It’s Character Building

Non-Fiction

Pages: 92 Ratings:

Book Format: Choose an option

Free shipping valid on standard-priced orders only

*Your order will be dispatched after the publication date of 14-08-2026

For as long as I can remember, I have always strived for more.

I recall this from a very young age and this book tries to explain the demons that drove me.

Whilst delving deep into my memory and often with raw emotion, I can now understand and hopefully come to terms with how very much my troubled childhood shaped me throughout most of my adult life.

I was always told it’s character building if I was asked to do or go anywhere outside of my comfort zone… which I took to mean Just have a go—what’s the worst that could happen?

I have used this writing experience to reflect on my life, the highs and lows… and hopefully come out a better person.

Mark Barford was born in a council house in Grimsby, 1959. Having had a troubled childhood, Mark left school at 18 with few qualifications, but determined to prove himself. Aged 27, having worked in the fishing industry since leaving school, he set up his own fish trading company. He travelled the world sourcing new supplies, and soon became the largest importer of frozen fish into the UK. As a serial entrepreneur, Mark sold several businesses, and at the age of 38, he started a building company as a new venture. He retired in his early 60s after suffering from prostate cancer. Mark’s colourful, funny and sometimes touching story makes for an interesting read of a full life, with some regrets.