Women's Health Books

I bought this book as I want to learn to become a midwife. In the meantime it also has been of another use as I am pregnant again. It is wonderful to read it and learn from. Super book.

I suppose you might call me biased because I not only love this book, but have the honor of working with Constance as a labor nurse on the unit where she is a midwife. This book is just fantastic, filled with important information on all topics from A to Z. If you are a nurse who works in OB or are a midwife, I can't speak anough of this book.

A Midwife's Handbook is an excellent resource for those who are students and for those who are practicing midwives. Succinct and in a handy format, this book is a must for all midwives and aspiring midwives!

As an L&D nurse, I appreciate the information in this book. Excellently written, chock full of usefull information .

I initially bought this book during my midwifery training. It covers almost everything you would need to know to care for your patients from puberty to menopause. Constance also includes alternative therapies which are very helpful. It's very user friendly and was a great resource and review when studying for my midwifery certification exam. Because I carry it with me most of the time, I accidentally misplaced it. I had no second thoughts when reordering it!!! It's a "must have"!!!

"I've known Sue Frederick for almost 10 years and only she could write such a caring, tender book straight from the heart. Sue waited 42 years to have her first child and the love and compassion she holds for her daughter is apparent on every page of this guide. If you truly want to nurture your child using natural approaches that highlight good nutrition and gentle remedies, this book is for you."

Gloria Bucco, Principal, Healthy Ink

As a mother of a five year old, I can't tell you how delighted I am at finding this book. I wish I'd had it five years ago. This book is a must for any mother who wants to raise a healthy child, physically and emotionally.

This book covers a wide range of issues, from breast feeding to nutritional supplements; from herbal and homeopathic remedies to Chinese medicine. In chapter 6, "A Stay-Healthy Plan for the Cold and Flu Season," I found a great list to post on the refrigerator. Ms. Frederick uses a simple and direct writing style to explain everything in an understandable way. It is an ideal handbook for mothers on the run and pressed for time. This book will also make a great gift for a new mother.

This book offers so many insites into raising a healthy and happy child and specifics about what to do to keep your child healthy or get them healthy again if they've gotten sick - and without drugs and chemicals. Like most mothers I do not want to give my daughter unnecessary drugs, but I also hate to see her sick or uncomfortable. These natural remedies WORK and I feel good about using them. It is so great to have someone really help you when you have that horrible feeling of not knowing how to best help your child. This book is like having a trustworthy healer right in your home. Thanks Sue Frederick for your help.

I met the author at her booksigning. Although, I don't have children, I believed in her message and intended to give this book to my sister-in-law. It was so good, I kept it for myself. The sections on supplements, homeopathy, and flower essences are so informative and easy to read. Anybody could apply this information to improve their health. I will buy more books to give to friends who have children. This book should be in every parent's library.

Sue Frederick has written about natural products for years. When her daughter was born, she consulted experts about the best ways to keep her healthy. She shares all that's she learned in A Mother's Guide to Raising Healthy Children--Naturally. She focuses on preventing disease and emphasizes that, while antibiotics can sometimes be very useful, they are not the solution for most childhood ailments. Frederick says that "natural medicine does hold the answers we're looking for."

She begins with breast feeding and the benefits it offers to children's immune systems. She then moves to a discussion of nutrition in general, saying that "the food you feed your child creates the foundation for her future health." Frederick warns strongly against giving children fruit juice, citing the effect all the sugar in it has on juvenile immune systems.

She devotes a chapter to the issue of childhood immunizations, describing each one and emphasizing that parents have the right to choose whether or not to have their children immunized.

Frederick also discusses nurturing, saying that "if your child feels truly loved and knows that you'll always be there for her, that inner peace and sense of security will help strengthen her immunity and ability to fight off illnesses." She includes commentary from a variety of experts, explaining how they've helped their children develop spiritually.

One section of the book is devoted to specific natural remedies for common childhood illness, such as colds, fever, colic, earaches, etc. Frederick then includes a complete discussion of the use of herbs, homeopathy, flower essences, Chinese medicine, and nutritional supplements, all with age-appropriate dosages.

She finishes with a "Child's Materia Medica," which explains how to use various natural remedies, and suggestions for a home health care kit, enabling parents to have everything needed on hand.

Jay Gordon, M.D. writes in the foreword: "Sue Frederick's book has helped me--and would help every doctor, health-care practitioner, and parent--remember one crucial fact: A child's body will heal itself naturally if we stay out of the way and use gentle remedies, wisdom, and guidance." Readers will find that A Mother's Guide to Raising Healthy Children--Naturally provides all the information they need to keep their children healthy and happy.

