Beatriz K. (irishbeda) - reviewed on 10/1/2012 + 15 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I really enjoyed this book, as it gave me a glimpse into the way things were for women in a patriarchal society. I loved the "old" wisdom from Marie B. and thought the historical facts woven in throughout the story to be very interesting- the Halifax explosion, and the commonplace diagnosis of hysteria for any "female" issues...Dora Rare was a rare woman indeed, I'm sure the pun was intended! There are many benefits to midwives, as there are benefits to modern birth centers, but IMHO it usually depends on the situation and what people are comfortable with. At this time in history, the doctor is made out to be the 'evil' one bringing about unwanted change, versus the female domain of baby-catching in order to gain sympathy for Dora and Marie B. I loved the old wives' tales and the witchy parts described in the book, they were some things in there that my own grandmother (from New Orleans) used to teach me when I was young!

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