It’s always fascinating to find out about the private lives of our favourite TV celebrities isn’t it, and what better way than from the horse’s mouth? Well, from the horse’s pen anyway…

Today, we’re taking a look at the top ten celebrity autobiographies and who knows, if you’ve been good all year round, you might find one of them waiting under the tree for you at Christmas!

1. Dawn French - Dear Fatty

In at number 1 is the fabulous Dear Fatty by Dawn French. It’s not simply a narration of her life in that it’s written as a series of letters to various people but nonetheless, it documents her story from childhood to present day. It’s funny, it’s moving but above all, it’s highly readable and interesting.

2. Julie Walters - That’s Another Story

Number 2 on our list is Julie Walters’ book, That’s Another Story: The Autobiography. I remember Julie best in her role as Mrs Overall in the spoof Acorn Antiques as well as various TV and film roles but as often happens with true comedic genius, there are some very dark moments in her life. The book chronicles the true story of the paedophile who attacked her, a terrifying trip on LSD, night terrors, and her seven-year battle with the menopause.

3. Paul O’Grady - At My Mother’s Knee

Celeb book number 3 is At My Mother’s Knee … by Paul O’Grady which is another roller coaster of a read; alternately funny and sad, it tells the story of his journey from being a young altar boy in Birkenhead to the present day. Told with his uniquely camp, honest and working-class approach, fans of Paul will love this book.

4. Michael Parkinson - Parky

Then at 4 we have legendary chat show host Michael Parkinson’s book which, like the man, is straightforward and no nonsense. Even the title gets right to the point – Parky: My Autobiography. He could’ve gone bonkers with word play for the title, such as It’s Parky Out or something like that but despite his great sense of humour, Parky’s probably a bit too dour and down to earth for word play! Despite the fact he’s met and interviewed hundreds of the most famous names in the world, he’s never lost the humility and practicality of his working class upbringing as the son of a miner. A fascinating read.

5. Alan Carr - Look Who It Is

Number 5 is the epically funny Alan Carr’s book, Look Who it Is!: My Story, which charts his career and personal life all the way back from his childhood and early working days as a data entry clerk. Alan often talks about his family and childhood in his stand-up shows and he does so here too, with equally funny results. This is a must-read for fans of Alan.

6. Fern Britton - Fern

At number 6 on our list is Fern: My Story by Fern Britton. Despite leading what might seem to be a charmed life – with TV success and a loving and happy family life – the road has not always been an easy one for Fern. A careless comment from a wardrobe assistant early on in her career left a deep emotional scar that resulted in an obsession with her body image and she shares her famous father’s propensity for deep depression. Chronicling her life from childhood, this book narrates how Fern has become one of Britain’s best loved TV personalities.

7. Girls Aloud - Dreams That Glitter

Number 7 is Dreams That Glitter: Our Story, by the members of Girls Aloud including of course the X Factor judge, Cheryl Cole. Although they are the most successful girl band in the UK, I personally wouldn’t have thought they’ve been around long enough to warrant an entire book, however, it can’t be denied that their story is in fact a dream come true scenario and I’m sure this book will appeal to young girls who spend hours in front of a mirror singing into a hairbrush, hoping that the lucky star of fame might shine on them in a similar fashion.

8. Jonathan Ross - Why Do I Say These Things?

Why Do I Say These Things? by Jonathan Ross is our number 8 choice and the irony of the title in the wake of Manuelgate won’t have been lost on the man or his readers. Whilst there are many very funny anecdotes and stories from Jonathan’s life, it’s not a straightforward autobiography in that it doesn’t particularly follow a timeline or reveal anything new about him. It’s instead rather like a written version of conversations that might occur were you to have him round for a boozy dinner.

9. Len Goodman - Better Late Than Never

The penultimate book on our list at number 9 is Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman’s book, Better Late Than Never: The Autobiography. Len’s life has been a fascinating one; from his childhood in relative poverty in London’s East End to his undisputed place as King of the ballroom, Len’s never lost his gritty working class values, and the story of how he accidentally discovered a talent for dance is a great read. Len was a welder on the London Docks who dreamt of becoming a professional footballer, and it could well have happened, until he broke his foot. His doctor recommended ballroom dancing as an aid to his recovery, and the rest, as they say, is history.

10. Shiela Hancock - Just Me

Finally, at number 10 is Just Me, by actress Sheila Hancock. In it, Sheila talks with genuine love about her late husband, John Thaw as well as her career, family and the struggles she’s faced dealing with the loss of John. A lovely read that will have you reaching for the tissues and wandering down memory lane alongside the author.

Which celebrity autobiographies are you hoping to receive this Christmas? Or do you think there’s just too many of them or maybe you think celebs shouldn’t write about their lives and families? Let us know what you think…