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My Name Is Why by Lemn Sissay (Omnibus)

Lemn Sissay reads from his memoir about growing up in the care system in the 70s and 80s, and the redemptive power of poetry.

This is Lemn Sissay's courageous account of a childhood spent in a foster family - followed by six years in the institutional care system in the 1970s and 80s.

Interwoven with documents from his social work file, Lemn uncovers answers to questions that he has been asking since he left care aged 17. Truths are uncovered that reveal Lemn's story to be one of triumph over adversity.

Beginning with his early days in foster care - Lemn Sissay reads from his powerful memoir - with the redemptive power of poetry.

Omnibus of five parts abridged by Julian Wilkinson.

Read by:

Lemn Sissay
Shaun Mason
Susan Jameson
Nahel Tzegai
Sean Baker
Katherine Press

Lemn is an award-winning writer, the author of five poetry collections, and was the official poet for the 2012 Olympics. He was awarded an MBE for services to literature and has worked tirelessly is supporting children in care.

Producer: Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 in September 2019.

1 hour, 10 minutes

Last on

Sun 10 Dec 2023 02:30

Broadcasts

  • Sun 1 Sep 2019 09:00
  • Sun 1 Sep 2019 20:00
  • Sat 9 Dec 2023 07:30
  • Sat 9 Dec 2023 12:30
  • Sat 9 Dec 2023 18:30
  • Sun 10 Dec 2023 02:30