Here’s what MotherTalkers are reading and reviewing this week! Click any image to jump to the reviews for that book … and happy reading!
 That Baby CD and DVD |
 The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book |
May 8–23
With 60-80% of women holding jobs through pregnancy, Marjorie Greenfield’s new book, The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book is an invaluable resource.
Not only does Greenfield utilize her background as an obstetrician, but she picks up where other pregnancy books leave off–discussing issues specifically affecting working women such as workplace conditions and maternity leave. The book begins preconception and takes the reader through balancing life with a new baby.
Any woman who plans to work through pregnancy can benefit from reading Greenfield’s book and glean sound advice on keeping healthy during the pregnancy as well as being a self-advocate in negotiating work and home life.
Where to find more about The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book and author, Marjorie Greenfield:
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Marjorie Greenfield’s website.
Publisher’s website. |
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Look for reviews of The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book in Library Journal. | |
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Dr. Spock’s Pregnancy Guide | |
Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book: coming soon!
April 28–May 10
Tired of hearing about the wheels on the bus? Turn on the That Baby DVD or CD and be transported through your favourite songs coupled with images that your child will enjoy.
That Baby CD creates new arrangements for old favourites by Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen, and 10,000 Maniacs with vocals provided by Portland, Oregon musician, Stephanie Schneiderman and friends.
Playlist:
1. Happiness Runs/Circle Game
2. Sunday Sun
3. When We Grow Up
4. Pony Boy
5. Brass in Pocket
6. Get Together
7. Garden Song
8. Anything is Possible
9. Songbird
10. These are the Days
11. Three Little Birds
12. I Will
13. St. Judy’s Comet
Where to find more about That Baby DVD or CD:
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That Baby DVD or CD website | |
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Enter the coupon code “MotherTalk” when purchasing and save 20% on your entire order!From now until May 18th, all orders using the coupon code “MotherTalk” will be entered in a drawing to win a new iPod nano. | |
Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about the That Baby DVD and CD:
Sandier Pastures says, “As for me, I am happy to find another way to make long rides with the kiddo more enjoyable. I love the songs so much that I even play the CD even without the toddler on board - on my way to work! I’m amazed at how the songs soothe my senses and almost make me forget about the traffic jam outside.”
So a Blonde Walks into a Review says, “I am going to admit something here that I can’t believe I’m going to admit. I am in love with a DVD for babies. Seriously. I want to sit down and watch it all by myself. Which I did when I first reviewed it. But then I had to keep making sure my youngest was watching it with me on subsequent viewings so I didn’t look silly.”
BBM Review says, “The DVD made my girls get up and dance and unlike many kid videos, this one kept their attention and made them want to move! The video for ‘Brass in Pocket’ was adorable and fun for all of us, although my daughters are convinced they can bust a move just as well as the featured kids. Are there any casting calls for future DVD’s I should know about?”
Did You See That? says, “It starts with pregnancy. Slowly but surely, you start to lose your mind. Sleep deprivation, potty training, and endless rounds of Chutes and Ladders all contribute to the gradual erosion. And the “usual” children’s music doesn’t help matters much. Which is why I absolutely love That Baby CD and That Baby DVD. I promise you, this music is nothing like ‘Fruit Salad’.”
Much More Than a Mom says, “He loved it, I loved it, Bella loved it (well, she smiled while it played…) and even the Big Guy didn’t hate it. From him, that’s good. The tunes are awesome of the stick-in-your-head variety and they’re great for all ages.”
Lisa Reviews says, “Will just stared at the tv in wonderment, and Madison danced while the songs played (Will did a little dancing of his own too). The first thing that Bill and I noticed was that we recognized a lot of the songs on here. These are covers of songs by Fleetwood Mac, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Natalie Merchant, The Beatles, The Pretenders, just to name a few. The second thing we noticed was that songs were sung for the kids and toned down. However, they weren’t completely kidified, so that you feel like pulling your hair out and covering your ears.”
Book Haven says, “The DVD pulls you right in with the beautiful ‘Happiness Runs/Circle Games’ - a tune which is now permanently stuck in my head. The graphics are beautiful, with a colorful butterfly gliding into a forest of trees. But our favorite DVD track is the lip-synching kids that sing along to the song ‘Brass in Pocket’. Maya loves watching the antics of other kids, and I find them a delight to watch as well.”
Mommy Writer Blog says, “The CD however, has been an even bigger splash for our frequent car rides to pre-school and back. The Kiddo hums and sings songs as we gander the few miles to his day care. And I know he likes it because he requests the music. Even more than his Alvin and the Chipmunks CD. Which, in my opinion, scores this music set a huge 5 stars. I can almost hear nails on the chalkboard each time Alvin launches into a solo.”
From Dates to Diapers says, “As I type this my crew of six are watching the tail end of our That Baby DVD… All of them! Julia is dancing with Noah, Ben is singing, Josh is pretending not to watch by torturing his little brother (to no avail), and the twins are trying to appear coy because they are, after all, watching a show for ‘babies’!”
