Today marks Mother’s Day in various parts of the world. Motherhood, with all its complexities, has been a subject of profound exploration in literature. While I’m not a mother myself, reading books about motherhood has provided me with invaluable insights. In this post, I’ll be highlighting books that explore the complexities of motherhood, portraying its rawness and vulnerability.
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
This book delves into the dual facets of motherhood – the struggles of being both a great mother and a flawed one. What struck me most was how Eva navigated her own traumatic upbringing with a terrible mother and despite the weight of generational trauma, Eva’s determination to break the cycle. I’ve shared a detailed review of this compelling book here
The push by Ashley Audrain
This book prompted me to contemplate how I would handle the challenges of parenting, especially if faced with a difficult child. What resonated deeply with me was how the author depicted motherhood in a nuanced manner, challenging the conventional notion of instant and unbreakable bonds between mothers and their newborns. It’s so important to engage in conversations that acknowledge the complexities of the postpartum experience, highlighting realities such as postpartum depression and psychosis. This story shows the importance of destigmatizing these issues and fostering open dialogue surrounding motherhood.
Rootless by Krystle Zara Appiah
Set against the backdrop of Ghana and the UK, “Rootless” unveils the journey of Efe, a young woman who abruptly departs from her husband and child, leaving behind a perplexing void. What struck me most about “Rootless” is its unflinching portrayal of motherhood, challenging the idealized image of maternal sacrifice and selflessness. Through Efe’s complex character, the book delves into the depths of human emotions, acknowledging that mothers, like any other individual, are susceptible to moments of selfishness and personal struggle.
I’m glad my mom died by Jennette McCurdy
In this non-fiction memoir, Jennette bares her soul as she unravels the intricacies of her life and her tumultuous relationship with her deceased mother. She shares this with unfiltered honesty, laying bare the raw and vulnerable truths of her experiences. What struck me most about this memoir is the courage with which Jennette exposes the lasting impact of her mother’s shortcomings. It’s a stark reminder that even in death, the effects of parental failings reverberate through generations.
The whispers by Ashley Audrain
The Whispers” explores the lives of four women – Whitney, Blair, Rebecca, and Mara – residing on Harlow Street. Through their interconnected narratives, the book fearlessly confronts challenging topics surrounding motherhood, infertility, and miscarriages. It offers a poignant exploration of the societal pressures and expectations that define what constitutes a ‘good’ mother. While certain parts of the book may be uncomfortable and emotionally intense to read, these elements are crucial to the story – adding depth to the overall experience.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Hello Beautiful captivated me from start to finish, and it’s still so fresh in my mind as I read it just last month. This poignant narrative delves into the complexities of motherhood, shedding light on the intricate ways generational trauma can be passed down through familial ties. The book skillfully examines how the behaviours parents exhibit may inadvertently be influenced by their own unresolved traumas.
Tomorrow I become a woman by Aiwanose Odafen
This book will upset you. It explores a mother daughter relationship. Obianuju loved her mother despite knowing she didn’t always do what was best for her. She went to her for advice knowing what type of advice she’d get but she didn’t stop. If anything, I’d say she extended grace to her mother. I found myself deeply conflicted by Obianuju’s mother. I was torn between viewing her as a victim of circumstance and recognizing her as a perpetuator of harmful behaviours. She was upholding patriarchal norms at the expense of her daughter’s well-being.
Butter Honey Pig Bread by Francesca Ekwuyasi
This book holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorites. The masterful storytelling beautifully unfolds the lives of Kambirinachi and her twin daughters, Kehinde and Taiye. While the narrative touches upon various significant themes, it particularly delves into the intricacies of complex mother-daughter relationships. I was captivated by the depth and richness of the characters as they navigated the turbulent waters of familial bonds, grappling with love and resentment.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers and the women who hope to be mother. You’re doing amazing!
Have you read any of these?
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