This wonderful book takes place in Scots Bay, Nova Scotia, not really very far from the Annapolis Valley where I used to live. It tells the story of Dora Rare, a young woman who learns to be a midwife in rural NS in 1915. Dora is such a likeable character, the people of Scots Bay so recognizable, I loved the references to "the North Mountain" "people from away". There are interesting tid bits of information about childbirth and other historical details in the early 20th century. There are so many issues that come to light in the book, that one would think would have been resolved by now, but regretfully are still in debate all these years later. It's a great read.

haven't read this yet

"My father, Judah Rare, built this farmhouse in 1917. It was my wedding gift. 'A strong house for a Rare woman,' he said. I was eighteen. He and his five brothers, shipbuilders by trade, raised her worthy from timbers born on my grandfather's land. Oak for stability and certainty, yellow birch for new life and change, spruce for protection from the world outside. Father was an intuitive carpenter, carrying out his work like holy ritual. His calloused hands, veined with pride, had a memory for measure and a knowing of what it takes to withstand the sea."
- from The Birth House by Ami McKay

Set in during the time of World War I in Nova Scotia, The Birth House is the story of Dora Rare, "the only daughter in five generations of Rares," who learns the traditions of midwifery from local traiteur Marie Babineau (Miss. B.) When Dora marries Archer Bigelow, the elderly Miss. B. leaves her to "catch" the babies of Scots Bay in her place. As Dora endures a rocky marriage, several demanding births, and having to care for a baby girl orphaned by one of her patients, scientific and "clinical" birthing methods make their way into Scots Bay, along with misogynistic Dr. Gilbert Thomas. Will the women of Scots Bay be allowed to choose what's to be done with their bodies?

A nostalgic (and sometimes heartbreaking) look at a time when the "latest" scientific method was at war with tradition and homeopathic remedies, The Birth House explores women in close-knit rural communities, and the way their friendships shape society around them. Newspaper clippings, advertisements for the latest and greatest in women's health aides, journal entries, and letters, are woven throughout the book, lending a valuable frame of reference to the story, and enhancing the description of Dora's day-to-day life in the Bay.

The harsh realities of life in a small seacoast community during World War I make for devastating reading. I was completely captivated by the struggle of the women to have their voices heard. Dora Rare was an incredibly well-written and compelling character. Her poignant battle to do what is right, and to help her neighbors is truly inspiring.

The Birth House is an outstanding, beautifully written story. I was engaged from the very first page. The vivid imagery and prose are delightful and story of the sisterhood of women living on the outskirts of Dora's life is compassionate and well-developed. The journey of Dora Rare is an exceptional tale, well worth reading. ( )

Fascinating glimpse into history -Nova Scotia Canada during WW1. Interesting characters. Somewhat gritty and slow for me at parts, but also beautiful and inspiring. The writing is very good. ( )

If you're a childbirth advocate, you will enjoy reading this book. Even for those who are not childbirth advocates,the woman's history and illustrations from period magazine clippings were very fascinating. ( )