Published by Michael Joseph , 1998 , hardcover, illustrated, index, 330 pages, condition: new.

The autobiography of Felicity Kendal, star of the British comedy series "Good Neighbours," PBS's Mystery! series "Rosemary and Thyme," and numerous stage plays.

Ms. Kendal was born in England then taken to India as a child by her parents. They ran a travelling theatre company and traversed the whole of the country in the last days of the British Raj. (Their lives are the basis for the Merchant/Ivory film "Shakespeare Wallah," my first Netflix rental!)

Felicity herself was brought on stage as a baby and toddler to fulfill several of Shakespeare's children's roles. She assayed her first full-fledged role at thirteen, playing Viola in "Twelfth Night."

Her anectdotes involving Maharajahs and beggars alike are fascinating. Her childhood seems to me to have been unique, geographically, historically and in manner. She is also, as far as I can tell, very honest as to the foibles and flaws of herself and those she writes about. I didn't want to put this book down, but I also wanted savour it longer - very frustrating!

Highly, highly recommended.