Choosing Single Parenthood

Choosing Single Parenthood: Stories from Solo Parents by Choice provides insight into the journey of becoming a single mother from the perspective of women who have chosen to create a family on their own terms. With contributions from women across Canada, the stories in this anthology explore the power of choice and what it means to become a mother. Included are stories of the journey of conception, the creation of community, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the ways in which their lives have been transformed by the choice to create a family as a single mother.

The first few stories explore the journey through decision-making and fertility to finally becoming a parent. Next are a shorter set of stories of overcoming challenges - pithy summaries of major life experiences and events leading ultimately to parenthood, and stories that explore the ways that choice parents have intentionally cultivated communities of support around themselves throughout the journey to parenthood. The next section shares stories that delve a little more deeply into the journey of parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020-21, when established support networks were suddenly removed. The prospect of raising a child without a 'village' may seem daunting: these parents have done it, and have survived. The final section contains reflections on parenting, with thoughtful and beautiful writing from several parents by choice.

Regardless of their personal journey to create a family, readers will be inspired by the strength and determination within the stories of these single parents by choice.