On Our Own: Unmarried Motherhood In America

Single moms -- a ''curiosity'' to some, a ''monstrosity'' to others -- rear about a third of all children born today. To flesh out such statistics and stereotypes -- and inform her own decision to become a single mom -- former Time correspondent Ludtke conducted dozens of interviews with both Yuppie mothers and their teenage, inner-city counterparts to compare their choices, lives, and values. In On Our Own: Unmarried Motherhood In America Ludtke's conclusion on the broader issue -- that marriage will be revived only if it more equitably accommodates both parents -- is backed by anecdotes in this sensitive, intelligent study. A-