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Born for Life: A Midwife's Story Kindle Edition

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 434 ratings

A nurse aide position in the local maternity annexe at the age of sixteen gave Julie a love for being with women during labour and birth and caring for mothers and their babies.

Life could not have been happier until the tragic death of her own baby in the first hour of life led to depression, loneliness and despair.

This true story tells of Julie’s struggle to triumph over adversity and follows her journey to fulfil her dream and become the midwife she was born to be.

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Editorial Reviews

Review

New Zealand Book Lovers
This true story tells of Palmerston North woman Julie Watson's struggle to triumph over adversity and follows her journey to fulfill her dream and become the midwife she was born to be. A nurse aide position in the local maternity annexe as a teenager gave Watson a love for being with women during labour and birth and caring for mothers and their babies.
At the age of 17 she married then, at 20, tragedy stuck when her baby died within an hour of birth. The story then turns to her battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. She went on to have two more children, both born with albinism. Watson is determined, however, and in 1991, at the age of 37, she was accepted into nursing school.
Born For Life is more than just a personal story however. It is a historical journey through the development of antenatal and postnatal care in New Zealand. As a mother of two babies, it was fascinating to read about how it used to be done in the day - from the use of sugar and water as a formula to a mother's first toilet trip post birth. It was also heartbreaking to read about those times when birth doesn't go to plan. Watson's own experience with a baby's death made me grateful that New Zealand's attitude to maternal care has changed significantly.
Watson writes succinctly and without fanfare that makes you feel as though she is talking to you one on one. Her recounts of births she has attended are very matter of fact, to the point where I would recommend women who haven't given birth yet but want children steer clear of the book until their bundles arrive. However, for mums or those interested in a career in nursing or maternity, it is a fascinating read.

About the Author

Julie lives in Palmerston North, New Zealand with her husband Barry. They have three children and seven grandchildren. Following the story written in 'Born for Life : A Midwife's Story' Julie has travelled extensively and worked in several countries around the world, caring for women of different cultures, nationalities and backgrounds. She has worked in England, rural Australia, volunteered in Africa, and has recently volunteered in Northern Vanuatu as a midwife and nurse at Medical Santo.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00TRWJWV0
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cherry Hinton Limited (February 18, 2015)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 18, 2015
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 549 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 295 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 434 ratings

About the author

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Julie Watson
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Julie grew up in a small, rural town in New Zealand. After leaving school, she worked at the local maternity annexe as a nurse aide, which gave her a love for caring for mothers and babies. Life could not have been happier until the death of her second baby at birth led to depression, loneliness and despair.

Julie’s first book Born for Life: A Midwife's Story follows her journey to overcome challenges and become the midwife that she was born to be. Julie hopes that her story will inspire others to follow their dreams and not give up hope.

Midwifery remains Julie’s passion. Julie loves travelling and has worked as a midwife in many countries – including Zambia, Africa where she worked at Kalene Mission Hospital.

Julie’s second book Born for Life: Midwife in Africa describes her experiences living and working in Africa. She shares her incredible journey to make a difference in the lives of African women and their babies at the most cherished time in their lives.

Julie lives in Palmerston North, New Zealand with her husband, Barry.

Customer reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
434 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the story interesting, refreshing, and educational. They describe it as a heartfelt, touching autobiographical account of one woman's journey. Readers appreciate the well-written, easy-to-read, bold, and graphic writing style. The book is described as entertaining, exciting, and an excellent weekend read. Customers appreciate the author's honest, realistic, and courageous portrayal of true life.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

27 customers mention "Story quality"27 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the memoir's story. They appreciate the author's authenticity and vulnerability. The book is described as a refreshing, powerful journey into the heart of a woman. Readers find it inspiring and enjoyable, feeling like they know the author as a friend.

"...I highly recommend this wonderful book." Read more

"What an intriguing memoir! And what a memorable life! As much as I adore this book, I think I love the book cover even more...." Read more

"This was a cosy, enjoyable read; rather like a chat at a kitchen table with a good friend over a nice cup of tea – or rather, a number of chats, as..." Read more

"Excellent story of a young woman and her struggles to become a midwife...." Read more

11 customers mention "Educational value"11 positive0 negative

Customers find the book educational and inspiring. They appreciate its positive message and rural setting in New Zealand. The story is honest and impactful, capturing an era and mindset.

"...However as it went on it became more interesting & exciting...." Read more

"...for Life." It is entertaining while at the same time educational. The world of childbirth has changed a lifetime since the 1970's...." Read more

"...There are sad moments, and struggles, but always there is a positivity and a certainty of purpose that makes this a lovely, inspiring book." Read more

"...Ms. Watson's personal story was honest and impactful...." Read more

11 customers mention "Heartfelt story"11 positive0 negative

Customers find the story heartfelt, touching, and educational. They appreciate the author's honest account of her life, with tender moments and love. The book is described as uplifting and encouraging, with an openly honest portrayal of challenges and heartbreaks.