The Adventures of Leelo and his Potty-Mouthed Mom says, “She’s right. That Baby’s music is beautiful, and the accompanying videos are obviously a work of love and considerable care. As a bootstrappy, DIY kinda gal myself, I have to respect the effort that the creators put into this project. I especially appreciate that their videos include kids with disabilities having fun with typical peers.”
Parenting Children says, “The DVD got my children up and dancing. OK, so I was dancing too. My kids love to dance and seeing the kids on the DVD bust a move, inspired my kids to really get down! It really is a very cute DVD.”
Food for Thought says, “Rob and Lisi Wolf aren’t a committee of teachers and child development specialists who have compromised their way to 41 minutes of age-appropriate pablum. They sound kind of like me (parents who think having kids shouldn’t mean turning the stereo off for 10 years), and their musical tastes are right in line with mine. The track list for That Baby CD showcases the groups that created the soundtrack of my high school years: Joni Mitchell, Fleetwood Mac, 10,000 Maniacs, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen and more.”
My Life’s Scraps says, “So I got this, put it in the player and the kids came around. They started dancing and playing around to the music and they LOVED it. And in actuality- it wasn’t annoying either! lol The songs on there are easy to listen to, and I’ve listened to it so many times and still don’t mind it. It’s literally all the kids want to listen to right now- which is fine by me! It’s a mix of different types of music- there’s soft songs and acoustic songs, there’s upbeat and dancing songs. It’s such a nice mixture- I’m very glad I got the chance to have this in my home.”
Suburban Turmoil didn’t enjoy the music, but My Little Patch of Sunshine says, “L (my one year old) enjoyed the music, as she is a budding music lover. You can see her listening to the melodies and bobbing her head when she particularly liked a song.”
Pajama Mom says, “Girl2004 usually puts in what she wants during tv time and she has stopped Strawberry Shortcake and put in That Baby DVD which is saying a LOT for a 3 year old that loves Strawberry berry much.”
Welcome to the Motherhood says, “I like that it helps my 2 year old sleep better at night. I had a hard time getting him to go to sleep at night and this is the perfect for me to get him settled down and go to sleep.”
Musings:Mamahood & More says, “Since bringing the CD into our car, I think I’ve heard — and this is just an guesstimate — ooooh, I’d say Springsteen’s Pony Boy about 1,374 times. Yep. My girl loooooves her a Pony Boy.”
Doobleh-Vay says, “The DVD is amazing and sucks you right in with the beautiful Happiness Runs tune. All the gorgeous acoustic music is such a refreshing break from the usual suspects in children’s music marketing. (Wheels on the freaking bus!!!) The video is truly watchable from an adult standpoint. I really did sink into the couch and relax. I was not mentally preparing shopping lists or writing poems in my head as I often find myself doing while viewing children’s programming.”
Making Things Up says, “And I dare you to listen to the CD one time and not walk away singing happiness runs in a circular motion… I don’t know about anyone else, but if I’m going to have to have something stuck in my head, I’d pick Happiness Runs over Thaaaaaat’s Elmo’s World! any day.”
Puppy Dog Tales says, “It’s a great way to mellow out when the chaos of raising small children starts to get to you. My two year old plops himself down in the middle of the floor whenever I put the DVD in and sits mesmerized through the entire thing. It calms him down even when he’s been going through one of his marathon couch jumping session.”
Lookit! I Spy… says, “It quickly moved to the car that I drive and took up residence in my CD player for days. Which turned into weeks. Not only did I love it, but my kids loved it too!”
As Yet Untitled says, “My daughter loves Garden Song and has a whole choreography worked out to it now, complete with a narration of what exactly she’s planting (usually tomatoes, thanks to Oswald) and every time Pony Boy plays, my son stops whatever he is doing and goes and does this little bouncy-boppy dance that is just too cute for words.”
Miss O’s School Library says, “Last week I used the CD THAT BABY in the background with one Pre-k class. The music got the attention of one boy right away. He all of sudden announced, “I like this music”. I noticed a little more relaxed feel to class as the did various individual activities with the music in the background.”
Blue Milk says, “That CD, I decided, it wasn’t too bad, in fact it was actually pretty good. Its complete absence of adults pretending to be children, children pretending to be animals, and inane hoots and whistles was nothing short of a relief. Music made for three year olds which doesn’t grate on a parent’s fragile nerves, I suddenly decided to be a necessity in any music collection.”
It’s Not All Mary Poppins says, “Though this is very cute, I confess I prefer the effect of the CD on them. Deprived of the visuals, they don’t cluster and point, they dance. They whirl, they jump, they shriek with laughter. Much better.”
Major Bedhead Reviews says, “I’m not usually one to gush, but doods. Go buy this. It’s great. It features cover songs by people like Paul Simon, Fleetwood Mac, Natalie Merchant and my personal favourite, Bruce Springsteen. This is not insipid children’s music. This is intelligent yet fun music that parents and kids will both enjoy.”
Sassyfrazz says, “I really like the flow of the main singer’s voice. It is so relaxing and soothing. My kids loved watching the kids on the movie, and danced with them. The kids are very interactive on the DVD.”
A Wrung Sponge says, “It’s upbeat and cheerful music perfect for bopping around town or cooking.”
