This book is divided up into thirds: birth stories, information for the parent, information for the midwife. This makes this book is fucking cool no matter who you are--someone interested in a very interesting cultural moment, an expectant parent, or someone (like me) who wants to take babies out of ladies for a living.The other incredible thing about this book is that it really lays out to you, technical manual style, everything you would need to know to pinch-hit for a midwife, if not get started in midwifery yourself. Popular books these days don't really trust the public like that anymore (Ina May says "consult your friendly doctor" quite sparingly) and it's refreshing and exciting. ( )

Don't let the hippie language throw you. This book is a fantastic way to prepare yourself for a normal birth. Hundreds or real stories. The only criticism I have is that the book gives you the impression that you will want to be all lovey dovey with your sweetie while in labor, I must say after 3 labors I don't want my husband to touch me at all in labor. Everyone is different. ( )

I *was* a hippie back in the day when Ina May and the Farm supported the alternative of home birth. While the AMA's approach to childbirth precluded any deviation from it's set formula. And while it's true that the language is a little dated, the spirit isn't. I had both my sons at home, while my 4 sisters-in-law (one is still a licensed nurse mid-wife in California) home-birthed their combined 15. ( )

The Language is a little hokey...this book was originally written in the 70's. But if you can get past that, you will find a wonderfully empowering message. Ina Mae Gaskin is a pioneer in the field of modern Midwifery and the insight she shares in this book is invaluable, moving and inspiring. ( )

This is one of the best books I read about childbirth. It was given to me by my sister, who had two healthy children, caught by midwives via natural childbirth.

Ina May Gaskin is a midwife who lives in a farm co-op in Tennessee and, with her fellow midwives, they have birthed over 2,000 babies. 95% of the babies were born at home with no drugs. She has extremely rates of C-sections (less than 5%) and episiotomies.

I was also impressed by this book because it talks about pregnancy and childbirth not as a medical condition, but as a natural process, and more importantly, as a spiritual journey.

Yes, there's a lot of hippie language (I found it amusing) but what a wonderful book this is. I recommend it to all expectant mothers, especially those of you who want to really experience the joy that is childbirth. I was a little scared before, but now I am excited! ( )