Hansen's study of the informal childcare networks that working parents construct refutes the myth that families in the US are independent, isolated and self-reliant units. The study is based on extensive interviews with four low, moderate and high-income white, working families. Based on her research, Hansen (sociology and women's studies, Brandeis U.) presents a series of policy suggestions for improving the environment in which working families raise children. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)