Ms. Paris offers tremendous depth and insight into to the miraculous world of pregnancy by delving into the dreamworld of parents and their yet-unborn children. The book is a joy to read, and its message comes through with grace and reverence for the beauty of Life. I wish this book had been available when I was pregnant with my son (who is now thirteen) because I would have been able to decipher some of the nightmares I had just before he was born. I wouldn't have been so scared of motherhood. I always joke to my friends how I wished God would have made a how-to manual that comes out with the baby . The Mother-To-Be Dream Book is the closest thing to understanding the unbreakable psychic bond between parents and their children and bringing into the light the unconscious in family dynamics. I recommend this book to everyone, even if you're not pregnant. It is a reminder of the oneness of all of Life, of how inter-connected we are ...And to those of you who so generously shared your most intimate dreams with Ms. Paris, thank you for your candor. This book is truly a gift to the world. Like a meditation. I felt safe and nurtured by the last page.

As I opened this book, I wondered whether I would be disappointed by yet another author who pushes aside the possibility of pre-birth communication. I have read books on the dreams of pregnancy that speak of symbols, wish fulfillment, and the mind's tendency to sift through possible outcomes. It takes courage to assert that some dreams may be genuine communications from the soul of the unborn child. Raina M. Paris has that courage. This is a wonderfully satisfying book, written with the touch of a poet and full of common sense. There are rich chapters devoted to both the mother's and father's experiences, exercises to increase dream awareness, and an insightful glossary of common dream symbols as they pertain to pregnancy. One of the most delightful aspects of Paris's style is the way she accepts premonitory dreams as entirely natural events, "mysteriously ordinary, like life." This is the approach I prefer in dealing with all channels of pre-birth communication.

As pregnant women and mothers, we are force fed consumerism as we give birth to the newest generation of the American consumer--we must stop and tune into our souls, our children's future and our own hearts. Ms. Paris' book provides this much needed stop sign in a busy world. Motherhood needs to be acknowledged for the spiritual transformation that it is, and not as the ultimate ride down the birth canal into a material world. Ms. Paris' book offers insights and fresh perspective into the dream world that we cross into when we become mothers. It is soul food in a material world. Forego the "What booties to buy" book and buy this book instead. It will change your dreams, your future and your child's entry into its conscious dream--LIFE. Also a wonderful chapter on men and fathers to be--who are equally as important at every stage of a child's life.

This is a warm and wise book, lovingly written, on the myriad and wonderful ways that soul moves in the lives of those chosen to give birth. It offers sure and steady counsel for the unfolding of an inner process which might otherwise seem bewildering and overwhelming. Ms.Paris writes straight from the heart, with a sure knowledge of her subject. A must for all prospective mothers-to-be, and for their mates as well.

What I first noticed about this book was the intriguing title...intriguing to me as a father of two young ones. My original expectations when I opened it did not live up to the very reality of the book itself. I guess I'm cynical because so many books dealing in the arena of psychology, and especially dream analysis, seem to be either arcane and unreadable for the layman like me, or annoyingly trendy and superficial psychobabble. THIS BOOK HAS NONE OF THOSE SHORTCOMINGS!

What Ms. Paris has written here is a thoughtful, sensitive, profoundly insightful book about the confounding and sublime experience presented by a woman's inner consciousness as new life grows, and she prepares to meet the new physical, emotional, and psychological challenges of birth and parenthood.

I wish my wife and I could have read it during both of her pregnancies. We each tackled sometimes funny, sometimes scary dreams we could make no sense of in terms of the impending events. It was a wild ride, often surreal and hilarious, occasionally unsettling. We didn't have a clue.

Had I read this, I think I could have been a more effective support to my partner in some of those times. Paris' intelligent presentation and analysis give meaning and context to the dreams themselves; and her gentle, authoritative suggestions of ways to prepare for and to respond to the dreams could be a blessing for any parent-to-be.

We've loved reading it, even some years after the fact of those births. With humor and insight, she's given us new and worthwhile understanding of our own path to getting here as parents. In clear, well-written, accesible language, it makes the journey to joy even more of a celebration. We're sending it to all our new or about-to-be-parent friends.

I was initially drawn to this book due to the title, "My Private Life", having somewhat of a private life Myself with balancing My time between being a professional manager and an occasional Domme. We learn a little about Mistress Nan, learning that She is a wife, a mother, a professional Woman, and has live in Female and male slaves. That's about it though. I really wish she would have showed us more of a glimpse into the private inner workings of her life, regarding Her relationship with Her husband, etc.