Our Seven Qtpies says, “This is not your traditional kid’s music! I can not only stand it, I can enjoy it! That Baby is made up of acoustic rock classics from singers like Neil Diamond and Peter Paul and Mary.”
The Chunky Purse says, “The reason I feel no guilt is because these video images move very slowly, which can be the real problem with most shows, including Sesame Street. I also love the history of the company and truly believe they have many of the same ideas about what television viewing should be for a child. A little learning, a lot of entertainment but nothing corny or terrifying for me as a mother.”
Wired for Noise says, “This DVD and CD set is one that the boys and I love. As soon as I got them in the mail I tossed in the DVD to distract the boys wheile I went to make lunch. It did more than distract them, they were hypnotized. Immediately both sat right down and stared in awe over the kids playing, singing, and dancing.”
April 28–May 2
It takes enormous love, enormous courage, and enormous faith to forge a path to parenthood on your own, and that is exactly what Alexandra Soiseth does in her memoir Choosing You: Deciding to Have a Baby on My Own.
Without a husband on the horizon, but with a desire to become a mother, Soiseth becomes a single parent by choice through donor insemination. Along the way, she wrestles with family and friends who disapprove as well as asking herself difficult questions in order to follow her heart.
If you’ve ever considered becoming a single parent by choice or known the internal strength that is required to walk on the path less taken, Choosing You is a celebration in grabbing life with two hands and making your own garden grow.
Where to find more about Choosing You and author, Alexandra Soiseth:
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Biography at Seal Press. Babycenter column. | |
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“Baby Fat” in Literary Mama (short story) | |
Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Choosing You:
Mombian says, “Choosing You belongs in the upper ranks of pregnancy memoirs. Despite my own familiarity with single-mom tales, I think it will stand out as a balanced, honest narrative of creating a non-traditional family. It will reassure those, straight and lesbian, who are considering this path themselves, and go a long way towards helping others understand why some women choose the single route.”
The Hidden Side of a Leaf says, “The book takes us through her search for the right donor, attempting to conceive, pregnancy, labor and early motherhood. All of this is familiar to those of us who are mothers, but most mothers don’t do all of these things alone. Even those of us to whom single motherhood is familiar haven’t usually made the conscious choice to go through it all without a partner. I think that Soiseth is an extraordinarily courageous woman, and I admire her strength.”
Creating Motherhood says, “Being raised by a single Mother and being the Granddaughter of an extremely independently minded woman basically taught me that I could do anything I damn well wanted – and if that meant having a kid on my own than so be it. I never lamented or mourned the concept of not having a husband or boyfriend to take the journey with. Not then. Reading Alexandra Soiseth’s chronicle of her personal journey to single motherhood was eye opening. Choosing You brought up lots of issues that up until now had been tucked neatly away in a box marked, “to shrink later”.
Life in the Hundred-Acre Wood says, “But this is not just a book about the journey to chosen single motherhood. It’s an exploration of Soiseth’s urgent need to find community at every stage of her life and to receive unconditional acceptance from everyone she meets. It’s a reexamination of her feelings of abandonment by her mother, her fluctuating weight, and an incident of abuse in her childhood. Soiseth’s voice is soothing and genuine, and it’s clear by the end that her quest for a dependable extended family, as well as the family she creates on her own, make her the woman she’s always wanted to be.”
Wavybrains says, “I hoped to learn some things that would flesh out my other research into the topic of single motherhood via sperm donation. What I didn’t expect was to learn anything about ME. I didn’t expect to be absolutely blindsided by my emotional response to this woman.”
They Grow in Your Heart says, “She also talks about her insemination. The waiting and wondering. The trying to hold really still and not wanting to move or run or even jostle too much for fear you might “shake it loose.” And then after the baby is born…these are passages I could’ve written myself. I had NO idea it would be so hard. No clue what being seriously sleep deprived would feel like. Of course, no idea I’d love my baby so much, but also times of total panic and despair! See what I mean? Pieces of this book were ME.”
3 Munchkins and a Mom says, “As I finished Choosing You, my last thoughts were that the story isn’t over yet. I was left wanting more. I’d love to hear more about the sleepless nights – oh how I have been there. How the author juggles work demands, childcare issues, illnesses, and more.”
Soulbliss says, “She also writes about building a family, a chosen family, long before even having her own child. I related to this part as well. She also writes about her struggles with her own family. I was impressed with her ability to really look at herself honestly. To call herself on her crap and get honest with herself about her reasons for her life’s choices up to then.”
Crunchy Granola says, “Choosing You endeared itself to me almost immediately. In the introduction, Soiseth explains how she welcomed her donor (sperm) into her family while getting ready for her first insemination. Olaf, the donor, sat at her dinner table nightly. She made conversation with the large steel container that had shipped the sperm she chose from Denmark. This is the kind of quirky detail that makes Soiseth’s story remarkably engaging: as she describes the conversations she had with her running buddies, the interactions at parties, relationships with old friends and family, the details show real people out and about in the world.”
Jason. For the Love of God says, “I? Thought she was gutsy. I thought she was brave. I thought she was amazing. Soiseth’s writing was, at times, almost painful to read. Her journey was not only a story of becoming a mom, it was one of finding herself.”
