When ALS released their first novel, Keep The Faith, by their columnist Sobs (Paul Dobson) in 2005 it was an immediate sell out success. Each chapter of the original chronicles a year in the author’s life supporting SAFC home and away, with musical, personal and political subtext.

“A must for supporters” Sunderland Echo

Since then we’ve been inundated with requests to reprint and update the book, but have found it impossible to get Sobs to leave the pub and write a revised version. Eventually and after much cajoling, he abstained from alcohol long enough to write three new chapters which brings the story of his footballing life following Sunderland AFC up to date.

“A unique insight into SAFC devotion” DN Magazine

Taken from the book itself Sobs says ‘Every time, season after season, it’s the same old thing but it’s completely different every time. Magic, isn’t it?’ The book begins at his birth in 1956 and finishes a few games into the 2007/08 season, every season is told differently and every situation is unique, after finishing the book I wasn’t sure what made the book great, Sob’s interesting life or the fact he’s one hell of a writer.

“Better than the bible” The Reverend Andy Mackin

So from Hurley to Keane, from joy to despair and from teenage to middle age, if you have five seconds to spare then buy this book and read the story of his life and his love and devotion for the greatest football team the world has ever seen.

To buy a copy of Sob’s Story - Keep The Faith click here

James Henderson