Midwives

A Novel (Oprah's Book Club)

By: Chris Bohjalian

Narrated by: Kate Burton

"Superbly crafted and astonishingly powerful. . . . It will thrill readers who cherish their worn copies of To Kill A Mockingbird." --People

With a suspense, lyricism, and moral complexity that recall To Kill a Mockingbird and Presumed Innocent, this compulsively readable novel explores what happens when a woman who has devoted herself to ushering life into the world finds herself charged with responsibility in a patient's tragic death.

The time is 1981, and Sibyl Danforth has been a dedicated midwife in the rural community of Reddington, Vermont, for fifteen years. But one treacherous winter night, in a house isolated by icy roads and failed telephone lines, Sibyl takes desperate measures to save a baby's life. She performs an emergency Caesarean section on its mother, who appears to have died in labor. But what if--as Sibyl's assistant later charges--the patient wasn't already dead, and it was Sibyl who inadvertently killed her?

As recounted by Sibyl's precocious fourteen-year-old daughter, Connie, the ensuing trial bears the earmarks of a witch hunt except for the fact that all its participants are acting from the highest motives--and the defendant increasingly appears to be guilty. As Sibyl Danforth faces the antagonism of the law, the hostility of traditional doctors, and the accusations of her own conscience, Midwives engages, moves, and transfixes us as only the very best novels ever do.

Critic reviews

"Superbly crafted and astonishingly powerful.... Will thrill readers who cherish their worn copies of To Kill A Mockingbird." —People

"Astonishing ... will keep readers up late until the last page is turned." —The Washington Post Book World

I, too, was duped into purchasing abridged book

Usually I am careful about reviewing the length of a book. I failed to do that in this case, and was very sorry. Right away.

Did the author really agree to the chop block? He should not have done so. I have marked this down accordingly even though I know I would have applauded this book in its full version. Shame, shame.

Ended too soon!

I was captivated, despite it ending too early! I didn’t see the other reviews until after I had finished it, and wish that I had been able to read/listen to the full novel! As a Midwifery student, I was impressed by the details and storyline!

A tale of tragedy and a child's love

This book is one of my favorites. It's a story of a terrible tragedy, secrets, and a child's absolute love and devotion to her Mother. Secrets, lawyers, and strong emotions make this book a tale that leaves you wanting more. The characters are so brilliantly written that they are palpable. The narration couldn't be better for this book.

Wow

The writing of the book was so engaging I couldn’t stop once I started. I will say at times this was hard to read, because the subject matter was really dark. I love it though thought the whole thing was very well done. Even by the end you are supposed to draw your own conclusions as to weather you think Sybil is guilty or not.

I love Chris Bohjalian

I have loved this book for so long. It combines the law and medicine with such a great storyline. I have read the book multiple times and love it every single time. Kate Burton's performance is just wonderful. It definitely deserves Five Stars across the board!!