I began the new year with an old favourite. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant is a book I have read at least three times now.
It is a fictionalised account, told in first person narrative, of the story of Dinah from the bible. While I am not completely acquainted with the original story, I love this one.
I felt it fitting to read this story again as it focuses much on the wonder of pregnancy, childbirth and child rearing. The 'red tent' being a reference to the menstruation tent where the women would spend their time away from the rest of the world during that time of the month or childbirth.
Funny, magical and painfully sad. It is so beautifully written, filled with wonderful characters and some downright evil characters too, always focusing on the strength of women within a male dominated society.
There is a cast of thousands, but it is so easy to keep track, as each character has their own personality and it is almost impossible to be confused.
A truly amazing story, which makes me all the more excited about being a part of the wonder of growing a child inside me, and becoming a mother.
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