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  • Published: 22 October 2026
  • ISBN: 9781405988674
  • Imprint: Penguin Audio
  • Format: Audio Download
  • Narrators: Brendan O’Hea, Dame Judi Dench, Barbara Flynn
  • RRP: $32.00
Categories:

Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?

A memoir




The book we’ve all been waiting for, national treasure Judi Dench opens her almost inexhaustible collection of memories from life and acting.

Join Judi as she lifts the curtain on cherished memories and hilarious anecdotes from seven decades of performing with some of the greatest names in theatre. Step behind the camera as she reprises her most famous roles, such as M in James Bond, Iris Murdoch and Queen Victoria. Walk with her through her garden as we meet the real Judi, surrounded by the home she built with her beloved late husband Michael. At turns deeply touching and riotously funny, Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It? is a memoir that shows Judi at her inimitable best: telling the stories of a lifetime spent as one of the world’s best-loved performers.
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  • Published: 22 October 2026
  • ISBN: 9781405988674
  • Imprint: Penguin Audio
  • Format: Audio Download
  • Narrators: Brendan O’Hea, Dame Judi Dench, Barbara Flynn
  • RRP: $32.00
Categories:

About the author

Dame Judi Dench

Dame Judi Dench is one of the world's most celebrated actresses. She has won numerous major awards for work on both stage and screen - including an Academy Award, ten BAFTAs and a record eight Laurence Olivier Awards. In recognition of her many achievements she received an OBE in 1970, became a DBE in 1988, and in 2005 was awarded a Companion of Honour.

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Praise for Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?

You must read this book. Honestly, you'll be crying with laughter. It's brilliant

Alex Jones, The One Show

Hijinks and humour

Daily Telegraph

Like any good Shakespearean she can slip easily between tragedy and comedy

Sunday Times

One of Britain's greatest living actors tells her life story with charm and wit , detailing her journey from school nativity snubs to West End triumphs and Hollywood blockbusters

i

Dench reveals the highs and lows of her brilliant career, including being fired from James Bond, a sex scene involving cream with Jeremy Irons, supper with Princess Margaret and being locked out of the Oscars. Just don't call her a national treasure - or mention retirement

The Times

Her memories are pin-sharp, relayed through a prism of amused self-deprecation and passion for her job

Guardian

If the book is a delight to read , it is because she is a delight. The reader comes away with a better grasp on how to approach life, and prepare for it's hurdles. For aspiring actors, meanwhile, the information contained within is priceless. We could all do with being a little bit more Judi

Independent

Warm, witty and wonderfully candid, actor Dame Judi Dench's memoir is a glorious behind-the- scenes romp through an extraordinary life. From schoolgirl disappointments to Hollywood glamour, she shares hilarious mishaps , showbiz secrets, touching memories and plenty of self-deprecating humour. There's something wonderfully reassuring about hearing a national treasure admit to nerves and self-doubt too. A hugely enjoyable read for fans of theatre, film and great storytelling

Woman & Home

I think what comes across is the commitment to laughter and the commitment to joy. I've greatly enjoyed it!

Emma Barnett, The Today Programme, BBC Radio 4