FLASHBACK : PAST IMPERFECT .. 1978 /1984 ..

UK Ppaerback 1979

As we look forward to Joan's sensational new book 'Behind The Shoulder Pads' due out September 28th, I thought it would be fun to look back at Joan's many other bestsellers, starting with her very first book. Joan  hit the bestsellers list in 1978 with the publication of her autobiography 'Past Imperfect' from W.H.Allen.

 The book was a big seller and a little controversial as it was deemed a kiss and tell which was a sure way to have a bestselling autobiography in those days. It also helped sales when the top rag of the day the News of the World serialised the book. Joan was urged by the publishers to include many salicious tales and she later regretted it. The book was not published in the USA until 1984 when she had become one of America's, if not the worlds biggest stars. However the version which hit the bestsellers list in 1984 was a more tamer version, leaving out some of the more intimate revelations! The 1978 edition was a big seller and with the hit film 'The Stud' on release at the same time, Joan's career hit the heights with numerous tv appearances and print interviews. The paperback edition issued by Coronet was a bestseller also and put Joan back firmly in the public eye. 

UK Reissue Hardback

Joan embarked on a series of book signings around the UK to promote the book, with a crowd packing event at London's Selfridges. After the success of the 1984 USA publication, it was decided to re-release the book in the UK. The hardback edition  was the same abridged version from the USA with a new cover portrait to reflect's Joan's success on 'Dynasty'. 

UK Reissue Paperback

A paperback edition also hit the top of the bestsellers list. you can still buy the USA edition in paperback form as it was reissued by Renaissance Literary in 2020..

ORDER 'PAST IMPERFECT' 2020 EDITION HERE...