One of the most captivating of the young novelists who illuminated the English literary scene during the 1930s, James Curtis was the author of six novels, five of which were published in the few years leading up to the second world war, the last in 1956. His work was deeply influenced by his left-wing politics, with his plots highlighting the unfairness of society and dearth of opportunity that can lead to criminal behaviour. Two of his novels, They Drive By Night and There Ain’t No Justice were made into films, with Curtis being involved in the writing of both screenplays. He died in 1977.

New editions of The Gilt Kid and They Drive By Night are now available from London Books.