She works by the light of kerosene lamps, without fetal monitoring systems, X rays, surgeons, or anesthesiologists. The nearest phone is several fields away. From the moment her own phone rings until she delivers the newborn into its mother's arms, each birth is different, and each is thrilling. To share the excitement of birth among the gentle, Old-Order Amish of Lancaster Count, Pennsylvania, is to experience a special thrill, a timeless grace. It is also to gain a new awareness of the quality of the birth experience, the difference between natural births at home and impersonal hospital deliveries. Funny and wise, with intervals of nerve-wracking tension, A Midwife's Story is unique, a revelation of a very special place and an extraordinary life.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Touching story:
I'm an older guy, and I don't remember why I first read this story about 15 years ago, but I have read it every few years since, and I can never get through it without tears towards the end. It is a lovely and very touching inside view of a young woman's personal Odyssey through the rigors and perils of learning her art in Scotland to practicing it among the community of Amish in Pennsylvannia. I was at my wife's side when our two sons were born, perhaps that is why her story always touches me so. Penny's... more info
As a midwife who did home births, I can tell you this is all true:
Armstrong's and Feldman's book is outstanding. I would reccomend it to anyone thinking of having a baby. Listening to the stories about home birth in the Amish community will increase a woman's sense of confidence about her own body and give her faith in the natural process of birth. This is a classic. Every mother should own it.
Delightful!!!:
I am a self proclaimed doula and accidental midwife. This book spoke to my heart what I know to be true about birth but had no words for. The journey that Penny went through finally ending at a healthy respect for life and death...it was just beautiful. I enjoyed the stories of the Amish people and their ways and am challenged to look at the way I live. Excellent!
Great Read!:
This is a great book that enters the world of both midwifery and the Amish. Actually, it's more about the Amish than midwifery so if you are looking for a book that is soley about birthing babies, than I would consider Baby Catcher or something similar.
Really enjoyed this book.
