Review: Self Portrait by Anneke Wills

[wshaffer]

Self Portrait: My Journey as an Actress, Wife + Mother in the Swinging Sixties by Anneke Wills


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you get this book just for details on Anneke Wills time on Doctor Who, you might be disappointed - there are some nice anecdotes about her time on the show, but nothing that will be a revelation if you're an aficionado of conventions, behind-the-scenes documentaries, or programme guides. (There are some nice Doctor Who photos included in the book, along with scores of other photos and drawings.)

However, there's plenty of other reasons to read this book. Wills had an unconventional childhood, a bohemian life as a young actress in swinging sixties London, and some very complicated relationships. All related in a very readable and conversational style, and with remarkable honesty. (Wills's account of her difficult marriage to actor Michael Gough is a bit painful to read, but I think it's very illuminating about why apparently strong and confident women stay in abusive relationships.)

I read through this book quite quickly, and am glad to have the second volume on hand to dive into straight away.

View all my reviews >>