Since his parents were poor, Charles Boon had a deprived childhood.
During this period, he also worked in a bookshop and a circulating library, which gave him insights into the sales and distribution of books.
In 1893 Boon joined Methuen & Co., a publishing firm in London, as an office boy and warehouse clerk.
While at Methuen & Co., Boon met Gerald Mills, who was also working in the same firm.
However, after the First World War, the company's fortunes declined due to intense competition from established bigger publishing houses.