The New American Grandparent

A sensitive, compassionate, and finely grained portrait of grandparenthood in contemporary American society. Cherlin and Furstenberg are to be congratulated for entering this arena of kin relations, which has, until now, been almost completely neglected. -- Lillian B. Rubin, author of Worlds of Pain and Intimate Strangers Lively and down-to-earth, this authoritative book should interest all thoughtful adults...For most grandparents, this book shows, the great challenge is how to maintain family ties, but not at the cost of independence and autonomy. -- Matilda White Riley, Associate Director, National Institute on Aging Superb--a fascinating, beautifully written exploration of an important but neglected aspect of contemporary social life. This book represents the sociological imagination and social research at its best. -- Vern L. Bengston, Director Gerontology Research Institute Andrus Gerontology Center, University of Southern California

Two leading sociologists of the family examine the changing role of American grandparents—how they strive for both independence and family ties.Two leading sociologists of the family examine the changing role of American grandparents—how they strive for both independence and family ties.