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Ace Jacket The Outside Story Charity Book
Both Volumes can be ordered at www.auk.direct
ACE JACKET Splits into Two Volumes – and It’s Bigger on the Inside!
ACE JACKET is now two volumes: The Inside Story and The Outside Story.
Volume 1 launches June 17th, with early copies at the BOOM! event on June 7th.
Pre-orders are still valid, with no extra cost, and proceeds support autism charities.
Chinbeard Books is today announcing an exciting new development in the creation of ACE JACKET — the definitive deep-dive into one of the most iconic costume pieces in Doctor Who history. What started as one book has now expanded — literally — into two beautifully crafted volumes: ACE JACKET: The Inside Story and ACE JACKET: The Outside Story.
The decision to split the title comes after a wave of incredible contributions from Doctor Who alumni, explains the editor for Chinbeard Books, Barnaby Eaton-Jones: “It seemed silly to try and squeeze too much content into one book and lose all the remarkable things we’ve been gifted – including debunking some repetitive mistakes that are made about Ace’s jacket online. The only thing to do was to unpick the seams and then open Ace’s jacket out into two volumes. I’m sure fans will be delighted at the reasons why, when they see both books.”
Prior research has been combined with new discoveries from the cosplay and production communities. The result? Two volumes that give this beloved jacket the space—and reverence—it deserves.
THE INSIDE STORY (Releasing June 17th, 2025)
Features an anthology of all-new, original short stories and reflections written by cast, crew, and creatives from across Doctor Who history. Including the classic series, the new series, and even the newest series (including nearly all the surviving Doctors!) Each story explores a specific badge, pin, or patch that adorned Ace’s legendary jacket—some funny, some heartfelt, all unique. With additional commentary from Sophie Aldred herself and stunning illustrations, as well as a Galactic Gallery of fans wearing their own Ace jacket creations, this is a celebration of character and costume like no other.
THE OUTSIDE STORY (Pre-orders opening later this month)
This second volume takes fans behind the seams for the definitive origin story of the jacket’s design evolution. Discover verified details and never-before-revealed facts about how the look came together, why certain adornments moved throughout episodes, and what it all meant to those who wore and created it. Ideal for fans, collectors, and cosplayers seeking the truth behind the legend.
All existing pre-orders are valid and will receive The Inside Story as planned—now with even more value packed in, at no additional cost. Readers who pre-ordered the original book will also have the chance to be among the first to access pre-orders for The Outside Story when they launch later in April.
Join us for ‘BOOM!’ – the official launch event on June 7th. Attendees will receive an exclusive event edition of The Inside Story, days before the official release. Tickets include a copy of the book and access to a special celebration of all things Ace. Details and tickets: cygnusalpha.org/boom
Anthony G
June 28th, 2025 - 8:31pmThank you Bookcollector!
Bookcollector
June 28th, 2025 - 8:48pmNo problem
Anthony G
June 28th, 2025 - 5:34pmHas anybody who ordered online had their copies yet?
Bookcollector
June 28th, 2025 - 6:48pmApparently they have been delayed from the 17th June date. Due to paper sourcing. Last I heard was on the 25th June stating the book had been upgraded to hardback free of cost for those who had preordered. As yet still no confirmation of when these will be sent out.
Bookcollector
June 28th, 2025 - 6:52pmOh, inside story was meant for 17th June been delayed as I said, but should be available within the next few weeks I think.
Outside story is due November 25th I think.
Bookcollector
June 28th, 2025 - 7:04pmThis is a reply to my own comment which is awaiting moderation. In case it doesn’t get added.
Inside story was due on 17th June but was delayed while they sourced high quality paper. On the 25th June it was announced that the book was being upgraded at no extra cost for all preorders to a hardback version.