I want to have a child, whatever it takes! [Paperback]

Carmen Martinez Jover (Author, Illustrator), none (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 27, 2006

In a clear, sincere and clear way, Carmen presents in her autobiography the problem of infertility, representing it through images in her pictures. After telling the story of the constant struggle between doctors and syringes, the author decides to paint chairs as a way of relief, chairs that express each one of her longings, each moment of sadness, each situation of powerlessness, as well as that of sharing with her partner, the frustrations which this kind of situation brings, and concludes with a beautiful lesson demonstrating that there is always a future and a reason why even if in the beginning we can t find the answer. You feel how the author drops into emotional free fall until she hits the bottom, and then, like a new person, lifts herself up, greater and stronger spiritually, transforming a nightmare into her present day strength and motivation. We perceive two different persons, one before and one after separated by infertility. The book is simple, beautiful and enriching.

Editorial Reviews

Review

I can not describe in words all the emotions I felt, since I started the book I felt trapped, I felt so identified, that I supposed I passed through all the stages Carmen passed as she wrote her book. I started reading and felt a knot in my throut, I could not stop reading as I cleaned my tears to see my own emotions printed in her book. When I saw the explications of her painting, I understood perfectly and I identified myself, I could not let go until I finished reading it and when I finished I felt a lot of peace. --Lulu

I identified myself with Carmen from the very beginning, I cried and cried and cried as I read, and I could not stop reading until I finished the book. I told all my family about it and circulated amongst them. I wanted all the world to know how I felt and no one better than Carmen to explain this. --Olga

About the Author

Carmen Martínez Jover born in Walton-on Thames, Surrey, England, in 1959. Since 1969 she lives in Mexico City. Due to her years of infertility led her to paint the roller coaster of emotions she went through. She participates with infertility support groups throughout the world.

Product Details

• Paperback: 111 pages
• Publisher: none; 1st edition (April 27, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9709410334
• ISBN-13: 978-9709410334
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,257,695 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars We are not blindfolded..., July 14, 2008

By 

Tracy Foote "Author: Kid's ROTH IRA Handbook:... (New York City) - See all my reviews

This review is from: I want to have a child, whatever it takes! (Paperback)

When you receive this book, you will know it is about the author's struggle with infertility, how she expressed it through painting, and ultimately became a new person.

I highly recommend taking time to view all the paintings prior to reading. This will allow you to see the art through your own interpretation, based on your own experiences and struggles in life. As a surrogate mother, I know I viewed the art in a slightly different light. Later, as you read the book, you will discover the artist's desired symbolism in each piece adding further to your own appreciation. (Similar to reading a book before viewing a movie, here I suggest viewing the art in your own eyes before reading the book.)

By far, my favorite piece for both the art and emotions represented was one titled, "There's Still Time to Change." In this painting the chair is blindfolded but its shadow is not. So often in life, not just with infertility, one can be so focused on a reaching a goal that it seems we are blindfolded. We strive to go down a single path, looking at one solution, not realizing or listening should others remind us - there could be another way. In the end, one must come to realize the answer is within oneself. We truly are not blindfolded. The answer is within us to make our choices in life. Happiness is found within oneself.

Another painting I was fond of (as I am passionate about the indigenous culture in Latin America) was an image of a "mother" chair with a "baby" chair wrapped around its back in a traditional Indian blanket (much as the Indians of Latin America wrap their infants while traveling the roads and markets). This is certainly an intriguing and creative book.

Doctors and fathers gain a greater understanding of the struggles and emotions involved in infertility and why women may retreat, keeping their pain inside. For the women, they will be reassured: they are not alone, everyone chooses different paths, and we can all find happiness.

5.0 out of 5 stars Carmen's story eases the journey of infertility., December 21, 2006

By 

Robin Newman (california) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: I want to have a child, whatever it takes! (Paperback)

As an artist Carmen can express what everyone experiencing infertility feels. Read this book to understand the depth of desire for children and how it is all consuming. A parent will find unknown strength to help their child, and a person desiring to parent will find this too in order to persevere through this sometimes long, yet always painful journey.If you are trying to resolve your own infertility, this book will bring lots of comfort. I had 20 years of my own infertility struggles; wish I had such understanding then! I recommend this book to anyone!