Having said all that, I did enjoy the book. Although I am a straight Woman Myself, the scenes that She described with Her female submissives were interesting. I am typically not a fan of the "overly sexual" bdsm scenes that seem so fake and nauseating. This book described more the power exchange within each scene and was not overly sexual.

The book has many frequent spanking scenes, between Mistress Nan and both male and female submissives.

One interesting thing about the book as well is the use of a slave memoir within the text, with one chapter being a summary from one of Her slaves.

I feel that the book seemed realistic, especially the multiple chapters of the different characters.

I recommend the book, especially for those into lesbian scenes, bondage, whips, spanking and caning.

First let me say that I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Nan is not the stereotyped femdom you might be thinking of though she can clearly dress up and put on a well-scripted and eleborate scene. The descriptions are not pornographic though they are careful to mention both physical and emotional aspects of the scenes. There are both male and female submissives and bottoms discussed throughout the book, the most extreme scene involve Nana and her primary female lover (she also has a husband). It should stimulate your mind and your groin so be prepared. I would have been better if Nan had gotten more personal -- why she does it, what it feels like to her, how she has changed over time -- as the title suggests.

This is the first book I've ever read that I feel is real. This woman has experienced what she has written about. It is NOT fantasy. She has honed her skills to a point that she is an expert at the exchange of power that is paramount to a BDSM scene. This book isn't all about pain or bondage. This book isn't all about fantasies. This book is about power, control and sensuality. You hear about her feelings while she is doing what she is doing. You hear about what her bottoms are feeling. You learn how she gets into their heads and hearts. I'm amazed at the candor with which she writes. This woman is obviously gifted with an amazing power, and is amazingly generous in sharing it with the public.

This book is a great peak in to some aspects of the BDSM world of one Mistress. It shows her journey in a way that most books miss. I trully enjoyed it on several levels.

I received this book for a birthday gift and I was pleasantly suprised. Mistress Nan is real and very honest with every scene and in her own desires as well. I don't want to spoil the book, however every scene she describes you can "feel" some of the pain and humiliation that her slaves endure...espically Alex. There are 8 chapters dedicated to her, describing their various scenes/relationship and how Mistress Nan is on her own personal conquest to "break" her.

CHOOSING HEALTH & WELLNESS is third in a series from the creators of [...] a forum for black women, and is a highly recommended pick for any black woman seeking health. Why do black women need a race-specific health guide? Because many conditions are common to black women and a risk for the group as a whole - and most can be solved by preventative or self-help techniques as simple as walking daily. From common skin conditions to handling new challenges at every age, CHOOSING HEALTH AND WELLNESS is an outstanding health guide every black woman should have at hand.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

If you're a self-respecting sista who has at least a remote interest in your health and wellness, then you owe it to yourself to run out and pick up a copy of the latest installment in the NIA Guides, CHOOSING HEALTH AND WELLNESS. This book can be described as small but mighty. Small in that it is not a huge medical encyclopedia; it is just the right size and leaves no stone unturned in its easy discourses on the health challenges faced by African American women.

This is a collaborative effort between Sheryl Huggins and Cheryl Mayberry-McKissack. These ladies share facts and figures from credible health resources as well as share their own personal situations. Topics in this book are vast, ranging from insight on diabetes to insomnia to depression to weight loss.

As I reviewed my own personal health situation, I found this book to be right on time! The information is conveyed in an easy, sister-friend manner that provided encouragement and insight to me as I embrace a healthier lifestyle. If you find yourself at a similar crossroads, I encourage you to pick up a copy.

Reviewed by Nedine
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers

Do you feel that there is not enough time in the day? Do you feel that everybody wants something from you continually? Do you constantly care for others and not yourself? Do you sometimes put work in front of your needs and your family's needs? Is your job becoming a source of frustration? Do you feel sometimes as if your life is spinning out of control and you are powerless to do anything about it? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, then "doing it all is doing you in." But, don't worry, help is on the way. This is a condition that is addressed in Sheryl Huggins and Cheryl Mayberry McKissack's latest literary offering, THE NIA GUIDE FOR BLACK WOMEN: Balancing Work and Life.

This Nia Guide focuses on balancing work and home to provide a more productive and harmonious life. The opening line, "Show me a superwoman, and we'll show you a human being who's cranky, exhausted, and mentally and physically drained," really serves as an eye-opener and sets the tone for the entire book. How many of us have not been that way at one time or another as we've tried to juggle the requirements of work, the needs of family and, somewhere among those two, our own personal needs as women? This book really delves into showing us how to shed the superwoman cape, turn our passion into profit, and how and where to find the resources.

Huggins and McKissack have collaborated and put together a very unique and invaluable tool that addresses issues that African American women have faced in the home and the workplace for years. They have pulled together their combined wisdom and that of other professional women along with the results from a survey conducted in 2004 to give sage advice on the following topics: Ending the Superwoman Syndrome, Gaining Sanity and Support, Finding Your Focus and Following Your Passion, Building Your Dreams, Inc., and Reinventing Yourself. A resource guide is provided at the end of the book for readers to use at will. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and being on the receiving end of so much experience and resources. I found the book to be very timely and helpful to me as a single mother trying to balance a career and holding the family together. If you're an African American woman doing the juggling act right now, this handbook is for you.

Reviewed by Brenda M. Lisbon
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers

Want to start a business? Stressed out? Where can you turn for guidance, or hear others tell you that you're not alone? The editors of NiaOnline have done an excellent job in the second installment of their self-help series. Using interviews and a panel discussion of women who have filled many shoes at one time as a base, this guide is designed to help women learn tips and tricks to juggle their responsibilities. It's also formulated to show you how to do these things and enjoy yourself at the same time.
 
There are topics in this book for everyone. From relinquishing the `superwoman' syndrome, to making your passion profitable, you're sure to find a topic that peaks your interest. Keeping everything simple with no hassles, McKissack and Huggins use panelists and contributors who have actually been through the process in which they give advice.
 
BALANCING WORK AND LIFE is very informative and a quick read. One of the highlights in the book is the resource guide found at the end, which contains valuable contact information to assist you. I've read the first, and now the second. I give these two ladies a thumbs-up. This  series that is sorely needed for women today.  
Reviewed by T. Belinda Williams for Loose Leaves Book Review

Developed by the editors and contributors to NiaOnline.com, The Nia Guide for Black Women: Balancing Work and Life is the second in a series of empowerment guides for black women. It is filled with practical advice for balancing work and personal life through tips, suggestions and person stories form successful black women such as actress Phylicia Rashad, songstress Brandy, entrepreneur Lisa Price, and Executive VP Janice Cook Roberts.

A lot of the advice featured is very practical and basic; in fact, most readers might recognize the premise behind the examples as those they have seen presented before in other forums (books, magazines, online, etc.). However, I think the authors were successful in supplementing their messages with information that specifically targets black women. For example, I found the most unique aspects about the guide was the personal statements from the Nia summit session transcripts on differing topics such as "Financing Your Dreams" and "Don't Quit Your Day Job....Yet." The other chapters were interesting as well - they focused on demystifying the "Superwoman/Strong Black Woman" cultural image, reducing stress at work and home, soliciting a support system from family and friends, and turning your true career passion into profit. There was a wonderful consolidated resource guide in the back that offers assistance in the areas of personal organization, career coaching, time-saving resources, stress reduction services, counseling and family support, business start-up services, and job search resources.

One may not need to heed all the suggestions at once, but having this book on your shelf for quick and easy access to a great reference guide would be a smart move.

Reviewed by Phyllis
APOOO BookClub
The Nubian Circle Book Club

Reviewed by Kelli Glesige for Reader Views

As the title tells us, "No Love Lost" is a practical and spiritual guide for women who never want to know the agony of lost love. Although small at only 32 pages, "No Love Lost" is well worth picking up and reading. It is broken into an introduction and conclusion, plus seven chapters, each offering a new principle on how to avoid lost love.

Kimberly Clark points out that one need not be a beauty queen to apply the principles she presents in her book. The guidelines presented do make a few assumptions though-both parties are at least somewhat interested in pursuing a romantic relationship, and also, the men we are dealing with are assumed to be reasonably sane and well-adjusted men. If your man does not fit these criteria, Kimberly tells you to run as fast as you can away from this type and to NEVER look back.

In each chapter, Kimberly tells us what NOT to do, what we SHOULD do, and what we NEED to know. She ends each chapter with a Bible verse offering support for her ideas presented. The handbook is grounded in the word of GOD, which I find very appealing.

