This is a difficult age to be a woman. The woman who aspires to raise children for the glory of God, to develop the ministry of the home, or to co-labor with her husband is deemed “old-fashioned” or “unfulfilled.” The modern lure of independence and career has bewitched an entire generation to exchange the beauty of Christian womanhood for the temporary enticements of a society at war with the family.

Amidst this confusion, Kathleen Norris’s Mother is a refreshing call to sanity. Mother is the fictional tale of a young lady who leaves home and repudiates family life in the hope of finding personal fulfillment through independence and a career. She decides that home life is a poor choice in the face of life in the big city. But God dramatically changes her heart as she realizes that wealth and position are illusory and that independence can enslave a young lady. She discovers that the greatest woman she has ever known is her mother and now she longs for home and motherhood.

After reading this book, editor Jennie Chancey wrote, “That night, I opened the book, intending to read a chapter or two before bed. An hour passed before I realized how far I had read. I could not put the book down and finished it just shortly before midnight. As I turned the last page, tears filled my eyes. I knelt by my bed and asked God to forgive me for my bitterness and my unwillingness to trust and obey Him.”

Vision Forum is pleased to offer this restored and revised version of the 1911 classic in the hope that girls will once again aspire to be like their mothers.

Customer Comments

I just finished reading the book Mother and wanted to send a word of commendation. It was definitely one of the most inspiring and encouraging books I have ever read on this subject. Though it is a simple book, the message is so profound. How thrilling to find the calling of motherhood exalted and the blessing of children conveyed in such a vital way. Thank you so much for republishing this. —Mrs. C.A.

I wanted to thank you for taking the time to work on Mother. I just finished reading it and loved it. I passed it on to my fourteen-year-old daughter and she loved it, too. I’m just beginning (twelve weeks) my ninth pregnancy and Mother was just what I needed to remind me of all those great reasons to have all these children!!! My husband and I are theologically and philosophically “there” and have been for many years, however there are some seasons that are especially trying and my pleasure in mothering wanes! Mother renewed my perspective. I plan on passing out many copies to other weary mothers. —Mrs. E.