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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.
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Critic reviews
"A perfectly formed work of art, achieving the state of grace to which its creator so elegantly aspires." (Times Literary Supplement)
What listeners say about Conundrum
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Viz
- 30-06-24
Beautiful Viewpoint
When I heard of this book, so beautifully spoken of by Douglas Murray, I immediately got it on Audible.
I always want to see how my own theories and understanding fit, re scripture - being the starting point for every explanation. And like this author said whatever the cause he just wanted to remedy the problem, so to speak.
A man who could not escape his own mind and what an amazing mind to hear and experience - from the inside. The author herself, said it was of the spirit and that explanations were not very important anyway.
Whatever the spiritual and environmental impulsions that crowded in upon the author he was also endowed with a rather lovely and unaffected nature made secure by the free and seeminly nurturing upbringing, which stayed with him into her life, which makes the difference for one's whole life. The way she speaks of her children and of her lifetime of being part of Elizabeth's life, shows how good nuturing above all can keep a person on track in decency and self-awareness.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- 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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- 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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- 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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- 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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- 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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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