A few things about this book intrigued me from just the cover and title: mother and the implication of genetics. Science is uncovering so much of how mother-child development impacts someone, such as how intergenerational trauma works, how the fetal stage affects us throughout our lives. This book was an excellent memoir that blends that scientific aspect with a personal story of the ways in which it has played out.

I only have two small critiques. Coming from someone familiar with genetics, I was slightly disappointed there wasn’t more science, but I am probably in the minority on that. At times, it felt like the past and present of her story were flipping back and forth too much to keep up with, but it still all tied together well in the end.

Finally, I commend Ackerman for writing such about such an emotional and intimate topic in such a raw fashion, not just about the pregnancy and birth, but the decisions, the regrets, and the uncertainties throughout her life that led her to her daughter.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.

I enjoyed this vulnerable look into Ackerman’s journey to motherhood. I think women who are exploring different avenues to having children or those who have friends going through a hard time conceiving may find this book helpful.

Fairly predictable but an enjoyable read.. Well written, great characters and well told. hanks for the opportunity to read this and much luck on publication.

Interesting book.
Thanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book. While I got the book for free it had no bearing on the rating I gave it.

I enjoyed this book, but I would not use it for teaching as it goes over familiar territory in terms of mothering, family building, and the biomdedical industrail complex.

A really powerful memoir on motherhood and the “code” to both becoming and being a mother. I think this is a great read for anyone who is considering having children in the future, regardless of if they’ve previously given birth. The author talks about many different paths to conception, as well as the logistical, financial, social, mental, and emotional implications of each. While this is a memoir, many other memoirs and books are quoted which both adds validation to the author’s experience and defends the universality of the journey to define oneself as a mother.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.