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steviestyx's review against another edition
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
3.75
Although I didn’t “love” reading this book I would consider it essential reading for everyone, regardless of whether they have children, plan to have children, or wish to remain childless.
This is not a typical non-fiction read, it is a qualitative study. So, yes, it is going to feel “academic”. The study design was robust and as with any study the limitations were clearly and comprehensively outlined in the beginning. I appreciate how objectively the author presented the information and avoided bias, which is expected of a study and is not necessarily required of nonfiction writing. It was interesting to learn about social expectations in Israel for both religious and secular women, and I appreciate that the author included a section of the book to summarize current literature on queer motherhood to make up for the absence of queer participants. I would love to see this study replicated in different cultures and demographics.
I plan to remain childless and it was very validating to hear that many others have had the same thoughts - that many do not regret their children but regret what is required to be a mother.
This is not a typical non-fiction read, it is a qualitative study. So, yes, it is going to feel “academic”. The study design was robust and as with any study the limitations were clearly and comprehensively outlined in the beginning. I appreciate how objectively the author presented the information and avoided bias, which is expected of a study and is not necessarily required of nonfiction writing. It was interesting to learn about social expectations in Israel for both religious and secular women, and I appreciate that the author included a section of the book to summarize current literature on queer motherhood to make up for the absence of queer participants. I would love to see this study replicated in different cultures and demographics.
I plan to remain childless and it was very validating to hear that many others have had the same thoughts - that many do not regret their children but regret what is required to be a mother.
dddorka's review against another edition
3.0
As you can see from my reading date, it took me a long time to finish this book. The concept is great, and the first few chapters got me so excited and overwhelmed by the subject that I had to wait until I could start reading again. Although the interview style supported the rawness and complexity of the subject, it detracted from the reading experience for me.
I would definitely like to read more about this topic, and since it is a unique and honest trailblazer in the field, I'm glad I came across this book, but I will keep my eyes open for a more traditional, more evidence-based, and comprehensive non-fiction book.
I would definitely like to read more about this topic, and since it is a unique and honest trailblazer in the field, I'm glad I came across this book, but I will keep my eyes open for a more traditional, more evidence-based, and comprehensive non-fiction book.
callegra's review against another edition
5.0
It has confirmed what lay like a question mark of possibilities buried in my subconscious.
Regretting motherhood is not only possible but a reality for many mums in this world. It gives voice to women that look at their child smile and can’t forget about the hardships motherhood takes. Women who, given the choice, would choose otherwise.
It expands our conversation about motherhood not only in de-idealizing it but also in questioning the assumption that motherhood (if done right) almost always leads to more happiness (at least in the long run).
Regretting motherhood is not only possible but a reality for many mums in this world. It gives voice to women that look at their child smile and can’t forget about the hardships motherhood takes. Women who, given the choice, would choose otherwise.
It expands our conversation about motherhood not only in de-idealizing it but also in questioning the assumption that motherhood (if done right) almost always leads to more happiness (at least in the long run).
ashvaughn's review against another edition
5.0
I’m so glad studies and books like this exist. As a mother who loves her child but doesn’t always love motherhood, I appreciated the raw honesty the mothers in this study shared and the author for giving them space and a voice.