Charles Bukowski’s first novel, Post Office, was published in 1971. Taking on the persona of Henry Chinaski, the book is a semi-autobiographical time of Bukowski’s life where he worked as a letter carrier, quit to bet on horse racing, then returned a few years later to become a mail clerk. In between, Chinaski has several boozy relationships with various women that never work out.
A highly readable book, Post Office is a non-judgmental look at a way of life for someone with little ambition other than to get through the day with a, roof over his head, lady on one arm and a case of beer in the other.
9/10
The Light Appears 
I’ve heard a little of his work through a friend but haven’t dived in yet, myself. Sounds enticing.