Plot Summary

Midwives

Chris Bohjalian
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Midwives

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997

Book Brief

Chris Bohjalian

Midwives

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

374

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vermont • 1980s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1150L

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Super Short Summary

Midwives by Chris Bohjalian tells the story of midwife Sibyl Danforth, who faces a lawsuit after performing an emergency C-section during a blizzard that results in her patient’s death. The narrative, set in rural Vermont, follows Sibyl’s emotional turmoil and the ensuing trial, which also deeply affects her daughter, Connie, as they grapple with questions of responsibility and the ethical implications of home birth. The book includes sensitive topics such as maternal death, medical emergencies, and legal battles.

Emotional

Suspenseful

Challenging

Contemplative

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

163,476 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Chris Bohjalian's Midwives garners acclaim for its gripping, emotionally intense narrative and well-developed characters, particularly midwife Sibyl Danforth. Praised for its authenticity and thoughtful exploration of medical and ethical dilemmas, it also faces criticism for pacing issues. Nonetheless, it remains a compelling read, blending suspense with profound moral questions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Midwives?

Fans of Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper and Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner will relish Midwives by Chris Bohjalian. This gripping novel appeals to readers who enjoy emotionally charged, morally complex narratives, featuring strong character development and ethical dilemmas set against richly detailed backgrounds.

4.2

163,476 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

374

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vermont • 1980s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1150L

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