Finally, a comprehensive, entertaining history of childbirth: Birth: The Surprising History of How We are Born. Tina Cassidy has BOLDly written a powerful book that offers readers historical knowledge about birth that most people don't know.

Cassidy's personal bad birth experience prompted her to seek some concrete facts about childbirth (bad birth experiences often do). Before she jumps in there, though, she wonders why despite great scientific advances in the world, "We can't figure out how to give birth in a way that is – simultaneously and consistently – safe, minimally painful, joyful, and close to nature's design."

If you want to know what to expect when you give birth then read this book. Cassidy points out how ironic it is that hiring a midwife makes so much sense as they can provide excellent care for less money than doctors, "yet although more women may be realizing this, the vast majority of us still do the same things at the first twinge of labor. Call the OB. Lumber to the car. Drive the practiced route – straight to the hospital." Go figure.

I so loved this book for offering information about interesting childbirth figures throughout history like Fernand Lamaze (find out who he was and how the Lamaze method began!) and Virginia Apgar (Yes! The woman physician who apgar scores are named after!). You'll find even more lively accounts of other fascinating childbirth figures in this book that you won't want to put it down.

Juicy tidbits are sprinkled throughout Cassidy's book. Every mother needs to read the "Labor Positions" section towards the end. Just read the first sentence and it will give you pause for how you want to deliver your baby.

Come read this book with us! Like every month at the end of the month we chat with the author on the phone. Cassidy's "Birth" is a BOLD book you won't want to miss!

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