Lucy Jones has written a beautiful ode to motherhood that is so much more. Matrescence brings to light the secrets of motherhood that few women talk about even with their best friend, believing they are alone in their experience. And then, Jones adds the science behind the changes that happen to women when they become mothers. Matrescence adds a necessary perspective to the current conversation about women's health.

My interest in this book heightened after being longlisted for The Women's Prize for Non-Fiction earlier this year. Going into this book, I wondered how much I would find this relatable, being childfree myself. I should not have worried because although it is part memoir of the author's pregnancies, I found the cultural and health aspects enlightening. Matrescence is a call to action to provide better care and health outcomes for mothers and babies.

Woof, what a book. Detailing the author's journey through a tough pregnancy and matrescence (the act of becoming a mother that is in fact a real world, despite what the dictionary says), this is not an easy book to read (especially while pregnant!) It's a very scientific approach to a well-trodden topic, and while I can't say I learned too much new information, I was cheering along with Jones' call to action for how to make our society better for women.

first off, this book was incredibly well written and thoroughly researched. the passion the author has for this book, and for dissecting motherhood and all its complexities, is evident on every page. i approached this one as a childless adult woman that has been on the fence about having kids and i really appreciated the perspective this book brought. it is honest and factual while also exploring raw, emotional, spiritual aspects of women becoming mothers. this one won’t be for everyone but i’m glad i gave it a go. thanks to the author and the publisher for the e-ARC!