Lastly, A Wrung Sponge says, “The book is candid about all of her thoughts and feelings around weight, eating, exercising and body image. Even if you are not one who struggles with weight it is illuminating to observe how another woman deals with it. Everyone has something they struggle with on this level. It’s encouraging to see how Alex faces her weakness and finds her strength.”
April 28–May 2
“As Jimmy Weathers helped his mother set the table that Saturday evening in early April, he had no idea that the fate of mankind was about to come crashing down on his shoulders. It happened just as Jimmy was laying a fork on his father’s napkin,” begins The Attack of the Frozen Woodchucks by Dan Elish.
A pretty weighty situation for the average fifth grader, but Jimmy Weathers turns out to be anything but the average kid when frozen woodchucks begin attacking the galaxy. With William Taft, his best friend; Janice Claytooth, a ten-year-old rocket scientist; and Imogene Weathers, a two-year-old, Jimmy sets out to save the universe. Will they be able to discover the mystery of the frozen woodchucks before it’s too late?
Sorry–if you want to know the answer, you’re going to either need to peek outside and make sure the world still looks okay or pick up your own copy of Dan Elish’s middle-grade fiction book.
Where to find more about Attack of the Frozen Woodchuck and author, Dan Elish:
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Publisher’s Website Author’s Website |
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Look for reviews of Attack of the Frozen Woodchucks in The Washington Post. | |
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Interview with Dan Elish in Longstockings Interview with Dan Elish in Work-in-Progress |
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Other books by Dan Elish: Born Too Short Nine Wives The Misadventures of Hearnfeld 13: A Novel (coming July 1!) |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Attack of the Frozen Woodchucks:
Sheepish Anne says, “All in all, I give The Attack Of The Frozen Woodchucks a solid thumbs-up. It is an engaging book with a very unique story line. The characters are immensely likable and each plays their role to a T. The only possible down-side to this story is the eventual decision by the reader to try and build a spaceship in the attic. That could create some havoc within the household, I’m sure!”
Baggage and Bug says, “It features smart characters who are truly likeable. I especially liked little two year old Imogene who is an inventor.”
They Grow in Your Heart says, “I have to say, first of all, cutest part of the entire book is that one of our heroines is a two year old inventor named Imogene. It is really too funny, and I can’t imagine any kid not getting a kick out her. Jimmy Weathers, our protagonist, deals with a kidnapped father, racing through space, and yep, frozen woodchucks who are attacking the galaxy. The story is full of adventure and will keep kids of various reading levels entertained - something else that’s important to me.”
My Life As it Is says, “This book is a great read for older kids - 5th grade to 9th grade. It’s also highly enjoyable for a parent. Mr. Elish has done a great job at developing believable, well-developed and likable characters. The pace is just right. And his writing allows you to picture what is happening as you read it. The creativity is perfect.”
Lastly, Miss O’s School Library says, “Janice magically transforms her rusty attic into a spaceship called The Fifth Floor…I am already having imaginary thoughts about The Fifth Floor. I do live in a Fourth Floor apartment, which is the top floor of the building so you never know.”
April 21–25
While Tricia Ashworth and Amy Nobile were researching their earlier book, I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids, the dirty little secrets started pouring out: the woman who admitted to sneaking cigarettes with her husband in the minivan while the kids watched movies inside the house to the mother who had her children wear their school clothes to bed each night. Hence the creation of this small, sinful read–Dirty Little Secrets from Otherwise Perfect Moms–that will make you feel good about your parenting skills when you’re having one of those days.
If your biggest fear as a mother is being judged by other mothers, you need to read this book: if only to know that you’re not alone.
But don’t stop with simply reading the book. Jump into our discussion and admit your own dirty little secrets of motherhood. The grand prize is a $25 gift certificate to Amazon.
Where to find more about Dirty Little Secrets of Motherhood and authors, Trisha Ashworth and Amy Nobile:
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Mommy Track’d interviewMarin Independent Journal interview
MSNBC interview |
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I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids | |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Dirty Little Secrets from Otherwise Perfect Moms: Coming Soon!
Plain Jane Mom thinks first-time moms might be a little freaked out, but goes on to say “I will share with you my absolute favorite quote: “My seven-year-old-son walked in on us having sex. We told him we were doing karate in bed.” I want to meet that mom — that chick is hilarious!”
The Leery Polyp says “Whether funny or illuminating, about half the Secrets were fun as heck to read.”
BlondeMomBlog says “This is a fun collection of page by page “momfessionals” that would make a great Mother’s Day gift.”
Artificially Sweetened wants to know if anyone has secrets other than the dirty variety and adds: “I envisioned Dirty Little Secrets as a “break glass in case of emergency” stash of those moments that remind you that you are not the worst mom in the world - or at least that the world is full of equally awful moms.”
They Grow in Your Heart had unease over a few of the secrets and adds: “There are also some nuggets of wisdom in here that should make us all feel a lot better about the bad days that you KNOW we all have. Things like admitting to being worried about judgment from other moms. And loving your children, but having that love develop over time.”
