room as him, listening to his wonderfully risque tales of the great, good and irredeemably naughty.
The amount of hard work and dedication by Jackson Marsh in transcribing Bob's recordings and painstakingly writing them, complete with notes where necessary, was clearly a labour of love. Bob was the author's godfather, and his affection for his subject shines through, particularly in the final section of the book, where Jackson Marsh shares his personal memories of Bob, which not only give extra context, but a wonderful sense of continuity.
A remarkable book about a remarkable man with an extraordinary social overview and a lasting personal legacy. Unmissable!
It's a wonderfully intimate journey into the life of Robert Thompson but also a fascinating overview of what it meant to be a gay man in the early to late twentieth century. Bob's stories have all the polish of a seasoned raconteur and I was rapt. I was a completely captive audience and almost felt like I was in the same room as him, listening to his wonderfully risque tales of the great, good and irredeemably naughty.
The amount of hard work and dedication by Jackson Marsh in transcribing Bob's recordings and painstakingly writing them, complete with notes where necessary, was clearly a labour of love. Bob was the author's godfather, and his affection for his subject shines through, particularly in the final section of the book, where Jackson Marsh shares his personal memories of Bob, which not only give extra context, but a wonderful sense of continuity.
A remarkable book about a remarkable man with an extraordinary social overview and a lasting personal legacy. Unmissable!
October 24, 2024
Beautiful tribute of Bobby’s Life
I thoroughly enjoy this author’s fictional works. The details and research are intricately woven into his stories. I was unsure about a book based on real life. I had to force myself to put the book away each night. I genuinely felt like I was following Bobby around like a shadow as I read. Mr. Marsh has the gift of transporting readers into his stories by wielding his “pen”. I am so honored to have had a view into this man’s journey of life. Hoping Mr. Marsh writes more of this type along with his fictional historical series.
Thank you for sharing your gift with us who enjoy your stories.
I thoroughly enjoy this author’s fictional works. The details and research are intricately woven into his stories. I was unsure about a book based on real life. I had to force myself to put the book away each night. I genuinely felt like I was following Bobby around like a shadow as I read. Mr. Marsh has the gift of transporting readers into his stories by wielding his “pen”. I am so honored to have had a view into this man’s journey of life. Hoping Mr. Marsh writes more of this type along with his fictional historical series.
Thank you for sharing your gift with us who enjoy your stories.
March 5, 2025
Reading the aptly-titled "Bobby: A Life Worth Living" is like binge-watching Ian McKellen and Derek Jacobi in Vicious.
I started reading willy-nilly thinking hmm another depressing rise-from-the-ashes rent boy/cottaging tales sob story. Whoa, I was wrong. Simultaneously funny and provocative, throughout it all Mr. Collins never loses (nor allows you to forget) the genuine tenderness and fondness he holds for Bob.
It's been some time since I stayed up all night to finish a book, even cross-checking Google maps. The end-end about passing on heirlooms got me in the feels. Just lovely.
This is my favourite Jackson Marsh.
.
I started reading willy-nilly thinking hmm another depressing rise-from-the-ashes rent boy/cottaging tales sob story. Whoa, I was wrong. Simultaneously funny and provocative, throughout it all Mr. Collins never loses (nor allows you to forget) the genuine tenderness and fondness he holds for Bob.
It's been some time since I stayed up all night to finish a book, even cross-checking Google maps. The end-end about passing on heirlooms got me in the feels. Just lovely.
This is my favourite Jackson Marsh.
.
April 11, 2025
As a gay man coming out in the 70s and now 73 years of age I found it interesting and fascinating reading of this biography going back being on the streets at such a tender age and the teaching the height of his career later on .A very good read and worthy of the five star rating that I have given .......Alan Player
September 13, 2024
A book worth reading
Fascinating life. Funny,in parts poignant in others,. I be always loved
Listening to stories about the 'olden day's and my grandparents and their generation and my dad were great ones for reminiscing .This book was just the job.
Thank you for writing it
Fascinating life. Funny,in parts poignant in others,. I be always loved
Listening to stories about the 'olden day's and my grandparents and their generation and my dad were great ones for reminiscing .This book was just the job.
Thank you for writing it
November 3, 2024
I loved this book! What a delight it would have been to meet a guy like Bobby, so chill, interesting, and at peace with himself. Also, Jackson Marsh's narrative is enthralling. I will read more of his books.
May 26, 2025
'Bobby: A Life Worth Living' by Jackson Marsh
I'm so glad I read this! It's such a fascinating real-life look at a gay man's life growing up in England, first starting out as a rent-boy in London at age 14, after leaving his parent's home. After that, becoming a sailor with many adventures both before and after the wars. He survived them (obvs) and went on to have an incredibly interesting life, due in no small part to his joyous personality, to just roll with some crazy times (being gay was illegal in Great Britain for many years), and to want to help all kinds of people in whatever ways he could (not just talking about sex here, lol, although he seems to have had a very active sex-life).
Loved the story about him and Winston Churchill, about the times Bobby (aka, 'Babs') was caught red-handed while lying flat-out on the plush carpeting of the swanky hotel suite that Churchill and his wife were renting (while waiting out renovations on their house to be completed), and him just laying there, staring at Churchill's paintings, of which there were dozens leaning the walls of their suite. Then Churchill unexpectedly walked into the room behind Bob, catching him off-guard...yep, you'll have to read the book to find out what happens; pretty funny!
I never knew Churchill was an avid and accomplished painter til I read this!
I wish I could have met Bob, even though he was way before my time, as he sounds like an interesting guy! The lyrics to Elton Johns' song 'Candle in the Wind' come to mind, although at least Bob got to live his adventurous life for a long time!
If his life wasn't documented (see family life section at end of book) by independent parties, and also his god-son, I'd think someone just made it all up because of all the myriad adventures around the world, not to mention all the name-dropping; pretty funny stuff...but sometimes sad, too. Good book!
Two thumbs up 👍👍
I'm so glad I read this! It's such a fascinating real-life look at a gay man's life growing up in England, first starting out as a rent-boy in London at age 14, after leaving his parent's home. After that, becoming a sailor with many adventures both before and after the wars. He survived them (obvs) and went on to have an incredibly interesting life, due in no small part to his joyous personality, to just roll with some crazy times (being gay was illegal in Great Britain for many years), and to want to help all kinds of people in whatever ways he could (not just talking about sex here, lol, although he seems to have had a very active sex-life).
Loved the story about him and Winston Churchill, about the times Bobby (aka, 'Babs') was caught red-handed while lying flat-out on the plush carpeting of the swanky hotel suite that Churchill and his wife were renting (while waiting out renovations on their house to be completed), and him just laying there, staring at Churchill's paintings, of which there were dozens leaning the walls of their suite. Then Churchill unexpectedly walked into the room behind Bob, catching him off-guard...yep, you'll have to read the book to find out what happens; pretty funny!
I never knew Churchill was an avid and accomplished painter til I read this!
I wish I could have met Bob, even though he was way before my time, as he sounds like an interesting guy! The lyrics to Elton Johns' song 'Candle in the Wind' come to mind, although at least Bob got to live his adventurous life for a long time!
If his life wasn't documented (see family life section at end of book) by independent parties, and also his god-son, I'd think someone just made it all up because of all the myriad adventures around the world, not to mention all the name-dropping; pretty funny stuff...but sometimes sad, too. Good book!
Two thumbs up 👍👍
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews