Short Books to publish Prue Leith's 'part memoir, part rant, part homespun philosophy' on ageing
Short Books is set to publish Prue Leith’s "part memoir, part rant, part homespun philosophy" on ageing well. Jo Morrell, publisher at Short Books, bought world all-language rights to Being Old… and Learning to Love it! from Jane Turnbull at Jane Turnbull Literary Agency. It will publish in hardback on 26th February 2026.
The book takes readers on a "spirited canter through the triumphs, trials and tribulations of ageing well through Prue’s eyes". The synopsis continues: "Now nearly 86 years old, in this truthful, inspiring and funny book Prue reflects on time running out and accepting the inevitable end whilst still having fun and being visible. She writes on health, beauty, fashion, business, work, widowhood and finding love again, decorating and downsizing.
"Sometimes serious, often funny and always entertaining, Prue discusses the trials and taboos of age: why are we embarrassed by oldies kissing; what is acceptable behaviour when you’re old? to work or to retire; staying healthy and active, dealing with grief and her passionate belief in assisted dying."
Leith made her name with her Michelin-starred restaurant Leith’s, and Leiths school of Food and Wine, which she sold in 1995. She has written 16 cookery books and eight novels, and her memoir was published in 2013. She is currently on our screens in the 16th series of The Great British Bake Off, for which she has been a judge since 2017.
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She said: "Writing Being Old has been a joy. Part memoir, part rant, part homespun philosophy, I found it liberating to write and I hope readers will find it fun to read."
Morrell said: "It has been a real privilege to work on this book with Prue and her team. One of the most recognisable women in the country, she is a true icon of our age, and the poster girl for getting the most out of life, whatever your age.
"Her mantra of ‘I never say no to anything’ is a real fillip, inspiring us all to make the most of all the opportunities that come our way with confidence, and pragmatically face the challenges of ageing with good humour. This book is the perfect gift for any woman in the second half of life who might be intrigued to see how it’s done!"
Turnbull said: "I’m thrilled with the enthusiasm from the Short Books team. Prue inspires everyone around her with her energy and good humour and what she has to say about getting older is a clarion call to enjoy life – #bemoreprue!"
