In a delightful twist for fans of the dapper comedian turned wordsmith, Tom Allen has officially added a third book to his name: Common Decency. Slated for release on 12 March 2026 via Coronet, it's his first venture into fiction—after two warm and witty memoirs (No Shame in 2021 and Too Much in 2022)
Tom describes this debut as a “love letter to suburbia”—a setting we all know, but seldom explore so intimately. He’s spent two years sculpting the streets of “Oak Drive”, where everyday civility faces unexpected chaos: beloved trees threatened by developers, gossip-riddled WhatsApp groups, local theatre snafus, barbecues gone awry—and, yes, even death and drug dealers in the mix.
Meet the Neighbours of Oak Drive
The novel centres on a tight-knit community that rallies to save a cherished oak tree. But as tensions spike and buried resentments bubble to the surface, the veneer of suburban propriety cracks—revealing a cast of characters as colourful as they are flawed
From Stand-Up to Storytelling
Fans will instantly recognise Tom’s witty narrative voice. In his words: “I have based Common Decency on my life living here, and observing the often incidental happenings which actually reveal the most dramatic aspects of life.
Beyond the laughs, readers can expect sprinkled moments of tenderness and truth—hallmarks of Tom’s memoirs—backed by his sharp eye for comedic detail. Plus, Tom himself will narrate the audiobook edition.
Mark Your Calendar
Title: Common Decency
Author: Tom Allen
Publisher: Coronet
Publication Date: 12 March 2026
Format: 320 pages, hardback, plus ebook & audiobook versions available
Pre-orders are already live, and the buzz is building across Tom’s social channels. He posted with excitement—“Delighted to announce I’ve written a novel! … it’s called Common Decency…
Why You Should Pre-Order
A fresh voice in contemporary fiction—Tom’s humour is perfectly balanced with insight and warmth.
A suburban drama filled with unexpected drama and eccentric characters.
A nod to everyday life: Tree-planting, block parties, small triumphs—and how big emotions can hide in small places.
Authentic narration: Tom’s own voice brings the audiobook to life.
Final Thoughts
Common Decency promises the wit, charm, and occasional poignancy we’ve come to love from Tom Allen, now framed within a fictional tapestry that celebrates—and pokes gentle fun at—neighbourhood life. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up, memoirs, or simply a juicy suburban saga, this one’s worth a spot on your bookshelf (or your headphones).
Bonus tip: Want to hear Tom’s own voice once it drops? Keep an eye out for the audiobook—Tom’s narration promises a touch of stand-up flair, perfect for long commutes through your own Oak Drive.