Braine's first and most successful novel of working-class 'angst' and the struggle of 'angry young man' Joe Lampton to climb the social ladder by whatever means possible.

The story of an ambitious young man, Joe Lampton, of humble origin, and the socio-economic struggles undergone in realising his social ambitions in post-war Britain. He is determined to make something of himself, targeting a high-paid job. He notices a young man with an expensive car and a pretty girlfriend and realises that this lifestyle and appearance is what he aspires to. The book centres on Joe's efforts to secure a future he can take pride in, ultimately leading to disaster and remorse.