The struggle for custody is a long-standing issue that continues to plague mothers worldwide. Lara Feigel's book delves into the dark history of motherhood, shedding light on the pain and trauma inflicted upon women who fight for their children. The author weaves together a narrative that spans centuries, continents, and genres, from French novelist George Sand's desperation in court to Britney Spears' incarceration for mental health.
The book is a powerful exploration of the challenges faced by mothers, particularly those from marginalized communities. Caroline Norton, a 19th-century woman who bravely campaigned for women's rights, serves as a beacon of hope amidst tragedy. Her story not only highlights the progress made but also underscores the obstacles that continue to hinder women's autonomy.
Feigel's own custody battle is skillfully intertwined with historical accounts, creating a sense of urgency and cohesion. However, this narrative thread sometimes feels disjointed, struggling to hold together the diverse tales of anguish. The author's candour and research are impressive, but at times, the pacing falters, leaving readers feeling overwhelmed.
The book touches on pivotal moments in history, such as the forced separation of Elizabeth Packard from her children in 19th-century America, and the struggle of Alice Walker to co-parent with her husband. These stories serve as poignant reminders of the ongoing struggles women face in their quest for custody.
The epilogue, which brings us into contemporary courtrooms, reveals the persistent issues that persist despite progress. The author's attempt to offer a hopeful vision of motherhood and care feels fragile, given the weight of the stories shared. The presentation of new voices and characters is admirable, but ultimately, it feels rushed, leaving readers longing for more.
Ultimately, Feigel's book serves as a powerful indictment of the patriarchal systems that perpetuate inequality and trauma. It highlights the need for reform in the legal system, ensuring that children are given genuine agency and that mothers are not forced to choose between their autonomy and their love for their children. As we navigate this complex issue, it is essential to acknowledge the struggles of those who have come before us, while also striving for a more equitable future.
The book is a powerful exploration of the challenges faced by mothers, particularly those from marginalized communities. Caroline Norton, a 19th-century woman who bravely campaigned for women's rights, serves as a beacon of hope amidst tragedy. Her story not only highlights the progress made but also underscores the obstacles that continue to hinder women's autonomy.
Feigel's own custody battle is skillfully intertwined with historical accounts, creating a sense of urgency and cohesion. However, this narrative thread sometimes feels disjointed, struggling to hold together the diverse tales of anguish. The author's candour and research are impressive, but at times, the pacing falters, leaving readers feeling overwhelmed.
The book touches on pivotal moments in history, such as the forced separation of Elizabeth Packard from her children in 19th-century America, and the struggle of Alice Walker to co-parent with her husband. These stories serve as poignant reminders of the ongoing struggles women face in their quest for custody.
The epilogue, which brings us into contemporary courtrooms, reveals the persistent issues that persist despite progress. The author's attempt to offer a hopeful vision of motherhood and care feels fragile, given the weight of the stories shared. The presentation of new voices and characters is admirable, but ultimately, it feels rushed, leaving readers longing for more.
Ultimately, Feigel's book serves as a powerful indictment of the patriarchal systems that perpetuate inequality and trauma. It highlights the need for reform in the legal system, ensuring that children are given genuine agency and that mothers are not forced to choose between their autonomy and their love for their children. As we navigate this complex issue, it is essential to acknowledge the struggles of those who have come before us, while also striving for a more equitable future.
I'm still reeling from reading about all these moms who've been through hell just trying to be with their kids. It's crazy that we're still living in a society where mothers are often treated like they're the ones at fault. 
The way Lara Feigel weaves together these stories is mind-blowing, but sometimes I feel like it's hard to keep up with the pace. 
Lara Feigel's story is so heartbreaking. It makes me realize how far we've come but also how much work is left to be done. I love how she includes stories from different eras and communities, it's like a powerful wake-up call for us all 
. The part that got me was when they talked about Caroline Norton, she's like a superhero in my eyes 
. We need more women like her who are fighting for their rights. I wish the book would've gone deeper into some of the stories but overall, it's an amazing read and definitely one to share with others 
. We do need reform, for sure! It's good to see a book that sheds light on this dark history, even if it feels a bit disjointed at times 
. The idea that custody battles can span centuries and continents is wild, but I guess when you're fighting for your child's life, time doesn't matter much 
.
I gotta say, I'm super frustrated with how some articles still don't use proper formatting 
. Like, Lara Feigel's book sounds like an amazing read, but the way it was written 
... Okay, so yeah, back to the book. It's like, totally powerful in exposing the struggles of mothers worldwide 
. But can we pls get a consistent font size and bolding for emphasis? 
. I know it's trying to highlight progress, but it feels so rushed 
. Can't they just add more sections or something? 
.
. Like, I can tell she put in a lot of research and whatnot 
, but the pacing issues really threw me off 
. Maybe if they had used some fancy typography or something, it would've helped smooth out the flow 
.
, even with its formatting flaws 
. It's like, super important to keep pushing for change and whatnot 
.
. I'm all about giving a voice to those who've been silenced, but we can't just stop at acknowledging the problem; we gotta take action 
.
.
. I mean, come on, shouldn't mothers have equal say in their own children's lives? It's just basic human rights, right? 
- it's overwhelming and painful 
️️️️. But at the same time, it's so necessary 
I'm just so tired of the patriarchal systems holding us back 
- let's make some changes and create a more equitable future 
. I mean, Lara Feigel's writing is so good, but it's like she's trying to fit all these historical stories into one book... it's exhausting 
. What really got me was how it highlights the need for reform in our legal system, because let's be real, the current one is still super patriarchal and unfair 
. It's so sad that women have been fighting for their rights and autonomy for centuries, especially when it comes to motherhood.
. It makes the issues feel more real and relatable, you know? But at the same time, I get why some of the pacing feels a bit off - I mean, it's like trying to cram too many thoughts into one page 
.
. It's crazy that we still have these outdated laws and social norms that dictate who gets custody of kids and when 
. And I love how Feigel tries to offer a hopeful vision, even if it feels a bit fragile at times 
.
. This book is like, totally giving me life, though 
- all its flaws and biases staring back at us. I mean, think about it, custody battles are still a thing in 2025? It's wild how far we've come, but how much work we still have to do to get there. The author is right, the system is broken and it needs a total overhaul 
. I'm not sure if Feigel's book offers a solution, but it definitely raises the alarm and makes us think about what we want our world to look like. And honestly, can't we just agree on one thing - that kids deserve better than being pitted against their own mothers? 
. It's crazy to think that some of these women have been going through this same struggle for centuries. The way Caroline Norton's story stands out as a beacon of hope is amazing 
, reminding us of how much work we have to do to create a more just system. I wish there was more to it, tbh... but overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who cares about social justice 
Caroline Norton's story gave me LIFE, her strength and resilience are truly inspiring 
the historical accounts are so powerful though can't we just fast forward to 2025 already 
. sometimes it feels like Feigel is trying to cram too much into one book, and that can make it hard to fully absorb everything she's saying.
. it's not easy reading, but it's so worth it - it'll make you feel seen, heard, and understood, which is exactly what we need more of right now