Call the Midwife

Reading this book highlighted just how good the television series was - I already knew most of the stories. The charaterisation of Sister Evangeline didn't sit well with me, it seemed that the author went out of her way to uncharitably point out the humourless, damp, uneducated side of her, with no real insight into the person she really was (although as she pointed out, Sister Evangaline didn't have the time of day for her, so it's possible she never discovered who the Sister really was.)

I've read all three Call the Midwife books by Nurse Jenny now, and I'd say that I loved three and one and I liked this one.

Most of book two centers on an orphaned brother and sister who end up in the workhouse. It's a tale of misery and woe, but it's a story she learned of second hand, and it isn't quite the peer of the vivid tales Worth shares that she experienced herself.

Still, a solid book of powerful stories, and a series well worth reading.

Moving stories, testimonies really, of life, love and miracles. Not every account we read has a happy ending, sometimes we don't even know what comes of the people in these heartbreaking situations. As the author points out, “Sadly, in nursing, and particularly in hospital nursing, you meet people during some of the most profound moments in their lives, and then they are gone from you for ever.”

There is much sadness, but also much beauty and even fun in this book. It's what every book should be. Challenging, informative, and inspiring.

I do recommend it, but readers should be aware that there is a very intense/explicit sex scene in the chapter about Mary, a former prostitute. You can still read Mary's story, just skip the chapter entitled “Cable Street” if you want to bypass the disturbing details.

Over all a really good read. I'd give it 4.5 if I could.

P.S. Who knew nuns could be so unforgettable?