White Blood
Lucie Wilk
2023
Overview:
White Blood traces the rich and complex history of human milk from ancient times to the modern age. Professor Lawrence Weaver — a paediatrician and historian — explores the evolving roles of wet nursing, milk banking, medicalisation, and breastfeeding politics. The book combines historical anecdotes, cultural commentary, and medical insight to tell the story of milk as both nourishment and symbol.
Why It’s Included:
This book offers a deep, scholarly look at how human milk has been understood, used, and sometimes exploited. It supports informed, respectful breastfeeding advocacy by illuminating the broader forces — medical, economic, and cultural — that have shaped feeding practices over centuries.
Who It’s For:
Suited for readers with an interest in the history of medicine, lactation professionals, breastfeeding advocates, and scholars of motherhood and care. Also a fascinating read for those who enjoy understanding the cultural context behind everyday practices.
“Human milk is one of the most expensive liquids on our planet, yet one of the the least valued by society. This book delves into the history of breastmilk and its place in human culture”
Further Reading:
The Politics of Breastfeeding – Gabrielle Palmer
Out of Milk – Emily Barrett
