Synopses & Reviews
Complete with exclusive photographs of the couple, this moving and engaging memoir written by Stephen Hawkings first wife covers the turbulent years of her marriage with the astrophysics genius, her traumatic divorce, and their recent reconciliation Professor Stephen Hawking is one of the most famous and remarkable scientists of our age and author of the scientific bestseller A Brief History of Time, which sold more than 25 million copies. In this compelling memoir, his first wife, Jane Hawking, relates the inside story of their extraordinary marriage. As Stephen's academic renown soared, his body was collapsing under the assaults of motor neurone disease. Jane's candid account of trying to balance his 24-hour care with the needs of their growing family reveals the inner-strength of the author, while the self-evident character and achievements of her husband make for an incredible tale presented with unflinching honesty. Jane's candor is no less evident when the marriage finally ends in a high-profile meltdown, with Stephen leaving Jane for one of his nurses and Jane marrying an old family friend. In this exceptionally open, moving, and often funny memoir, Jane Hawking confronts not only the acutely complicated and painful dilemmas of her first marriage, but also the relationship's faultlines exposed by the pervasive effects of fame and wealth. The result is a book about optimism, love, and change that will resonate with readers everywhere.
Review
"Jane writes about her former husband with tenderness, respect and protectiveness." —Sunday Express
Review
"This is not a vindictive book, although the agony she went through is palpable; if Stephens struggle to keep his mind clear is heroic, so is her determination to balance his escalating needs and those of their three children." —Independent on Sunday
Review
"Jane Hawkings harrowing and compelling account . . . rings very true." Irish Times
Review
"A great read." The Daily Mail
Review
"Jane Hawking has written a book about what it was like to be pivotal to her husband's celebrated success . . . but it is much more a shout from the outer darkness." The Daily Telegraph
About the Author
Jane Hawking, who was Stephen Hawking's wife for more than 25 years, is a writer, lecturer, and the author of At Home in France.