4 Jul 2025 5:32 am
Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today is Friday, and It’s time for another review. Today, I’m reviewing Oh Miriam! by Miriam Margolyes.
Oh Miriam! was published in 2023 by Hachette UK and is 336 pages long.
What It’s About
Oh Miriam! is Margolyes’ second memoir following the success of her first, This Much Is True. Once again, Margolyes proves she is not afraid to bare it all. The book intertwines deeply personal anecdotes, career reflections, and sharp opinions in her signature vivid and no-holds-barred style.
The narrative spans her career in acting, her life as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and her often contentious relationship with the public. At the same time, Margolyes pulls readers on a personal exploration of the challenges of ageing, the difficulty of maintaining relationships, and her unapologetic fight against societal taboos.
Characters
Make no mistake—this is Miriam’s story, and she is—fittingly—the star. Whether recounting a snarky quip she delivered at a dinner party or lamenting particular societal changes, Miriam’s voice is magnetic. But that being said, the book is peppered with anecdotes about high-profile figures, from Maggie Smith and Vanessa Redgrave to Steve Martin and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Writing Style
If there’s one thing nobody can accuse Miriam Margolyes of, it’s dullness—and this shines through in her writing. Her style is uniquely conversational, like a friend baring their soul over a cup of coffee (albeit a friend with razor-sharp wit and an endless reserve of anecdotes).
Margolyes’ ability to weave humour into even the most serious situations is remarkable. You’ll laugh at her candid recollections, sometimes gasp at her unapologetic honesty, and may even feel a tear prickle when she reflects on her fears or regrets.
The book’s pacing is dynamic. Rather than marching on in a linear, chronological order, Margolyes hops between memories, offering readers a kaleidoscope of her life. While this format might feel chaotic to some readers, it suits her vibrant, larger-than-life personality.
Final Thoughts
Oh, Miriam! isn’t just another celebrity memoir—it’s an unapologetically honest examination of life, from its most absurd moments to its most profound. With her quick-as-a-whip wit, warm charisma, and knack for detail, Margolyes delivers a book that will entertain you as much as it will move you.
For fans of Margolyes, this is a must-read. For memoir enthusiasts, it’s a refreshing addition to the genre. And for anyone needing more boldness and humour in life, Oh Miriam! should absolutely be on your reading list.
I’m giving Oh, Miriam! a 10/10.
Have you read Oh Miriam!? What did you think?
Thank you, as ever, for stopping by to read my review.
Until next time,
George
© 2025 GLT
Posted by georgelthomas
Categories: Book Reviews, Reading
Tags: Autobiography, book review, Comedy, funny, Margolyes, memoir, Miriam, review
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