A Midwife’s Tale

"A Midwife's Tale" delves into the life of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife and healer in Maine, as chronicled through her extensive diary. Spanning from 1785 to 1812, the narrative explores her pivotal role in childbirth, domestic life, and the broader social dynamics of the New England frontier. Laurel Thatcher Ulrich crafts an engaging and detailed portrait of Ballard and her community, blending lively storytelling with scholarly insight, making it a compelling exploration of history on a human scale.