Traveling to Infinity

The True Story Behind 'The Theory of Everything'

By: Jane Hawking

Narrated by: Sandra Duncan

Length: 19 hrs and 11 mins

Publisher's summary

In this compelling memoir, Jane Hawking relates the inside story of her extraordinary marriage. As Stephen's academic renown soared, his body was collapsing under the assaults of motor neurone disease, and Jane's candid account of trying to balance his 24-hour care with the needs of their growing family is inspirational. This is a book about optimism, love and change that will resonate with listeners everywhere.

©1999 Jane Hawking (P)2014 W F Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

"Jane writes about her former husband with tenderness, respect and protectiveness." ( Sunday Express)

"A great read." ( Daily Mail)

Loved this book!

A wonderful story about the trials Hawking wife went through in their marriage and after.

The other side of the story

I am so happy, not just because of the excellence of the book, but it brings me such satisfaction that, in this memoir, she is able to clear up some of the reproach heaped upon her so unfairly, all her life. If you’ve never been a caregiver: you just.don’t.know. I tip my hat to you Jane. And I admire your courage for writing this.

Travels through Jane Life

A very interesting and at times unexpected perspective on Jane’s life with her family. What a strong, remarkable woman!

Love!

We are amateur astronomers so I was fascinated by this book. What was life like with Stephen? This grand sweeping story covers the planet. I had no idea that they even had children. I have no words to describe Jane's life as a caretaker and mother, she is amazing. Life is a journey and their journey, both mental and physically, kept my attention for the entire time. Also, living life under a microscope is difficult on a marriage. This long book kept me interested from start to finish.

My only tiny complaint is that she skips around in time a little. Sometimes, it took me a minute or two to figure out what year she was talking about.

Reality is always more complicated than fiction

Would you listen to Traveling to Infinity again? Why?

This is the long and very detailed story of two very special human beings and a very complex marriage. I bought the book after watching the recent movie based on it. Although I liked the movie a lot, the book and the story it tells is far more interesting. This book is very "rich" and although I enjoyed it, it will be some time before I am ready for the experience again.

What did you like best about this story?

Jane Hawkings manages to tell the story of her marriage to a genius who also suffers from a chronic debilitating disease without pathos. She does not feel sorry for herself (even though Steven left her after she sacrificed a great deal for him) or for Hawking, for that matter. She comes across as a smart, strong lady. The picture she paints of Steven is that of a special person who has not been immune to the deleterious effects that fame and fortune can sometimes have. In other words, geniuses are human.

Have you listened to any of Sandra Duncan’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

The narration was unremarkable. This was probably what was required given the nature of the story.

Any additional comments?

This is a well written memoir about very interesting people. It never bores and like most "lives" it teaches a lesson or two. It is a good listen.

Brilliant and inspirational!!

A brilliant, compelling account of the heroism of Jane Hawking, providing unfailing support and care for Stephen Hawking while bringing up their family, managing his motor neurone disease, and carving out her own identity by finishing her PhD. Inspiration for women everywhere especially those in a caregiving role. A must read!

Loved the Movie

I loved the movie and wanted to learn more about the amazing Jane Hawking through her book. Jane describes herself as one that has a great sense of humor. Unfortunately the unwaveringly somber tone of the narrator never allows the humor or lightheartedness of the author to come through for me. In spite of this, the story is a beautiful story of love, commitment, determination, and eternal optimism. Listen carefully to the words instead of the delivery and you will enjoy the book and respect this woman's strength of character!

Interesting and Compelling Story!

Met my expectations and then some. The narration was very good.
A memorable story.

Review is complete .
Nothing more to add.

An interesting perspective on Stephen Hawking

Although the book was quite long, I found it thought provoking. it was interesting to read about this man's life through the perspective of his ex-wife. She has some interesting ideas of her own. I can see that her ideas never would have received much attention if she had not framed them in the context of Stephen Hawking's life.

I have mixed feelings about her perspective on care for the disabled, and other health related problems of society. Her perspective is very socialistic, which doesn't really work well in the long run, but it still gives you pause.

I thought her ideas about the chauvinistic attitudes of higher education institutions were fascinating. I can't really see any justification for the scorn and disrespect with which women were treated in those institutions.

Although some people might find the book tedious and long winded, I think it is worth the effort to read it.

A look into the diary of Mrs Stephan hawking

Profoundly personal story of the early family life and career of the famous professor Hawking and its toll on his wife and children