When author Laura Carroll began searching for books on childfree marriage, she found few that even mentioned married couples that chose not to be parents. That discovery inspired her to write Families of Two: Interviews with Happily Married Couples without Children by Choice. Families of Two is an enjoyable and informative read for childfree couples, a must-have for couples that are currently deciding whether to have children, and an excellent gift for pushy friends and relatives.

In this highly recommended book, 15 revealing interviews with happily married childfree couples provide a roadmap to long-term happiness in marriages without children. Each couple was interviewed in their home. Ms. Carroll sets the stage for each interview by describing the surroundings, pets, and hospitality she received, and then each couple speaks in their own words about their marriage, their childfree decision, other people’s perceptions of them, and their need to be role models to future generations. In addition, they offer advice to couples currently deciding whether to have children.

Each couple tells their unique love story: how they met, fell in love, and decided to marry. They explain what their lives are like, what they do for fun, and how they divide day-to-day tasks, such as finances and housework. They reveal their reasons for marrying, the challenges they have faced in their married life, and how they make their marriage work. They discuss how they arrived at their childfree decision, how their backgrounds influenced their decision, and how their decision has affected their lives. Their contributions to the next generation of children, through their occupations, volunteer activities, and extended family, are also explored.

The couples were questioned about regrets. While some expressed doubts about what their legacy will be or what arrangements they may need for their old age, their responses focused more on their views that having children would have adversely affected their lives rather than regret over their choice.

Overwhelmingly, the couples interviewed think that others perceive them as selfish for not having children. They also believe that parents are envious of the independence, spontaneity, and freedom that they enjoy. The couples expressed satisfaction with their lifestyles and their worry that the responsibility of raising children would have harmed their relationship, limited their flexibility, and required them to relinquish control of their own destinies.

Whether you have already decided not to have children, are still considering your options, or are trying to understand a loved one who has chosen marriage without parenthood, Families of Two provides valuable insight into childfree marriage. This book answers many questions about voluntarily childless marriage and leaves the reader with a deep appreciation of the value of marriage without children.

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