Mr Norris Changes Trains

Set against the backdrop of 1930s Berlin during the rise of the Nazi regime, Mr. Norris Changes Trains is a vivid and captivating tale of intrigue, eccentricity, and political tension. The novel introduces us to William Bradshaw, a young Englishman who becomes acquainted with the enigmatic and flamboyant Arthur Norris, a man of peculiar charm, questionable morals, and a mysterious past. Through Bradshaw’s eyes, readers navigate a Berlin teetering on the edge of chaos, meeting a cast of unconventional characters while unraveling Norris’s secretive and dangerous associations.

With his trademark wit and understated prose, Isherwood captures the fragility of human relationships and the shadow of impending historical catastrophe. The novel masterfully blends humor, melancholy, and social observation, creating a poignant portrait of a world on the brink of transformation.

Why Read This Book?

• Provides a fascinating glimpse into pre-WWII Berlin, portraying its vibrant yet volatile social and political atmosphere.
• Features Christopher Isherwood’s sharp characterizations and compelling narrative voice.
• A story that combines humor, drama, and suspense while exploring themes of identity, morality, and political upheaval.
• A classic of LGBTQ+ literature, reflecting Isherwood’s nuanced exploration of relationships and human connections.

About the Author

Christopher Isherwood (1904–1986) was a British-American novelist, playwright, and screenwriter renowned for his evocative portrayals of pre-war Berlin and his contributions to modern literature. His works, including Goodbye to Berlinand Mr. Norris Changes Trains, form the basis of The Berlin Stories, which inspired the iconic musical Cabaret.

Openly gay in a time when it was socially and legally perilous, Isherwood infused his works with themes of identity, self-discovery, and defiance against societal norms. His writing is celebrated for its clarity, wit, and deep empathy for outsiders and misfits, qualities that resonate profoundly with readers to this day.