The Story of The Great British Bake Off

by Anita Singh

A celebration of Britain's most popular cookery contest.

Take one tent. Fill with 12 amateur bakers. Garnish with one venerable cookery writer, one blue-eyed bread-maker, and two comedy queens with a love of innuendo. And there you have the recipe for the most popular show of our times.

When The Great British Bake Off made its debut in August 2010, it had the makings of a modest hit. But nobody – not the programme-makers and certainly not those first contestants – could have predicted what was to come. Here was a show in which the biggest weekly drama was whether or not a sponge cake would sink in the middle. And oh, how we loved it.

Here is the ultimate Bake Off fan book: from bread lion to bin-gate; heart throbs to Twitter trolls; soggy bottoms to sticky buns. This is the celebration of Britain's most popular cookery contest.

Genres: Nonfiction, Adult, Cooking, Food, Cookbooks, Biography, Pop Culture

240 pages, Hardcover

First published October 10, 2017

Reviews

[Heidi Wiechert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sparkling and fun book for fans of the television program, The Great British Bake Off. It is my favorite show to binge watch when I have some free time. Or when I'm not reading. Which, let's be honest, is not all that often but it does happen.

You wouldn't think another competition-type show would be engaging, but this one is. The contestants are so kind to each other and earnest in their presentations. Not only do you cheer for all of them, but it makes you want to emulate them in your own kitchen.

Why don't I go bang up a bread sculpture that looks like a lion? Oh, that's right. Because it's really hard to do, that's why. But these guys all make it look so easy. Chocolate lava cakes, frosted buns and towers made out of spun sugar seem to magically flow out of the kitchen. We all know it's not that simple.

Anita Singh takes readers from the creation of the show to the change in most of its hosts in the most recent episodes. We are also treated to funny anecdotes from some of the contestants and assorted behind-the-scenes gossip.

As an American reader, I enjoyed learning more about Paul and Mary's backgrounds before they joined the show. I mean, perhaps they had enjoyed some success across the pond, but I had never heard of them. I have more context now.

My favorite part of this fan book were Mel and Sue's confessions about practical jokes they've pulled on Paul. I won't spoil it for you, but one of them involved his Aston Martin. Le gasp.

Recommended for readers who have watched most, if not all, of the seasons of The Great British Baking Show. I suppose you could still enjoy it without doing so, but all of that viewing time helps you to enjoy this book even more.

[Sophie Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I fan of the GBBO I didn't know what to expect but what I got was a properly written book, not one of your cash for trash, senationalised pulp types.
Over the space of 2 days I've gotten to know the full unbiased story of the show written by someone who obviously likes the show but doesn't wear blinkers. A great read and a must and the ideal gift for someone who likes the show.

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 3 out of 5]

When you are a fan, you can’t help looking for trinkets that remind you of what you love. For me, that means reading a book about what I love, and what I love is The Great British Baking Show.

I loved reading the stories of the seasons of the show. I loved reading the stories of the bakers on the show. I loved reading the stories of the bakes on the show.

[Mahlon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light, pleasing, confection, exactly what you’d expect from a book about everyone’s favorite baking show. Surprisingly well written for a book of this type, but it seems like there was very little information beyond that which would’ve been easily accessible by simply mining the sheer mountain Of press that must be available now that the show is a worldwide phenomenon. An amusebouche that can be finished in two bites, Paul and Mary might say good effort but it’s not much more than that.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A truly enjoyable read about the origins of a TV show that has fans all around the world. It's a fun look behind the scenes of a show that has really brought a wonderfully positive perspective to the British culinary arts, once much denigrated. This is a marvelous tale with a large cast of characters who have the ability to keep us enthralled by their mix of self-deprecating humor, daring to try new flavor combinations and their talent for creating amazing bakes that take our breath away.

Indeed, I marvel at the show's ability to keep me entertained and even on the edge of my seat at times! At first, I could hardly bear to watch, as I found it so stressful when the cake failed to rise and would be hurled into the bin, only for the baker to have to start from scratch under the watchful eye of the clock! However, as time went by, I learned to relax and enjoy even the failures, which would usually result in success second time around.

