We recently sat down with Alie Benge, Lil O’Brien and Kathryn Van Beek, the editors of a new book of non-fiction essays Other hood: Essays on being childless, child free and child adjacent, published by Massey University Press. Other hood is a candid and empathetic collection of personal stories that dive into the varied reasons behind living a childfree life. From tales of deep grief through to the stigmas that still surround free choice, this book shows a diversity of experiences and hopes to open up a more inclusive conversation about what makes a fulfilling life.

Watch our interview with the editors below, and reserve a copy of Other hood on the Library catalogue today! Also available to borrow as an eBook on Overdrive.

Other hood : essays on being childless, childfree and child-adjacent

“In Aotearoa the number of people who will never have children is growing – and they’re pushing back against the narrative that if they don’t, their lives will be somehow ‘less than’. Otherhood’s essays are by writers who’ve felt on the outside looking in, who’ve lived unexpected lives and who’ve given the finger to social expectations. Some chose to be childfree, some didn’t get to choose and some – through bereavement or blended family dynamics – ask themselves: Am I a mother or am I other? Thought provoking, moving and often hilarious, Otherhood opens a more inclusive conversation about what makes a fulfilling life.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

 

We extend our thanks and appreciation to Alie, Lil, Kathryn and Massey University Press for this interview.