Gillian Lynne's Book of Particular Cats - A Memoir
May 2026
Continuing the 100th anniversary celebrations of 2026, Gillian Lynne’s Book of Particular Cats - A Memoir is the much-anticipated second part of Dame Gillian Lynne's autobiography, following her acclaimed memoir A Dancer in Wartime. It tells of a life well lived and explores the personal, star-studded stories that defined her extraordinary career.
Drawing inspiration from T. S. Eliot's timeless Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats alongside the feline characters of the world-renowned musical CATS, Gillian Lynne reflects on the people who shaped her life and work. From Sophia Loren and Margot Fonteyn to Judi Dench and Andrew Lloyd Webber, Gillian rubbed shoulders, quite literally, with stars of stage and screen. With wit, warmth and insight, these talented individuals appear front and centre amongst her vivid, beautifully written memories.
Collated by her husband, the actor Peter Land, Gillian Lynne's Book of Particular Cats weaves stories of hard work, passion and love to create a playful and inspiring portrait of a life spent in dance, theatre and artistry.
The Memoir is available to buy now - click on the links to purchase the paperback edition from Amazon, Foyles, and Waterstones
Special Limited Edition Hardback
A special limited edition hardback of Gillian Lynne’s Book of Particular Cats has been created to mark Gillian’s 100th anniversary year. Beautifully bound, with the centenary seal on the cover, this is a keepsake edition of Gillian’s final collection of stories: funny, perceptive and full of the people she never forgot.
To purchase the hardback, click here
Reviews
'This memoir is outstanding - it felt extraordinary to hear Gillian in my head as I was reading this book, many of the conversations she wrote about, some of which she had told me about at the time felt like I was right there with her. Every detail and moment is remembered and I think anyone who loves theatre or dance or just a damn good read would love this book, I certainly did. What a life she had.'
Dame Arlene Phillips
'This is the first time, in my 20 year history with the show, I’m rehearsing Phantom of the Opera without Gillie. 😔 I thought it would be impossible but she’s SO here it’s not even funny how much I feel her!!! I’m so grateful to have this new memoir to come home to thanks to @lizrobertsonstage getting for me and @peteroliverland making it happen ♥️ get your copy today to celebrate her centenary and continue to be inspired by one of the most incredible artists who ever lived'
Sierra Boggess
'What a completely wonderful & inspiring read this is!! …..Gillie’s voice, her work ethic & extraordinary determination, her generosity & her passion for the theatre shine through on every page along with her immense capacity for love….what a woman…what an achievement !!'
Dame Monica Mason
'Gillian Lynne’s Book of Particular Cats - A Memoir offers an unprecedented peek behind the curtain of some of the biggest juggernaut productions in the history of musical theatre'
Ian McFarlane, Director, Writer & Founder of Big Adventure Productions
