Henriette Mantel

This is a very quick read, and somewhat disappointing - some choppy writing and one-liners that don't really fit into an essay format. I didn't realize at first that these were all written by comedy writers; I was expecting an American version of Nobody's Mother, an anthology of Canadian writing (edited by Lynne Van Luven). I was expecting something more "literary" than quick, sometimes flippant and somewhat self-conscious essays.

Really interesting. Funny and thoughtful essays.

As a child free by choice woman who runs a busy business and enjoys life, I am constantly fielding intrusive questions about my (very easy) choice that kids were not for me. This book was a great read, and I can easily say I'll be keeping a few copies around to hand to close friends or family when they can't help but stick their nose in - repeatedly.

A superb collection of essays by female comedy writers on their decision - or sometimes non-decision - to NOT have kids. In this anthology they tell their stories about why they have not chosen motherhood, how they struggled with the decision sometimes, but came to terms with it and feel content now.
There are funny stories in there, some not-so-funny stories, and some sad ones as well. But all of them are thoughful and though-provoking while still being easy and quick to read.