I Want a Baby, He Doesn't

Rating:
Summary: Save your money!
Review: I had purchased this book under the impression that the author would have provided some insight into the challenges that one might face if they want children and are in a serious relationship with someone who does not.... hence, the title of this book. Instead, I was disappointed to find a poorly written account as to how the author, desperate to have children at all costs, manipulates her husband into changing his mind on the subject.

They commence their relationship through a dating service, where he has indicated that he does not want any children (and later discloses that he had undergone a vasectomy). She, on the other hand, when asked by the dating service if she wants children, responds "maybe". She repeatedly states throughout her book how important having children are to her and even refers to it as a "lifelong dream", yet has no problem with misleading her potential dates with her "maybe" on the subject. She justifies this lie by saying that she didnt even know if she could have children, so to put 'yes' would be improper, despite the fact she knew she wanted to try. Her justification of dishonest and manipulative behavior follows that trend throughout.

As a woman in her 30's who is undecided on the subject of children, who is dating a wonderful man in his 40's who does not want children, I was hoping for a more realistic account of healthy communication and honesty, and how a couple addresses these differences and stays together - HEALTHILY. Instead, this book is a disturbing account of poor communication between this couple, and nothing more than a diary of their dysfunction.

I gave this book one star because it made me take a good hard look at my own actions and words to ensure that I had not been behaving anything like the author of this book did.

Rating:
Summary: Inspiring and information packed
Review: This book was delightful reading. It was inspiring to be invited into a couple's own personal journey of love and carefully handling a difficult decision. It was also packed with information to help others facing such a dilema. Originally I purchased the book with the intent to merely scan it and then pass it on to a relative who is in exactly the situation of, "I want a baby, he doesn't." I found however that when I began reading it, I was fascinated by such a story of love. I would recommend it on two levels ... interesting reading, as well as a factual resource.