The Birth House
Ami McKay
The Birth House is
set in the turn of the 20th century in Nova Scotia; and midwifery is
central to the book’s theme and plot. Dora Rare is a rare daughter in a family
line famous for its proliferation of sons, who, in befriending an ostracized
older woman, learns the art of midwifery at a time when standardized medical
practice arrives in the rural areas of the province.
This book gave me serious deja-vu. It is reminiscent of The
Secret Life of Bees, The Cure for Death by Lightening, Fried Green Tomatoes at
the Whistle Stop Café, and so many others. Although the details are
different, the plot seems the same: a socially
awkward girl befriends a local outcast; learns about herself in addition to
practical skills; becomes the focal point in the battle between tradition and
change; male and female; society and the individual. Against all odds, the protagonist manages to
overcome numerous challenges, while building a network of sympathetic female
friends, gaining the reward of independence and the respect of her community.
The End.
Despite this, I still enjoyed The Birth House. It is well-written, if not entirely original, and the
depiction of Nova Scotia makes me very much want to go there. The characters are somewhat two-dimensional,
and the plot is relatively predictable; but if you’re looking for a light,
comfortable read that you can discuss with friends over a glass of wine, this
is a great choice.
No comments:
Post a Comment