The Actor's Guide by Sarah Valentine - An Insider's Manual to Launching Your Acting Career

30+ Years

Experience

NEW RELEASE

The Actor's Guide

An Insider's Manual to Launching Your Acting Career

Sarah Valentine has worked in the entertainment industry since 1989. From in-front of the camera as an actor to behind the camera as a casting director, agent and accent coach. With more than 30 years experience Sarah guides you through everything you could ever possibly want to know on how to launch your acting career.

30 Comprehensive Chapters

Exclusive Holly Hunter Q&A

QR Code Resources

Industry Insider Tips

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About the Purpose of This Book

The purpose of this book is to help you to get started along your acting career and also to keep you moving if you're feeling stuck.

WHAT'S INSIDE

Book Chapters

A comprehensive guide divided into acts, just like a play

1

ACT 1

Chapters 1 - 8

In the opening Act you will learn everything you need to know about: Headshots; website/social media; open castings; your showreel; making your own movies; working as an extra; stand up comedy & amateur theatre.

2

ACT 2

Chapters 9 - 15

In this Act discover how watching TV movies & plays helps you as an actor; develop special skills; strengthen your memory; memorise monologues; learn an accent; learning online & going to acting school.

3

ACT 3

Chapters 16 - 25

In Act 3 we will delve into finding an agent; living & working while acting; self-tape auditions; auditions; dealing with rejection; contracts; joining a Union; pre-production; rehearsals & on-set experiences.

ENCORE

Chapters 26 - 30

In the Encore you will discover more about actor well-being; acting techniques & methods; de-roling; body matters & women in the industry.

BONUS

Exclusive Q&A

Twice Emmy nominated & Oscar winner Holly Hunter shares her insight in this in-depth interview with Sarah Valentine. Absolute gold!

RESOURCES

Resources & Glossary

Throughout the book are references to resources to help you develop as an actor. Visit the resources page to view more.

TESTIMONIAL

What Readers Are Saying

5.0

Sarah Valentine's book is an absolute gem, brimming with love and dedication.

Knowing Sarah personally, I had high expectations, and she exceeded every one of them! Although I'm not deeply rooted in the theater world, I was captivated by the innovative use of QR codes, practical assistance, and her heartfelt explanations. Her genuine passion to teach, support, and nurture anyone drawn to the stage or screen shines through on every page.

This book isn't just a guide for aspiring actors—it's a deeply informative window into the trials, challenges, and triumphs of the profession. Sarah's writing is kind, honest, and refreshingly raw, offering invaluable guidance, tips, and tools of the trade. It combines the wisdom of a seasoned professional with the nurturing care of a mother.

A truly exceptional read—5 stars!

LW

Laura Waterhouse

Verified Reader

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Pricing Packages

Choose the format that works best for you

KINDLE

£2.99

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Printed Paperback

£14.99

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SIGNED

Signed Copy

UK 2nd Class Tracked

£15

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Signed Copy

FREE WORLDWIDE POSTAGE

£30

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EVENT PICKUP

Signed Copy

Talent Expo London
Feb 2026

£15

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Book Available On

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meet Sarah Valentine

Actor, Accent Coach, Ex-Agent & Ex-Casting Director

Hi, I'm Sarah Valentine, I have worked as a casting director, actors agent, actor and an accent coach, as well as a myriad of other on set roles.

With all of my years of experience I have put together the most concise guide to help you along your acting journey. The purpose of this book is to help you to get started and also to keep you moving if you're feeling stuck.

Notable Credits: I have had the honour of working as an actor on Top of the Lake Season 1 with Elisabeth Moss (Handmaids Tale), David Wenham (Lord of the Rings), Holly Hunter (Oscar winner), Pete Mullan (Harry Potter, Ozark) and directed by Jane Campion.

Full Biography View on IMDb

30+

Years Experience

1989

Industry Start

4

Industry Roles

30

Book Chapters

Industry Experience:

Professional Actor
Accent Coach
Casting Director
Actors Agent