My favorite passage: "Here was a show that delivered the 1950s fantasy: a Cath Kidston and Emma Bridgewater world of village fetes and vicars, afternoon tea and grand country piles, England's pastures green, jam and Jerusalem, Midsomer without the murders. A place where no one swears and everyone wears a pinny." Marvelous stuff!

[Hilde · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of The Great British Bake Off and loved to read all these tidbits about the show, the bakers and what they are doing now. And last but not least recalling some of the amazing flavor combinations they created.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course I’m giving it a 5 - it’s a book about my favorite TV show! :-)

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun reminder of the joy of the 'Great Brish Bake Off'. Not too much new information, but a few gems here and there - mostly just a walk down memory lane. Summarizes the first 7 seasons including the results, so filled with spoilers if you haven't seen them already.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Because of the crazy way that PBS presents the Bake-Off episodes (NOT in chronological order!) there was one chapter, series 3, which I didn't read as it would have revealed the winner of the episodes I am currently watching! The rest of the book was most interesting from the standpoint of how different the production of a British competition TV show is from an American one. Just one example, the contestants have to provide ALL of their own ingredients, which becomes quite an expense. I have often wondered why they continue to stick with a particular plan of baking when the judges, Paul & Mary express doubt that such an idea is viable. Well, now I know! They are locked-in to their set ingredients and are unable to change direction at that point. There is no "pantry," as in similar American shows.
The original concept and casting for the hosts & judges was very interesting. It is a pity that Mary and the two presenters, Sue & Mel are being replaced since the show was sold from BBC to Channel 4 in England. I don't know if we will even get to watch it anymore.
The book jumped around quite a bit and was sometimes as hard to follow as the vague and incomplete directions for the technical bakes! Long on associations, short on facts.
Still a fun and informative read.

[Donna Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan, which I am, this was very fun to read. Loved hearing the British accent in my head. Enjoyed the recreation of some of my favorite moments in the competitions. Here in the U.S. I don't recall seeing the first 2 or 3 seasons of the competition, so that part was all new. The drawings were well done, but I would have preferred actual photos of each contestant, since some didn't quite jive with my memory of who they were. Also, I didn't know until about 3/4ths of the way through, which of the 'presenters' was Mel and which one was Sue, since they rarely, if ever, call each other by name on the show.

[Shayna Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely overview of the first 7 series for the beloved The Great British Bake Off, watched by millions across the globes and inspired a number of spin-offs in various countries. Kicking off, the book begins by telling how Love Productions created the concept and what they learned to fine-tune the next series. Remember the history segments and seeing the crew in the background?

Furthermore, Singh explains how the application process works and how the bakers are selected by skill, diversity, and a true passion for amateur baking. The bulk of the book reviews each of the series and the bakers involved, but also takes care to detail out the drama ("soggy bottoms"), the scandals (bingate, anyone?), and the "controversy" of bakers selected (primarily Nadiya). Towards the end, we are provided a nice overview of the move from BBC1 to Channel 4 and the changes that were forced from it, and while the show went on, the sadness lingered over the loss of Mel, Sue, and Mary Berry.

This book is a nostalgic look at GBBO for the fans to relive past series and revisit their favorite bakers. It is not a tell-all book, so don't be expecting shocking details to arise. I truly appreciated Singh's efforts to lay out the facts, even the Ruby factor, as it showed a level of transparency that wasn't trying to hide behind the tent in rose-tinted glasses. There were honest statements from the past bakers and you get to relate and appreciate them more. The beauty of this show was truly the passion for baking and the comaderie among the bakers.

Great for all libraries as long as GBBO remains popular, although will do well with complimentary cookbooks for the inspired. It's great for any fan, but not so much for those new to show (especially with everyone spoiled).

