Certain Woman of an Age

With a striking opening, the audiobook gently pulls you into the world of a remarkable woman navigating the complexities of life, love, and societal norms. Herein, the tale weaves together elements of history, political intrigue, personal triumph, and loss. Margaret Trudeau happens to be an individual of extraordinary resilience and unmatched charm, who happens to be the narrator of this fascinating journey. She herself was once swept into the vortex of political power as the young wife of Pierre Trudeau, the charismatic and influential Prime Minister of Canada. In “Certain Woman of an Age,” Margaret paints a vivid panorama of her early life, the whirlwind romance that led her to the forefront of Canadian politics, the immense pressure that came with it, and the toll it took on her mental health. You hear her voice, modulated with the passing of years and the wisdom they bring, sharing a saga that not only informs but moves. Margaret introduces a rich gallery of characters in her tale. Pierre Trudeau, whose blend of intellect and allure not only conquered Margaret’s heart but also placed him at the helm of a nation; their children, including Justin Trudeau, who would walk in his father’s footsteps to lead Canada; and an assortment of public figures from the realm of politics, entertainment, and royalty. Each of them has a role in shaping Margaret’s life, their personalities influencing her decisions and, in turn, the course of her journey. She chronicles her struggle with bipolar disorder, undiagnosed for most of her life. It’s through her lived experience that we see the societal stigma associated with mental health issues and the pressing need for change. Margaret’s tale is punctuated by high-profile international events, and yet, it is incredibly personal. As she shares stories of her encounters with the Queen of England, partying at Studio 54, and mingling with the Rolling Stones, one can’t help but marvel at the breadth of experiences this woman has encompassed in her lifetime. The honesty and depth of her account lend an authenticity to “Certain Woman of an Age” that makes it a riveting listen. It also provides a crave for Changing My Mind and The Time of Your Life as everyone of us wants to know more about the author and her wonderful work.