"No Love Lost" is written for women who want to understand the male-female relationship. I believe the information would be helpful to all married women and any female dating or in any relationship with a male. The book is written for those weary of experiencing breakups and for those wondering why some women seem to have all the luck with men and relationships as opposed to others who always seem to experience agony and loss. Explaining the differences is Kimberly Clark's goal. Even if you get along fine with your man, you may learn something to improve upon what you have. Clark's handbook is very practical, but it is also spiritual and sensible. I found myself thinking, "Of course it's true, I just never thought about it." The basis for her principles is supported in the word of GOD-the Bible, but Non-Christians can readily apply the beliefs.

A principle I found memorable was that Clark says we must concentrate on letting our man know exactly what we expect from him and how we want to be treated. She says woman should be cherished as the gift from GOD that she truly is. Women are the gift. "And what is more, man was not created for the sake of the woman, but woman for the sake of the man." (1 Corinthians 11:9 NWT) The verse commands women to respect and be in subjection to their husbands. In return, a husband should love his wife, and a wife should respect her husband.

I found "No Love Lost" to be very informative and beneficial. Clark explains that emotionally, men are without a doubt the weaker sex, and therefore, this is why as females, we should not cry over everything. She also tells us why we will fail if we yell. Well-adjusted men view anything of an emotional nature as sneaky and underhanded, and they hate to lose at anything. Clark shares her belief that the single worst personality trait a woman, hoping to avoid lost love, could ever have is low self-esteem. Men need our strength and security, as it provides them with encouragement. I can recommend "No Love Lost" without a doubt.

Though this book includes scripture passages, it's just as useful to non-Christians. It's practical, but encouraging, in that it describes what should be done in a relationship along with examples of what shouldn't be done. Mrs. Clark's conversational, personal writing style and sense of humor, as well as her openness to share her own experience, make this book a joy to read.

This book was great for couples, if you are in a relationship this book is a must have. I really love the way it incorporated the Bible and everyday life, I love it.

An inspiring, motivational guide for the "millineum woman" in understanding and conquering the trials and triumphs of a Christian heterosexual love relationship.

this is a very insightful and inspirational guide to a happier life.

When I started going though menopause I thought I better read up on the subject so I will know what is happening to my body. I bought this book for my husband and read it also. This book is written by a man for men. I learned more from this book than any other menopause book I read. He explained thing in a non medical way that was so easy to understand. I have shared this book with many women I work with and they have love it too!!

My fiance has entered into 'instant menopause' to use her terminology, after a hysterectomy. We wrestled with HRT and its risks, but neither of us knew what to expect on the personal relationship side. Dick Roth's book clarified this whole situation for us instantly! We have actually turned her physical discomforts and the annoying everyday 'stuff' into a new form of entertainment. This is a Must Read! It takes only a few hours and will transform a potential disaster into a real benefit for you and your lady.

This is not a heavy, scholarly work of medicine or psychology...I read it in a couple of quick evenings. Roth explains what goes on during menopause, but does an even better job sketching out the large unknown areas surrounding this poorly understood transition. He describes a variety of "treatments" available to menopausal women but makes a strong case that, since menopause is a natural (and possibly valuable) process, it isn't an illness that requires treatment in most cases. He puts most of his energy into suggesting ways for husbands to understand and help their wives during this transition...all simple common sense, but clear and welcome just the same. Thank you, Dick Roth.

cats and dogs, mars and venus, you name it, if its the antithesis of one another, i feel for you. this book provided some very helpful insite into a.realizing i was not aloneb.i was not really going crazyC.how much i love my wife thanks dick

I'm guessing this is one of those books women buy for their husbands who, of course, will never bother to read it. BUT...I found it very enlightening to get some understanding of how men might react to menopause. For example, in a comment about hot flashes, the author says it's important to realize "she's not doing this on purpose." Whaaa? It never even occurred to me that my hubby might think I was intentionally bringing these symptoms on or could simply wish them away! This one phrase was worth the price of the book, because it put a lot of my husband's insensitive responses into perspective.

Though this might not have been the author's intention (and truly, he seems to have a much higher opinion of men's ability/desire to support their partners during menopause than I do) this book helped me tremendously because I have stopped taking my husband's lack of understanding personally. I can see now that it's very difficult for a man to emphathize with a physical change he will never experience.

But Dick Roth manages to do it, and if your husband DOES read this book, I hope you appreciate how lucky you are.

I have so often experienced some of the feelings, thoughts, and ideas that Nola and her brother Robin Hemley share in this touching book. Robin shows us sides of her that are at turns comical, beautiful, and eventaully tragic. She was a beautiful person who died young, but should not be forgotten. Her memory will live on in this powerful and penetrating biography.

