The Great Read: The Woman Who Wouldn’t Stop Having Children
MaryBeth Lewis had 13 kids, but she wanted more. Her desire to be a new mom again at 65 led to felony charges — and a custody battle like no other.
The New York Times
The Great Read

November 2, 2025, 10:01 a.m. Eastern time

On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go.

A woman with short hair and glasses surrounded by three young children.

Elinor Carucci for The New York Times

The Woman Who Wouldn’t Stop Having Children

MaryBeth Lewis had 13 kids, but she wanted more. Her desire to be a new mom again at 65 led to felony charges — and a custody battle like no other.

Open now

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times.

To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

LiveIntent LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018