The Tricky Part
by Martin Moran

Name: The Tricky Part
Brand: Martin Moran
SKU: 9780822220367
Rating: 4.06 (371 reviews)

The Tricky Part Book Cover — The Tricky Part Cover

Highlights

Small Cast

Male

45 minsBare Stage/Simple SetAmerican Comedy

What readers are saying

Readers appreciate the profound honesty and emotional depth of this memoir, which explores the complexities of childhood sexual abuse and the aftermath experienced by the author. Many find it a difficult but essential read, balancing themes of pain and healing. The compelling writing resonates with those who have faced similar struggles, making it both relatable and insightful.

Emotionally resonant storytellingBeautifully written and honestPowerful exploration of forgivenessSome find it difficult to read

Synopsis

At the age of 12 Martin Moran was involved in a sexual relationship with an older man, a counsellor from a Catholic boy's camp.

Thirty years later, he set out to find and confront his abuser

The Tricky Part is the story of the man Martin Moran became, and the ambiguous relationship with his abuser that would mark his life.

Growing up in an ordinary family, a family that belonged to Christ the King, the local church and school, Martin Moran absorbed the lessons of Catholicism in his childhood, the fraught mysteries of the spirit and the flesh

Into Martin's world came Bob, a veteran of the Vietnam War who was building a ranch out of the mountain wilderness.

Bob taught the boys under his care how to milk cows, raft rivers and mend barbed wire fences.

However, he also noticed Martin, a young boy who was unsure of himself and befriended him.

The friendship, and the sexual abuse, lasted for three years

The abuse, and the relationship, shaped and scarred Martin.

Told with startling honesty, humour and understanding The Tricky Part is the story of a complex friendship, a relationship that damaged but also inspired the transformation of Martin Moran's life.

Press Reviews

"Winner of a 2004 Special Citation from the Obie Awards. “A translucent memoir of a play…shattering.” —The New York Times. “Powerful.” —New York Post. “Surprising and moving! Startling, marvelously told.” —Newsday (NY). “Deeply personal and exceedingly honest. It steadily builds from its unassuming beginning to an emotionally charged ending. A powerful, truthful account.” —Broadway.com. “An emotionally honest play about sexuality and reconciliation.” —Associated Press. “THE TRICKY PART is the most powerful play of the season."
— Next Magazine