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Cover of The Mother Code

The Mother Code

by Ruthie Ackerman

Book Details

Publisher:Random House
Published:2025-05-06
Pages:337
Format:BOOK
Language:en
ISBN:9780593730119

Reading Info

About This Book

In this propulsive memoir, an award-winning journalist blends history, science, and cultural criticism to uncover whether motherhood outside of society’s rigid rules and expectations is possible—and whether she fits the mold for what a mother should be. “This tender, generous book does the hard work of redefining ‘motherhood’ and ‘family’ so that they honor all aspects of a woman’s life.”—Christie Tate, author of the New York Times bestseller Group Ruthie Ackerman had long believed that the deci

Our Review

This powerful memoir blends investigative journalism with raw personal narrative as the author examines whether motherhood can exist outside society's rigid expectations. Through a compelling mix of history, science, and cultural criticism, Ackerman questions whether she fits the traditional mold of what a mother should be while exploring alternative frameworks for family and caregiving.

What makes this book distinctive is how Ackerman seamlessly weaves her personal journey with broader cultural analysis, creating a work that feels both intimate and universally relevant. The author's journalistic rigor elevates the memoir beyond simple personal reflection, offering readers thoughtful examination of motherhood's complexities. Anyone questioning conventional paths to family or seeking to understand modern parenting will find profound resonance in this tender yet unflinching exploration of what it means to mother.

Themes

Biography & Autobiography

Subjects

Biography & Autobiography