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Nap Trapped Reading: 7 Books Every Single Mother by Choice Should Have on Their Shelf

Dive into the essential reading list for Single Mothers by Choice (SMBCs) from practical guides to heartfelt memoirs, these carefully curated books offer invaluable insights, support, and inspiration for navigating the unique journey of solo motherhood. Whether you're seeking expert advice or personal anecdotes, this collection has everything you need to thrive as an SMBC. 


Books SMBC approved and recommended just for you.

 

“Choosing Single Motherhood: The Thinking Woman's Guide" by Mikki Morrissette


Book Cover of Choosing Single Motherhood of child being lifted into air by mother

“Choosing Single Motherhood: The Thinking Woman's Guide" is an empowering and insightful resource for women considering the path of single motherhood. This comprehensive guide offers practical advice, emotional support, and real-life stories from women who have embraced solo parenting. Morrissette explores themes such as the decision-making process, financial planning, fertility options, and the societal perceptions of single mothers. With a thoughtful and encouraging approach, this book serves as a valuable companion for women seeking to navigate the challenges and rewards of choosing single motherhood.





 

"Single by Chance, Mothers by Choice: How Women are Choosing Parenthood Without Marriage and Creating the New American Family" by Rosanna Hertz  

Book cover of Single by Chance, Mothers by Choice of a little girl holdin her mothers hand.

"Single by Chance, Mothers by Choice: How Women are Choosing Parenthood Without Marriage and Creating the New American Family" delves into the evolving landscape of modern motherhood. This illuminating book highlights the stories of women who have chosen to become mothers without waiting for marriage, embracing solo parenthood as a fulfilling and viable option. It explores themes of independence, empowerment, and the redefining of family structures in contemporary society. Through personal narratives and expert insights, the book showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of single mothers, offering inspiration and guidance for those considering this path.





 

“Liv’s Alone” by Liv Thorne 

Book cover of Liv's Alone of painted swirls

“Liv’s Alone” is a candid and inspiring memoir that delves into the realities of solo motherhood. Liv Thorne shares her personal journey of choosing to become a single mother, navigating the challenges and joys of raising a child on her own. The book explores themes of independence, resilience, and the unconventional paths to creating a family. With honesty and humour, Thorne provides an uplifting and relatable narrative for anyone considering or experiencing single motherhood, celebrating the strength and love that define her unique parenting experience.







 

“Single, Again, and Again, and Again” by Louisa Pateman 

Book cover of single again, and again, and again showing woman with her head in her hands

“Single, Again, and Again, and Again” is a compelling memoir that delves into the challenges and triumphs of navigating life and motherhood as a single woman. Pateman shares her personal experiences of repeatedly finding herself single and ultimately deciding to pursue motherhood on her own terms. The book explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the societal pressures surrounding relationships and parenthood. Through candid storytelling and insightful reflections, Pateman offers an empowering perspective on solo motherhood, celebrating the strength and determination it takes to build a fulfilling life and family independently.





 

“Going Solo: My Choice to become a single mother using a donor” by Genevieve Roberts

Going Solo book cover with yellow background with baby socks in grey and white

“Going Solo: My Choice to Become a Single Mother Using a Donor” is a candid and empowering memoir that explores the author's journey to solo motherhood. Through her personal narrative, Roberts delves into the emotional, social, and practical challenges she faced while choosing to become a single mother via donor conception. The book highlights themes of resilience, independence, and the redefining of family structures, offering an inspiring perspective on the joys and trials of embarking on motherhood alone. Roberts' story is a testament to the strength and determination required to navigate single motherhood by choice, providing a source of encouragement and insight for others considering a similar path.





 

“Breasts and Eggs” by Mieko Kawakami 

Book cover of Breasts and Eggs with japanese woman looking upwards

"Breasts and Eggs" is a profound exploration of womanhood, motherhood, and identity in contemporary Japan. The novel follows Natsuko, a single woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery while grappling with the decision to become a mother on her own. Through her poignant and insightful narrative, Kawakami delves into the complexities of solo motherhood, societal expectations, and the quest for personal fulfilment. The book illuminates the strength and resilience of women who choose to navigate motherhood independently, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of family and the courage it takes to forge one's own path.





 

“Backyard to Backpack: A solo mum, a six year old and a life-changing adventure” by Evie Farrell 


Book cover  of Back Yard to Back Pack with images of travels in the lettering and a plane whizzing around

"Backyard to Backpack: A Solo Mum, a Six Year Old and a Life-Changing Adventure" is a captivating memoir that chronicles the journey of a solo mother who embarks on a transformative adventure with her young daughter. The book does not specifically address the concept of being a single mother by choice but it deals with themes of resilience, adventure, and personal growth following the loss of a partner. Farrell's narrative highlights the themes of solo motherhood, resilience, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond conventional boundaries. Through their travels across diverse cultures and landscapes, the book showcases the unique bond between mother and child, and the strength it takes to create meaningful experiences and memories as a single parent. Farrell's story is an inspiring testament to the power of embracing life's uncertainties and the rewards of stepping outside one's comfort zone.






Happy Reading!

We hope you Enjoy these 7 Books Every Single Mother by Choice Should Have on their shelf


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