Extreme Motherhood - The Triplet Diaries
Extreme Motherhood - The Triplet Diaries
Essential reading for all parents of multiples - there are very few books available which offer more than a passing reference to twins or more Extreme Motherhood will also also appeal to anyone interested in how people cope in extreme circumstances.
The idea of triplets, let alone the reality for example, the 28 hours a day that statistics record as the minimum to keep them fed, clean and healthy - makes grown adults stop and stare. Funny. honest and very touching, this book will allow people to do just that - without having to pretend to be polite.
On 22 December 2004, at a routine ultrasound dating scan, Jackie Clune was told she was expecting triplets. She had not undertaken any fertility treatment - indeed the pregnancy was 'an accident' as her daughter was under a year old at the time. She and her partner were going from one child to four in almost a single bound.
Thrown headlong into the world of multiple births - a risky, scary and unpredictable world where there are few norms, where there is little support and practically no dedicated literature Jackie's first response was a profound desire to punch the radiographer.
This is the story of what happened next. From the first scan to the babies' first Christmas. she charts the physical. emotional and practical rollercoaster of bringing three lives into the world all in one go.
Fantastic. This book made me laugh out loud - Davina McCall.
I laughed. I cried. I had a hysterectomy! - Jo Brand.
My triplet daughters are 20 years old. gorgeous young women, away at university (yes, Jackie Clune, civilised times do lie ahead!). But boy, this book brought back so many memories of the muddle that was their infancy. I love the author's humour and honesty - her background as a comedian and broadcaster makes for sharp. insightful writing. Her account of what it was like when reality TV cameras turned up in her home made me quake with laughter. A hugely entertaining read. however many babies you've got.
Cleo - England Mar 2007
As a hasbian mother of(now nine year old)twins, I coudn't put this down. Clune writes beautifully and with great humour, but it was the powerful detailing of the multiple/prem experience which I found completely compelling.She captures the roller coaster of joy and exhaustion, the initial fears and the relentless grind - but makes it clear that she wouldn't have it any other way.And yes, she trumps my experience as well as that of most parents I know, but does it so matter-of-factly. you have to forgive her!A great read.
DC - Manchester Feb 2007
Witty and engaging. Especially like the idea of Nike sex ('just do it') that motherhood brings. It makes you feel guilty for ever having complained about the lack of sleep a single child can bring. Eleanor Brown - UK Feb 2007
I love this book. written so well it is just so easy to read. It is funny and light hearted. I have just not wanted to put the book down a real page turner. A fantastic insight into one families life together and there amazing family. C.A Mullins - Surrey. UK July 2006
Being an expectant mother of twins. I loved this book. I would recommend it to anyone expecting a multiple birth. June 2006