Black Belt Mama says “Being a parent, more often than not, is just a daily game of survival-and often, I would easily get voted off this island. Dirty Little Secrets from Otherwise Perfect Moms is a book to revel in our imperfections. Mothers tend to ‘withhold the truth’ from other mothers, as if revealing our imperfections somehow makes us a failure. Instead, we bottle it up and act like everything is perfect and balanced.”
Though Ask Moxie thought that some of the secrets were probably more commonly-shared than moms think, Sticky Feet says “Not that long ago I was given some very good advice — take the ’should’ out of my life. I ’should’ make a five-course meal every night. I ’should’ play with Bo every second he is awake. I ’should’ be little miss Suzie Homemaker. I ’should’ do lots of things…I love that this book, in a nutshell, says ‘to hell with the shoulds‘.”
Though Uncommon Misconceptions didn’t find the confessions shocking, she admits “There are a few great, laughable quotes, and a handful more that had my moms’ night out group scribbling notes.”
So Close says “Dirty Little Secrets is like Post Secret, for moms. The books is a collection of ’secrets’ written by moms. Some of the secrets were really funny, some of them reminded me of myself (’My kids yell because I yell at them’), but the book left me with an underlying sense of sadness. Because despite its claim to make you feel less alone if you sometimes feel like the ‘less than perfect mom’, the fact that some of these were considered ‘dirty secrets’ made me sad. To me, it just highlights how pervasive the myth of ‘perfect parenting’ is.”
Lastly, Magpie Girl says “Ever catch your kids flinging a curse word out in public that they obviously learned from you? Slugged back a cocktail from a sippy cup? How about sneaking out to the minivan during Sesame Street for a quick smoke? Funny survival tactics fill these pages giving you a laugh track – and a buddy – for this crazy thing we call motherhood.”
April 14–22
Rose Rock has raised ten children and 17 foster children. Now she’s here with Mama Rock’s Rules to explain how she has managed to turn 27 kids into self-reliant adults.
It starts with an explanation of what differentiates parents from friends, and the relationship children should have with the adults in the house. She covers setting boundaries, explaining consequences, and making hard choices. Plus, as you might expect from a woman who has successfully raised 27 children, she comes at you with strong, solid ideas for one of the hardest conversations every parent needs to have with their children: responsible sexual choices.
Bring a Kleenex to wipe the dirty words from your mouth, and prepare to see parenthood in a completely new light!
Where to find more about Mama Rock’s Rules and author, Rose Rock:
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Publisher’s Website | |
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Hear interviews with Rose Rock: MSNBC New York Daily News Gayle King |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Mama Rock’s Rules:
Vivirlatino says “What I really liked about the book was how it reminded me about how the small things make all the difference, like keeping simple family traditions or rituals.”
So a Blonde Walks Into a Review says, “My favorite piece of advice was how Mama Rock got her children to admit to doing something wrong. She advises parents to never ask a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question. Don’t ask your children if they broke a vase. The answer will always be no.”
Zen Sarcasm Reviews says, “Overall, her style is devoid of frills or sugarcoating– another two things that some parenting guides boast in spades, possibly to shield parents of anything that might sound like criticism. Mrs. Rock is who she is through and through, from her own memories of raising her family and her hints and tips (labeled ‘Mama’s Mojo’) to the serene and straightforward way she tackles spirituality and religion.”
Dirty Little Secret says, “I liked it so much I wish I could have given it to a mom at the park the other day. Her son (who was about 3) kicked my son every time he tried to climb the ladder. And she would say, ‘No, no, don’t do that honey,’ while I comforted my hysterical two year old. Ironflower and Lovebug have each physically assaulted another child once. And each time, we left the park immediately. And now they don’t do it anymore. I’m pretty sure Mama Rock would approve.”
Mom Reviews says, “Like Mama Rock, we have always told our children that there is nothing they can’t tell us, no matter how much they think they will get in trouble for it. The consequences for being caught in a lie are always worse than admitting the truth. She also has a brilliantly clever way to get a kid to confess to something without asking them a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question.”
Gotcha Baby says, “Rose Rock fills this book with practical advice–ways to incorporate routine that children crave, ways to facilitate the family dinner hour, and ways to give your children responsibility. She talks about the importance of parents as teachers–about instilling a love of reading, teaching family and cultural history and instilling a strong self-worth. There are many stories and anecdote of the Rock clan growing up that illustrate the benefits of routines and high expectations.”
Whatever Blows My Skirt says, “Although we know parenting isn’t easy, she seems to have the right strategy. She has been an educator for many years and there is a reason she is so great at what she does. With a combination of rules, respect, reading, and spirituality she has managed to raise her family as well as give us the most ‘no frills’ approach to parenting that we have sort of forgotten about. Parents nowadays give in, give too much, lose structure, and forget about the important things like eating together as a family, reading together, telling precious memories, talking things out, including children in things you do, and most importantly, laying down rules and expecting children to follow them.”
Doobleh-Vay says, “I enjoyed the issue of tradition and families and liked that Mama Rose explained traditions can start anytime and how it is the glue that really defines and holds a family together through good and bad times. It sparked a sense of purpose and drive for me to think more about my own family traditions and rituals.”
Karma Calling says, “Mama Rose, in a charmingly old-fashioned way, gives it to you as it is. She is not the kind who minces words. You know that kind, don’t you? And I like that. Too many too politically correct parenting books out there. Too many parenting books not quite in touch with reality. This one is refreshing.”
