The Dire Straits story goes to Transworld

Transworld Publishers has acquired It’s a Long Way From Deptford – The Dire Straits Story by John Illsley.

Illsley was a founder member and bassist for the rock band Dire Straits. This book will mark the first time their story has been told by someone from the band. 

Editorial director Michelle Signore acquired world English language rights from Annabel Merullo at PFD. It’s a Long Way From Deptford – The Dire Straits Story will be published in autumn 2021. 

Signore said: "As soon as I started reading John’s proposal, I knew I had to publish his book. His writing conjures such a wonderful sense of time and place, from the spit-and-sawdust pubs of south-east London to hanging out with Bob Dylan in LA and playing to packed stadia all over the world. With incredible honesty, John also talks of the the darker times after the touring stopped and he returned home to a life he no longer recognised as his own. John has a wealth of captivating stories to tell and he does so with warmth, wit and generosity of spirit."

Illsley commented: "This book above all is about passion and pursuing your dreams – taking the unpredictable path, not the easy option. It charts the journey from my innocent teens strumming a few chords, to playing on the biggest stages in the world; a chance meeting in 1976 with Mark Knopfler that created a musical partnership that lasted 20 years, and a strong friendship that continues to this day. Dire Straits was an idea that created a phenomenal musical legacy, an extraordinary journey of joy, fun, companionship and surprises. I am immensely proud of my contribution to this journey."