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Conundrum
- Narrated by: Roy McMillan
- Length: 5 hrs and 12 mins
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Conundrum
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Summary
This remarkable memoir is the classic account of the transgender journey. It is all the more extraordinary because it is the life story of a figure who, it seemed, seamlessly and publicly charted a course through the English establishment - James Morris, outstanding journalist, historian and travel writer, famed for a peerless writing style. But all the while he was concealing a very different inner world: from the age of four he felt that, despite his body, he was really a girl.
Determined to be true to an undeniable inner impulse, James Morris, in his 40s, became Jan Morris. It was the 1970s, a time and culture far from our 21st century, where such matters have now become commonplace. What was it that impelled him to take such a frightening and irrevocable step? He faced the mental and physical challenges - the operation had to be done in Morocco and, as a well-known figure, attention from the world media could not be avoided. What pressures would that put on the family - a loving wife and growing children living in a North Wales village? But that inner impulse could not be denied.
Jan Morris tells the story in a clear and honest manner, without a trace of sentimentality or sensationalism. She recounts the emotional, physical, sexual and social issues that abound on such a journey in detail and, through this highly personal memoir, presents a memorable insight into the 'conundrum'. Jan is modest by nature, and it is only by implication that one becomes aware of the immense courage and integrity needed to see the transition through.
This is a deeply moving, beautifully written, unforgettable memoir. Sensational - yes, in a quiet way. Revealing - yes; no punches are pulled. But in the end, it is humane and uplifting.
Jan Morris, now in her 90s, has written a new introduction for this recording. Roy McMillan has recorded Morris' major historical work, the Pax Britannica trilogy (available on Audible), and is the ideal reader for Conundrum.
Critic reviews
"A perfectly formed work of art, achieving the state of grace to which its creator so elegantly aspires." (Times Literary Supplement)
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What listeners say about Conundrum
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Melanie Lowndes
- 28-01-23
wonderful thought provoking memoir
I really enjoyed this.
Very relatable in terms of the uncovering of a true self and identity. A very kind, wise and inclusive book.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- A. Simmonds
- 22-06-19
Beautifully read
I know this book well, and this audio version is lovely. Read with all the intelligence, sensitivity and humour of the author herself, the narrator did the book full justice and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Karmel
- 06-09-22
Personal, moving and enlightening
In a confused and confusing debate of biological truths, TERFs and transmen and transwomen - I have found no other text more enlightening
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Abusam
- 02-06-21
It was different in those days
A wonderful writer, who writes about this in a 20th century manner, never thinking he/she was a victim.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Kathleen
- 15-07-22
amazing, astonishing, informative
such a beautifully written book about a subject I know little of. wonderfully read with the most glorious use of English to paint vivid pictures of all the situations the author experienced. do read it - you'll be glad you did
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- John Mike
- 23-06-23
Required Reading for Woke and Right wing alike
Firstly this book is excellently written. In large part of successfully describes the Trans confusion without being emotive. It is also a love story of great depth and power Elizabeth is key to Ian's survival. The love for each other and their children is overwhelming within this narrative.
My wish is that teams phobic keyboard warriors take time to read this astonishing book. I know that won't happen and that ignorance reigns supreme.
Thank you Jan for penning this remarkable biography.
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1 person found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Mary
- 07-03-21
Remarkable, honest, inspirational
A beautifully narrated story of real life, reminding us of our true selves.
A true inspiration and joy to read
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Overall4 out of 5 stars
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- Sarah Rayner, author
- 06-11-18
Hugely enjoyable, illuminating and witty
Whilst some of the author's views may grate to the 21st century ear, by and large this book is as relevant today as when it was published in the '70s, arguably more so, as trans issues are such a hot topic right now. Listen to it for an insight of one person and to gain understanding, by all means, but also listen to it for its wonderful prose. It’s a gem of a book, beautifully read, and can be devoured within a couple of days - I sped through, chuckling often.
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3 people found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Janet Jones
- 25-07-21
Great....
listen to an unusual book about being born in the wrong body and then going from one gender to the other gender. The narrator was very good.
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1 person found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Hazel Farrelly
- 25-11-20
Utterly fascinating
As near a perfect narration as possible. A subject well told which most readers will never be able to understand properly as it is one of those things I think you have to experience personally to have any hope of understanding. She is such an easy writer to follow but with glorious use of perfect description. What a wonderful talent.
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