Picture a British storyteller who traded wine o’clock for a bestselling literary career—meet Clare Pooley! Once a high-flying advertising executive, Pooley transformed her life through sobriety and raw honesty, captivating readers with her memoir The Sober Diaries and novels like The Authenticity Project. Her warm, witty stories celebrate human connection, making her a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.
Pooley’s journey from anonymous blogger to global author is a testament to the power of vulnerability. Her works, blending humor and heart, invite readers to embrace authenticity in a world obsessed with perfection. Ready to dive into her uplifting world? Let’s explore!
The Making of Clare Pooley
Born in the UK, Clare Pooley grew up with a diplomat father and attended the prestigious Roedean School before studying economics at Newnham College, Cambridge. After graduating in 1991, she dove into the fast-paced world of advertising at J. Walter Thompson, rising to Managing Partner. But by the time her third child arrived, burnout and a growing reliance on alcohol prompted a life-changing pivot. In 2015, Pooley began blogging anonymously as 'Mummy Was a Secret Drinker,' sharing her struggles with sobriety. This raw honesty became the foundation of her writing career.
Clare Pooley’s Unforgettable Stories
Pooley’s debut, The Sober Diaries (2017), is a candid memoir chronicling her year of quitting alcohol while battling breast cancer. Described as 'Bridget Jones Dries Out,' it blends humor, research, and practical advice, inspiring thousands to rethink their relationship with drinking. The book’s success, with over 125,000 copies sold worldwide, cemented her as a powerful voice in sobriety.
Her fiction debut, The Authenticity Project (2020), took her storytelling global. This New York Times bestseller follows a green notebook where strangers share their truths, sparking unexpected friendships. Translated into 32 languages and a BBC Radio 2 Bookclub pick, it showcases Pooley’s knack for crafting feel-good narratives with depth. Her second novel, The People on Platform 5 (2022, titled Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the US), is a heartwarming tale of commuters forming unlikely bonds. Her latest, How to Age Disgracefully (2024), tackles ageism with humor, uniting seniors and toddlers in a mischievous romp. Pooley’s style—witty, empathetic, and brimming with vibrant characters—makes her stories universally relatable.
Why Clare Pooley Matters
Clare Pooley’s impact lies in her ability to turn personal struggles into universal stories. Her memoir has helped countless readers navigate sobriety, while her novels champion authenticity and community in an era of digital facades. By weaving serious themes like addiction, loneliness, and aging into uplifting tales, she offers hope and connection. Her global reach, with books in over 30 languages, proves her stories resonate across cultures, making her a vital voice in contemporary literature.
- Key Works: The Sober Diaries, The Authenticity Project, The People on Platform 5, How to Age Disgracefully
- Awards: RNA Debut Novel Award for The Authenticity Project
- Fun Fact: Pooley lives in London and Cornwall with her husband, three kids, and two border terriers.
Snag The Authenticity Project and dive into Clare Pooley’s heartwarming world of truth and connection!