Anna

by Amy Odell
Anna cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 10481
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-28
  • ISBN: 9781838957278
  • Publisher: Atlantic Books
  • Published: 2022-05-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Anna Wintour's journey from a fashion-obsessed teenager in swinging 1960s London to the editor-in-chief of Vogue is a tale of unparalleled ambition and focus. This biography, based on extensive interviews with her closest collaborators, delves into the competitive world of magazines and the complex dynamics of Condé Nast, weaving Anna's personal story into a larger narrative about the fashion industry's power struggles. /n/n From her early days working at a fashionable boutique to her stormy transition into the top role at Vogue, Anna's life is a testament to her relentless drive to succeed. The book offers a unique glimpse into the life of a woman who became an icon, revealing the personal and professional battles she faced along the way.

Reviews
Reading, Writing and Me · 2023-10-03
excellent 4.50

The book excels in its character development, making it a compelling read. The characters are vividly brought to life, which is a hallmark of great literature.

This book is a standout because of its characters. The author does an amazing job of making them feel real and relatable. It's like the characters are singing off the page, which is exactly what you want from a good book. The story is engaging, and the characters are so well-developed that you can't help but get invested in their journeys. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    This book sings because of its characters, true to what any good literary novel aims to deliver.

    The characters are vividly brought to life.

    It's like the characters are singing off the page.

The Guardian · 2022-05-08
disappointing 2.00

The biography fails to provide deep insights into Anna Wintour's character or humorously critique her eccentricities. It offers a straightforward but uninspired portrayal.

This biography of Anna Wintour is a bit of a letdown. It doesn't really dig deep into who she is or poke fun at her quirks, which is a missed opportunity. Instead, it's a straightforward account that doesn't quite capture the essence of such a fascinating and controversial figure. It's like looking at a beautifully framed picture but not really seeing the person behind it. The book is informative but lacks the spark that would make it truly engaging.

Quick quotes

    This strait-laced portrait fails to unpick Vogue's famously frosty editor-in-chief Anna Wintour – or even poke fun at some of her more ludicrous behaviour.

    It offers a straightforward but uninspired portrayal.

    It's like looking at a beautifully framed picture but not really seeing the person behind it.

The New York Times · 2022-05-06
fascinating 4.00

The biography is rich in detail and offers a wealth of fascinating insights into Anna Wintour's life. It's a must-read for fashion enthusiasts and those interested in the publishing industry.

This biography is packed with intriguing details about Anna Wintour's life and career. The author has done extensive research, uncovering stories that give a unique perspective on Wintour's impact on the fashion and publishing worlds. It's a book that will appeal to anyone who loves fashion or is curious about the inner workings of the industry. The level of detail is impressive, and it's clear that the author has a deep understanding of the subject matter. It's a compelling read that sheds light on one of the most influential figures in fashion.

Quick quotes

    Odell's extensive reporting dredges up a wealth of delightful details: the time Wintour scandalized her boss by featuring a $9,000 goatskin.

    It's a must-read for fashion enthusiasts and those interested in the publishing industry.

    The level of detail is impressive, and it's clear that the author has a deep understanding of the subject matter.

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