[Vanessa Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a devoted fan of The Great British Bake Off, picking up Anita Singh’s The Story of the Great British Bake Off felt like slipping into a cozy apron and stepping into the tent itself. This delightful read is a light, confectionary “tell-all” that whisks you back to the show’s humble beginnings, frosted with charming anecdotes and sprinkled with behind-the-scenes moments that fans will absolutely devour.

Surprisingly well written and utterly endearing, Singh captures the heart of what makes GBBO so special—not the soggy bottoms or Hollywood handshakes, but the passion, the camaraderie, and the genuine joy of baking. I could practically hear the gentle piano music playing as I turned each page, ambling along with a warm smile toward the final chapter.

It’s a love letter to one of the most comforting shows on television, and reading it felt like settling in with a cup of tea and a slice of something sweet. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be in the kitchen, Bake Off playing in the background, attempting (and possibly failing) a Victoria sponge.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, delightful read! I learned some interesting tidbits about the production of the show and the people involved. However, I read the ebook and was a little annoyed by the fact the same illustrations kept appearing over and over. There were some pages that had barely any text and were just a portrait that I had already seen. Kind of bizarre, to be honest. I'm curious what the physical copy is like.

[Lorna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm being a little generous because of how much I enjoy the show, but this book was written just as it was leaving the BBC and focuses on the earliest seasons, most of which have not been on the US on Netflix. So I didn't recognize a lot of the contestants featured. But still a fun look at the series.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful book that covers the first 7 seasons of GBBO. It gave a lot of behind-the-scenes info about how the show was made and what it's like for the bakers. I'd recommend it to other fans of this show! I would only recommend reading a physical copy of the book as there are lots of pictures and illustrations.

[bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful overview of the show, and how it came to be. There's a bit of insider info, but I wish there had been more. The bakers and talent are all so charming, it's a shame to not get more if them. Still, an absolute pleasure to read if you like the show.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Great British Bake Off is my happy place. If I have a bad day I just watch an episode - fabulous baking; beautiful setting; lovely people who help each other and are (mostly) genuinely happy for those who win and sad for those who lose; Mel, Sue, Mary, even Paul. The show just makes me happy. And this book is a charming look back at the original BBC series.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I snatched this book off the shelves as soon as my eye spotted it. How I love this show. I am distraught that it isn't on or different people are hosting it. This book just was like the show warm and cozy. It could have been better with real pictures of not only the contestants but the food they made. My memory wasn't good enough to remember back years to what their finished products looked like. I appreciated the process of auditioning and hearing how many of the people got on the show.

[Olivia Ambrose · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the Great British Bake Off. I've gone through all four seasons on Netflix about a hundred times :) But I had no idea what to expect from this book. I wish I could see the first seasons since I know nothing about them. But I enjoyed the second half of the book a little bit more when it was about seasons I have seen. Overall, I didn't love it. But it was fun, and if you're a fan of the GBBO, it's a fun, quick read.

[Nan · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you enjoy Bake Off, you will probably enjoy this book. Good to hear some of the back story, but it really wasn't much of a book.

[Carin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore the TV show The Great British Bake-Off. I've seen all the specials and all the Master Classes. I have read numerous blog posts about the show. I have researched if there's any way for an American to watch the first two seasons which have never been released here. I watch it over and over. I have my favorite bakers, and the one I hate. It's so comforting and reliable and delightful and of course, looks quite yummy. Hasn't inspired me to bake yet, but it's come close. And I haven't baked in years so that's saying something.

I was of course worried for the last two seasons when Mary Berry and the two original hosts all left after a dispute with the BBC, but when I heard the new judge was Prue Leith, I breathed a sigh of relief, and the two new hosts have proven quite amusing as well.

This book is a couple of years old, so it does explain the whole dispute, but ends just before the season with all the new people. I can't believe I didn't hear about this book when it first published, but it's published by a rather obscure publisher. They did a gorgeous job with full-color full bleed pages, beautifully designed, with a paper over board cover that's both gifty and won't get abused like a jacket would. The text explains everything and somehow imitates the faintly snarky but mostly polite and kind feel of the show itself. It's just so very British. I wish it had been twice as long, is my only critique. (It's not short, I just wanted loads more gossip and backstage trivia and tales among the bakers.)

