by Jessica Asquith and Norma Burton
- Biography
- Memoir
This book follows the much-loved duo Jess and Norma, known for their heartwarming and humorous social media videos. I’ve followed them for years and have always been drawn to the special bond they share, so when I discovered they had written a book, I couldn’t wait to read it.
I’m not typically a reader of biographies or memoirs, as I sometimes struggle to fully engage with real-life stories. However, this book completely changed that for me. It feels just like watching one of their videos. It is warm, natural, and full of personality, which is exactly why I enjoyed it so much.
The book is thoughtfully structured into short, accessible chapters, taking us from both Jess and Norma’s early lives through to the realities of ageing, caregiving, and their unexpected rise to social media fame. It’s beautifully written in a conversational style that mirrors their online presence, making it incredibly easy to read and deeply engaging.
What I particularly loved was the insight into parts of their lives that aren’t always shared online. It feels intimate and genuine, as though you’re part of their conversation rather than simply reading about it.
The writing is personal, moving, and powerful, capturing both the joy and challenges they’ve experienced. I’m especially tempted to try one of Norma’s recipes and take on board some of her life advice.
Key themes throughout the book include resilience, particularly in the face of loss, along with grief, ageing, and health challenges. It also touches on more difficult topics such as alcohol abuse. These are handled with honesty and sensitivity, adding real depth to their story.
I found it difficult to identify any real weaknesses. From the very first page, I was completely absorbed. It is one of those books that is hard to put down.
That said, I do feel this book may resonate most with readers who are already familiar with Jess and Norma. Without that context, some of the charm and familiarity might be lost. However, for fans, it is a perfect companion piece.
Since the book was written, Norma has sadly passed away. There is something incredibly special about how she lives on through these pages. Her voice feels present throughout, and you can truly hear both her and Jess as you read. It is a beautiful tribute, not only for readers but for their family as well, and a lasting way to revisit her warmth, humour, and wisdom.
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