Book Review: Quite by Claudia Winkleman

Are you a Strictly Come Dancing fan? Do you love all the sparkly frocks and Claudia Winkleman’s cheeky banter? Me too. But there’s so much more to Claudia than sparkly dresses, so when I spotted the release of the biography Quite by Claudia Winkleman I couldn’t wait to grab myself a copy.

Quite – Love Life and Eyeliner is Claudia’s first book in which she shares observations and insights into Claudia’s world. Friendships, family, work and that fringe!

Before I share my thoughts on Quite by Claudia Winkleman, here’s the book cover details for those not familiar with this book.

Book Cover Notes

A SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

Funny, moving and truthful… Quite

Claudia Winkleman’s warmth, humour, no-holds-barred attitude and smoky eye have made her the favourite broadcaster of millions and a much-loved household name.

In this, her first ever book, Claudia invites us all into her world. She shares her observations on topics such as the importance of melted cheese, why black coats are vital, how it’s never okay to have sex with someone who has an opinion on your date outfit, how nurses are our most precious national treasure, and why colourful clothing is only for the under 10s (if you’re reading this sporting a bright red jumper and you’re 9, great! If you’re older, sorry).

This is a love letter to life – the real, sometimes messy kind. Quite celebrates friendship, the power of art, the highs and lows of parenting, and of course, how a good eyeliner can really save your life.

Heartfelt, wry and unmistakably Claudia, this book gets to the heart of what really matters.

My Thoughts

When I first started reading Claudia’s book, I have to admit I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. I thought the chapter ‘You Mustn’t Stay With Him If…’ was quite harsh. However, that chapter aside, I really enjoyed this book.

Claudia’s life experiences and shrewd observations are shared, often in a list style, throughout the book. This is a fun, easy read, Claudia’s writing style is refreshing and honest. You get a real sense of what it must be like hanging out with her.

I love books with short chapters and this worked well with Claudia’s style of writing. Each chapter is short, usually 2-3 sides, Claudia gets straight to the point, no waffle needed. Sharing an experience, an observation or a personal story that she wraps up with her advice on what to do (or not do) in that situation.

What about Strictly? Claudia remained ever the professional, so if you’re looking for backstage gossip onto the dancers or celebrities you may be disappointed. Claudia gives an honest account what it’s like for her. The excitement build up and the nerves before each live show. Oh and lots of praise for her partner in crime Tess, of course.

“Basically I’m going to the best fancy dress party for 12 weeks.”

My takeaways from Claudia

‘Finding a uniform, a look, is simply a good plan.’ – Definitely agree, it’s such a time & money saver
Like Claudia, I’m the Grown-Up in friendships
Messy hair, smudged make-up and ‘lived-in’ homes are perfectly normal, thank you very much 🙂

Summary

A delightful and entertaining read, unmistakably Claudia. Buy this book, make a brew and enjoy a little bit of sparkle whilst we wait for Strictly to come back on the telly.

Where to Buy

Amazon UK

Quite by Claudia Winkleman Book Review by Touring Tales

Listen to Claudia on Amazon Audible Books

About the Author

Claudia Winkleman Author Photo. Book Review of Quite Claudia Winkleman — Author – Claudia Winkleman

Claudia Winkleman is one of the best known broadcasters in the UK, she won the RTS Award for Best Presenter in 2015, the WFTV award for Best Presenter in 2019 and has been BAFTA-nominated. Claudia currently co-hosts Strictly Come Dancing (BBC1) alongside Tess Daly and also has a Sunday night show on BBC Radio 2.

Claudia also regularly appears as a guest on panel shows including QI, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Big Fat Quiz of the Year and Would I Lie To You.

Claudia has previously presented four series of The Great British Sewing Bee and was the host of BBC Film. Claudia is also a trustee of Comic Relief and has fronted the live television shows for both Red Nose Day and Sport Relief, along with spin-off shows including Let’s Dance for Comic Relief/ Sport Relief and the Comic Relief Danceathon.

Claudia graduated from Cambridge University with an MA Honours in History of Art. She lives in London with her husband and three children.