Many warn of overpopulation. They claim that the planet can barely accommodate the current population. But is this true? In reality, the birthrates in an increasing number of countries are in a persistent and rapid decline and have reached a crisis phase. Scientists warn that the world’s overall population will soon reach zero growth and begin dropping over the next few years––something that has never happened in recorded history! What would it mean for the world and the United States if global populations began to shrink? We are already seeing how the economies of many countries are struggling to provide for a growing disproportion of aging citizens with fewer younger people in the workforce able to support them. How long will some of our schools and universities continue to remain open while drawing upon an ever-diminishing pool of young students? Award-winning author and writer, Joseph A. Lewis, examines these and other related concerns after spending the better part of a decade thoroughly researching a topic that is fast becoming the most important issue of our times. Although much of the data and information he presents is consequential and sobering, the overall message of the book is one of hope and a rediscovery of the joy and abundant blessings children bring to our lives. The stories of real lives and real people whose experiences of raising children under extraordinarily challenging circumstances are also a major feature of the book. Their compelling and inspiring stories remind us of what children truly are: a supreme gift that God invites us to accept into our lives and into a world that desperately needs them! Praise for Rediscovering the Joy of Children & Family : "Compelling and factual!! This book is an absolute gem of Wisdom and Understanding, especially considering the trends of our current times. ... Rediscovering the Joy of Children & Family could in fact be the cure for our current cultural epidemic. Everyone in the world needs to read this book. Trust me, it is worth your time and attention." -- Pete Demaio, co-founder Mission Love and Life & First Fishermen Media "Rigorously fact-based, wonderfully anecdotal, and intimately personal. Mr. Lewis knows his subject from the inside out. ... His work will serve as a catalyst for a groundswell of a full-throated defense of the cornerstone of civilization." -- Brian Gail, acclaimed author of the American Tragedy in Trilogy series ( Fatherless , Motherless , and Childless ) "Joseph Lewis has delivered a well-informed and compelling response to the ongoing decline of births. Using quotes from a variety of sources from the Bible to sports figures, I found myself praising God for our family with renewed gratitude for the treasures they are. Mr. Lewis has given us much to savor and ponder." -- Anna Iatesta, author of the booklet series Reflections and co-founder of the lay apostolate Living Bridges