The Girls Who Went Away summary

The Untold Stories of Surrendered Mothers

In The Girls Who Went Away, Ann Fessler delves into the untold stories of women who surrendered their children for adoption in the mid-20th century. The book begins with the author's personal story, revealing her own experience as an adopted child and her journey to understand her birth mother's decision to give her up.

Fessler then expands her focus to include the experiences of countless other women who found themselves in similar situations. She conducted interviews with over 100 women who had surrendered their children for adoption during the 1950s and 1960s, a time when premarital sex was heavily stigmatized, and single motherhood was considered shameful.

The Pressure to Surrender

Through these interviews, Fessler uncovers the societal pressures and expectations that forced these women to give up their babies. Many of them were sent away to maternity homes, isolated from their families and communities, and coerced into signing adoption papers. They were often told that they were unfit to raise their children and that giving them up was the best option for everyone involved.

These women's stories reveal the emotional trauma and lasting impact of this experience. They describe the pain of separation, the shame they felt, and the silence they were forced to maintain about their past. Fessler's work brings to light the hidden history of these women, who were often forgotten or dismissed by society.

The Aftermath of Surrender

After exploring the circumstances that led to the surrender of their children, The Girls Who Went Away delves into the aftermath of this decision. Fessler reveals that many of these women were haunted by their choice for decades, struggling with feelings of guilt, grief, and loss. Some went on to marry and have other children, keeping their past a secret, while others remained single, unable to move on from the trauma.

Furthermore, Fessler highlights the impact of these surrenders on the children who were given up for adoption. Many of them grew up feeling abandoned and unloved, unaware of the societal forces that led to their separation from their birth mothers. The book emphasizes the need for greater understanding and empathy towards these women and their children.

Reclaiming Their Stories

In the final section of The Girls Who Went Away, Fessler explores the women's journey towards reclaiming their stories. Over time, many of them began to speak out about their experiences, challenging the societal norms that had silenced them for so long. They formed support groups, shared their stories in public forums, and advocated for changes in adoption laws and practices.

By sharing their stories, these women not only found healing for themselves but also helped to shed light on a dark chapter in American history. Fessler's book serves as a powerful testament to their resilience and courage, and a call for greater understanding and compassion towards all those affected by the adoption process.