Milk: An Intimate History of Breastfeeding

Milk is an essential book that explores the social, cultural, and historical meanings of breastfeeding, offering comfort and solace to anyone who has fed or will feed a child.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Milk is a fundamental element, serving as the first source of nourishment and the initial substance to touch our tongues upon entering the world. It symbolizes the promise of sustenance, care, and life. In her captivating book, cultural historian Joanna Wolfarth delves into an intimate exploration, extending beyond the mother-baby relationship to examine how the world perceives caregivers, their bodies, labor, and communal connections. Through a harmonious blend of art, social histories, philosophy, folk wisdom, and contemporary interviews with women from diverse corners of the globe, Milk unveils the multifaceted representations and suppressions of infant feeding. It sheds light on previously unexplored territories and provides solace and comfort to anyone who has engaged in or will embark on the nurturing journey of feeding a child.

This captivating work offers a profound exploration of the social, cultural, and historical significance of breastfeeding, embarking on a fascinating journey that transcends the boundaries of mother and baby. Author Elinor Cleghorn, in her review of the book, describes it as a sublime masterpiece, praising its erudite, intimate, and compelling nature. Leah Hazard, another author, echoes this sentiment, highlighting Milk as a long-overdue history that sheds light on the often overlooked aspects of infant feeding. BBC History Magazine also commends the book, recognizing it as a story for us all.

Joanna Wolfarth, the author, employs her personal experience as a foundation for her exploration, taking readers on an intimate journey of discovery. She questions how the world views caregivers, their bodies, their labor, and their communal bonds. By seamlessly integrating art, social histories, philosophy, folk wisdom, and contemporary interviews with women from diverse backgrounds, Milk unveils the intricate tapestry of infant feeding. It explores the ways in which it has been both represented and repressed, celebrated and censured throughout history.

Through this comprehensive approach, Milk charts previously unexplored territory, offering insights and perspectives that challenge prevailing narratives. It provides solace and comfort to anyone who has fed or will feed a child, recognizing the profound emotional and physical connection that arises from nurturing and supporting a newborn. Milk serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of women, as well as the transformative power of breastfeeding.

In conclusion, Milk is a remarkable book that delves into the depths of the social, cultural, and historical meanings of breastfeeding. Through its intimate exploration, compelling storytelling, and thoughtful analysis, it offers a profound understanding of the significance of infant feeding. Whether you are a caregiver, a parent, or simply interested in human history and culture, this book is a must-read that will enrich your perspective and inspire your journey.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474623230