I saw a review on a book-related app which stated that this book was ‘too actory’. I have to admit that this made me giggle, as I am not sure what you would expect from the memoir of a British actor.
However, I did not find anything about this book a negative reading experience. In fact, I agree with the quote on the front from Celia Imrie (another National Treasure) that this book is ‘deliciously witty’. It is, in fact, an absolute joy to read, especially for anyone who has an interest in British theatre, TV and film, and those who have graced each of these areas.
Hugh takes us through his journey to becoming an actor, from his childhood to his life on the stage and his time in some of our nation’s favourites, such as Downton Abbey. He shares stories from his family as well as from his professional experience and, at moments, I found myself crying (rather awkard, as at one moment I was reading this book on the train on the way to work) as he shares the loss of his mother, brother and father. Hugh Bonneville writes with such charm, passion and emotion that this memoir is very difficult to put down.
I am not sure it is possible to fangirl as you read a book, but I loved reading about his encounters with some of my favourite actors such as Dame Judi Dench, Jim Broadbent and Iain Glen (to name but a few). And, as someone who enjoys seeing as many Royal Shakespeare Company productions as possible, Hugh Bonneville’s time with this company was something that I found particularly interesting.
If you have an interest in British theatre, actors, films (and a little bit of TV), and what really happens behind the scenes, then this is the book for you. It may be ‘actory’, but that is exactly what you need it to be – and it is a gem of a memoir that I will return to read little snippets of, because there are so many delightful anecdotes amongst its pages.