by Syal, Meera | Performing arts: comedy Published 03/09/2026 by Orion Publishing Co (Weidenfeld & Nicolson) in the United Kingdom Hardback | 320 pages240 x 156mm | 0g Signed First Edition - Hardback - Publishes September 3rd Structured around those chance remarks that somehow end up changing the course of a life, this is the heartwarming story of multi-award winning writer, actor and comic, Meera Syal. From 'don't sit with your legs apart!' (the despairing cry of Meera's mother and aunties) to 'an Asian comedy show? Are Asians funny?' (the depressing response to the idea that would become Goodness Gracious Me), each chapter reveals a different turning point in Meera's journey - from the serious to the ridiculous. With her trademark warmth and humour, she shares stories from her grandfather's attempts to arrange her marriage, to her working life as an actress and writer, to her journey to motherhood and the changing attitudes towards women she has experienced over her career. Syal also delves into her parents' past, revealing lives deeply affected by the partition of India in 1947 and how that legacy has affected so many of her generation. Touching, compelling and very, very funny, this book shows us the stories that have shaped the life of one of Britain's best-loved comedy legends.