I'm the author of "Fevers of the Mind", a memoir about bipolar disorder. "Nola" is truly an excellent account of the author's sister's struggle with schizophrenia. Nola, the woman, is a complex, almost mystical person who is both extremely talented and unique. The reader is also offered an intimate description of Nola's family and their complex interactions. The writing is first rate- highly detailed, fluid, and pleasing to read. Overall, an excellent book. Probably would be enjoyed by anyone who likes quality nonfiction.

This is simply the best non-fiction piece I have read in many years! In all seriousness, Nola compares with the "classic" non-fiction such as Capote's "Du Sang Froid" and Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Hemley presents his reader with a cacphony of stories and evidence about the life and death of an American icon - the family.

I interviewed Robin Hemley five years ago for a start-up literary magazine. Unfortunately, financial woes prevented the magazine from ever actually starting up. It's too bad the interview was never published b/c his thoughtful responses offer tremendous advice and insights for aspiring writers.

Be sure to check out Nola -- it's an excellent read.

Here's Part I of the interview:

Q: What have you found to be some common weaknesses in the work of young, aspiring writers?

Hemley: All of the weaknesses I�m about to mention are syndromes I suffered from (and sometimes still do), so I have plenty of first-hand knowledge. When I first started writing, I wanted to dress like a writer and hang-out at coffee shops, and make profound statements, but I didn�t care for writing that much. I also tended to wait for inspiration to strike. Now I think that inspiration is much over-rated. I�d prefer to work through the natural frustrations of writing and work towards inspiration rather than waiting for it to knock me over � a rare occurrence. Young writers also tend to be wary of revision, in my experience, but the more I write, the more I value revision. I like to quote Auden�s adage about poetry � �A poem is never finished, merely abandoned.� And of course, sometimes writers want to write but not read. And I think that�s a mistake. No one writes in a vacuum. The techniques of other writers can sometimes be our best teachers. Along those same lines, sometimes writers (young and old) want to publish their work in literary magazines, but don�t want to read them. And it think that�s a mistake, both professionally and culturally. We have a lot of wonderful literary magazines in this country with very low subscription bases.

Q: Conversely, what are some of the strengths shared in the work of today�s young writers?

Hemley: I�ve been noticing a kind of open-mindedness in young writers in terms of form and content that I didn�t notice when I was in grad school fifteen years ago. What was valued when I was in grad school was a kind of hyper-realism, brand name fiction people called it, or K-mart fiction. This seemed to be the province of North American writers, and while Magical Realism was valued, that was something that South American writers wrote. I think those false boundaries have been eroded, and that many young writers are exploring the magical and mysterious. I think we�ve always had North American writers who�ve written as magically as any South American writer, but I think that in our writing classes at least, a certain kind of bland and bloodless psychologically real story was held up as a kind of model � we were taught to be almost ironically detached from our characters. Bobbie Ann Mason comes to mind as the model for this kind of writing, as opposed to someone like Toni Morrison. This might all be in my imagination, but I think there�s a tendency in the better young writers now to acknowledge mystery in fiction.

There�s also been this boom in short short stories over the last ten years. Robert Shapard and James Thomas� collections of short shorts (Sudden Fiction, Sudden Fiction Continued, and Sudden Fiction International) have sort of blazed a trail, as well as the late Jerome Stern�s �World�s Best Short Short Story Contest.� This form sometimes lends itself to absurdity and whimsy, and the young writers I�ve taught have done some of their best work in this form. It teaches them a lot about revision, and the importance of finding the right words. And it allows them to experiment. If a short short doesn�t work, that seems less of a tragedy than a novel not working.

Q: What advice, then, would you give to a group of twentysomethings who all yearned to be successful writers of fiction and poetry?

Hemley: I think my advice is more or less embedded in my previous answers. I feel a little sheepish giving advice, but I can add that the writing life is generally a bit of a struggle. It�s important to try not to give in to self-doubts, which are natural. Even the most successful writers suffer from numbing self-doubt, and one must work past that. On the other hand, one must constantly see oneself as a student, a kind of supplicant to the form, rather than its master. For me at least, I�m learning to write all over again with each new project I undertake. I also try not to give in to petty jealousies or career frustrations � someone else�s success does not undermine your own.

Q: If you had to write a biography, whom would you choose to write about?

Hemley: Actually, in a sense I�ve just completed a biography of my sister Nola, who was 11 years older than me and who died in 1973 of a prescription drug overdose. She was a spiritually-obsessed person, and in my book I tried to rediscover who she was, with the help, in part, of an autobiography she wrote during the last year of her life.

