Jan Morris Books In Order

Publication Order of Short Story Collections

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

Publication Order of Jan Morris Travel Books

Publication Order of Biographies & Memoirs

Publication Order of Directions Books

Publication Order of Hav Books

Publication Order of The Pax Britannica Trilogy Books

Publication Order of Lonely Planet Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Jan Morris

Jan Morris was a well-known British historian, an author, and a travel writer. She was raised in Wales and schooled at Lancing College in West Sussex and Christ Church in Oxford. Until 1970, she wrote using her birth name, ‘James.’ She is best remembered for her Pax Britannica trilogy, an extensive overview of the British Empire, and her vibrant descriptions of cities such as Oxford, Venice, Hong Kong, Trieste, and New York City.

She also wrote about many different subjects, including Spanish history, Welsh life, and various aspects of culture. Morris had a distinct way of writing that engaged with her subjects with interesting narratives. Her books were a pleasure to read because of this.

Her writing style brought places to life, whether she was delving into the history of the British Empire or describing bustling cities. From her extensive body of work, it’s clear she had a broad reach and a deep understanding of different subjects. With each word, Jan Morris enticed her reader into her narratives, making them riveting tales for all to enjoy. Overall, her writing has made a significant impact, continuing to delight readers around the globe.

Early and Personal Life

Born on the 2nd of October, 1926, Jan Morris grew into a phenomenal Welsh historian, respected author, and captivating travel writer. Known for the famous Pax Britannica trilogy and her beautifully described city portraits such as Oxford and New York City, she carved out a remarkable writing career. Until 1972, her earlier works were published under ‘James’ prior to her transition.

Jan Morris’s life was filled with adventure. Her participation in the historical 1953 British Mount Everest expedition as the only journalist and her role in announcing the first ever confirmed ascent is just an indication of her adventurous spirit. This unique experience doubtlessly influenced her writing, bringing a freshness and a spark to her work.

Lastly, her heritage played a significant role in her life and writing. Born in Somerset, England, as the youngest of three, her father was a Welsh engineer while her musically-inclined mother trained as a concert pianist. Despite being born and largely raised in England, Morris always identified as Welsh.

From her schooling at Oxford to her service in the 9th Queen’s Royal Lancers during World War II, these experiences shaped her, providing a wellspring of inspiration for her writing. All in all, Jan Morris possessed an engaging combination of life experiences and world knowledge which she masterfully used to create memorable travel literature.

Married to her wife Elizabeth, they would have five children together, living in the village Llanstumdwy in North Wales. She would pass away on the 20th of November in 2020, leaving behind a strong and illustrious legacy.

Writing Career

Jan Morris made her mark in post-war journalism, writing for The Times and serving as the sole journalist on the historic 1953 Mount Everest expedition. Her coverage of Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary’s triumph made headlines, closely coinciding with Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.

Later, she revealed pivotal facts about the Suez Crisis for the Manchester Guardian – facts that dramatically shed light on France and Israel’s joint invasion of Egyptian territory. In the years that followed, her reportage also encompassed the 1961 trial of Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem.

A sense of longevity marked Morris’s commitment to her craft, as seen in her decades-long dedication to a biography about First Sea Lord John Fisher, finished in 1995. Besides her biographical work, Morris achieved fame for her memoirs and travel essays, with ‘Conundrum’—her bestseller likened to fellow transgender pioneer Christine Jorgensen’s memoir—attracting significant attention.

Through her prolific output, Morris offered profound insights into transition, nature, travel, and history. Her desire, however, was not to be solely seen as a travel writer, but rather, recognized as an author who unearths the intrinsic character of places and their inhabitants. Winning numerous awards throughout her career, her work continues to live on, with readers around the world discovering it every day.

Venice

Jan Morris penned the travel book ‘Venice,’ which was first published in 1960. The publishing house Faber and Faber produced the book. It continues to be a testament to Morris’s vivid style and insightful travel writing.

Jan Morris’s book on Venice is highly regarded as one of the most authentic narratives about the city. With an exciting blend of humor, wit, and appreciation, it stands out as an impressive modern account of a city, according to Geoffrey Grigson.

As highlighted by the Sunday Times, this absorbing read features vibrant prose and sharp humor. The Guardian suggests that this expansive text, covering a millennium of Venice’s history, is a timelessly captivating read for anyone interested in this unique city.

Jan Morris’s ‘Venice’ is a treat for all book lovers, not just travel enthusiasts. The text beautifully paints a vivid picture of the city through authentically engaging narratives. Its blend of humor, wit, and appreciation captivates readers — making it a must-read.

Covering a millennium of Venice’s history, it brings the unique city to life in an impressively modern way.

Hong Kong

‘Hong Kong’ is another travel and historical text penned by author Jan Morris. The book hit the stands on February 4, 1997, distributed by Vintage.

During its final days under British governance, Hong Kong was a city of extremes and paradoxes that stirred up both fascination and frustration. This urban landscape was a blend of glaring contrasts: lavish wealth and stark poverty, architectural disharmony yet undeniable beauty.

Jan Morris, by this stage a well-known travel author, provides an in-depth and revealing examination of this mystifying city.

Conundrum

The memoir ‘Conundrum’ is a work by celebrated author Jan Morris. It first made its way into bookstores in 1974, and is published by NYRB Classics.

‘Conundrum’ by Jan Morris is among the earliest books highlighting the process of gender transition. Described by Newsweek as an unparalleled firsthand narrative of transitioning, this touching memoir provides unique insights.

The New York Times praises it as being deeply poetic. Maria Popova from The Marginalian describes it as an exceptional read.