About This Book
Reach for this book when you want to instill a deep sense of ancestral pride in your child or when your family is preparing to welcome a new baby. This lyrical collection of poems and prose celebrates the profound legacy of African American midwives, often called 'Grandmother Midwives,' who provided essential care and wisdom through generations. Eloise Greenfield uses her signature rhythmic style to weave together historical facts with a beautiful, celebratory tone. While the book addresses the history of slavery and medical resilience, its primary focus is on the warmth, skill, and communal love these women offered. It is a powerful choice for families looking to explore Black history through a lens of nurturing and strength rather than just struggle. For children aged 9 to 12, it provides a sophisticated yet accessible introduction to how community care and tradition shape our individual stories and family beginnings.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book addresses the realities of slavery and the injustices faced by African American midwives, including limited access to resources and discriminatory treatment. The approach is direct but age-appropriate and secular, focusing on the agency and skill of the women rather than graphic depictions of hardship. The resolution is deeply hopeful and grounded in pride.
