Without Child

Challenging the Stigma of Childlessness

Author: Laurie Lisle
ISBN: 9780345373274

Without Child brings scope and depth to a subject that has long been misunderstood. Weaving rich materials from history, literature, religion, and sociology with Laurie Lisle's own and other personal stories, this groundbreaking book does what no other has done before--presents childlessness in a multifaceted and positive light.Most women grow up thinking they will become mothers. And many do follow that path. But for those women who are willingly or unwillingly without children, childlessness is a way of life that many of them must constantly defend. Without Child explores the facts and fallacies behind childlessness, what it means for women and society, and reminds us of how women can and do embrace this choice.Lisle contends that childless women are part of an ancient and respectable cultural tradition that includes Biblical matriarchs, celibate saints, and nineteenth century social reformers. However, like other aspects of women's history, this tradition has been forgotten and, in

Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publish Date: 1996

Subjects: Social Science / Sociology / Marriage & Family, Social Science / Women's Studies

This book is available in the following Community Centers: Women's Center (Location: Child-Free)