Matrescence: On the Metamorphosis of Pregnancy, Childbirth and Motherhood

This groundbreaking book by acclaimed journalist Lucy Jones offers a radical new examination of the profound transition into motherhood, exploring how it dramatically affects the mind, brain, and body. During pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood, women undergo a metamorphosis as significant as adolescence, yet this life-altering period has been largely neglected by science, medicine, and philosophy. Jones introduces the emerging concept of 'matrescence' to illuminate these seismic changes.

Drawing on extensive research across neuroscience, evolutionary biology, psychoanalysis, sociology, and ecology, this investigation reveals that the changes in the maternal mind, brain, and body are far more profound and enduring than commonly acknowledged. The book critiques the patriarchal and capitalist systems that contribute to the untenable situation many mothers face today, seeking to unshackle all parents from oppressive social norms.

• A radical new examination of the transition into motherhood and its effects on the mind, brain, and body.
• Introduces and explores the emerging concept of 'matrescence'.
• Ground-breaking investigation based on research from neuroscience, biology, psychoanalysis, and sociology.
• Recognized as a New Yorker, New Statesman and Daily Mail BOOK OF THE YEAR.
• Longlisted for the 2024 Women's Prize for Non-Fiction.
• Praised by Jude Rogers (Observer) as 'The best book I've ever read about motherhood'.

• Author: Lucy Jones
• Publisher: Penguin
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Publication Date: June 6, 2024
• Print Length: 320 pages
• Dimensions: 12.8 x 1.7 x 19.8 cm
• Weight: 238 g
• ISBN-13: 978-1802061307

This urgent examination deepens our understanding of motherhood, femininity, identity, and our relationships with each other and the living world. Essential reading for understanding the modern institution of motherhood.