But I Don't Want To Go To Cairo

Riveting memoir about discovery around the globe.

Book Cover

About "But I Don't Want To Go To Cairo"

Lynn Wilson's memoir, "But I Don't Want to Go To Cairo", is an extraordinary journey through life's unexpected turns and global adventures. From the moment she uttered those fateful words during an evacuation from Cyprus, her life became a tapestry woven with experiences across Jamaica, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Haiti, and Malaysia.

This book is more than just a travelogue; it's a deeply personal account of a family navigating cultural shocks, raising children in diverse environments, and finding home in the most unconventional places. Through kodachrome photos and poignant letters to her parents, Lynn shares the raw emotions, profound joys of an expatriate life.

Discover a story of resilience, adaptability, and the unbreakable bonds of family amidst a backdrop of ever-changing landscapes and political climates. This memoir offers a unique glimpse into a life lived boldly, challenging the notion of a 'normal' existence and embracing the richness of the world.

Table of Contents

Chapters & Locations

  • Introduction
  • Jamaica 1966
  • Saudi Arabia 1968
  • Cyprus 1972
  • Haiti 1975
  • Malaysia 1978
  • Epilogue

Excerpts from the Book

"I hit the roof, scream 'do you want me to chew it for you?' No, he doesn't understand English so he fixes the hole in the float with chewing gum, mine. So never, never complain about Canadian plumbers. This whole house is held together with spit, chewing gum and electrical tape, all mine."

"People came and carted away every single case of beer, damaged or undamaged and the cops were standing there watching. Earle was so busy taking pictures that he didn't get any beer."

"Dan greeted him with 'Hi Bert'! and then wanted to know why he didn't have more hair on top (loudly)."

"Danny looked at me and whispered (in a loud voice) 'Is that God, Mom?' Ken was quite flattered and the story is all over town."

What Readers Are Saying

"Lynn Wilson's memoir is a delightful and honest account of a life lived less ordinary. Her witty observations and heartwarming family moments truly bring the world to life. A must-read for anyone with an adventurous spirit!"

- Google Gemini AI

"You aren’t going to believe that this is what our life was like."

- John Wilson (son of the author)

"Lynn I know you’ve got a book in you."

- Marilyn Gilson (deceased childhood friend)

"You should write a book about your adventures."

- friends and family

About the Author

Author Photo

Lynn Wilson is a seasoned traveler, educator, and storyteller whose life has spanned continents and cultures. Born in Canada, her early life took an unexpected turn into global adventures with her husband, Ian, a civil engineer.

Her memoir, "But I Don't Want to Go To Cairo," is a compilation of letters written to her parents over decades, offering an intimate glimpse into the challenges and joys of raising a family while living in diverse countries such as Jamaica, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Haiti, and Malaysia.

Lynn's experiences range from navigating evacuations and political unrest to embracing local customs, building communities, and finding humor in everyday life. Her unique perspective, sharp wit, and deep emotional honesty make her story relatable and inspiring.

With a BA from the University of Toronto, Masters degree in TESL from The American University in Cairo, Lynn also dedicated years to teaching English as a Second Language, further immersing herself in the global tapestry of her life.

She currently resides in Toronto, Ontario, and continues to share her remarkable stories.

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