Jason, for the Love of God says, “Rose Rock’s advice is very simple. None of it groundbreaking. None of it is amazing. And perhaps? That’s the most amazing part of it. Because it IS so simple. Because it IS common sense. And because it IS WHAT A LOT OF PEOPLE NEED TO HEAR.”
Lookit! I Spy… says, “From the start of this book to the very end of this book I was engaged. I was entertained. And most importantly? I was learning a thing or two.”
Our Seven Qtpies says, “Rose Rock raised a houseful of successful kids, so she certainly can write a book about raising successful kids!”
A Wrung Sponge says, “The rules cover the whys and hows of setting boundaries, discipline, structure, respect, positive communication, routines and traditions, integrity, education, expectations, responsibility, inspiration and determination. I found her no-nonsense approach to be heartening and based on common sense.”
CursingMama says, “The ten basic rules provide a great foundation for anyone taking the plunge in the parenting game. Each rule is expanded, explained, and tips are highlighted as pull quotes known in the book as ‘Mama’s Mojo’. Some of the rules seemed pretty common sense to me (I Am Your Mama Not Your Friend) but others I know are the kinds of rules that have fallen by the wayside in many families (Feed Them and They Will Tell You Anything).”
Rockin Mama says, “My favorite chapter, Reading is Righteous, reinforced and renewed my love of reading. Mama Rock reminded me of the immense opportunities for discovery posed by reading. Despite how how feeble my attempts to read to my son seem at present, one day my little boy will remember and hopefully acquire the same reverence for reading his mommy does.”
ReadingWritingLiving says, “Mama Rock is a down-to-earth, no nonsense and yet warm and funny person. She IS a rock: she’s rock solid, she’s strong, and she knows how to head a family. I love her rules. Her first rule, which is nothing new really but something that practically every parent *I* know (myself included) has a very hard time with. Which is, you are not here to be your child’s friend; you are here to be their parent.”
Lastly, Uncommon Misconception says, “Instead of pointing to scientific studies about the merits of “sleep methods” or the effects of breastfeeding of grown men’s ability to bond, blah blah blah - Rock bases her rules on real-life experience. Experience gained by raising, as the title says, a whole household of successful people. Ten kids plus 17 foster children, to be specific. Add to that her lifelong work as a preschool and special needs educator, and by golly you’ve got a woman I’ll listen to.”
April 7–11
The Cure for Modern Life is about “the choices we make and the decisions we let life make for us.” Lisa Tucker’s latest novel has a revolving list of characters whose lives become interconnected by chance or choice and by the end of the book, each one has been forced to closely examine what they thought had been their ultimate desire.
Publisher’s Weekly calls The Cure for Modern Life, “An enjoyable literary page-turner that also explores serious social issues. In crisp, lively prose, Tucker cleverly executes a series of surprising twists that, coupled with the Big Pharma backdrop and cinematic feel, make the novel as fast-paced as a thriller, but with astute and often humorous observations about the shifting morality of 21st-century America. An excellent choice for book clubs…solidifies her position as a gifted writer with a wide range and a profound sense of compassion for the mysteries of the human heart.”
Booklist calls it, “A touching and very modern relationship story with some compelling social issues…This fast-paced, funny, and smart novel is a sure bet for book clubs.”
Where to find more about The Cure for Modern Life and author, Lisa Tucker:
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Lisa Tucker’s website | |
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Look for reviews of The Cure for Modern Life in Bookreporter.com and Publishers Weekly. | |
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Lisa Tucker’s book tour information Other books: Once Upon a Day The Song Reader Shout Down the Moon |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about The Cure for Modern Life:
The Hidden Side of a Leaf says, “What I like second best, after the chapters about the kids’ lives, is the subtle approach to ethics. The way that Amelia sees things at the beginning of the book is gradually flip-flopped, so that the reader begins to see them differently a bit at a time, as Amelia does. I liked the way the reader and Amelia both come to realize that ethics can often be relative, and that what makes a decision right or wrong are the details behind it.”
Uncommon Misconception says, “The plot line is interesting, though not filled with mind-blowing twists, and I became attached enough to the characters to sneak reading in throughout the day to see what would happen to them. That’s no small compliment given the business of my average day.”
So a Blonde Walks Into a Review says, “This is going on my ‘books I couldn’t put down’ list. I was captivated by each of the characters and looked forward to finding out where each of them would end up.”
Mommy Writer Blog says, “All of these characters that I love so much entwine, twist, turn, and then question every decision they’ve made (and might make) into this wonderful story. Another that I will be keeping up on my shelf. I just couldn’t put the book down for a WHOLE NIGHT. I kept putting myself in the shoes of the characters… what would I do? How would I react? Would I challenge Matthew? or Ben? Or Amelia? Would I kick out Danny and Isabelle? The book was addicting. As were the characters.”
The Bean Blog says, “Ms. Tucker does a great job of showing how and why Amelia and Matthew change with each new adventure in their lives. And the novel really makes you think about what it means to be ethical and to do the right thing. Sometimes what we think is the right thing may not actually be what’s best.”
