Derek Johns

A short book which, as the subtitle states, is a biography of the author, Jan Morris, from talking about her books.
I have read some of Morris’ more than 50 books, and have significant further books by her on my pile of to be read, so I found this a very engaging book, with many well chosen quotes from Morris’ works. My one criticism would be that the book should not have ended with the chapter on Morris’ sex change in the 1970’s, but rather celebrate those late books, Hav and Trieste show more and the Meaning of Nowhere which, to me, sum up Morris’ ability to conjure a place, whether real or imagined.
The book tells us nothing that is not apparent from Morris’ books, but it is rather an indulgent treat to have it served up to the reader in such a lovely fashion, with a number of line drawings by Morris to accompany the text. show less

A gentle read, gently developed by a an adequate author who provided a few hours of diversion. I quite enjoyed the book but after finishing decided that it was sort of superficial - but maybe that was the intention.

I suspect I would read more of Mr. John's efforts but the next one will need to have more meat.