THE BOOK CORNER

Conundrum
by Jan Morris

In Conundrum, Jan (nee  James) Morris writes an in-depth, thoughtful and soul-searching memoir of his transgender transformation from male to female. It would be an eye opener today, when such topics are much more a part of the popular culture. To think of her publicly experiencing and writing about this decades-long emotional and physical transformation in the uch more clseted 1970sshows a self-awareness and courage way beyond her time. Unlike the Bruce/Caitlin Jenner coverage today, Morris faced a much greater uphill challenge to the perceptions of the outside world: the social, the occupational, the public, and even the medical. But Morris approached each and every challenge with introspection, patience, and a positive appreciation for her own life's advantages that made the transition a lifelong journey toward understanding and perfection. She was also blessed with a wonderful, loving and accepting family and community of friends that gave her the strength and support to depersonalize criticism along the way. Morris presents her experiences in such a way that you cannot help but get into her head, and put aside any preconceptions you might have about the meaning of sex, gender and sexuality.