But, if by biography, you mean someone famous, I love reading biographies, but I don�t think I�d be the right person to write a biography. One of my favorite biographies is Ernst Pawell�s biography of Kafka, The Nightmare of Reason. But if I had to write a biography, I suppose I�d choose either More of The 3 Stooges or Houdini (both of whom I�m related to, though Moe only through the marriage of a cousin). But Houdini has had plenty written about him already . . . so I guess I�d have to settle for Moe.

Q: Other than the books you�ve read, who or what have been some of the significant influences on your own writing?

Hemley: My parents were both writers, and they influenced me a great deal. My mother was always having me dictate little poems to her, and I was constantly making little books to sell to my relatives.

This is a continuation of my interview with Robin Hemley.

Q: Among the famous authors of the past few centuries, whom do you consider to be the most boring to read?

Hemley: For me, the hands-down winner is the French author Robbe-Grillet who could write a three-page description of a slice of tomato.

And many literary theorists are quite adept at boring readers in the name of edification. But the list of those would be far too long.

And even the most celebrated authors have written wonderful works as well as boring works. What we find boring changes over time. Shakespeare's epic poem, "Lucretia" comes to mind. In his own day, this was a famous work of his - I had to read it in college, and though I adore many of his plays, this poem was incredibly dry to me.

Q: If you were asked to compile a three-book required reading list for the college students of America, which three books would you select?

Hemley: Ack! I'd probably start with that biography you're forcing me to write.

For me, that's one of those impossible questions. How could one possibly choose? Three books would be much too narrow for me. For that reason, I'd probably choose The Tao of Lao-Tze, The Illiad, and maybe the Old Testament. I'd want them taught in the original language, so the students would have to learn Chinese, Greek, and Aramaic. I might remove one of the latter two in favor of The Larousse Encyclopedia of Mythology, which I used to read as a kid. It has an introduction by Robert Graves and is pretty comprehensive, thought the version I have does not include Judaeo-Christian mythology, and should before I'd want to use it. I know the term "mythology" is out of vogue, but I'd use it as long as all belief systems fell under that category. That might be a substantial education: culturally, historically, spiritually, and in terms of language.

Q: What is the function of your work? Entertainment? Social message? Something else altogether?

Hemley: I'd like my work to be both entertaining as well as working towards discoveries. I'm not a writer who has a message in mind when he writes. Personally, I'm after discoveries, not messages. The highest kind of discoveries, and the most elusive, are spiritual discoveries. And to me, this is what many literatures have their roots in, the Eleusinian mysteries of ancient Greece, or the ontological tales that most cultures share.

Q: What is your greatest work?

Hemley: We end with a trick question. I'd love to have a greatest work, but right now I only have a "goodest work." And right now, my goodest work is, of course, the last book I wrote, which is something I think most writers want to believe. The last work they completed is the best, and the next one will be even better.

I almost didn't pick this book up because of the title. It sounded a bit arrogant to me and I was afraid the inside would be condescending the way that doctors can be. I was very, very wrong! It's an easy read. To the point. Plus, she addresses many of the concerns I had about HRT, herbal remedies and many more. A must read for every woman!

I first checked out this book from the library, along with other books on menopause, and was immediately captivated by it. There were so many things I wanted to highlight, that I decided I had to have a copy of the book for myself. It addresses how to deal with physical and emotional symptoms of menopause, along with tips for general good health. Highly recommended!

I have read hundreds of menopause books - this tops them all! A short, to the point and VERY useful tool. I am going to recommend it to all the folks at my own web site.

Very informative book, covering all aspects of menopause and providing excellent advice for self-management or seeking professional advice. Thank you Michele!

Now in a second edition updated with the latest information on hormone replacement therapy, The Only Menopause Guide You'll Need is a straightforward health guide for women to dealing with this transitional phase of life. Chapters discuss remedies for common symptoms, health concerns such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and cancer risk, recommended diets for improved health and fitness, and much more. Lists of resources, references, a glossary, and an index round out this easy-to-use guide that presents straight facts in layman's terms. Confidently recommended for any woman approaching the Change.

I enjoyed this book immensely. It offered a pretty balanced view on the advantages and disadvantages of medical interventions in child birth. I am almost 5 months pregnant and have been leaning toward getting an epidural, but the information in this book convinced me both that I _can_ do it without one, and that if I end up with one anyway, it is not the end of the world.

