AND FURTHERMORE

In the preface, Dame Judi herself tells listeners that this memoir is not intended as an autobiography but as an addendum to John Miller's earlier biographies. Actress Samantha Bond then takes over the first-person narration. Bond’s voice is elegant, charming, and full of pep and vinegar as she recounts snippets of Dench’s life and remarkable career. The memoir takes listeners from her first role as Ophelia in HAMLET at the Old Vic to her more recent TV and film work. Generous with her praise of fellow actors and directors, Dame Judi candidly expresses strong likes and dislikes, revealing a keen sense of humor, a puckish penchant for pranks, and devotion to her family and her career. Bond’s performance adds sparkle to this delightful audiobook. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]