Transworld gets on board with TikTok trainspotter Francis Bourgeois

Transworld has scooped an "utterly joyful" book by TikTok trainspotter Francis Bourgeois. 

Henry Vines, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to The Trainspotter’s Notebook from Millie Lean at YMU. It will publish on 27th October. 

After his trainspotting videos began to go viral during the pandemic, Bourgeois has gained millions of fans drawn to his enthusiasm and the sense of joy he shares as he pursues his passion for trains. After multiple media appearances and collaborations with public figures such as Thierry Henry, Joe Jonas, Rosalia and Sam Fender, plus brands such as Gucci and Spotify, Bourgeois has a growing social media following of more than 4.3 million. 

His book aims to “immerse readers in the sights and sounds of the railway” as he recounts his most memorable trainspotting adventures. It traverses through the fields and footbridges of the British countryside, passing through grandiose ticket halls, historic terminals and backwater stations. Along the way readers are shown the role of the railways in shaping Britain, and encouraged to form a new appreciation for the majesty of trains and the true pleasure of trainspotting.

Bourgeois said he “loved every part” of writing the book. “Transferring my stories to the page, I’ve relived the huge moments of exhilaration that people have connected with in my videos. It’s been just as rewarding to write about the times that aren’t as obvious on my channels – the careful planning, the hilarious mishaps, the amazing people of the railway, my childhood love of trains, and my teenage desire to fit in and hide this trainspotter part of myself. Writing this book has allowed me to verbalise the pure joy I feel through my hobby, and I hope that The Trainspotter’s Notebook inspires readers to reconnect with their childhood passions and embrace every part of themselves wholeheartedly.” 

Vines said: “It is impossible to watch Francis’ videos without a huge smile on your face, and his book delivers an equal dose of joy and entertainment. It encourages its audience to reconnect with the passions we all held as children, and gives readers a fresh appreciation for Britain’s industrial landscape and the extraordinary world of the railway. We are thrilled to be publishing The Trainspotter’s Notebook and can’t wait to invite readers aboard this autumn.” 

Lean added: “Francis is a born storyteller, which is abundantly clear in his euphoric, uplifting content that has captured the imagination of millions. In The Trainspotter’s Notebook, Francis allows us to experience the highest of highs and lowest of lows when chasing down the perfect loco. Part industrial nature writing, part trainspotter’s diary, Francis writes with great sensitivity, beauty and care about embracing the passion he holds so dearly. This is an utterly joyful book and I’m delighted that Francis’ debut has found the perfect home with Transworld.”