Cover of The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times
Cover of Shadows of the Workhouse
Series

Call the Midwife

2 books

The Call the Midwife series by Jennifer Worth has 2 books. Start with The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times (2002), then read the rest in the order below.

Call the Midwife reading order

1
Cover of The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times

The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times

Jennifer Worth

In this compelling memoir, Jennifer Worth recounts her transformative years as a young trainee midwife working in the impoverished East End of London during the 1950s. Through intimate and unflinching accounts of childbirth, community, and human resilience, Worth provides a vivid window into the lives of working-class families navigating poverty, hardship, and hope during post-war Britain. Her narrative captures both the profound joy of bringing new life into the world and the stark realities of the social conditions that shaped her patients' experiences. This powerful testament to the courage of mothers and the dedication of healthcare workers offers essential historical insight into midwifery practice, social welfare, and the human spirit. A moving and eye-opening read that illuminates a crucial but often overlooked chapter of modern British history.

MemoirAutobiographySocial History
2
Cover of Shadows of the Workhouse

Shadows of the Workhouse

Jennifer Worth

In the bustling East End of London during the 1950s, Jennifer Worth continues to share her poignant experiences as a midwife, offering a window into the lives of those facing immense hardship. This collection of stories delves into the stark realities of the workhouse, exploring tales of children orphaned and abandoned, and individuals grappling with poverty and societal judgment. Through these narratives, Worth illuminates the extraordinary resilience and unwavering spirit of ordinary people as they navigate life's challenges with courage and dignity. The book provides a compelling glimpse into a bygone era, celebrating the strength found in community and the enduring power of hope.

Non-FictionMemoirSocial History