Book Review: '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-