This is a lovely biography by this wonderful actress. In it, she covers her long career, detailing many of the projects she has been a part of. But she begins with discussing her origins of being born to British parents in India. It is clear she is very proud and very fond of her birthplace, and she describes her childhood as being magical.

As well as her illustrious career, Dame Joanna writes proudly of her campaign with the Gurkhas to gain the same rights for them that are afforded to other members of the British Services. (Why they didn't have them all along is beyond me.) Proudest, though, is when she writes of her son, Jamie, and her granddaughters. Clearly, they are her world, along with her husband Stephen (who she affectionately refers to as Stevie at one point).

It was inspiring to read about the things that haven't worked for her, about plays and TV shows that flopped, because it reminds us that we should never give up on our dreams. Hard work and determination count a lot for obtaining what we desire. And, if that doesn't work, then we adapt and turn what we have into gold dust. That is exactly what Joanna has done.

I loved the brief section on 'Absolutely Fabulous.' She wrote so warmly of all the actors she worked with. I especially loved how she thought Jennifer didn't like her at first, and she even thought she had blown her chance of getting the role of Patsy because Jennifer didn't really speak to her. It turned out, Jennifer is just the quiet type who it takes a while for her to open up with new people. Also, she thinks a lot. That's just who she is. I think I would have been very intimidated if I had been in Joanna's position.

All in all, this is a lovely read. It didn't delve deeply into her childhood, and actually, most of her life experiences are mentioned, but not really deeply looked at. It's more of a record of what she has achieved (and failed at). But it's nice. I enjoyed it very much. I came away thinking I'd quite like Joanna as a friend.

Fans of Joanna Lumley. People who enjoy reading biographies.

The way Joanna wrote of her family. The love shone so brightly when she mentioned them.

It could have delved a little more deeply into Joanna's life. That would have been nice.

Watch some 'Ab Fab.'

Happy. Warm. Entertained.

Joanna Lumley. British actress, perhaps best known for playing Patsy Stone in 'Absolutely Fabulous.'

It's lovely. Such a warm read.

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Created Feb 10, 2025 at 6:16am • Submit your own review...