As Yet Untitled says, “The best part of the novel, for me, wasn’t even the story itself — it was all of the wonderfully tangled ethical questions raised in the text. My husband and I spent a long time working through some of these tangles as I read and afterwards, and that’s always the highest praise I can give a book: it got me thinking and talking about it, long after the final page was turned.”
All Rileyed Up says, “I love that this novel begins with such a simple sentence, and a question too. Because you will read this whole book wondering if Matthew Connelly is, in fact, a bad man.”
Actual Unretouched Photo says, “I would rather read it than sleep. I have been reading it while eating my dinner. I considered reading it while working. (But resisted that urge).”
ReadingWritingLiving says, “It’s a quick and accessible read. In many ways it’s a page turner, and the tension between the major players is palpable and effective.”
Lastly, Mom Reviews says, “What I enjoyed most about the book was the relationship that developed between Matthew, Danny and Isabelle. It was like watching a large slab of ice slowly melting, as Matthew found himself charmed by Isabelle’s sweetness and touched by Danny’s tender care of his sister.”
April 7–11
Two only children, Deborah Siegel and Daphne Uviller, have compiled a fascinating anthology of essays about what life is like being an only child in the aptly named book Only Child. Essays by authors such as Rebecca Walker and John Hodgman illuminate the benefits and drawbacks of the sibling-less life.
Within the 21 featured writers growing up solo are stories that touch on the solitude or loneliness inherent in not having a sibling. It becomes clear early on that one thought does not fit all when it comes to processing singularity in childhood. Some wished they were part of a larger family, longingly watching their friends interact with siblings. Others were thankful for the magical triangle that existed within their childhood homes.
Even more interesting is reading how these writers are navigating adulthood and their own decision-making process on whether or not to have a single child themselves. It is a book every only child, parent of an only child, or person deciding the shape of their family should read in order to begin that internal conversation.
Where to find more about Only Child and authors, Deborah Siegel and Daphne Uviller:
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Deborah Siegel’s website Deborah’s blog: Girl With Pen Daphne Uviller’s website Publisher’s website |
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Look for reviews of Only Child in New York Magazine and New York Times. | |
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Deborah Siegel interview on Center for New Words | |
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Read the book jacket
Sisterhood Interrupted (Siegel) |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Only Child:
Uppercase Woman says, “The one thing I remember about being an only child is having imaginary friends, friends that were with me right up until I was 12 or 13 (and not having a television probably had an influence there too). And only one essay I read mentioned imaginary friends, and that made me sad–I thought all us onlys had those.”
Black Belt Mama Reviews says, “Infertility has robbed us of the family we wanted not just for us, but also for our son. He grows up alone, no partners in crime, no built in friend. Only Child explores these issues, from the parent point-of-view, from the only child, and from the only child as parent point-of-view.”
Mommy Writer Blog says, “Each essay gave me a little ity bit more insight into my husband’s brain. His hard-wired one-ness. It’s complicated! I had no idea that the idea of turning to a someone special instead of one’s parents for advice was so life changing (Laundry Distance by Lynn Harris). Or the burdens of losing a parent (we all know that is hard, really hard)–can be especially burdening on a single-child (Dodging Laurie by Daphne Uviller).”
The 3 R’s: Reading, ‘Riting, and Randomness says, “My favorite section of the book is the second one, ‘We Are…Family: Significant Others and Friends.’ This portion contains the editors’ own contributions; Siegel’s essay talks about her hopes of finding a partner who will ‘complete’ her family, while Uviller’s story imagines what life might have been like with a sister.”
Becca’s Byline says, “By turns poignant and humorous, the collection provides valuable insight into the psyches of only children. Nearly every essay contained a nugget of truth so close to my own experience that I found myself nodding in affirmation, or shaking my head in wonderment. Yes, exactly! I might think, comforted to know there were others who had felt the same way. Those hot button issues that only children face in spades - creating boundaries between themselves and their parents, learning to express anger, conquering loneliness - are tackled in this group of essays.”
A Life Less Ordinary says, “The essays in this book are eloquent, poignant and sometimes funny. There are well-written forays into a life that is foreign to me, but one that I feel compelled to learn about if only to understand where Lil’ M is coming from when he asks me for a brother or sister.”
Finally, Not Quite Crunchy Reviews says, “Though I grew up in a family of two children, I find myself, someone unexpectedly (long story) the mother of an only child. On and off this concerns me. Will his social skills suffer? Will he miss having a sibling? Who will be there for him when I am gone?”
March 31–April 11
The first chapter in Jennifer Graf Groneberg’s book, Road Map to Holland, is titled “At First, It Hurts to Breathe” and that is how she states that it feels to learn that your child has Down syndrome. Jennifer Graf Groneberg takes the reader through the diagnosis for one of her twin boys through life with “the child that she wanted, that she did not know she wanted.”
The title of the book refers to a famous essay by Emily Perl Kingsley that explains how to feels to raise a child with Down syndrome by drawing the comparison to getting on a plane to Italy and ending up in Holland. The windmills and tulips are beautiful, but it’s an adjustment if your heart was set on seeing Rome.
