Being pregnant for the first time changed Jools Oliver's life. Having longed for children since before she can remember, she was suddenly faced with an array of unfamiliar, unexpected and sometimes downright embarrassing emotional and physical reactions. And when Poppy (and a year later Daisy) was born she had to learn a whole new set of skills.
From trying to conceive and a first positive pregnancy test to Poppy's first birthday, Minus Nine To One takes you through the worries, surprises, excitement, miracles and sheer bloody hard work that Jools - and all new mums in their own different ways - have to cope with along the way.
As Jools writes, 'This certainly isn't meant to be read as a guidebook, or a medical reference book - it is simply my story and I hope that you can relate to it in some way (and maybe even relax with it in the bath!).'
Down to earth, personal and very, very funny, this is the book no aspiring mother will want to be without.
In her first book, Minus Nine to One: The Diary of an Honest Mum, Jools takes you through the ups and downs of pregnancy, and how she coped with a new body, new diet, new life, and a brand new set of worries. Here Jools reveals to us a most unusual place to write...
Who or what always puts a smile on your face?
Jamie, Pops and Daisy, failing that chocolate!
What are you reading at the moment?
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Which author do you most admire?
S.E Hinton, I was obsessed with all her books from the age of about 11 years old, I think she is fabulous.
What's your earliest memory?
I think it’s when I was in one of those traditional old fashioned prams and we were on a family holiday in Brittany, France and I recall that I kept peeping over the pram as I was worried the water on the beach was going to sweep me away. I must have been about 2 years old.
What is your greatest fear?
Flying.
How would you like to be remembered?
Happy, funny, kindhearted wife, mum and mate.
Have you ever done something you've really regretted?
Yes – lots but too cringeable to write down, all very humorous though!
How do you spoil yourself?
A good magazine, chocolate and time on my own to relax with my feet up.
What's your favorite word/book?
Word is: Atmosphere – Book is: The Outsiders.
Who do you turn to in a crisis?
Mum.
What makes you angry?
Moody, rude, hurtful people and bitchiness.
Have you ever had any other jobs apart from writing?
Too many to list – washing up in pubs and cafes was a favorite of mine! Modelling and a researcher for the BBC.
Are you in love?
Obviously passionately!
What's your worst vice?
Buying rubbishy magazines.
What are you proudest of?
My family.
Where do you write?
Usually in the sitting room on my laptop with Poppy’s feet on my shoulders watching Noddy – I find it very relaxing.
Where's your favorite city?
Home or New York, I love Bristol and Bath too.
When was the last time you cried?
Yesterday, I was missing the girls as we were in LA.
One wish; what would it be?
To have my wonderful Dad back.
Did you enjoy school?
Not really, not until I was 16 and I discovered boys!!!
For further information please contact Katy Szita on 020 7010 3284 / katy.szita@uk.penguingroup.com
