Beneath the Cassock

by Joy Carroll

Dawn French's vicar in "The Vicar of Dibley is" one of Britain's best-loved sitcom characters. This is the story of the woman who inspired her. Written by Richard Curtis, writer of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "Notting Hill", there has always been great speculation about the real-life vicar who inspired the sitcom. From wild youth, to unexpected calling to the ministry, prominent involvement in the struggle for the ordination of women as well as a "tabloid" wedding, it is perhaps unsurprising that Joy Carroll was the show's inspiration. The book charts how the series was intended to help the acceptance of women priests in the church and society, and how Dawn French worked with her to realise that intention. Moving to the US, getting married and having a baby have all added to her multi-faceted role as a woman priest. This book gives us a true insight into what that means for her and "spiritual" women like her.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Biography

Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[Whitney · Rating 2 out of 5]

It just wasn't that interesting or well-written. Honestly if it weren't for the connection to the awesome TV show it wouldn't have been worth reading at all. She didn't talk about all the things that should've made this an incredible memoir. I'm sure Ms Carroll is a lovely person but a ghostwriter could've made this a really good book rather than the mediocre-ish, forgettable, future yard sale item that it is. Two stars because I didn't hate reading it, I just didn't enjoy it either. If you're here because you're interested in females in the priesthood it's a definite pass. If you're interested in the TV show it might be worth a read for the connection but don't get your hopes up.

[Kelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish Good Reads would let me give 3.5 stars. This was an interesting account of her life and a nice read when you have a spare moment.

[Kerryn Barton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring and informative. Lovely to read the true back story of women in the Angligan church, specifically Joy Carroll's and the interaction and inspiration for British TV series.