The New Midwifery, Reflections on Renaissance and Regulation by Farah M. Shroff ed. (Toronto: 1997) 366 pp. $19.99 cdn ISBN 0-88961-224-2

This book is a brilliant collection of writings which are insightful and visionary. The legalization of midwifery care in Canada is examined through a class, gender and anti-racism perspective by authors representing various academic disciplines and practicing midwives from across Canada. The voices of women who have not been traditionally heard in birthing and midwifery care, including Aboriginal women, immigrant women, women of colour, and disabled women are heard through the pages of this text. The New Midwifery utilizes an anti-oppression analysis, and emerges as one of the first books on women's health and midwifery in Canada which reflects diversity to such a depth.

The text is divided into two sections, each with references and recommended readings. A list of community-based resources appears at the end of two chapters. The main themes explored include: midwifery in Canadian society, midwifery care model, professionalization, and critiques of the Midwifery Education University Programme. Perspectives from active midwifery proponents are joined with those who did not "create" the regulated midwifery that exists today and are crucial to the analysis presented.

The impact of colonialism felt by aboriginal midwives who practised birthing in their own communities is brought to the fore. Carol Couchie and Herbert Nabigon explore traditional aboriginal midwifery, and connect the healing and strengthening of contemporary Aboriginal communities with midwifery care. "Colonized Wombs," by Sapna Patel and Iman Al-Jazairi, examines the international context of colonization and the effects of imperial medicine on countries of the south. Shroff describes the rebirth of midwifery as co-incidental with other movements such as environmentalism and holistic living, and acknowledges that midwifery's main supporters come from middle class, university educated women of European descent. Shroff states, "Given the current efforts of the Canadian midwifery movement to integrate Aboriginal and immigrant Southern communities and anti-racism perspectives, it will be most interesting to observe the challenging future of midwifery."

I found this to be a very affirming and intense book. The ideals of justice and equity are given substance through an open discussion suffused with passion and intelligence. The language is accessible and the concepts are presented with input and perspectives from many sources. I highly recommend this book.

"A Midwifery Student"