Constable begins publicity blitz for Suchet memoir

Constable has begun a publicity blitz for David Suchet’s photo-memoir Behind the Lens – My Life, which it is billing as the must-have book for Christmas.

Published on Super Thursday (3rd October), the book celebrates Suchet’s 50 years as an actor through a series of his own images and commentary.

The “Poirot” star kicked off the campaign by signing 1,500 copies at Hachette UK’s Didcot warehouse, which will now wing their way to Waterstones stores and shops around the country.

A string of high-profile interviews have been arranged by publicity director Jo Wickham and senior press officer Beth Wright, with publications including the Mail on Sunday’s Event magazine, the Daily Mirror and Sunday Express. The actor will also appear a host of TV and radio programmes including “The One Show”, “This Morning” and “Steve Wright in the Afternoon”.

Suchet will also embark on a two-week national theatre tour, taking in the Henley Literary Festival, London’s National Theatre, Cheltenham Literary Festival and Guildford Book Fest among others.

Senior marketing manager Aimee Kitson has arranged a partnership with Leica, culminating in a three-day public exhibition of 20 photographs from the book in Leia’s Mayfair gallery from October 23rd to 26th.

Commissioning editor Claire Chesser said: “It has been such a joy to work with David on this very special and personal book. We have a fantastic campaign lined up which will really showcase both David’s wonderful photographs and the many wonderful stories he has to tell about his remarkable life and career.”

Throughout the campaign, Suchet will be raising awareness of the Tuberous Sclerosis Association, a charity dedicated to supporting and representing those living with the rare genetic condition and their families.

Claire Chesser, commissioning editor at Constable, bought world rights to the book from Michael Alcock at Johnson & Alcock Literary Agency.