Marion Molteno

NEW: Journeys without a map: a writer’s life

Stories & reflections on the writing life – following the journeys my novels have taken me on – across distance but also the discoveries within:

“In this unusual memoir Marion Molteno draws us in to the process of writing a novel, getting it published, and taking it into the world – to tiny literary festivals in small English towns and huge ones in India and Pakistan, in private homes and local libraries, tents, chapels and a palace. 

With an ability to find significance in the ordinary and the extraordinary alike, she describes encounters with readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, poets, festival organisers and volunteers – and sometimes people whose lives uncannily echo those of the characters in her books.

Weaving through these vignettes is her inner journey as a writer, as she reflects on the experiences that gave rise to her other prize-winning novels. We get glimpses of a life – as student activist, teacher, political refugee, international aid worker, mother, grandmother – and at every turn rediscover what connects us to others, wherever they are.”

To order it:
In the UK – ask your nearest bookshop to get it for you.
Outside the UK – order it post free from The Book Depository:
https://www.bookdepository.com/Journeys…/9781800463394
If they say ‘out of stock’, just get your name on a list to be notified when they get in more copies.
Also available in e-book

What readers say:

“An amazing story, compelling and written with great pace. I was swept along by the details of the actual journeys – the hazards, adventures, happy or unhappy coincidences- and the writer’s journey as well. A moving and humbling experience. – Carol A. Caffrey

A wonderful book – extraordinarily diverse and fascinating – different countries, cultures, languages, people, poetry. Gives a real insight into what goes into creating an important novel, and because she’s a great story teller, whether it’s Shropshire or India it holds the same fascination. – Nicky Road

Engaging all the way through. Her vivid way with detail makes for equally fascinating reading whether she is getting lost coming out of the metro station in Delhi, describing inspirational women who have influenced her, narrating moving refugee stories, or reflecting on the writer-reader relationship. – Linda Wright

What a brave book this is – laying bare levels of feelings, thought and creativity, that though beautifully written still feel quite raw. We learn a lot about her but also about writing and being an author. A wonderful achievement. – Greg Lanning

Interviews about the book