We need more books like this one.
Rating:
4 / 5
A good read. Premature birth can be traumatic for not only mom and dad, but the extended family as well. I have found that there are not enough books on the subject. This author's work adds to the list of quality material available.I would reccomend this book as a companion to Equal to the Task, by Dail R. Cantrell. The books are similiar enough to be read together. Cantrell's book was a Book of the Year nominee, and fills in gaps left by this book. Both books present a powerful message.
This is an important book for any parent
Rating:
5 / 5
While this is certainly a profoundly important book for families of extremely premature babies, I think it's almost as valuable for all parents of kids of every age. When you get mad at your teenager, frustrated at your eight-year-old, stressed out from the demands of juggling work and day-care, or just about any challenge that comes with parenting, reflecting on what William and Kim Woodwell did go give two little infants a shot a life will put everything in perspective for you. After reading this book, I gave my perfectly healthy nine-year-old daughter a bear hug and couldn't let go.
And if you're in a position to give counsel or advice to new parents (hospital social worker, physician, clergy), you'll better understand the incredibly complex range of emotions that parents in this situation are trying to cope with.
A compelling guide to the journey of premature babies
Rating:
4 / 5
Coming to Term is a father's first hand account of the premature birth of his daugher, and her subsequent four month experience in the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In 1997, twin girls were born to William and his wife Kim. Due to complications from a pregnancy related syndrome known as HELLP, the babies were born very premature at 24 weeks gestation. The smallest, Nina, died soon after birth. However, Josie, weighing a scant one pound 2 ounces, survived, coming home with them after 125 days in the hospital.When his daughter is first born, Woodwell is reminded of the one and a half pound lobsters from past Cape Cod vacations, but he is soon amazed at how human the the tiny babies look. As his life narrows to the NICU, he observes how people react to him as well as how he reacts to his own experiences. As the author explains, "the smallest human beings can teach us the biggest lessons we will ever learn." Preemie parents and others who are interested in the journey of premature babies will find this book a compelling guide.
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