Actor Celia Imrie’s ‘hilarious’ travel memoir goes to Sphere
Sphere, an imprint of Little, Brown Book Group, has acquired award-winning actor Celia Imrie’s “joyfully hilarious” memoir, The Elegant Hustler: Adventures from a Life on the Move.
Publisher Kelly Ellis acquired world English-language rights from Sheila Crowley of Curtis Brown, with publication in hardback, e-book, and audiobook (read by Imrie) scheduled for 8th October 2026.
The Elegant Hustler: Adventures from a Life on the Move will see Imrie recount her most memorable trips around the world, predominantly by train or ship, inspired by a lifelong passion for travel, the publisher description reads, adding: “The Elegant Hustler is a nostalgic tribute to slower modes of transport and a heartfelt account of how travel and adventure can enrich a life – a timely reminder of just how wondrous the world can be."
As well as an actor, Imrie is the author of seven books, including her memoir The Happy Hoofer (Hodder & Stoughton, 2011), and her latest novel Meet Me at Rainbow Corner (Bloomsbury, 2024).
She said: “I am never happier than when I am on the move. Jump on board and join me on my helter-skelter travels.”
Ellis said of the acquisition: “Celia is one of the nation’s most-loved actresses and we are completely and utterly over the moon to be publishing her memoir. Celia’s sense of humour, inquisitive nature and thirst for adventure shines through every page of her book. It is an absolute treat – the balm we all need right now. Celia is a joy to work with. She is a very funny woman and readers will adore spending time in her company.”
