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Thursday, October 22, 2026

Jane Leeves Shares Her Favorite Books Alongside New Memoir

The 'Frasier' star discusses her love for mystery and humor, coinciding with the release of her book 'Daphne & Me.'

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Jane Leeves Shares Her Favorite Books Alongside New Memoir

Actress Jane Leeves, known for her role as Daphne Moon in the sitcom "Frasier," has shared a list of her favorite books, highlighting a preference for mysteries and humorous titles. This sharing coincides with the release of her new memoir, "Daphne & Me," co-written with her daughter Isabella Kathryn Coben, which details her experiences on the show and its impact on her life.

Leeves expressed her fondness for reading, particularly during colder weather. "I love to read when it’s cold and raining outside. A warm mug of tea, a cozy chair and roaring fire add to the delight," she told Page Six.

Her book recommendations span various genres:

"About a Boy" by Nick Hornby

Leeves described this novel as "hilarious and full of dark ’90s humor," summarizing it as a story where "Men behaving badly completely sums it up."

Book cover for About a Boy by Nick Hornby, featuring a boy sitting on a bench and an adult standing nearby against a blue background.

"The Thursday Murder Club" series by Richard Osman

She praised Osman for creating "great and funny characters," noting that the series "feels like so many people I know back home in Blighty."

Book cover of "The Thursday Murder Club" by Richard Osman.

"What Was She Thinking" by Zoe Heller

Leeves found this book to be "compelling and abhorrent," adding that "you find you can’t look away."

Book cover of What Was She Thinking? [Notes on a Scandal] by Zoë Heller, featuring a red cherry sitting on top of a green apple.

"This Is Going To Hurt" by Adam Kay

This collection of diaries from a junior British doctor is described by Leeves as "achingly funny and incredibly sad," with a caution that it is "definitely not for the squeamish."

Book cover of "This Is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Young Doctor" by Adam Kay, featuring a photo of a doctor in blue scrubs putting on surgical gloves.

"Emma" by Jane Austen

Leeves appreciates this classic novel, noting its relevance despite being written over two centuries ago. "It’s hard to believe it was written over two hundred years ago, the themes still feel relevant," she said.

Book cover of Jane Austen's Emma, featuring a painting of a large estate house.

"Publish And Perish" by James Hynes

Leeves recommends this book for its "dark satirical stories set in the world of academia," calling them "funny and sinister."

Book cover of "Publish and Perish: Three Tales of Tenure and Terror" by James Hynes.

Her memoir, "Daphne & Me," explores her journey playing the beloved character Daphne Moon and the profound impact the role had on her career and life.


Sources