Behind the Lens

Synopsis

Daily Mail Showbiz Memoir of the Year

'A beautiful book' Chris Evans

'Terrifically entertaining' Mail on Sunday

'An arresting photographic voyage through the life and loves of this enigmatic English star' S magazine

'Though not a conventional autobiography, we learn what makes the national treasure tick' Daily Express

In the early days of my career, I didn't think I stood a hope in hell. Look at me: I'm short, stocky, slightly overweight, deep of voice, passionate, dark haired, olive skinned, hardly your typical Englishman. What chance did I have, going into the world of British theatre?

David Suchet has been a stalwart of British stage and screen for fifty years. From Shakespeare to Oscar Wilde, Freud to Poirot, Edward Teller to Doctor Who, Harold Pinter to Terence Rattigan, Questions of Faith to Decline and Fall, right up to 2019's The Price, David has done it all. Throughout this spectacular career, David has never been without a camera, enabling him to vividly document his life in photographs. Seamlessly combining photo and memoir, Behind the Lens is the story of David's remarkable life, showcasing his wonderfully evocative photographs and accompanied by his insightful and engaging commentary.

In Behind the Lens, David discusses his London upbringing and love of the city, his Jewish roots and how they have influenced his career, the importance of his faith, how he really feels about fame, his love of photography and music, and his processes as an actor. He looks back on his fifty-year career, including reflections on how the industry has changed, his personal highs and lows, and how he wants to be remembered. And, of course, life after Poirot and why he's still grieving for the eccentric Belgian detective.

An autobiography with a difference, this is David Suchet as you've never seen him before - from behind the lens.

'The book offers more insight into the mind and philosophy of this remarkable man than a more conventional biographical approach could have achieved' Country Life

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Power of Perspective

* Explores the profound impact that perspective can have on our experiences and choices.
* Real example: A hiker encountering a challenging trail can choose to focus on the arduous climb or the breathtaking views it leads to.

Chapter 2: Unlocking Unconscious Bias

* Unpacks the hidden biases that shape our perceptions and actions without our conscious awareness.
* Real example: A hiring manager, unaware of their own unconscious biases, may consistently favor candidates from a particular background.

Chapter 3: The Art of Reframing

* Provides tools and techniques for reframing negative or challenging situations into more positive and empowering ones.
* Real example: A job seeker facing rejection can reframe it as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection.

Chapter 4: The Role of Language

* Examines how the words we use can influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
* Real example: Using inclusive language in a workplace can foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

Chapter 5: The Power of Storytelling

* Highlights the transformative power of stories to connect, inspire, and change perspectives.
* Real example: Sharing stories of resilience and overcoming challenges can motivate individuals to persevere in their own journeys.

Chapter 6: Cultivating Empathy

* Emphasizes the importance of empathy in understanding and connecting with others' experiences and perspectives.
* Real example: A leader who practices empathy can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Chapter 7: The Importance of Openness

* Encourages individuals to embrace curiosity, be open to new experiences, and question their own assumptions.
* Real example: A researcher who is open to feedback and diverse viewpoints can develop more innovative and impactful research.

Chapter 8: Embracing Failure

* Challenges the stigma associated with failure and repositions it as a valuable learning opportunity for growth and adaptability.
* Real example: An entrepreneur who learns from failed business ventures can build stronger strategies for future success.

Chapter 9: Building Bridges across Differences

* Explores the strategies for bridging gaps and creating meaningful connections between people with diverse perspectives.
* Real example: A community initiative that brings together individuals from different cultural backgrounds to collaborate on a shared project.

Chapter 10: Impactful Leadership

* Outlines the qualities and practices of impactful leaders who inspire, empower, and unite others.
* Real example: A manager who fosters a sense of purpose and shared values among their team, driving collective success.