Life with her twin boys is very beautiful but it is an adjustment from her original worries about paying for two college tuitions at once or putting an addition on her home once they learned they were having twins. The experience has expanded her world ten-fold, redefined the definition of family, and brought her enormous love. This book is a gorgeous read because it is about watching someone learn how to navigate her world while simultaneously teaching her three boys the way through the landscape.
Where to find more about Road Map to Holland and author, Jennifer Graf Groneberg:
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Jennifer Graf Groneberg’s backstory for Road Map to Holland | |
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Jennifer Graf Groneberg’s Website Jennifer Graf Groneberg’s Blog Jennifer’s column on Mamazine.com Creative non-fiction on Literary Mama |
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Look for reviews of Road Map to Holland in Publisher’s Weekly, Literary Mama, ParentDish, and Mamazine.
More reviews for Road Map to Holland! |
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Read an excerpt from Road Map to Holland
Reader’s Guide for the book |
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Here’s what MotherTalk reviewers are saying about Road Map to Holland:
It was hard for aka Monty to read the book but she’s glad she did. “Jennifer brings you into her life, on the journey from birth to the NICU through the first couple of years…and it’s a heartbreaking and beautiful story. Whether you have children or not, whether they’re disabled in some way or not, read this book. At the very least, it will help promote understanding, especially if you’re faced with a situation in which you don’t know what to say or how to be a friend to someone with disabled children.”
Big Blueberry Eyes loved the intense honesty of this book. “I think just about any parent dealing with a diagnosis for their child could identify with Jennifer’s story, and that’s what new parents need. A book just like this. A book that will be honest with the ups and downs, that will show other parents they aren’t alone. A book that will make you say “I feel like that too!” A book that will make you realize the sadness and fear of the unknown won’t last forever and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Life as Lou spoke about the love that came through the page. “I loved how the book took the reader through the entire experience. There is no glossing over anything. It is real. The hurt, the frustration, and the wonder is all as real as the joy and the love that is also expressed, and neither set of emotions are doctored up to sound trite or simplistic.”
What Was I Reviewing was glad she read the book though she didn’t enjoy it and I Won’t Fear Love wrote about wanting to catch a glimpse of a mothering moment that is not her own. “Jennifer doesn’t snow us. She doesn’t make it like all it took was love and a millisecond. Slow and steady, and, oftentimes, unsteady is how they made it.”
3-Ring Circus said, “This book is unflinchingly honest. At times it made me feel as if I was reading someone’s private diary and that I should put it down, that I should look away. I couldn’t.”
Gaijin Mama wished everyone would read the book. “In this book, Groneberg goes beyond the stereotypes. She doesn’t seek to comfort, but instead offers an honest account of giving birth to and living with Avery - an individual with likes and dislikes and various abilities.”
Actual Unretouched Photo said, “She writes in present tense of journeying through the first two years of her twins’ lives, so you do feel as if you are in the middle of her life, if only for a moment. And isn’t that what reading is all about? Trying on someone else’s life to see how it feels?”
This Mom had read Groneberg’s writing in Literary Mama and Parent Dish as well. “Every time I read her writing I find myself breathing more deeply. I love the way she observes her life. It helps me slow down and notice more in my own life.”
Clueless in Carolina said, “It is beautifully written without being pretentious. Jennifer has the gift of writing seemingly ordinary prose yet making it sound interesting without dressing it up with headlights and flashiness.”
Gift of Green created a long list of people who need to read Road Map to Holland including, “Whether you have a child with Down syndrome or not, read this book… If you have ever battled the instinct to flee - to run from your family and from the mess you think you have created, read this book… If you have ever been stunned into silence and vowed next time you will know exactly the right way to respond, read this book…”
Compost Happens wrote about the essay referred to in the title. “I, too, had to suddenly change my perception, modify my hopes and dreams, and dig for information when my infant son’s blindness was diagnosed. Ms. Groneberg and I faced parallels in some of our thinking processes, and one of those was a constant re-interpretation of life metaphors.”
And Some Other Stuff wrote about how much the book resonated with her. “I didn’t expect her honesty to resonate so loud in my heart - the anger & frustration I’m feeling now all rose up as she recounted her own journey into mothering Avery. The shifting of expectations - not wanting to expect too much, nor too little - having no guarantees of future success - living with all the uncertainty and yet doing everything you can for your kid, because that’s what mothering is - all this left me feeling breathless, realizing my own anger at our situation, anger at the disability.”
Needs New Batteries says “I didn’t expect her honesty to resonate so loud in my heart - the anger & frustration I’m feeling now all rose up as she recounted her own journey into mothering [her son].”
Making Things Up says “If you could talk Jennifer into inviting you over for a cup of tea, Roadmap to Holland is the story I imagine she’d tell you, about the path she’s taken, and about the supportive family, friends, and therapists who helped her to get where she is now.”
Lastly, So a Blonde Walks Into a Review says, “What I loved most about Groneberg, is that she makes it clear in this book that she is no out-of-the-ordinary superhero. She is just like you and me. She has fears, worries and insecurities just like the rest of us. And she shows that all it takes to raise a child with Down syndrome is love. That’s the only quality you will need to possess. Love alone will give you courage and determination and anything else that may be required of you.”
