This volume presents a variety of perspectives on mothering as a socially-constructed relationship focused on caring and nurturing. Crossing a range of ethnicities and classes, it addresses different ideas and practices of mothering, the need to go beyond biological determinism and family values , and the conditions and resources of mothering. Since mothering is central to the reproduction of social relations - the main vehicle by which people form their first identities and learn their place in society - it constitutes a contested terrain. This work brings together important voices on the most examined and essential aspect of female being.