MoMoBookDiary

Life, loss, laughs and game-changing moments

Gabby Logan

About the book:

When I sat down to write this book, I was really not keen on the idea of writing a biography that charted my life in a regular, linear fashion. Largely because I thought that nobody would be interested in how well I did in my maths GCSE ( C ) or what my first dog was called (Sadie). But looking back over my life I realise we are all a product of the things that happen to us along the way, even the most fleeting of conversations with a stranger, and by gathering my turning points and life-changing moments together, I have found a way of telling the story of my life – a story of family, love, loss, determination, devastating lows and the highest of highs. 

Whether it’s presenting the Olympics, dancing on Strictly or chatting to guests on her hugely popular podcast, Gabby Logan has been a much-loved broadcaster and a fixture in our lives for over 25 years. 

In this, her first ever book, Gabby takes us through the story of her life through the turning points and important events that have led her to where she is today. Just how did the little girl who lay in bed pondering the big questions like Why do I matter? Why was I born? end up as a woman who dropped her physics GCSE at the first chance and now talks on telly for a living? 

Gabby talks candidly about the highs, lows, loves and losses she’s experienced. Whether it’s the heart-breaking early death of her brother, her father’s alcoholism, navigating sexism at work or the time she almost became the Rose of Tralee by accident, The First Half is an entertaining, absorbing, inspirational memoir which will make you laugh and cry.

My Review:

Gabby Logan’s The First Half is an absolute gem, particularly in audiobook format. Narrated by Gabby herself, this memoir feels like an intimate, candid conversation with one of the most inspiring and accomplished figures in sports media. Her engaging narration brings her journey to life, from her early days as a competitive gymnast to her meteoric rise in a male-dominated industry, where she has become a trailblazer for women in broadcasting.

Gabby’s achievements are truly remarkable. She hasn’t just broken barriers—she’s redefined what it means to be resilient, ambitious, and an authentic role model. What makes her story so special is the way she shares it—with warmth, humor, and an openness that immediately draws you in. She doesn’t shy away from the challenges she’s faced but instead offers candid reflections on family, ambition, and navigating setbacks, all while maintaining her trademark wit and positivity.

Her heartfelt recounting of the loss of her brother, her father’s struggles with alcoholism, and the sexism she encountered in her career is deeply moving. Yet, these poignant moments are beautifully balanced with uplifting anecdotes, fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses into her life, and powerful insights that highlight her incredible strength, determination, and unwavering belief in herself.

Listening to Gabby tell her own story adds an extra layer of depth, making it all the more personal and impactful. Her passion for her work, commitment to breaking boundaries, and ability to connect with others shine through in every chapter. The First Half isn’t just a memoir – it’s a powerful testament to the strength of resilience, the importance of self-belief, and the transformative impact of hard work. Gabby’s journey is a celebration of how to embrace life’s challenges, learn from them, and emerge even stronger.

I was completely absorbed from start to finish and came away feeling inspired, uplifted, and in awe of all Gabby has accomplished. This is a must-listen for fans of Gabby Logan, sports enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a motivating and heartfelt story. Highly, highly recommended!

The Author:

Gabby Logan is a renowned British television presenter, sports broadcaster, and former international gymnast. With over 25 years in broadcasting, she has hosted major events including the Olympics, World Cups, and European Championships. Known for her expertise and charisma, Gabby has become one of the UK’s leading female broadcasters, celebrated for breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. She is also the host of the Mid-Point podcast, where she interviews a wide range of guests from the worlds of sports, entertainment, and beyond.

Gabby Logan can be found online, gabbylogan.com and on Facebook and Instagram

Gabby’s Podcast “The Mid-Point” is brilliant – you can listen here: MIDPOINT. Available on all podcast platforms.

The Book:

Title: The First Half
Author: Gabby Logan
Publisher: Piatkus / Little Brown Audio
Publication:
Audio (13 October 2022) 9h 3m
Digital (13 October 2022) 384pages
Hardback (13 October 2022) 368pages
Paperback (20 July 2023) 368pages

The Review:

I decided to purchase the audiobook because I wanted to learn more about the person behind the famous “Gabby Logan.” Before listening, the biggest thing I knew about Gabby—aside from how much I admired her incredible presentation skills—was that she married Kenny Logan, a Scottish rugby hero of mine. I’ve always loved watching her on TV, but this audiobook gave me the chance to discover so much more about her. Gabby is, without doubt, a world-renowned presenter, admired internationally for her talent and professionalism. With her unique background and experience, she’s been the face of countless major events, including the Olympics, making her a true broadcasting icon.

I also listen to her podcast, The Mid-Point, which is one of my weekly go-to listens. The guests and subjects Gabby covers are incredibly important and always thought-provoking. Informative, engaging, and full of meaningful conversations, it’s a fantastic series I highly recommend! Gabby has an incredible way of connecting with her audience, whether on TV, through her podcast, or in this audiobook.

All views expressed are my own. This review, or parts thereof, may also be published on my social medial channels – find me everywhere as momobookdiary – and book websites, such as Amazon, Goodreads, LoveReading, StoryGraph, and Waterstones. All links are correct at the time of publication.

Tags: #GabbyLogan #TheFirstHalf #Memoir #InspiringReads #WomenInMedia #WomenInSports#BreakingBarriers #Resilience #Inspiration #Motivation #TheMidPointPodcast