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I learned of this book ten days ago now. Amazingly, the local library system had it (versus the state-wide search), where I promptly requested it. That's gotta be the fastest turn-around for me. There are books on the Never-Ending Library List that date back to 2009. I was feeling a bit depressed this afternoon, and since we recently rewatched all of the episodes that are on Netflix, I opted to supplement my comfort tv show watching with this book. And I'm so happy I did. I plowed through it, sending photos of pages to my husband at work that simply couldn't wait until he got home (he was the one who suggested rewatching it, as I was having withdrawals, so it's not just me as a fan; he actively watches it), and marking pages with torn-up post-it notes for other interesting bits. So, of course I loved it.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re a fan of the Great British Bake Off (and I mean if you’re not, then why not?!), then you will love this book. It’s a really fun, enjoyable read about the origins of the show, a look behind the scenes, a reminder of the contestants and the presenters and a lovely reminiscence of some of our favourites moments in the show.
My only slight negative is that, although the drawings were beautifully done, every time a person was mentioned, the same picture was shown. I would have preferred a mix of the beautifully illustrated pictures, with some actual photos of the contestants, and maybe some pictures of their bakes too as these are such an integral part of the programme but were missing from the book.
Nevertheless, the book has made me want to watch the whole lot again right from the very beginning and to get out my cookbooks and start baking!

[Monical · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a little bit of a cheat on my reading list-- lots of pictures, big print... but I am a big fan of the Great British Bake off and enjoyed my little cheat reading! I read Mary Berry's autobiography on my way home from a London trip last year, and this book really got into the beginnings (and, sadly, endings) of the run of the original GBBO. I've only caught the odd episode, so I learned a lot about the different contestants, how they were selected, and the judges and cast, and even a bit about the behind the scenes workers and structure. Anyone who is a fan will enjoy this little book!

[Maddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful behind the scenes history of The Great British Baking Show’s first 7 seasons. Definitely not for everyone, but great for fans of the show (and those, like me, who binged the entire series at some point during lockdown). I enjoyed the off camera insights and quotes from the bakers, but since this was an “unofficial” history it felt like some of the quotes were actually from the show rather than from interviews. I still enjoyed it and recommend if you’re in the very niche crowd of Bake-Off’s super fans!

[JudyTea42 · Rating 1 out of 5]

A bit of a letdown

I was hoping for a look back at a show I love, with behind-the-scenes tidbits and glossy photos. Instead, I got a disjointed mess. That read like an audio book set on “shuffle”. In place of photos there were blurry watercolors, without names attached, plunked down at random spots. The same pictures are used over and over and are have no connection to the accompanying text.

[Aisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars - excellent fan service! This is what I wanted and this is what I got. I loved getting a "behind the scenes" peek at the tent and learning more about how each presenter was hired on, as well as more quotes from each of the beloved bakers. Still sad we can't see season 1 and season 2 in the US - will have to find a way to order the DVDs. The illustrations are also lovely and delightfully pastel.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book; loved all the interesting behind the scenes of the show, and the bakers themselves. I loved how it gave us such an insight into the creation of the show, the people behind the show we may not know about, and what was going on with the bakers and crew that we didn't see. Also, enjoyed how it spoke about the bakers post-show and paid tribute to a lot of their great moments. Overall a great book for any fan of the Great British Bake Off :)

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book for all fans of the Great British Bake Off, this book goes from conception to the season before the move from BBC to Channel 4.
The photographs were spectacular and the recaps of some of the more interesting flavours in each season, this book was a fun read.
Prepare to relive “bingate” and learn some interesting facts from behind the scenes.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like Illinois of others I love The Great British Bake Off and this book fed my wishto see more! Fun stories from each season along with cute graphics. I loved the stories of each contestant and it was interesting to find out what they are doing now. So many are TV stars in other fields and many are baking, or writing about baking, to this day. Recommended for other Bake Off fans.