I WISH THERE WERE BABY FACTORIES

A debut novel, based on the author’s experiences, about a hopeful young woman’s trials and tribulations with infertility and family planning.

Lauren and Mack Weiss, a young, upwardly mobile couple, agree to start a family but quickly discover numerous obstacles impeding their plans. At the book’s start, narrator Lauren seems to have it all: a doting husband, a high-powered political job, a fancy car. Describing themselves as “dinks”—double income no kids—Lauren and Mack are financially very comfortable. The only thing they need to complete the picture is a baby in the proverbial baby carriage. After several months of fruitless “TTC” (trying to conceive), Lauren begins an endless tour of doctors’ offices. Slowly and painstakingly, she discovers both physiological and psychological issues that may be standing in her way of conceiving. As Lauren researches and addresses potential avenues for getting a baby of her own, she’s confronted with many false starts and devastating losses. Along the way, Weinberg provides copious information about modern medical advances in fertility treatment and prenatal care in a manner that is interesting and accessible, as well as supportive of the narrative. Despite its heavy subject matter, the story is well-paced and witty, sometimes even laugh-out-loud funny. There are moments throughout the story, however, where the author overuses adjectives and superlatives—for example, when the narrator repeatedly declares such truisms as “Mack [is] the world’s most thoughtful husband.” Aside from its overly descriptive tone, the narrative is fast-paced and engaging, often reading like a casual conversation between girlfriends. As the book progresses, readers witness Lauren’s and Mack’s pain and hope, their longing and despair, and their endearing dedication to each other in the face of misfortune. Based on the true story of the author’s own difficulties starting a family, the tale will ring true for many who have endured similar struggles.

A sometimes-difficult but uplifting read about the resilience of parents, even before their child-rearing journey begins.