Winner of the Guardian Fiction Prize 'Rich, taut and compelling' - Melvyn Bragg, The Guardian 'An accomplished display of vocal versatility' - The Literary Review The death of legendary jazz trumpeter Joss Moody exposes an extraordinary secret. Unknown to all but his wife Millie, Joss was a woman living as a man. The discovery is most devastating for their adopted son, Colman, whose bewildered fury brings the press to the doorstep and sends his grieving mother to the sanctuary of a remote Scottish village. Part of the Picador Collection, Trumpet by Jackie Kay is a starkly beautiful modern classic about the lengths to which people will go for love. It is a moving story of a shared life founded on an intricate lie, of loving deception and lasting devotion, and of the intimate workings of the human heart. 'Kay carefully registers the technical difficulties of transgendered life . . . She leaves us with a broad landscape of sweet tolerance and familial love' - The New York Times
Jackie Kay
Jackie Kay is a Scottish poet, playwright, and novelist known for her exploration of identity, race, and sexuality in her works. Her most notable works include the poetry collections "The Adoption Papers" and "Fiere," as well as the novel "Trumpet," which won the Guardian Fiction Prize. Kay's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, humor, and lyrical language. She has made significant contributions to literature by giving voice to marginalized communities and challenging traditional notions of identity and belonging. Kay's impact on the literary genre is evident in her ability to blend personal experiences with broader social issues, creating a rich and nuanced portrayal of human existence. Her most famous work, "Trumpet," is a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of identity.