"...This substance includes more children, health issues, and sheer love and happiness...." Read more

"This book is the autobiographical account of a woman who was involved in childbirth much of her life...." Read more

"...are honest, bold, and graphic; but, they also are sensitive and loving. I was moved by the author’s attention to detail, both physical and emotional...." Read more

"...A heartfelt and honest story of her determination through many life challenges, heartbreaks and sheer hard work...." Read more

8 customers mention "Writing style"6 positive2 negative

Customers find the writing style engaging and easy to read. They appreciate the honest, bold stories with attention to detail, both physical and emotional.

"This was a fast and easy read, and the fact that the story was true made it very interesting...." Read more

"...Her descriptions and stories are honest, bold, and graphic; but, they also are sensitive and loving...." Read more

"...The book is essentially a memoir; but the writing is simplistic and a bit disjointed...." Read more

"Well written. As a registered nurse, it's always nice to promote our profession with diversity and positivity in our practice...." Read more

6 customers mention "Enjoyment"6 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it entertaining and educational, with a mix of sorrow and joy. It's an enjoyable weekend read for them.

"...However as it went on it became more interesting & exciting...." Read more

"...I highly recommend "Born for Life." It is entertaining while at the same time educational...." Read more

"...Since I am a retired OB nurse, I found it fun to read, and altogether it is a good book...." Read more

"...the heart of a woman who has known the depths of sorrow and the heights of joy...." Read more

6 customers mention "Midwifery training"6 positive0 negative

Customers find the book interesting in its portrayal of midwifery training in a different time. They appreciate the wonderful lady who delivered their babies and the story of love and motherhood with all its challenges.

"...This is such a tale of growth and maturation - from the incredible woman at the center of the story to the medical world she works within...." Read more

"...This wonderful lady delivered a baby of mine in the last 6 months of Pahiatua hospital being opened and I am grateful for her kindness...." Read more

"Many women will appreciate Julie's story of love and motherhood with all its challenges...." Read more

"I enjoyed reading about midwifery and Julie's journey. What a strong woman. Would love to read another book about her time in England." Read more

5 customers mention "Authenticity"5 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's authenticity. They find it realistic, honest, and courageous.

"...Ms. Watson's personal story was honest and impactful...." Read more

"I love reading stories about midwives, So, this being true life made it that much more interesting. Good reading book." Read more

"Very realistic, honest and courageous. Loved it." Read more

"A wonderful story - I appreciate the authenticity and vulnerability you have shown in the of sharing your life story! Thank you :)" Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2017
    I have just finished reading this book and my review will follow the author’s Amazon blurb below.
    “A nurse aide position in the local maternity annexe at the age of sixteen gave Julie a love for being with women during labour and birth and caring for mothers and their babies.

    Life could not have been happier until the tragic death of her own baby in the first hour of life, led to depression, loneliness and despair.

    This true story tells of Julie’s struggle to triumph over adversity and follows her journey to fulfill her dream and become the midwife she was born to be.”
    There are those books that a reader wants to simply allow all the nuances of said book into their soul. It is rare, indeed, to elicit this kind of response in me and this book does just that!
    Age 16 is young to start working as a nurse aide in a local hospital, let alone a maternity ward, and the entire birthing process. Watson fell in love with pregnant mothers, and assisting the nurses, and mothers, in bring a new life into this world. As a registered, I fully understood this.
    Marrying at age 17 doesn’t always work, and there were additional stresses in Watson’s life, but still, finding faith once again and persistence by both husband and wife made this marriage tough but full of love. Their first child was a boy and full of energy; then came heartache from a miscarriage and a baby girl born but didn’t live. The knot in this baby’s umbilical cord was loose, unlike my first born son’s whose knot was tight, yet this baby girl died. Watson wasn’t allowed to see this child, nor attend its funeral. I saw my son for a few seconds before burial. I know what this author felt and how it affected and changed her life and the lives around her. Deep depression and losing a child is truly the King of Loss. I want readers to know that this book is much more than what I have just written. This substance includes more children, health issues, and sheer love and happiness. In time, Watson became a midwife in her own right, and reading about the emotional and tender moments is beautiful. She writes of about a few of her cases, describing the beauty, miracles, the wonder, achievements, and God’s love. I highly recommend this wonderful book.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2023
    I found the book repetitious & slow at first. However as it went on it became more interesting & exciting. I thought that the struggles she went through with the death of her baby, depression, & tension in her marriage, would be an encouragement to other women experiencing that same challenges. She overcame disappointments & strove to accomplish her dreams. Yet at the same time never forget the needs of her husband & family. She acknowledged that Jesus, her Savior had given her the wisdom, strength and guidance she needed to accomplish all she did. A life well spent!
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2016
    What an intriguing memoir! And what a memorable life! As much as I adore this book, I think I love the book cover even more. Interesting book covers never fail to catch my attention and tend to sell me on a book instantly. Sometimes I'm sorry, and sometimes I not. And sometimes I uncover a gem ... like "Born for Life." Julie's account of her fascinating life as a midwife unfolds beautifully as she matures into a job with very little training and assistance. Although wrought with painful emotion, especially during the loss of her own second child, Julie still managed to make me chuckle a time or two while recounting an amusing delivery or a lighthearted time in her life. I highly recommend "Born for Life." It is entertaining while at the same time educational. The world of childbirth has changed a lifetime since the 1970's. I had no idea how much until Julie enlightened me.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2016
    This story is a wonderful biography of a young woman who learns how to be a nurse's aide in the maternity ward. The story goes into great details and is very visual. The life of this young woman is one that has its ups and downs. If you enjoy biographies this is a book you will enjoy.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2018
    This was a cosy, enjoyable read; rather like a chat at a kitchen table with a good friend over a nice cup of tea – or rather, a number of chats, as it wasn’t a book to read in one sitting, but to savour, just like catching up with a friend on a regular basis. The author’s strength of character shone through from start to finish as she invited the reader into her world of midwifery and into her personal life. There is no doubt that she has a true vocation and there was a feeling that her clients would feel safe with her, just as the reader does. I learnt quite a lot too, which is always a bonus. There are sad moments, and struggles, but always there is a positivity and a certainty of purpose that makes this a lovely, inspiring book.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2024
    Excellent story of a young woman and her struggles to become a midwife. The ups and downs of the different types of training needed and to be able to raise a family during the years it took her.

