An inspiration to many, Audrey Hepburn remains one of the most iconic stars of Hollywood. As well as infamous films, from Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Roman Holiday, Hepburn’s own life was equally inspiring, particularly her work with children around the world. From memoirs to novels and even children’s books, here are 7 books that lovers of Hepburn’s films and life are sure to enjoy.
Bella Figura: How to Live, Love, and Eat the Italian Way by Kamin Mohammadi
If you’re looking for a memoir reminiscent of the Audrey Hepburn film, Roman Holiday, then look no further than Bella Figura by Kamin Mohammadi. This gem of a book tells the story of Mohammadi’s life, following her chance move to Italy. Particularly inspiring are the fantastic characters she meets along the way; from plumbers who teach her how to make pasta al pomodoro to eccentric neighbors who help teach Mohammadi how to enjoy a slower pace of life. Set in Florence, this book brings the famous city to life as she experiences new adventures.
From Scratch: A Memoir Of Love, Sicily, And Finding Home By Tembi Locke
From Scratch is a beautiful and reflective memoir by Tembi Locke, an African American actress, who returns to Sicily following the death of her husband, Saro, to cancer. Despite his family’s disapproval of their cross-cultural relationship, Locke finds solace, comfort, and hope as she tries to forge new ties with her husband’s family. Through trying delicious new foods, she reflects on her marriage, love and the key memories that last a lifetime.
Our Kind by Kate Walbert
Our Kind tells the story of a group of women who, once country-club housewives during the 1950s, are now left to confront the realities of life as independent and divorced women. An insightful and witty novel, Our Kind, succeeds in capturing the attitudes and experiences of a generation of women.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a captivating read in which an aging Hollywood film star, Evelyn Hugo, decides to share the truths of her life. Choosing a largely unknown magazine reporter, Monique Grant, to write her biography, Evelyn bares all about her seemingly glamourous life.
“From her relentless rise to fame in 1950s Los Angeles, her decision to quit the movie industry in the 1980s and the seven husbands she had along the way, Evelyn tells all. But it’s the secrets she has held all these years, and which have significant consequences for Monique, that truly capture the reader throughout,” says Leslie Rogers, a journalist writer at Brit student and Australia 2 write.
Audrey: The 60s by David Willis
As well as a talented and admired actress, Audrey Hepburn was also one of the biggest fashion icons of the 1960s. In this photographic collection, David Wills successfully captures her elegant style and appeal.
“By focusing specifically on the 60s, the book succeeds in capturing Hepburn at the very height of her career and includes photo shoots with some of the most highly regarded photographers. The selected quotes from some of her contemporaries, as well as by Hepburn herself, make this a visually stunning book,” says Elvira Stamper, a book blogger at Next coursework and Writemyx.
Just Being Audrey by Margaret Cardillo
Just Being Audrey is a wonderfully illustrated biography of Hepburn’s life. This book traces her life from childhood, as a little girl in Nazi-occupied Europe, right through to her success as a Hollywood icon. In particular, the book focuses on Hepburn’s personal qualities, especially her kindness and consideration for others and highlights how these traits helped to make her one of the most admired actresses in Hollywood.
Little Audrey’s Daydream: The Life of Audrey Hepburn by Sean and Karin Hepburn Ferrer
Based on Audrey Hepburn’s childhood experiences in Holland during World War II, Little Audrey’s Daydream introduces children to the actress’s life. Written by Hepburn’s son and daughter-in-law, the book captures key milestones in the icon’s life – from the time she enrolled in a premier ballet school, to her first steps into acting and becoming a successful film star, to her work with children throughout the world. The book captures her determination, spirit and aims to inspire readers, young and old.
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Vanessa Kearney is a writer and editor at Phdkingdom.com and Write my coursework. She is a passionate reader and loves getting lost in a good book. More of her writing can be found at Originwritings.com blog.
