A Mother’s Disgrace

Adopted as a baby towards the end of World War II, Robert Dessaix grew up haunted by 'a shaft of silence' surrounding the question of his natural mother's identity, and of his identity and sexuality. In this touching memoir, he recounts the story of a most unusual childhood on Sydney's North Shore; of his fascination with Russia and his years spent studying in Cold War Moscow; and of his restless wanderings around the world.Frank and compelling, this 'tale without an ending' is a story of coming to terms with a history previously unknown, and with it the acceptance of a new identity. 'A journey of identity by a virtuoso in language and master of narrative control ... a brave, moving, funny, enthralling book - all the way'  The Canberra Times'One of the most intelligently moving autobiographical narratives I have ever read. A book that is fascinating, engrossing ... And a book that invites challenge'  The Age