Within the Pregnant Pause
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1667120751/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_V9AY23WH0KPC3E4HAJDP is the second book written by obstetrician Amali Lokugamage. Exploring the creativity unleashed with childbirth, it is a beautifully written exploration of the potential within us all. I was delighted to provide the illustrations when Amali asked me.
Amali and I have known each other since our teens, sharing the fun and exploits of being students at university in St Andrews, Scotland. We have remained lifelong friends.
My sister asked us to explain how our collaboration came about. All we can say is that "in rather a mysterious way, one thing led to another". We hope you will enjoy the text and illustrations, and feel something of the mystical which we have both tried to convey.
Reviews
"The artwork wonderfully weaves in with the words."
"It’s a book to return to again and again. The necessary pause, the time for growth and nurturing of a new life inside, of being changed irrevocably, speaks to all of us, whether mothers or not. It speaks of the need for stillness, for putting aside fear in that liminal space. When we find ourselves (sometimes not of our choice, as in the current pandemic), thrust into different circumstances, there can still be growth. It also speaks of the need for community and interdependence."
"The spacious layout of poetic, reflective text facing full page images, means one can ponder, can read it through, or pick and choose, browse and stay with a particular insight or thought for some time. "
"I loved reading this book. I found it so calming and peaceful with artwork on one page and poetic writing on the next. It combined beauty with medical knowledge and was so soothing to read through."