Sixteen Writers on the Decision Not to Have Kids    edited by Meghan Daum Order:  USA  Can Picador, 2016 (2015) Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch This collection of essays broadens the discussion that centers on whether children are a requirement for a fulfilling life. Sixteen individuals explain why they opted out of parenthood in the essays brought together here by Meghan Daum. The core message of this book, explains Daum, is 'that parenthood is not and moreover should not be for everyone'. The thirteen women and three men, who are all professional writers, share their views and represent a range of generations, geographical areas, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The list of contributors includes Rosemary Mahoney, Paul Lisicky, M.G. Lord, Pam Houston, Courtney Hodell and Geoff Dyer. Their candid and honest comments on electing out of parenthood are as thoughtfully provocative as they are courageous and, at times, controversial. They also dispel the common myth that those who willfully elect to remain childless are selfish, shallow, or self-absorbed. Daum ends the book's introduction by writing that she hopes the reader will find these narratives 'captivating, exasperating, entertaining, and enlightening'. She needn't worry, for these are certainly some of the responses those who pick up this book will use to describe it. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews