the birth house

by Ami McKay

 

This is one of the most beautifully written books I have read in a long time. The story takes place in an isolated village in Nova Scotia.

 The writing is such that you feel that you are there, and that you can see the fields, the water, the boats. You can smell the sea, the lavender and feel the air on your skin.

 It is a story of a family, a village and of women. It is about woman gaining the right to make decisions about their own bodies, and how and where to birth their babies, among other things.

 Not least, this is a story of Dora Rare, the only daughter born into a family that had birthed only sons for generations. It is about her journey into womanhood and beyond, into wisdom  She was accompanied on her journey by first her mother and brothers, then as an apprentice to a midwife, Miss Babineau.  She then became a wife, and a midwife herself. And importantly, a friend to and a part of a circle of women who take care of their own. 

 There are instances of faith, mysiticism and medicine. There  is sadness, bitterness and joy.  It is a story of a poor village that is filled with riches and richness.

 Buy this book! Read this book! Then read it again, before you hand it over to your best friend, or your daughter. ( In case they are not the same person. ) When you get back you will want to read it again.

http://www.thebirthhouse.com/ 

 

In case I have not made it obvious here, this book has taken its place as one of my top five favorites. Mabe top two....