In the wake of major media attention paid to the complexity of women's professional choices during their childbearing years, Sachs, a former network television producer turned freelancer and mother of two, sets out to reveal winning strategies for mothers who wish to continue working after having children, interviewing celebrity and "everyday" moms about their decisions and work-life arrangements. Of course, there is no magic secret to reveal, but what Sachs does
provide is an in-depth consideration of the successes and failures of various choices individual women have made. A major theme is the importance of being flexible in both schedules and expectations. The women also agree that excellent child-care options, supportive spouses and an ability to let go of perfectionism in all realms are key to obtaining a happy life/work balance. Stories from women like cosmetics entrepreneur Bobbi Brown, CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien and NBC News anchor Ann Curry provide motivating models of determination (though readers will note that these women can afford child-care choices unavailable to many). But celebrity splash aside, Sachs has a clear focus, examining the personal priorities of women who may or may not have the choice to continue working, but who all believe that their professional identity is an integral part of their satisfaction with life and a beneficial component in their ability to be good mothers. (May 1)