By far the most up to date literature available about women's health and childbirth. So many popular texts are out of date and propel inaccurate information. However OBOS uses the latest research to create a useful narrative for women. An example is that latest research indicating the risks/benefits of SSRI's during pregnancy; many old texts inaccurately tell women to discontinue medications while now research illuminates the physiological damage untreated depression can have on the fetus. Great reference book --

Many women view the book Our Bodies, Ourselves as an essential women's health resource and also as a radically transformative influence in their lives. I hope Our Bodies, Ourselves: Pregnancy and Birth will become to pregnant women what the original book has been to women's health and empowerment.

The book is divided into five major sections: The Journey to Parenthood; Your Pregnancy; Giving Birth; Becoming a Mother; and Knowledge is Power. Subsections include an extensive chapter on prenatal testing and other important areas such as childbearing loss, coping with pain, and breastfeeding. A chapter titled "Relationships, Sex, and Emotional Support" was a particularly good one. The book has numerous contributing authors from a variety of backgrounds and organizations. Sprinkled throughout the book are italicized snippets of anonymous birth stories, often paired statements--i.e. an "I loved being pregnant!" segment and an "I hated being pregnant" segment. Then, inset into each chapter in box format, there are more complete stories or profiles that include women's names and photos. Overall, the book has very few pictures and only one series of photos of a woman actually giving birth (and she is in the semi-sitting position).

Our Bodies, Ourselves: Pregnancy and Birth is one of the only basic pregnancy books I've ever read that acknowledges the reality of violence against women during pregnancy and offers resources for seeking help if you are living with a violent mate. This book is also willing to address some unpopular or largely ignored subjects such as depression during pregnancy, HIV, STDS, and sexual abuse.

In the opening section of Chapter One the authors describe the "Climate of Confidence, Climate of Doubt" which becomes a thread running throughout the rest of the book. I love this way of articulating the messages swirling around pregnant women in our society.

The overriding attitude felt through this book is one that is the hallmark of Our Bodies, Ourselves in general--that ultimately, situations involving women's bodies are about each woman and what she wants and needs. The support offered is for HER regardless of the popularity of her choices with either the medical model or with childbirth activists---the woman wins out over anyone else's agenda. This is a truly woman-centered approach.

I had a minor critique of the persistent use of the term "breast-feeding" with a hyphen, which is not correct. In addition, the book's suggestions regarding overall newborn care routines in hospitals were surprisingly conventional and conservative.

Many of the most popular pregnancy books are rooted in medical model, conventional wisdom, and a climate of fear and doubt. This book is rooted in an empowerment oriented, woman centered midwifery model in a climate of confidence and competence. This book is a basic introduction to pregnancy and birth and is primarily directed towards the newly pregnant first time mother. I hope it finds a comfortable home on bookstore shelves next to (or in place of!) books about "what to expect" during pregnancy.
------
An extended version of this review originally appeared in CfM News. Visit the Citizens for Midwifery blog at cfmidwifery.blogspot.com.

This book for pregnant women has all the best features of books written by the authors of Our Bodies, Ourselves. It has in-depth health care information on normal pregnancy and birth as well as problem and hi-risk pregnancies... and it offers loads of how-to's and practical advice, and of course lots of appropriate reassurance. In addition, it takes you from conception thru to post partum. One stop for all women who will become mothers... either the first, second, or more times.

Of all the books on pregnancy I've read, this one has been the most reassuring. As another reviewer mentioned, it's written in the same styles Our Bodies, Ourselves, which remains excellent through its many editions. It's not an especially thick book, and I would have loved to have seen more pictures, and personal excerpts, but everything important was covered, and the writing style was wonderful.

This book addresses itself to older women, teen mothers, single mothers, those with female partners, those living with diseases like HIV and diabetes; in short, all of the groups who got snubbed by most of the other books. It doesn't tell you how much weight the fetus should gain in each month, but that information's easy to find elsewhere. It does focus on making informed decisions about prenatal care, pain management, and maternal/fetal health, without talking down to the reader. Issues where there is normally controversy were handled gently; breastfeeding is encouraged, but formula feeding mothers aren't judged.

It's worth noting that the book does address some topics that may be upsetting, such as choosing to abort a fetus because of genetic testing, and stillbirth. These issues are very relevant, and handled calmly, but some chapters may be best skipped by the hormonal. I was glad to see that problems like depression took precedence over heartburn, and that a huge resources section was provided at the back of the book.

Highly recommended, and will be on my gift list for friends as they have their children. I don't want to give my copy up.