Are You Embracing Otherhood?

Pamela Chan, BCFamily.ca/Editorial

In Otherhood, Melanie Notkin, takes the reader on an intimate and insightful journey of what it’s like to be single, never married and childless when apparently no one thinks you should be. She courageously invites us into her intimate world, experiences, and feelings, in a way most close friends wouldn’t even do. And in doing so, she beautifully highlights the importance of being authentic and true to yourself, even if your dreams and wishes don’t come on cue. (Dr. Robi Ludwig, psychotherapist and TV commentator)

Melanie Notkin – the founder of SavvyAuntie.com – is one of the most thoughtful people with whom I have had the pleasure of communicating long distance over social media.   Melanie could be right in the middle of a severe weather system in New York City, juggling all kinds of concerns, and she’ll reply to your “I hope everything’s OK over there” tweet.  In the midst of dashing about the busy and fabulous metropolis that is Manhattan, she is never late replying to a message or “mention”. Single handedly, and with the support of the community of women she has built, she has refined and even redefined how we understand the role of aunts in society – in particular western society.  By extension, you could use the principles and ideas she has shared to redefine and appreciate what it means to be an devoted uncle.  That village raising children we’ve been hearing about doesn’t just exist in other countries.  It’s happening right here in British Columbia, across North America and beyond.

I was an auntie for 9 years before having children.  I was a “full-on, thinking about being an auntie every day and doing what I could” kind of aunt.  I still am.  People often tell me my approach is unique.  It isn’t!  Follow Savvy Auntie content online and you’ll see that I’m right.  I have so much time and respect for the work that Melanie does.  She knows her chosen topic well from her own personal experience, interacting with others and a substantial amount of research.  Her latest book would make a fabulous read for anyone who wants to understand the position of single, never married and childless – but child full – women .  (Child full because their lives are full of meaningful interactions with children.) Gift the book to yourself or a friend*, or order up a copy from your library.

You can also check out Melanie’s previous book Savvy Auntie:  The Ultimate Guide for Cool Aunts, Great-Aunts, Godmothers and All Women Who Love Kids.

As Melanie mentions in the interview posted below, if you would like to share your feedback with Melanie, reach out to her via social media.  She’d love to hear from you.

Related

Melanie Notkin in a National Post interview.

Melanie on Twitter.

Melanie on Facebook.

*This piece is not a sponsored post; however,  I am going to put in affiliate links for the books in case you want to order your own copies (and not pay for shipping, by the way).

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