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Brigid P. Gallagher
    5.0 out of 5 stars Compelling and sensitively written memoir
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 14, 2018
    The author draws the reader in from the outset in this compelling and sensitively written memoir. Beginning with her experiences as a nurse aide in rural New Zealand in the 1970's, she charts her journey to become a fully qualified midwife.
    I was fascinated by the differences in birthing procedures and the changing attitudes towards pregnancy, unmarried mothers, home births...
    Although she experienced the loss of her second child at birth, the authors love of children and her passion for her career shine throughout.
    Highly Recommended.
  • SusiQ
    5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommended
    Reviewed in Germany on September 23, 2017
    I loved this. I loved the Call the Midwife series so I was particullary interested in this story. This is Julie's story of working maternity in New Zealand in the early 70's and how the changing times affected her and her career. She also addresses her own trauma, having lost her second child. All in all, a fast moving, enjoyable read. I would highly recommend this.
  • Elizabeth Moore
    5.0 out of 5 stars An Uplifting Memoir.
    Reviewed in Australia on January 8, 2017
    I read this book in one day as I couldn't put it down. A gentle read, beautifully observed and written is sharply highlighted by several tragedies that would have stopped many of us. The author's journey through pain and loss leads to a new resolve and a life changing plunge into the challenging profession of midwifery. My sadness over several chapters was definitely lifted as I read of the amazing life Julie Watson created for herself. This book deserves a quiet day, cups of tea and time for reflection.
  • T. R. Robinson
    4.0 out of 5 stars An Interesting and Informative Memoir
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 15, 2017
    Giving birth, many will consider, is just a part of life’s easy routine. Of course, in some ways it is nevertheless, it is doubtful the majority of mother’s would agree. This detailed memoir clearly shows there is much to be taken into account, and experienced, even with the most ‘straight forward’ of deliveries. The author, Julie Watson, has shared much from her own midwifery experience and knowledge which some may appreciate however, others may wish they did not know about it all, well not until it was absolutely necessary.

    Despite all the interesting and informative details in this book, it is principally a memoir that records the author’s own experiences and challenges, both personal and professional. The read commences with her earlier years as a teenager setting out on her career path. Her nervous concerns regarding her ability to fulfil the duties required are affectively conveyed.

    Personal and professional aspects are intermixed well and the characters encountered are drawn sufficiently for the reader to comprehend and visualise the individual participants. The professional details are interesting and informative, especially for the uninitiated. Occasionally, for some, these may prove too graphic though really interesting. Indeed there are parts that may be described as comprising ‘gore’ though, surprisingly perhaps, these are not too off putting. The inclusion of all this informative detail will help readers understand why the book has gained a few awards.

    As already mentioned, besides the professional aspects, this is also, and overall, a personal memoir. The author’s own tale is full of changes and challenges both for herself and her family. There is love, disappointment, sorrow and turmoil. It would be unfair to potential readers to say too much more except this is a memoir that shows how such issues and circumstances not only impact the individual but also upon those in close proximity.

    The author’s determined nature comes through especially when it comes to gaining her qualifications. Thankfully her husband, parents and in-laws were more than willing to help, particularly when children came into the picture.

    As stated, the author has included a lot of informative detail. Some readers may however feel this sometimes drills down to an unnecessary level and is occasionally slightly repetitive. Though these do not interfere with the tale per se they may prove irritating for a few. Presumably the desire to ensure scenes and scenarios are effectively imparted motivated this anomaly.

    This is an honest, heartfelt, authentic memoir. Besides the personal aspects which memoir readers will find interesting, it would probably also be of interest to expectant mothers and those considering a family. Though, as already suggested, some may prefer not to know or hear about the gruesome details until it is absolute necessary (pre-natal classes will cover the important aspects). Those contemplating a midwifery career may also find it a useful, illuminating read.
  • Lyn Cox
    4.0 out of 5 stars Four Stars
    Reviewed in Australia on July 21, 2015
    I thoroughly enjoyed a glimpse into Julie's life. I wanted to read more. It finished too soon

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