Society's Child

My Autobiography

By: Janis Ian

Narrated by: Janis Ian

Length: 12 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

Audie Award, Narration by the Author or Authors, 2013

Grammy Award Winner, Best Spoken Word Album, 2013

Booklist Top 10 Biography Audiobooks

Janis Ian was catapulted into the spotlight in 1966 at the age of 15, when her soul-wrenching song "Society's Child" became a hit. An intimate portrait of an interracial relationship, "Society's Child" climbed the charts despite the fact that many radio stations across the country refused to play it because of its controversial subject matter. But this was only the beginning of a long and illustrious career.

In this fascinating memoir of her more than 40 years in the music business, Ian chronicles how she did drugs with Jimi Hendrix, went shopping for Grammy clothes with Janis Joplin, and sang with Mel Tormé, all the while never ceasing to create unforgettable music.

In 1975, Ian's legendary "At Seventeen" earned two Grammy awards and five nominations. Her next two albums brought her worldwide platinum hits. But after seven albums in as many years, she made a conscious decision to walk away from the often grueling music business. During this period, she struggled through a difficult marriage, which ended with her then husband's attempt to destroy her, and a sudden illness that very nearly cost her her life. The hiatus from music lasted for close to a decade until, in 1993, Ian returned with the release of the Grammy-nominated Breaking Silence. Now, as she moves gracefully into her fifth decade as a recording artist and writer, Ian continues to draw large audiences around the globe.

In Society's Child, Janis Ian provides a relentlessly honest account of the successes and failures - and the hopes and dreams - of an extraordinary life.

©2008 Janis Ian (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Each chapter in this mesmerizing memoir begins with an evocative lyric read and sung by Ian, who transports listeners back in time with both words and music." ( Booklist)

This book is thoroughly rewarding throughout.

Janice gave me a very profound appreciation and respect for all human life allowing me to see things in a new perception and perspective I've never even considered before. She is a true artist and an absolute genius. She continuously melts my heart. True beauty inside and out.

This is true type of boo that Audible was made for

An autobiography, performed by the author is the best way to get to know the person. When that person is a musician, who includes bits of their music, it is even better. Janis does a spectacular job telling her story.

I grew up in Spain in the 60s and the only song of hers that I ever heard was Society's Child. A Spanish singer released a Spanish version of the song. I played it on the guitar and sang it all the time. I loved that song! In the late 70s, a friend of mine invited me to go see Janis in concert (I was in California then). I jumped at the chance. "I LOVE Janis Ian!" , I said. During the concert, the audience began to chant for her to sing Society's Child. She refused, saying she did not sing it anymore. I was so disappointed and from that point, I did not like her anymore. As I recall, the audience booed her.

After listening to her story, from her mouth, I feel bad that I so quickly jumped to the wrong conclusions about her. I now appreciate her, her music, and her journey so much. Thank you Janis, for sharing with us.

So very engaging ! 🌹

This is the best Book I have listened to for a long, long time ! Janis' voice is soothing in both speech and song ! I will listen to this book for the second time very soon. Thank you, Thank-you ! 🌹

An epic tale of an epic life

Janis let’s us share the very highs and lows of her life. Punctuated by musical performances, she tells the story of her life, her loves, illnesses, successes and failures. Through it all, her spirit and courage prevails.

Powerfully True

I identified strongly with Janis Ian’s first major record, “Society’s Child”, but did not know how her life had unfolded. Listening to her autobiography in her own voice made it clearly and powerfully true, a moving saga. It is one of the most moving Audible books I have listened to and I’m grateful for it. I’m also grateful for the Pearl Foundation and it’s work. What a wonderful way to honor Janis’ mother and the bond they had!

An amazing woman and writer

This book has helped bring me to the music of Janis Ian, and her strong vulnerable way of living. I respect her courage to voice what so many of us have not learned to share, with Grace, and inspires me to write songs for the joy of it. Thank you Janis!

Always Someone Else's Fault

I should like this as I like many music biographies, given the large number of excellent reviews. While the narration was fine, the story was marred for me by blaming anyone but herself for any setbacks. Maybe it's because, other than a couple songs, I'm not really a fan of her music. Don't regret trying the audiobook,but didn't finish.

A real survivor and heroine!

This is one of my favorite audible books this year. I can understand why it is nominated for an audible award. I normally don't like authors reading their own books but I make an exception in this case.

Janis Ian opens each chapter singing one of her songs so no one else could do this book justice. I was amazed at everything this talented woman went through in her life so far. She had child abuse, marital abuse, IRS problems due to a manager that stole from her, and health issues that affected her and her family.

This is the story of a survivor and a true heroine. When everything was going against her she was able to make it through to the other side by realizing that no one could take her talent away from her.

I always loved her songs, now I love her as a person too.

Amazing & Inspirational

Janet Ian is a truly amazing person. Her talent as a signer, guitarist and song writer is obvious by her music but she's also a great writer. The road to success and back again is inspirational, even to those of us who lack musical talent. I especially liked how she blended her songs into the book, something I've found lacking in other biographies about musicians. She definitely deserved the Grammy for this performance!

Bigger Fan than Ever

Would you listen to Society's Child again? Why?

Yes, so well written and narration is engaging

Any additional comments?

Want her to write another book and narrate it as well.